Freneau Woods Park: 22-Acre Addition

 

Aerial image of a portion of Freneau Woods Park. Photo by Fred Yahn, Eagle Drone Solutions

Nestled in the tranquil northwest corner of Monmouth County, Freneau Woods Park is a testament to the power of conservation. Since its creation approximately a decade ago, the Park has expanded to an impressive 335-acre Monmouth County regional park. Its growth is the result of dedicated efforts of the Monmouth County Park System (MCPS) and many partners, including MCF, to preserve the land around Matawan Creek and Lake Lefferts. In October 2024, the County purchased an additional 22-acre property – one of the last undeveloped tracts in the vicinity – to expand the park. MCF congratulates our partners at the County and thanks the landowners involved. We are honored to have played a role in this recent acquisition and to have helped protect this historically and environmentally significant treasure.

Today Freneau Woods Park spans from Aberdeen and Matawan to Marlboro, comprised of permanent green space that may otherwise have been destined to become high-density housing and subdivisions. The recent 22-acre addition represents a major feat in our densely populated Garden State.

“Freneau Woods has become a very popular park for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. We are happy to be able to secure additional acreage to give residents more opportunities to enjoy the natural resources at this beautiful park,” remarked Monmouth County Commissioner Deputy Director Ross Licitra, as he expressed this gratitude for MCF’s assistance with the recent Freneau Woods Park acquisition.

Freneau Woods Park Origins

Photo by Jena Cosimo

A park as expansive as Freneau Woods Park, you can imagine, takes shape through a series of events. More than two decades ago, negotiations with landowners began as visions for the Park were initiated.  MCPS aimed to create new open space that would provide passive recreation, connecting the community to the nearby Henry Hudson Trail and giving residents easy access to additional parks like Bayshore Waterfront Park/Monmouth Cove Marina, Deep Run Recreation Area, and Big Brook Park. They also sought to protect the rich natural resources and diverse habitats in the area, while safeguarding the Matawan Creek Watershed and Lake Lefferts, a key water source.

The County acquired the first few parcels in November 2014 and purchased additional acreage representing the majority of the present day park by the end of 2016. While MCPS led the multi-property acquisition and provided the lion share of funding, MCF played an integral role in facilitating the acquisition of much of the park’s current acreage. Additional partners included the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJ DEP) Green Acres program, the Trust for Public Land, and Aberdeen Township.

“Acquiring over 300 acres of land like Freneau Woods is no small feat. It requires persistence, patience, and collaboration,” says MCF Executive Director William Kastning.  “We’re proud to have been part of the conversation with landowners and our partners that work tirelessly to support land preservation for Monmouth County residents.”

A Revolutionary War Legacy

Today’s Freneau Woods Park footprint was part of a larger area owned by the Freneau family.  During the 1700s’, American Revolutionary War poet and newswriter Philip Morin Freneau wrote about the forests, fields, and the wildlife surrounding him.

“I frequently walk into the fields over the cultivated farms and through the little forests that lay beyond the two rivers…What most of all disgusts me in these excursions is that men seem too much to have strayed from the grand simplicity of Nature…,” he published in the Jersey Chronicle of July 4, 1795.

Today, nearly a quarter-century later, the lands that once inspired Freneau are protected forever because of partners’ collaborative efforts and community support. Freneau Woods Park offers enhanced public access for walking and bicycling and features diverse habitats like dense woods, open fields, and water bodies including Lake Lefferts, freshwater ponds, vernal pools, and streams that support nesting birds such as egrets, fish, snapping turtles, and frogs.

Photos by Jena Cosimo

Q&A with Erica Muller: Forester for MCF’s Scudder Preserve

by Judy Musa

MCF staff recently sat down with Erica Muller, a Neptune, New Jersey resident and the sole owner of Heartwood Ecological Consulting, as she embarks on developing a forestry management plan for the 90-acre Scudder Preserve in Middletown, New Jersey that MCF acquired earlier this year. With a passion for forestry and a commitment to sustainable land management, Erica shared her journey and insights into the world of forestry in New Jersey and highlights of her work with MCF.

Photo by Marcel Veldkamp

Meet Erica Muller

Erica's love for trees took root in a dendrology (the study of trees) class at Stockton State College, now Stockton University. This fascination led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a Concentration in Forestry and set her on a path that led her to work for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJ DEP) Forest Service office as a GIS Specialist. (GIS stands for Geographic Information System, which is a computer-based tool that combines maps and databases to analyze, store, and visualize spatial data.)

“Studying trees and then going on to work as a GIS Specialist for the NJ Forest Service really strengthened my comprehension of the importance of forest mapping to better understand connections within a forest ecosystem,” said Erica.

