Memorial to Judith Stanley Coleman Dedicated at Swimming River Park

By Karen Keene

Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF) hosted a dedication ceremony on Saturday, December 9, 2023 for a new seating area at Swimming River Park in Middletown that pays tribute to Judith Stanley Coleman (1935 – 2010). The memorial was funded by donations to MCF in memory of Stanley Coleman, who was MCF’s Co-Founder and served as the nonprofit land trust’s president for over thirty years.

Stanley Coleman co-founded MCF with Michael Huber (1927 – 2009) in 1977, and the organization’s mission is 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. She served as past chairman of the Middletown Planning Board and was instrumental in putting Middletown's then proposed Open Space Tax question on the voting ballot, where the Middletown residents approved it by a large margin in 1999. She then became a member of the Middletown Open Space Committee upon its inception.

“Judith Stanley Coleman was critically instrumental in preserving beautiful tracts of open space in Monmouth County,” said County Commissioner and Liaison to the Park System Ross Licitra. “The County Commissioners are eager to carry on her legacy and work to preserve additional parklands that can be enjoyed by our residents for generations to come.”

William Kastning, Executive Director of MCF, and Mary Tassini, Trustee Emeritus for MCF, served as the event’s emcees and shared fond memories of Stanley Coleman.

“MCF is honored to pay tribute to our late friend and visionary co-founder, Judith Stanley Coleman, who led our organization for more than three decades and set the course for preserving the open spaces, parks, and farmland, which make Monmouth County so special. We are grateful to the generous donors who supported the memorial at Swimming River Park,” said Kastning.

Kastning and several other attendees, including former New Jersey State Senator Jennifer Beck and former Holmdel Mayor Larry Fink – both members of MCF’s Board of Trustees – credited Stanley Coleman with mentoring aspects of their careers and engaging them in land preservation efforts. Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone spoke about Monmouth County’s beautiful green spaces and the County’s commitment to upholding them, such as through our diverse park offerings. Monmouth County Commissioner Lillian Burry, an Ex-Officio member of MCF’s Board of Trustees, gave heartfelt remarks paying homage to Stanley Coleman and her civic and private work to preserve land in Monmouth County, where Stanley Coleman was a lifelong resident.

The speakers highlighted many of the land preservation and park creation projects MCF played a critical role in during Stanley Coleman’s tenure, including the 416-acre Chase Tract in Holmdel, which became part of Holmdel Park and two adjacent, preserved farms; the 84-acre Hunt’s Crossing Easement on McClees Creek in Middletown; and the 1,200-acre Princeton Nurseries property – a multi-County effort.

L-R: MCF Trustees: Matt Cohen (President), Ron Gumbaz, Larry Fink, Ric Venino, Frank Scheuer, Michael Rubin, Sarah Orsay, Jack and Mary Tassini, Jennifer Beck, and Jerry Buffalino

At the event, Kastning cited Swimming River Park as a shining example of MCF’s collaborative work with public and private partners to protect and share green space with our community. An effort nearly a decade in the making, Swimming River Park opened last May following the successful collaboration of the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, Monmouth County Park System, and MCF to create the new 18-acre County park. The County acquired two parcels of waterfront property in 2015 and 2018, both with assistance from MCF, which were previously private lands home to Chris’ Landing and Chris’ Deli & Liquor in the River Plaza section of Middletown.

L-R Catherine Niederer and Andrea Huber

MCF and the Park System oversaw different stages of the necessary site clean-up and remediation, including a capping process to make the site safe and usable by the public. These efforts were supported by funding from the Hazardous Discharge Site Relief Fund (HDSRF) through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). Ultimately, the partners’ efforts to create Swimming River Park preserved green space and are restoring a natural watershed at the confluence of the Navesink and Swimming Rivers for the permanent benefit of Monmouth County residents and visitors.