In 2013, Erica joined Heartwood, and within five years, she took over reins as sole owner of the consulting firm. Since 2019, Erica has served on the Monmouth County Shade Tree Commission, where she actively promotes the health and sustainability of local forests and their trees, including Monmouth County’s official tree, the white oak. Erica also serves as the Chair of the NJ Division of the Society of American Foresters and as a member of the NJ Tree Farm Program.

What Does a State-Approved Forester Do?

Erica explained that New Jersey-approved foresters assist landowners and municipalities in managing their forests for long-term viability, particularly in response to climate change, pests, and human impact. Her team tailors comprehensive forest stewardship and woodland management plans that span a decade, aimed at addressing challenges that include restoring biodiversity, controlling of invasive species, the sequestration of carbon, preventing soil erosion, and maintaining water quality. Forestry management plans also address the social and environmental needs of the region.

Erica noted that most forests and woodlands have been disturbed from their natural state in recent past, such as by harvesting, burning, or clearing for development. This allows for an overgrowth of shade-tolerant species. Foresters seek to restore balance by fostering regeneration of iconic, sunlight-loving species such as hickory, oak, and short-leaf pine here in New Jersey.

Foresters employ best practices for reforestation and habitat conservation by seeking various plant sources, ideally from local seed purveyors, tree farms, and nurseries that provide native or regionally adapted plants. They work to maintain diverse species and restore ecosystems that foster resilience against environmental changes. Forest management plans may also incorporate fire management protocols to promote forest health.

Forestry management looks beyond just the forest and trees to their many connected attributes, such as water sources, topography and soil conditions, and wildlife habitats, as well as their applications, including recreation and sustainable forestry practices, like “forest stand improvement,” where land is managed to promote a healthier forest community.

“Managing our forests properly is crucial for ensuring their health and resilience,” Erica emphasized.

Aerial image of Scudder Preserve. Photo by Kevin Knecht.

Goals for Scudder Preserve

MCF aims to restore Scudder Preserve’s natural habitats and improve and expand public access at the site. The Preserve contains a mix of ecological features that include wooded areas with old growth forest, century forest, wetlands, ponds, a stream/riparian corridor, and grassy meadows. Erica will draft a recommended forestry plan to support MCF’s goals at Scudder Preserve with a four-pronged approach that includes:

  • Data Collection to gather information on overall species, invasive plants, and shrub cover;

  • Invasive Species, Disease, and Pest Management to address such invasive species as tree of heaven and Norway maple, as well as future tree pests and diseases;

  • Habitat Improvement to support a diversity of habitats for local wildlife and to promote a healthy forest; and

  • Public Engagement to enhance trail systems and amenities that encourage community interaction with the forest.

Erica and her team will devise site-specific plans to promote long-term forest health and resiliency. For instance, in her initial assessment, Erica has noted a need to address the threat of beech leaf disease — a recently introduced nematode affecting beech trees throughout the state, in specimens found at Scudder Preserve.

The Current Landscape of Forestry in New Jersey

New Jersey's forests cover just under 2 million acres or about 45% of the total land in the Garden State. Despite this vast amount of forest, there are fewer than 50 state-approved foresters across the state, and there is a critical need for more professionals in this field.

Erica noted this scarcity often surprises people when they learn about the important work involved in forest management. Many people are unaware that forestry management is a profession in New Jersey, which Erica often encounters in conversations with landowners.

“I often receive calls that start with, ‘I had no idea this was even a thing!’” she laughed.

Erica hopes to raise awareness about the importance of forestry management and to inspire future generations to pursue careers in this field.

The Art and Science of Forestry

Aerial image of Scudder Preserve. Photo by Kevin Knecht.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Erica's job is the blend of art and science involved in forestry management. This duality fuels her passion for creating sustainable environments that will endure for generations.

“Getting to a particular forested area and using maps and other tools to gain an understanding of what it once was, how it is changing in the face of human intervention, pests, and climate change and then getting to create a plan to positively impact the resiliency of that forest by visualizing what it could be in 10, 20, 30 years’ time is always so exciting for me. Truly a perfect combination of art and science,” she said.

Erica shared that she is excited to work with MCF on a forest management plan for the Scudder Preserve. There is a great deal of potential for the site to be revitalized through the removal of invasive species, restoration of native plants and trees, promotion of wildlife habitat and climate resiliency, and the addition of amenities for sustainable public access. And, MCF is uniquely poised to do so while bringing the public along for the ride through demonstration projects and educational outreach programming. The Scudder Preserve will look quite different in several years!

Keeping Monmouth Green

When not conserving forests, Erica finds joy in cycling along New Jersey's rail trails, through green spaces like Hartshorne Woods and Allaire State Park. She said Sandy Hook – Gateway National Recreational Area stands out as her favorite Monmouth County location, thanks to its beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity, wonderful trails to bike and walk, access to the bay and ocean, and historical attributes.