Two of Stanley Coleman’s four daughters, Catherine Niederer and Andrea Huber, were in attendance and remarked how happy their mother would have been to see this project come to fruition. Attendees enjoyed an unseasonably warm and sunny day at the dedication, ending with a bald eagle soaring overhead. Many commented on the beautiful setting being perfectly suited to honoring Judy’s legacy.

See the Two River Times coverage of this event.

122 Acres Preserved as Addition to Millstone Park

By Karen Keene

Millstone Township in western Monmouth County is getting greener or, more accurately, staying greener thanks to the permanent preservation of 122 acres as an addition to Millstone Park. The land was acquired via a fee simple purchase in partnership with Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF), the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Green Acres Program, Monmouth County, and Millstone Township.

Photo by Gene Madeam

The property, surrounded by existing municipal and state open spaces and preserved farmland, represents one of the largest remaining, undeveloped tracts of land in the area. Intense development exists nearby, and an analysis of the property determined that it could accommodate a 12-lot residential subdivision based on current zoning. Looming current and future development threats made the preservation of this parcel a high priority.

A preservation project officially in the works since 2021, Millstone’s Township Committee authorized the $2.6 million purchase on June 15, 2022, with funding support from the NJ DEP Green Acres Program, Monmouth County, MCF, and the Township. The property was successfully acquired on August 15, 2023.

“MCF contributed $500,000 toward this acquisition, obtained through the NJ DEP Green Acres Program.  This is a significant financial contribution for us to make, on the high end of what we can typically provide. This site has been on our preservation wish list for decades, and we are so pleased to help permanently protect this land for Monmouth County residents and visitors.” said William Kastning, MCF’s Executive Director.

“The County Commissioners are pleased to provide funding to assist the Township in acquiring this important addition to Millstone Park. This project is part of an ongoing effort on the part of the County to provide local assistance through the Monmouth County Municipal Land Preservation Incentive Program," stated County Commissioner Ross Licitra.

Photo by Jena Cosimo

The property, located on Trenton-Lakewood and Spring Roads, has deep agricultural and historical ties to the local community.  It includes two non-contiguous parcels located along and separated by Spring Road. On the west side, 86-acres of mostly farm fields containing prime agriculture soils, a valuable resource, comprise one parcel.

The parcel on the east side of Spring Road contains 36 acres of forested land, much of which is identified as century forest, with freshwater wetlands and Ivanhoe Brook.

The preservation of the property will help to safeguard, maintain, and improve the quality and/or quantity of drinking water sources. Millstone is an area serviced by private drinking wells, the sole source of drinking water. Millstone is the home of numerous headwaters for important rivers, brooks, and streams including the Millstone River, a major tributary of the Raritan River. The Township is also one of only two municipalities in Monmouth County that are part of the Toms River watershed, as it rises from the Millstone area, flowing southward through the Pine Barrens to the Barnegat Bay. 

The property is also habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including threatened, endangered, and critical mammals, reptiles, insects, and flowering plants. The Connecting Habitat Across New Jersey (CHANJ) project identifies the property as core wildlife habitat contiguous to Millstone Park, Assunpink Wildlife Management Area, and preserved farmland.

Currently, Millstone Park offers walking and jogging trails, an equine trail, five multi-purpose fields, baseball fields, pickleball, tennis, basketball, sand volleyball, fishing, boat launch, a tot lot, and bathroom facilities. The Township’s Open Space Preservation Council, which works to acquire and maintain open space in Millstone, is excited to expand the Doctors Creek Trail, which circles Millstone Park, to include the newly preserved, contiguous acreage. In December 2018, MCF assisted Millstone Township in preserving 11.5 acres on Burnt Tavern Road, which helped bridge the Barnegat Bay watershed to Millstone Park.

"Millstone is an environmentally sensitive township, and any and all land we can preserve we will until there is no more available. Keeping open space in an ever populating world is of paramount importance, and all governing bodies must band together to ensure this preservation of land happens fully. Lastly, New Jersey should keep up to its mantra of being the Garden State," shared Al Ferro, Mayor of Millstone Township.