Beyond her personal and professional commitment to supporting green spaces, Erica enjoys performing with her father’s band, Dead on Live, and she is an advocate for civic engagement. She believes grassroots efforts can make a significant impact and suggests several ways individuals can contribute to forest preservation:

  • Advocate for local green spaces;

  • Stay informed about state and federal policies affecting forests; and

  • Plant native species in your own yard to create wildlife habitats.

Final Thoughts

MCF appreciates Erica Muller and her foresters at Heartwood Ecological Consulting for their expertise, dedication, and passion for environmental stewardship. Their work not only helps to sustain New Jersey’s forests but also inspires others to appreciate and protect these vital ecosystems. Together, we can help #KeepMonmouthGreen!

To follow along on MCF’s journey at Scudder Preserve, visit our webpage.

Monmouth Conservation Foundation Hires New Director of Educational Outreach

For Immediate Release

Contact: Judy Musa/Karen Keene
Jmusa@monmouthconservation.org
Kkeene@monmouthconservation.org
M. 732-977-0151

Doug Caum Photo: Bill Zapcic

Middletown, NJ (November 4, 2024) – Monmouth Conservation Foundation, the county’s only independent, nonprofit land trust, has hired Doug Caum as the organization’s new Director of Educational Outreach.

“Our preservation work includes teaching environmental sustainability and engaging the next generation in protecting and stewarding our land for all to enjoy. Bringing an experienced conservation educator to our staff will allow us to deliver a robust, science-based educational program for students, teachers, and the general public. Doug’s role is an important addition to MCF, as we work to engage and educate more of our community – of all ages and backgrounds,” said MCF Executive Director William Kastning.

Doug comes to MCF with more than two decades of experience at the crossroads of education and conservation, working to connect people to place. He has developed education and training programs for national conservation organizations, worked with grassroots organizations to educate and train volunteers, and developed programming for community groups.

Doug earned a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation and Sport Science from the University of Richmond, as well as a Master of Arts in Recreation and Environmental Education and a graduate certificate in Historic Preservation and Regionalism, both from the University of New Mexico. Doug, who is CPR-certified, also holds a Wilderness First Responder certificate.

As Chair of Experiential Education at the Albuquerque Academy in Albuquerque, N.M., he directed the school’s environmental and outdoor education department. He developed curriculum and training for the 4,000-member Student Conservation Association in Charlestown, N.H. and has led 30-day field courses and wilderness medicine classes for the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) of Lander, Wyo. He has also served on school and non-profit boards in various locations.

Locally, Doug has worked for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) as a Parks Project Specialist and directed the operations, programming, and outreach for the nonprofit Lawrence Hopewell Trail in Pennington, N.J. He has also served on the board of the Manasquan Environmental Commission.

In line with its new three-year strategic plan, MCF will provide Monmouth County residents with hands-on education focused on environmental sustainability, building on its successful Kids for Conservation program. MCF will prioritize underserved communities, taking experiential programs on the road at municipal parks, community events, and schools.

Doug will design public-friendly educational materials, based on preK-12 lesson plans that meet New Jersey state standards, in development through MCF’s partnership with Monmouth University’s School of Education. Doug will also deliver experiential learning programs for New Jersey educators as part of MCF’s work as a sub-grantee on the Expanding Access to Climate Change Education and the New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS) through Climate Change Learning Collaboratives (CCLC) grant awarded to Monmouth University by the New Jersey Department of Education.

Curriculum topics will align with MCF’s land preservation mission and include themes such as restoring biodiversity and ecosystem function, employing natural climate solutions, and taking individual action to create climate resiliency and build hope for a sustainable future. Future programming will involve interactive opportunities at and relating to MCF’s Scudder Preserve. MCF took ownership of the 90-acre natural site in Middletown, N.J., in April 2024, with plans to enhance public access, restore the natural habitat, and offer a living laboratory for educational activities.

“I’m looking forward to bringing my professional experience to Monmouth County, working with students and adults, but also my life-long passion for the outdoors and the environment, and my perspective that each of has the opportunity to take an active role in stewarding the land we have been entrusted to care for,” notes Doug Caum.

# # #

About Monmouth Conservation Foundation
Founded in 1977, Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF) works to acquire and preserve open space and farmland and conserve natural habitats throughout Monmouth County in support of outdoor recreation, agriculture, clean water, and wildlife for long-term sustainability. An independent nonprofit organization that works with Monmouth County and its 53 municipalities, MCF’s vision is to lead conservation and education efforts to preserve and protect our natural environment, so all individuals and communities have access to and can benefit from open space and nature for generations to come. MCF received accreditation by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission in 2014 and has continued to maintain this status since. Accreditation is awarded to land trusts meeting the highest national standards for excellence and conservation permanence. MCF is one of 471 accredited land trusts out of 1,100 nationwide. For more information, visit www.monmouthconservation.org.