Millstone is a rural, agricultural community which places high priority on maintaining its peaceful character. To date, the Township has approximately 7,280 acres of preserved land through state, county, and municipal acquisitions.

Millstone’s Open Space Preservation Council has cited recent development of warehouses and housing as strains on the Township’s infrastructure and quality of life, making the preservation of these 122 acres an important achievement.

“Monmouth County is facing increasing pressure from overdevelopment, and land preservation is critical for environmental health and our quality of life. We are grateful to our partners in this endeavor and for funding support from the state’s Green Acres Program and our donors to enable this type of investment for our community,” said William Kastning, MCF’s Executive Director.

MCF has helped to preserve more than 9,000 acres of land across Monmouth County in its 46 years. Less than 20,000 acres remain in Monmouth that are yet to be developed or preserved.

###

 Contact:
Karen Keene
Director of Development and Communications
Monmouth Conservation Foundation
kkeene@monmouthconservation.org
732.671.7000 w; 305.519.6494 c

 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 463 accredited land trusts out of 1,100 nationwide. www.monmouthconservation.org

New Sculpture Unveiled at Jackson Woods Park in Long Branch

By Karen Keene

Rising Waters, a metal sculpture by artist Dorsey Lucas, was dedicated this weekend at Jackson Woods Park in Long Branch, New Jersey at a free community event hosted by Monmouth Conservation Foundation, the Friends of Jackson Woods, and the City of Long Branch. The art is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the New Jersey Coastal Management Program (CMP), Department of Environmental Protection in partnership with the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

As we experienced the seventh consecutive weekend with rain in Monmouth County, a new sculpture entitled “Rising Waters” was fittingly unveiled on Saturday afternoon, October 21 at Jackson Woods Park in Long Branch. Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF), the Friends of Jackson Woods, and the City of Long Branch hosted a public dedication ceremony and free community event at Jackson Woods, located on Ocean Boulevard North between Atlantic Avenue and Avenel Boulevard. The clouds dissipated and sun appeared just in time for the free event, which featured an eclectic mix of art and nature.

“Rising Waters” sculpture by Dorsey Lucas

“Rising Waters” was sculpted by artist Dorsey Lucas with technical assistance from her husband, Rich Lucas. This artwork is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the New Jersey Coastal Management Program (CMP), Department of Environmental Protection in partnership with the New Jersey State Council on the Arts through a Community-Based Art program grant secured by MCF. The grant program is intended to bring attention to and start conversations around climate change in our coastal areas through art installations in geographically diverse locations across the state. In doing so, the CMP aims to have a more widespread and effective approach to communicating risk.

"With each Community-Based Art Grant project, it is always exciting to see the unique and innovative approaches that artists take to communicate coastal flood risk to a broad audience," said Nick Angarone, New Jersey Chief Resilience Officer. "Rising Waters is an excellent addition to Jackson Woods Park, where it relays an important story of sea-level rise and flooding in Long Branch."

“Rising Waters serves as a reminder of the risk of flooding from coastal storms and sea level rise. It highlights the importance of protecting our communities from damaging floods, storm surge, and the harmful effects of excessive stormwater runoff,” said Kathy Buchan, Founder and Co-Director of Friends of Jackson Woods.

“Working on this large piece, 21’ x 9’, was a huge but exciting challenge. The environmental theme was especially important to me. My husband,  Rich Lucas, has been a major collaborator with the recent metal works we’ve taken on,” shared Dorsey Lucas.

During the event, local artists Lisa Bagwell and Carla Valentino exhibited pieces from their respective collections made from found items recycled into art.

“It was important to me to include other art disciplines,” said Dorsey Lucas.

Lisa Bagwell with her piece “Dead Gull,” assembled from beach trash, cigar filter tips, straws, plastics, and items

 Lisa Bagwell with her piece “Dead Gull,” assembled from beach trash, cigar filter tips, straws, plastics, and items

Carla Valentino with her piece made from found plastic bottles

Carla Valentino with her piece made from found plastic bottles

Monmouth County authors John Grandits and Frank Valentino each read one of their poems written for the occasion, themed around coastal flooding. In John’s case, his concrete poem was fashioned into the shape of a wave and displayed for guests.

Long Branch Mayor John Pallone, Kathy Buchan and Nan Simon, Co-Directors of the Friends of Jackson Woods, artist Dorsey Lucas, and Karen Keene, MCF’s Director of Development and Communications, spoke during the dedication ceremony.

“We are thrilled to add ‘Rising Waters’ to the park. Friends of Jackson Woods’ vision for the park is to create a place where nature and the arts thrive together and to educate our community, making a visit to Jackson Woods an experience to remember,” stated Kathy Buchan.

This event was a wonderful opportunity to experience Jackson Woods Park, a City of Long Branch public park, which has been transformed over the past five years by the volunteer-run Friends of Jackson Woods with support from the City of Long Branch, MCF, Monmouth County, funding partners, and many volunteers. 

“MCF’s work with Jackson Woods Park is an example of our growing efforts in park creation and enhancement - a crucial part of keeping Monmouth County green and livable. Whether rejuvenating a neglected park in an underserved community or creating a welcoming new park with water and fishing access, it is imperative to protect our land for people of all ages to respect and enjoy,” voiced William Kastning, Executive Director of MCF.

###

 Contact:
Karen Keene
Director of Development and Communications
Monmouth Conservation Foundation
kkeene@monmouthconservation.org
732.671.7000 w; 305.519.6494 c

 

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 463 accredited land trusts out of 1,100 nationwide. www.monmouthconservation.org

In April 2018, a group of concerned citizens – the Friends of Jackson Woods – formed to revitalize the park to benefit the community. Passive recreation, environmental education, promotion of the arts, and the preservation of Long Branch’s rich history, as well as protecting this unique ecosystem and the habitat it provides for local wildlife, are their goals. Jackson Woods Park was created in 1991 when a 13-acre farmhouse and wetlands property that had been slated for redevelopment was preserved as open space. Although preserved, the area was left unattended, becoming overgrown, and then further damaged by Super Storm Sandy. With support from the City of Long Branch and its mayor, MCF, as well as many local volunteer organizations, along with the leadership, passion and efforts of the Friends of Jackson Woods, that transformation is now well underway. www.friendsofjacksonwoods.org

PHOTO GALLERY

Dorsey Lucas with her sculpture, Rising Waters

 L-R: Dorsey and Rich Lucas, Kathy Buchan

L-R: Kathleen Kenney, Bill Kastning, MCF Trustee Michael Rubin, and Karen Keene 

Friends of Jackson Woods volunteers distributing commemorative t-shirts and educational literature

“We were very fortunate to have the support of MCF and the Friends of Jackson Woods, and we can’t speak highly enough about the Long Branch Department of Public Works crew, as their assistance to prep the area for installation was imperative,” said Dorsey Lucas.

Assembled art by Lisa Bagwell.

“I am so glad Jackson Woods is here as open space for the public and that they incorporate art for the space and employ community effort to maintain it,” said artist Lisa Bagwell.

“I was very honored to be a part of the event at Jackson Woods. Dorsey Lucas’ sculpture is not only beautiful but raises awareness of the coastal flooding issue. In addition, her work also brings attention to the beautiful park that is a testament to environmental protection and the pressing need to preserve more areas such as this along our New Jersey shoreline,” said Carla Valentino. 

Piece by Carla Valentino.   

Locally based Chef Darren Monroe provided plant-forward cuisine offerings for the event with wonderful fall flavors.

“Lisa Bagwell’s and Carla Valentino’s amazing vision and creative use of ‘throw away’  materials were appreciated by everyone. More than once, I heard guests viewing their art remark, ‘This is fantastic, but so sad…considering what it’s made out of,’ – a very accurate observation,” said Dorsey Lucas.