Middletown Township and Monmouth Conservation Foundation Partner to Create Public Open Space in North Middletown

Middletown, NJ –  Middletown Township Mayor Tony Perry and Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF) President Matt Cohen, representing the county’s only nonprofit land trust, have announced a partnership to create new, permanent green space on a three-acre parcel in North Middletown.

Open Space a Township Priority

“The Township Committee and I will not relent to developers that want to build high-density housing as we continue to fight for open space preservation,” said Mayor Perry. “We have made significant investments in protecting our remaining open space, including designating this natural oasis on Route 36 as a respite for our community in this highly developed and commercial area.”

Rt. 36-Thompson Avenue Open Space, Photo: Google Earth

Located between Route 36 and Thompson Avenue near the iconic Polar Bear Ice Cream stand, the property is a forested parcel that has developed wetland areas due to run-off from the highway. It is densely wooded and would require improvements for public access. MCF and Middletown Township have a shared goal of turning it into a passive park.

Mayor Perry added, “We welcome input from the community on what amenities they would like to see added, such as a nature trail, habitat improvements, or benches, honoring our shared commitment with MCF to save open space and create parks.”

Rt. 36-Thompson Avenue Open Space, Photo: Google Earth

Partnering to Support Community Open Space Needs

Originally zoned for commercial use, the property was privately held and on the market for sale until the owners donated it to MCF in 2020 as a trade land – meaning it was intended specifically to be sold, with the proceeds benefiting the land trust’s charitable conservation work. 

Residents raised concerns about the property being developed once sold. MCF and Middletown came to an agreement, and MCF recently transferred the property to the Township, which will place it on the Township’s Recreation and Open Space Inventory (ROSI). This designation permanently restricts use of the land only as parkland, and MCF and Middletown will together make it into a jointly branded park.

“As a land trust, MCF’s objective is to facilitate how a property will be best preserved and utilized so the public-at-large benefits,” said MCF Executive Director Bill Kastning. “We applaud Mayor Perry’s commitment to open space, and we are proud to work with him and the Township to bring this open space to the community, in line with our efforts to #KeepMonmouthGreen.”

MCF was founded by visionary, lifelong Monmouth County residents, Judith Stanley Coleman and Michael Huber, both of whom hailed from Middletown, and many of MCF’s collaborative preservation projects have taken place in the Township. These projects include acquiring the 99-acre Timolat Farm to expand Huber Woods Park; the 40-acre Fisher-Stern parcel, known today as the Claypit Creek extension of Hartshorne Woods Park; another 17 acres along the Navesink River to further add to Hartshorne’s footprint; and the 18 acres to create Swimming River Park. Most recently, MCF took over ownership of the 90-acre Scudder Preserve and will be working with Middletown to restore the site and improve public access.

Rt. 36-Thompson Avenue Open Space Street View, Photo: Karen Keene

About Middletown Township

Middletown Township is fortunate to have 80 parks across town, including one national park, nine county parks, and 70 township parks. This is an impressive total of approximately 6,000 acres.

To help ensure that Middletown could maintain its rustic charm, the Township created the Open Space Trust in 1998 where there would be a dedicated tax levy of one cent per $100 of assessed property value to preserve land. In 2002, voters supported an amendment that changed the rate from one cent to two. In 2020, more than 66 percent of Middletown voters supported the Open Space referendum on the general election ballot. This allowed the Township to amend the dedicated Open Space Trust annual collection rate from two cents to three cents per $100 in equalized valuation. The Township Committee also officially changed the name of the fund to an all-encompassing “Municipal Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, and Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund” so money could also be allocated to recreational upgrades and preserving historic landmarks.

Continuing to preserve remaining open space, including enhancing parks and restoring historic landmarks, is paramount. Since the Township began the trust, it has proudly acquired and preserved 275 acres of land, with a total investment of over $30,000,000.

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About Monmouth Conservation Foundation

Founded in 1977, Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF) works to acquire and preserve open space and farmland and conserve natural habitats throughout Monmouth County in support of outdoor recreation, agriculture, clean water, and wildlife for long-term sustainability. Since 2014, MCF has been accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission and is one of 471 accredited land trusts out of 1,100 land trusts nationwide. Connect with us: Facebook  |   Instagram  |  LinkedIn

Vote to Preserve Open Space in Monmouth County!