John Grandits reading his concrete poem, “Solutions for Coastal Flooding,” being displayed behind him by Dorsey Lucas

Frank Valentino reading his poem, “Storms of Truth”

Click to read/download

SENATE RESOLUTION - Click to enlarge

Click to read/download

Metal Detectorists Explore Middletown Nature Preserve in Support of MCF

By Karen Keene

MCF benefited from a recent convening of metal detectorists who participated in the inaugural event, Dig it Dude, the Gathering. The three-day event took place from August 25 to 27, 2023 at the Spy Hill Nature Preserve in Middletown, private property owned by the Montecalvo family. Valerie Montecalvo is a member of MCF’s Board of Trustees, and she and her family are longstanding supporters of our work who were happy to host this special event.

Spy Hill is located along the British retreat route after the Revolutionary War Battle at Monmouth in 1778. British troops under General Henry Clinton retreated toward Sandy Hook, from where they were transported by ships to British-occupied New York City on July 5, 1778.

Limited to 110 attendees, the Gathering attracted participants of all ages from across the country and Canada for the exclusive opportunity to explore 21-acre Spy Hill with their metal detecting equipment. Proceeds from its registration and raffles totaling over $11,000 were donated to MCF to benefit our operations and land preservation efforts.

Dig it Dude, the Gathering is both the name of the event and of the nonprofit LLC recently established by New Jersey residents Shelli Williams and her wife, Dawn Williams, and Audra Thomas, all three of whom serve as its Co-Founders and Co-Presidents. The participating professional detectorists and metal-detecting enthusiasts follow a metal detecting code of ethics, and we learned, largely value land preservation, open space, and historical conservation.

"The team at Dig It, Dude, The Gathering is blessed to have worked alongside MCF for our inaugural event. Conservation is very much a part of what we do, so our alignment with them as benefactors was a match made in heaven!  We are looking forward to future projects," said Shelli Williams.

Items found at the event include numerous coins such as a 1783 Spanish real, 1798 Draped Bust one-cent US coin, and 1886 Queen Victora era British penny, as well as artifacts like a miniature pewter tea cup, a horse bridle rosette, and suspender clip.

Honoring James J. “Jim” Truncer (1936-2023)

By Karen Keene

Not many people know this, but Jim Truncer played an instrumental role in the founding of Monmouth Conservation Foundation.

In the 1970s, Jim invited thirty-five people to dinner and shared his vision for a nonprofit to work hand-in-hand with Monmouth County to preserve land and create parks. A local attorney, Chet Apy, acted as a moderator for Jim’s presentation during the dinner, which was modeled after a California state parks foundation.

Twenty or so of the dinner guests signed on to help, including Judith Stanley Coleman (1935- 2010), who went on to become one of MCF’s co-founders. Michael Huber (1927-2009), MCF’s other co-founder, joined the effort shortly after. Jim acted as secretary to the incorporation, and a group of six to eight individuals served as incorporators.

Honoring James J. “Jim” Truncer (1936-2023)

Photo courtesy of Monmouth County Park System (MCPS)

MCF was officially established in 1977 by this passionate group of citizens to acquire, hold, preserve, and protect the open lands, historic areas, and park and recreational areas of Monmouth County, New Jersey, together with any buildings located thereon. MCF began as a park foundation, but our founders – Judy, in particular – felt it should be a land trust. During the establishment phase, the organization changed names and direction to become the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization it is today.

Nearly a half-century later, MCF is the County’s only land trust, and our purpose is 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. We work together with public and private partners – very often with Monmouth County – to preserve land in perpetuity, and to protect and enhance the natural resources in our communities.

We have assisted with the preservation of 9,090 acres overall in Monmouth County. Among these, we have helped to conserve over 4,500 acres of County parklands – 25% of Monmouth County Park System’s (MCPS) current 18,000 acres, acting as a facilitator among stakeholders and partners and/or by contributing funding.

“We owe a great deal to Jim Truncer for his quiet leadership, diplomatic collaboration, and genuine commitment to land preservation. MCF wholeheartedly thanks Jim for being an MCF ex-officio board member and cherished partner to our organization for decades during his robust life of 86 years. We are honored to establish the Jim Truncer Memorial Fund in his memory to carry on his meaningful legacy of preserving green space and creating parks for the benefit of the people.”


— Bill Kastning
MCF Executive Director

Jim, pictured here in 1962, while serving in the Air Force’s Air Guard during the Vietnam Era, stationed in France. At age 70, Jim earned his pilot’s license and took up flying for fun.

Jim grew up at Parvin State Park in Elmer, New Jersey, where his father, Joseph J. Truncer (1907-2000) was the first superintendent. Jim spent his days riding his bicycle all around the Park visiting nearby farms, where he befriended older children living on the farmsteads. Some of the older children secretly took him up in the crop dusters – an activity that Jim’s daughter, Becky, says sparked her father’s love of flying.

Jim began his tenure with Monmouth County as a volunteer on the Board of Recreation Commissioners before becoming a park planner with the Planning Board in 1964 and then became the Park System Secretary Director in 1965, a position he held for 58 years, until his passing. Becky shared that her dad’s first thought for his career may not have been park system administration, but his father’s career in the field and Jim’s childhood on a state park made a major impact and set Jim on his professional path. Jim and his father each led park system agencies and oversaw the preservation of tens of thousands of acres for public benefit, across New Jersey.

Father and son, Joseph and Jim Truncer

Father and son, Joseph and Jim Truncer

Both Joseph, in 1969, and Jim Truncer, in 1994, received the Cornelius Amory Pugsley Medal from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) – the only father and son recipients in the award’s 95-year history. The Pugsley Medals are among the most prestigious awards that recognize outstanding contributions to the promotion and development of public parks and conservation in the United States.

In addition to advising and helping to start MCF, Jim similarly facilitated the formation of the Friends of the Parks in 1993. Both local nonprofits directly support the Park System. In his Pugsley citation, Jim was described as “a champion of developing unique and successful partnerships and collaborations with non-profit organizations and public agencies to develop alternative funding and acquisition opportunities to benefit parks, recreation, and historic preservation.”

“We’re very lucky in Monmouth County to have what we have, but we didn’t get it by luck. Jim was able to bring partnerships together, between county government officials, professional staff, concerned community leaders, and private individuals.”

— Maria Wojciechowski
Executive Director of the
Monmouth County Friends of the Parks

Jim worked to establish the Commission for the Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) and put his own agency – MCPS through the rigorous process in the first round of national review in 1994. MCPS achieved the nation’s first accreditation from CAPRA in 1994, a level of excellence still proudly held by the agency today.

Countless accolades mark Jim’s 58-year career with the Park System. Jim was a leader in establishing New Jersey’s first County Open Space tax in 1992. He earned the 2002 Distinguished Professional Award from the National Recreation and Park Association and the 2002 NJ Recreation & Park Association Administrative Excellence Award.

LEFT TO RIGHT: MCF Trustee George Illmensee (1930-2016), Jim Truncer, Monmouth County Freeholder Tom Powers (1934-2016), Freeholder Director Harry Larrison (1926-2005), and Judith Stanley Coleman among dignitaries at the Dorbrook Recreation Area dedication in 1985. PHOTO COURTESY OF MCPS

Under his direction, MCPS grew from 350 acres on three parks – Holmdel, Shark River and Turkey Swamp – to over 18,000 acres of parkland, which includes 37 parks, six golf courses, and 148 miles of trails. The Park System also offers more than 5,000 activities, trips, and programs serving over 94,000 people each year. Monmouth County has been recognized as one of the nation’s best places to live, and the Park System, under Jim’s leadership, is a contributing factor to the distinction. MCPS is now recognized nationally and, arguably, internationally by those involved with parks.