By William D. Kastning, AICP
MCF Executive Director

Early Voting Began
October 26, 2024

Since 1977, Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF), has dedicated itself to safeguarding our county's natural landscapes. Working alongside federal, state, county, and local partners, we have preserved more than 9,500 acres of farmland, parks, and open spaces. This November, some Monmouth municipalities will have open space referendums on their ballots, asking residents to approve additional tax dollars in crucial funding to protect land and enhance green spaces in their communities.

Based on the increase in residential and commercial developments anticipated in Monmouth County over the next decade, preserving our remaining, unprotected land now is imperative. Once a farm, forest, natural habitat, or meadow is developed, it is lost forever.

Added to this, we are facing greater environmental challenges, like increased flooding, more powerful storms, and wildfires, which threaten our homes, businesses, and our way of life. Land preservation and the implementation of natural climate solutions using open space tax dollars can help reduce environmental impacts and ensure our sustainable future.

Spotted in Middletown

Photo by Karen Keene

Photos by Fred Yahn, Eagle Drone Solutions

Open spaces are not merely aesthetic assets; they are essential for the health of our community, the environment, and our overall quality of life. Studies show that access to parks and recreational areas significantly enhances both physical and mental health. During the pandemic, many of us turned to our parks, waterfronts, and trails, highlighting the importance of these spaces for recreation and community connection.

Moreover, preserving open space has tangible economic benefits. Properties adjacent to preserved areas often see higher values, benefiting residents and local governments alike. These natural assets attract tourism and bolster local businesses, fostering a vibrant economy.

Your vote will shape the future of our community—promoting sustainability, health, and the preservation of our shared heritage. Together, let's protect the landscapes that define Monmouth County and ensure their vitality for generations to come. On November 5, vote YES to #KeepMonmouthGreen.

Photo by Some Tale on Unsplash

Honoring the US Navy and our Partners at Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Earle

MCF is pleased to recognize the US Navy and our partners at Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Earle for their support and collaboration to permanently protect lands buffering NWS Earle’s nearly 12,000 acres. This recognition was bestowed at MCF’s annual Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party, on September 21, 2024 in Colts Neck.

With over $3 million in federal funding awarded thus far through the US Department of Defense (DOD) Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration REPI program since 2018, MCF and Monmouth County have been working with NWS Earle and municipalities to preserve land surrounding the base, which transects the County from the Leonardo community in Middletown through Colts Neck to Howell and contains one of the largest wooded areas in Monmouth. This honor is bestowed on the heels of our inaugural conservation projects achieved through this partnership – preserving 255 acres encompassing two properties in Howell and Colts Neck in 2023 and greatly benefiting our community.

L-R: NWS Earle Commanding Officer Capt. Kent D. “Brewski” Smith, MCF President Matthew Cohen, and MCF Executive Director William D. Kastning

Representatives from the US Navy, Monmouth County, and MCF Commemorating our Inaugural Preservation Projects 

Prioritizing Resilience and Sustainability

In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy in 2011, which caused $50 million in damages at NWS Earle, the US DOD further ramped up strategic initiatives to address climate resilience at critical military bases like NWS Earle.

Here in Monmouth County, where NWS Earle provides vital ordnance (military supplies including weapons, ammunition, combat vehicles, and maintenance tools and equipment) for the Atlantic Fleet, many encroachment concerns directly affect the base.

Encroachment is the term used in the DOD to describe the types of external pressures military missions and operations face that can impact success. They include sea level rise and coastal erosion, storm surge and flood vulnerability, wildfire risk, aging energy and water supply infrastructure, road and rail transportation demands, and incompatible development.

A series of land use studies coordinated by NWS Earle and Monmouth County from 2017 to 2022 identified a Military Influence Area (MIA) surrounding the base. The MIA includes lands around NWS Earle’s Mainside facility in Colts Neck and its Waterfront complex in Leonardo (including the operational waters and shipping channels in Sandy Hook Bay), as well as along Normandy Road, its 15-mile Navy-controlled rail and road corridor, which connects the Mainside to Waterfront component. The MIA is targeted for preservation to ensure NWS Earle continues to fulfill its mission.

To protect against encroachment, land in the vicinity of military bases is typically protected through conservation and/or agricultural easements purchased by project partners and granted by willing landowners. Locally, the project partners are the US Navy, NWS Earle, Monmouth County, MCF (Monmouth County’s only land trust), and relevant municipalities where the land being protected is situated.

The easement language permanently limits development potential and restricts the lands to conservation and agricultural uses. Where relevant, ecological restoration can be conducted or obtained through the protection of the land. Easements can be very costly (if you consider the alternative cost of developing highly prized land in the Garden State), and we are fortunate to have funding assistance through our public and private partners.

MCF honored the US Navy and our partners at NWS Earle at the 2024 Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party, the proceeds of which benefited MCF’s charitable work to preserve open space across Monmouth County.  

Many Monmouth County residents may be unaware of the significant role the US Navy and our local naval base, NWS Earle, play in helping to #KeepMonmouthGreen. Despite being a high-security military installation, NWS Earle is highly engaged in Monmouth County and welcoming of collaborations with diverse partners and nonprofits like MCF to better our environment – for the mutual benefit of base operations and community resiliency.

NWS Earle’s nearly 12,000 acres contain one of the largest wooded areas in Monmouth. Since World War II, this installation has continually served our US Navy with critical military supplies. Today, the US Navy is addressing how to deliver on its charge while also staying resilient to wide-ranging mission and economic impacts because of climate change and development pressure.

Beyond the partnership involving MCF, the US Navy and NWS Earle are working with other DOD agencies and state, county, and academic partners on several resiliency efforts. These projects include beach nourishment, living shoreline establishment, wildfire mitigation, stormwater capacity enhancement, and pursuing a designation under the Sentinel Landscape Initiative. These efforts will benefit NWS Earle, other nearby installations, and the local communities into the future.

NWS Earle’s main base (Mainside) encompasses 10,160 acres 15 miles west of the Bayshore and borders the townships of Colts Neck, Howell, and Wall, and the Borough of Tinton Falls. The majority of Mainside is within Colts Neck Township.

NWS Earle’s Waterfront pier complex extends 2.5 miles into Raritan Bay and is recognized as the line of demarcation between Raritan Bay and Sandy Hook Bay. Comprised of a two-mile trestle which connects to three piers, it is one of the longest finger piers in the world. Photo by Jeffrey C. Doepp, Courtesy of US Navy.

NWS Earle is supported by 110 miles of railroad track (a main artery of which runs along Normandy Road), five locomotives, and over 300 pieces of rolling stock.

The US DOD REPI Program provides up to one-half of the easement purchase price for eligible properties (in our case, passed through MCF and Monmouth County), and the program requires at least a 50% match from other funding sources, like state, county or municipal preservation programs funded by open space trusts (tax dollars), or philanthropy. To date, MCF and the County have received over $3 million through the US Navy via the REPI program, matched by contributions from Monmouth County, MCF through private donations, and Howell and Colts Neck Townships. We have requested an additional $5 million for future preservation projects through the REPI program.

Partners from the US Navy, Monmouth County, and MCF presented at the 2024 New Jersey Coastal & Climate Resilience Conference.

L-R: Panelists: MCF’s Karen Keene, Monmouth County Division of Planning’s Harriet Honigfeld, Bridget Neary, and Amber Mallm, and NWS Earle’s Nicholas Ginther

“The REPI program provides substantial federal funding for land preservation and broadens eligibility beyond MCF’s two main funding sources from the State for permanently protecting land in Monmouth County. We are grateful to work with our partners at NWS Earle, Monmouth County, individual municipalities, and private landowners to forever secure additional green space for public benefit.”

- Matt Cohen, President of MCF

Inaugural Projects Benefit All Monmouth County Residents

This year at our signature Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party, MCF is pleased to recognize the US Navy and our partners at NWS Earle for their support and collaboration to permanently protect lands buffering the naval base. This honor is bestowed on the heels of our inaugural conservation projects achieved through this partnership – preserving 255 acres encompassing two properties in 2023 – with aspirations for many more to come. The two parcels – 20 acres of mostly mature hardwood forest in Howell (our pilot project) and 235 acres comprising a thoroughbred horse breeding and training farm in Colts Neck – were permanently preserved through the REPI program, bringing mutual benefits to the US Navy and the greater Monmouth community. This initiative was made possible by funding support and collaboration of the US DOD, US Navy and NWS Earle, Monmouth County, MCF, and Howell and Colts Neck Townships.

“We are pleased to build upon our already stellar partnerships with Monmouth County, Monmouth Conservation Foundation, and our local municipalities through the REPI program. Thanks to this program we can promote military readiness and prevent encroachment while helping our neighbors protect and preserve more of our surrounding landscapes.”

-Capt. Kent D. Smith, NWS Earle Commanding Officer
 

Capt. Kent D. Smith, NWS Earle Commanding Officer

REPI Pilot Project: 20 Acres Preserved in 2023 in Howell Township

The 20 acres in Howell are mostly woodland, including a portion with Century Forest (at least 100 years old). The property contains a valuable ecosystem of plants and wildlife, which provides many positive environmental impacts. While 20 acres may seem small, the mature forest within this land helps provide habitat for wildlife and promotes greater carbon capture to support climate resilience. It would take nearly a century to replace, making this property important for preservation.