When Jim celebrated his 50th year as director of MCPS in 2016, approaching his 80th birthday, he was the longest-serving county employee. On the occasion, he was asked if retirement was in the future, and he replied, “When they close the lid,” appearing serious. He lived out his life committed to his important work.

He was fiercely dedicated, modest, and selfless. Jim was renowned for always thinking of people – the users of our parks and public open spaces – in his leadership over the Park System. He was detailed and meticulous. While visiting Park System sites, he was known to be the first one to pick up a piece of litter on the ground or ask his late wife, Ramona, of 63 years to check the ladies’ restroom for cleanliness. On one of his last drives with daughter, Becky, Jim stopped in and wanted to see how the driveway was coming at one of the Park System golf courses.

Working Grist Mill at Historic Walnford.

Photo by Tina Collela Photography

When asked about his favorite County park, Jim struggled to answer – much like being asked to choose a favorite child. Jim’s family recalls him having a special place in his heart for each park, likening them to his babies. He once shared with MCF staff that he loved Historic Walnford. Jim lived in Allentown, close to Walnford in western Monmouth, and was familiar with the property before it became part of the Park System. He and MCPS tried to buy the property to make it a County park but were unsuccessful. Ed and Joanne Mullen later gifted it to the County, and it is now one of the historic sites located along the Upper Freehold Historic Farmland Scenic Byway.

“I tell our people we’ve been blessed. Beautiful county. To raise a family, to have a business. When we have visitors, they’re surprised parts of New Jersey are so beautiful. We’re blessed we’ve had the support of the public, our political leadership”

— Jim Truncer upon his 50th Anniversary with MCPS

Jim is beloved by many and remembered for his strong character. He was humble, thoughtful, and honest – a true gentleman. Becky remembers her dad always making her and her brother, James, feel like they could do anything. Jim encouraged and taught them to be resourceful self-starters and to do things the right way. He was an excellent role model and gifted storyteller. He was loved by his staff and respected by the Board of County Commissioners (formerly known as Freeholders) and Board of Recreation Commissioners as a visionary.

Ramona and Jim Truncer with children Rebecca “Becky” and James

MCF posthumously honored Jim Truncer at the 2023 Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party, the proceeds of which benefited the Jim Truncer Memorial Fund. For more information or to contribute to the Fund, please visit monmouthconservation.org/truncer

THIS ARTICLE REFERENCES JIM TRUNCER: REALIZING THE PEOPLE SIDE OF PARKS BY JOSEPH SAPIA, FIRST PUBLISHED IN THE TWO RIVER TIMES IN THE JUNE 16-23, 2016 PRINT EDITION.

Monmouth Conservation Foundation to Posthumously Honor 58-Year Monmouth County Park System Director at its Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party

By Karen Keene

The late James “Jim” Truncer (1936-2023) is being posthumously honored on September 23, 2023 at a historic, preserved farm during Monmouth Conservation Foundation’s annual signature fundraiser. MCF is establishing The Jim Truncer Memorial Fund to carry on Jim’s meaningful legacy of preserving green space in Monmouth County.

For Immediate Release

Middletown, N.J. (Aug. 24, 2023) – Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF), Monmouth County’s only land trust, is hosting its Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party on Saturday, September 23, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The nonprofit’s signature fundraiser is being hosted by Arthur and Jill Kontos at their historic property – Fairway Farm on the rolling hills of Middletown, New Jersey in support of MCF’s nonprofit mission of preserving open space throughout Monmouth County.

Fairway Farm. Photo by Angie Lambert Photography

The breathtaking, 40-acre Fairway Farm was preserved through a conservation easement donated to MCF in 2007 by the late Anne Haskell Ellis in her last will and testament. It was previously part of Oak Hill Farm, then the Ellis Farm; known to some as the Haskell Farm, formerly called the Aulde House. Fall for Conservation will feature live music by the Moroccan Sheepherders, plentiful hors d’oeuvres and culinary delights, open bar, exclusive live and silent auctions, entertainment, and more.