Photo by Jena Cosimo

Photo by Fred Yahn, Eagle Drone Solutions

Photo by Fred Yahn, Eagle Drone Solutions

Photo by Jena Cosimo

New Jersey is not only the most densely populated state but also claims the most horses per square mile in the country. The equine industry provides an estimated $1.1 billion in economic impact and supports our agricultural roots and open space preservation efforts. Notably, Overbrook Farm was the birthplace of Irish War Cry, a multiple stakes-winning thoroughbred that was a contender in the Kentucky Derby in 2017 and finished second in the Belmont Stakes. Irish War Cry was bred by Isabelle de Tomaso, the daughter of Amory Haskell, founder of the Monmouth Park Racetrack and the man for whom New Jersey’s most famous and prestigious thoroughbred race – the Haskell Invitational – is named. The combined equestrian, agricultural, and ecological attributes of Overbrook Farm and its significant acreage validated the need for this important land to remain a preserved property, safe from development forever.

L-R: MCF President Matt Cohen; MCF Ex-Officio Trustee Andrew Spears, Director of Monmouth County Park System; NWS Earle Retired Captain Edward L. Callahan, Former Commanding Officer of NWS Earle; MCF Trustee At-Large Valerie Montecalvo, and MCF Director of Development and Communications Karen Keene

L-R: MCF Trustee Emeritus Ronald Gumbaz, Former Trustee Jerry Buffalino, NWS Earle Community Plans and Liaison Officer Nicholas Ginther, MCF Trustees David Hoder and W. Benson Chiles

"MCF is thrilled to be a recipient of REPI program funding and grateful to our public and private partners for helping to bring these projects to fruition. Partnerships like this one demonstrate the effect we can have together to ensure we are protecting the natural habitats, farmland, and open spaces that make Monmouth County so special."

— William D. Kastning, MCF’s Executive Director

MORE TO COME

MCF is grateful for the partnership with the US Navy and NWS Earle. The REPI program brings together critical support at federal to local levels that preserves land and supports climate resilience. We so appreciate our collaborators at Monmouth County and municipalities like Colts Neck and Howell Townships.

L-R Front: MCF Executive Director William D. Kastning shakes hands with NWS Earle Commanding Officer Capt. Kent D. Smith. Back: NWS Earle Community Plans and Liaison Officer Nicholas Ginther

New Jersey Resources Announces $500,000 Funding Commitment to Restore and Transform Scudder Preserve in Monmouth County

To follow news about Scudder Preserve News, click here

New Jersey Resources logo

NEWS RELEASE

  • Funds will benefit Monmouth Conservation Foundation's stewardship of Scudder Preserve, enabling improvements to restore natural aspects of the property, expand recreational access and educational programming for the public, and strengthen climate resilience.

  • The project is part of NJR's 2023 pledge to commit up to $2 million through its Coastal Climate Initiative (CCI) to environmental stewardship and education efforts in New Jersey.

New Jersey Resources (NJR) Executives present $500,000 Grant to Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF) at Scudder Preserve, Middletown, NJ.

New Jersey Resources (NJR) Executives present $500,000 Donation to Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF) at Scudder Preserve, Middletown, NJ.

L-R: MCF Executive Director Bill Kastning, MCF Board of Trustees President Matt Cohen, MCF Trustee Valerie Montecalvo, NJR CEO Stephen Westhoven, New Jersey Natural Gas Senior VP and COO Patrick Migliaccio, and NJR Senior VP and COO, Non-Regulated Business, Strategy and External Affairs Amy Cradic. Photo: New Jersey Resources (NJR)

Wall, N.J., June 27, 2024 – Building on its commitment to environmental stewardship and support of community resiliency, New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR) today announced a five-year, $500,000 funding commitment to Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF) through the company’s Coastal Climate Initiative (CCI). NJR’s gift will help bring to life MCF’s vision to restore and improve the Scudder Preserve, an important natural habitat in Middletown, Monmouth County, New Jersey, benefitting the local community for generations to come.

“New Jersey Resources understands that more resilient and sustainable communities make our business stronger too, and we’re committed to making a positive impact through our Coastal Climate Initiative and our broader charitable efforts,” said Steve Westhoven, President and CEO of New Jersey Resources. “Providing this gift to restore and improve Scudder Preserve is a rare opportunity to make a significant difference with a single parcel of property that will benefit the local community for years to come.”

Scudder Preserve is a 90-acre, densely wooded, preserved habitat, which is home to century forest, grasslands, streams and riparian corridors, nature trails, several ponds, and a home.  The property was originally owned by the Scudder family, who donated conservation easements to MCF and later donated the 90-acre property to New Jersey Audubon Society (NJA). Earlier this year, NJA transferred ownership of the property to MCF, a nonprofit land trust that focuses on open space preservation throughout Monmouth County.   

“New Jersey Resources shares our vision of environmental stewardship within our local community,” said William Kastning, Executive Director of MCF. “Teaming up with NJR through this agreement, we’re able to actively demonstrate sustainability and inspire the vision to expand education and inspire land stewardship for future generations. NJR’s dedication, both in funding and attention to local communities, is invaluable. With their support and collaboration, we’re transforming Scudder Preserve into the natural sanctuary Monmouth County residents have been longing for.”

NJR’s funding will support specific, actionable strategies of MCF’s plan for the preserve:

  • Conduct a comprehensive natural resource inventory;

  • Devise and implement a site restoration and management plan;

  • Assess and devise a climate resilient public access strategy; and,

  • Build and launch an educational outreach program at Scudder Preserve.

In whole, these efforts underwritten by NJR at Scudder Preserve will result in forest restoration and habitat management to reduce invasive species, restore biodiversity and ecosystem function, including water quality benefits, greater climate resilience from native planting, and site improvements that reduce erosion and mitigate storm- and flood-water flows. The work at the preserve will focus on expanding public access and education through trail and facility improvements, allowing local communities to benefit from open space and nature.

Water with little bridges Scudder Preserve

Scudder Preserve  Photo: New Jersey Resources (NJR)

NJR’s gift is made possible through NJR’s 2023 pledge to commit up to $2 million over five years through its charities, dedicated to supporting the work of CCI on natural resource management and education, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship in the communities it serves. NJR will also seek opportunities for employees to collaborate with MCF on future volunteerism and education efforts.

In addition to funding from NJR, MCF previously announced it had secured a private philanthropic gift of $1 million, providing seed support for MCF’s transition into its ongoing management of Scudder Preserve.

This project adds to NJR’s broader sustainability efforts, demonstrated in part through CCI. Over the last year NJR has successfully continued to incorporate sustainability across its business. A few highlights include:

  • Announced a milestone five-year funding commitment of $560,000 from its charitable foundation to advance local environmental improvements in partnership with New Jersey Audubon.

  • Provided nearly $2 million in charitable and volunteer support to community nonprofits in NJR’s last fiscal year, including approximately 4,000 hours of volunteer service – nearly double the amount of the previous year.

  • Achieved the highest single-year investment of $59 million in New Jersey Natural Gas’ energy-efficiency programs – cutting carbon emissions by helping customers reduce their energy consumption.

  • Continued to advance cutting-edge, lower-carbon energy solutions, including the installation of carbon capture technology and high-efficiency gas heat pumps in NJR’s own facilities.

  • Construction of North America’s largest capped landfill solar array and largest floating solar array – both located in New Jersey.

  • Named one of America’s Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek for the fifth consecutive year – one of only 156 companies nationwide to be recognized every year since 2020.

Scudder Preserve Pond Photo: New Jersey Resources (NJR)

About New Jersey Resources

New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR) is a Fortune 1000 company that, through its subsidiaries, provides safe and reliable natural gas and clean energy services, including transportation, distribution, asset management and home services. NJR is composed of five primary businesses:

  • New Jersey Natural Gas, NJR’s principal subsidiary, operates and maintains natural gas transportation and distribution infrastructure to serve nearly 576,000 customers in New Jersey’s Monmouth, Ocean and parts of Morris, Middlesex, Sussex and Burlington counties.

  • Clean Energy Ventures invests in, owns and operates solar projects with a total capacity of approximately 469 megawatts, providing residential and commercial customers with low-carbon solutions.

  • Energy Services manages a diversified portfolio of natural gas transportation and storage assets and provides physical natural gas services and customized energy solutions to its customers across North America.

  • Storage and Transportation serves customers from local distributors and producers to electric generators and wholesale marketers through its ownership of Leaf River Energy Center and the Adelphia Gateway Pipeline, as well as our 50% equity ownership in the Steckman Ridge natural gas storage facility.

  • Home Services provides service contracts as well as heating, central air conditioning, water heaters, standby generators, solar and other indoor and outdoor comfort products to residential homes throughout New Jersey.



NJR and its over 1,300 employees are committed to helping customers save energy and money by promoting conservation and encouraging efficiency through Conserve to Preserve® and initiatives such as SAVEGREEN™ and The Sunlight Advantage®.

For more information about NJR visit www.njresources.com.

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About Monmouth Conservation Foundation  
Founded in 1977, Monmouth Conservation Foundation is an independent nonprofit land trust that has preserved more than 9,400 acres of green space in Monmouth County. Accredited by the Land Trust Commission since 2014, MCF collaborates with private and public partners to acquire and preserve open space and farmland and conserve natural habitats throughout Monmouth County in support of outdoor recreation, agriculture, clean water, and wildlife for long-term sustainability. MCF leads conservation and education efforts to preserve and protect our natural environment, so all individuals and communities have access to and can benefit from open space and nature for generations to come. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

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