At the event, MCF will be honoring the late James “Jim” Truncer (1936-2023), Director of Monmouth County Parks for 58 years, who grew the park system during his esteemed career from 350 acres on three parks to over 18,000 acres of parkland, which includes 37 parks, six golf courses, and 148 miles of trails. In recognition of his decades of commitment to MCF’s mission and impact on our community and park system, MCF is establishing the Jim Truncer Memorial Fund, which will be used to carry on his meaningful legacy of preserving green space and creating parks for the benefit of the people. Proceeds from the event will support this Fund and MCF’s important work to #KeepMonmouthGreen: maintaining Monmouth County’s natural attributes and quality of life.

“Jim Truncer played an integral role in the formation of MCF – bringing together our founders and sharing a vision for a nonprofit to work hand in hand with the County to preserve land,” said Bill Kastning, MCF’s Executive Director. “Throughout his career, Jim helped to advance our nonprofit mission of land conservation. We commend his dedication to preserving green space and thank him, posthumously, for being an ex-officio board member and cherished partner during his robust life of 86 years.”

In recent months, several collaborative land preservation and public space enhancement projects have come to fruition with facilitation and funding support from MCF. The nonprofit assisted Monmouth County in preserving a 17-acre property along the Navesink River in the Locust section of Middletown Township as an addition to Hartshorne Woods Park and collaborated with County and State partners to create Swimming River Park in the River Plaza section of Middletown after a years-long clean-up effort. MCF also preserved the 19-acre Stivala Farm in Colts Neck, in partnership with the State, County, and Colts Neck Township.

“We are grateful for our longstanding partnership with the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners and Monmouth County Park System (MCPS). MCF is proud to have helped to preserve more than 9,090 acres of open space and farmland to date, including more than 4,300 acres or twenty-four percent of MCPS’ 18,000 acres,” said MCF President, Matthew Cohen. “Jim Truncer was an outstanding ally in our shared efforts toward land preservation and park development, and we are honored to celebrate him at Fall for Conservation and carry on his legacy through the memorial fund.”

Fall for Conservation sponsors and include the Arthur Kontos Foundation, Joan Rechnitz, Ray Catena Auto Group – the Legend in Luxury, Liz and Charlie Komar, Gloria and Len Nilson, Vikki and Bill Marraccini / Sonia and Christian Zugel, and John R. and Mary Tassini.. The event’s live auction will feature exclusive experiences including a six-night stay for four at the Relais & Châteaux, all-inclusive Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, Montana – the world’s only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star guest ranch, donated by Fair Haven natives Jim and Marybeth Manley, owners of the Ranch at Rock Creek, and the opportunity to jump the notoriously long line to the top of the waiting list at Chapel Beach Club in Sea Bright. For details and to take part in Fall for Conservation, visit www.monmouthconservation.org/fall.


### 

Contact:
Karen Keene
Director of Development and Communications
Monmouth Conservation Foundation
kkeene@monmouthconservation.org
732.671.7000 w; 305.519.6494 c 


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. Its 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 459 accredited land trusts out of 1,100 nationwide. www.monmouthconservation.org

Monmouth County Native Fulfills Dream of Owning a Ranch in the American Frontier

Jim Manley Shares his Journey to Owning the World-Class Ranch at Rock Creek Luxury Resort and his Commitment to Conservation

By Karen Keene


Raised in Fair Haven, New Jersey, Jim Manley dreamed early on of living on a ranch in the American frontier, as depicted on his favorite Western TV shows. He and his wife, Marybeth, now own the 6,600-acre Ranch at Rock Creek, a Relais & Châteaux, all-inclusive property, and the world’s only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star guest ranch, located in one of Montana’s most pristine valleys. The Manleys and their entire Ranch staff are dedicated to conservation and are making great strides to incorporate sustainability initiatives on their property, while engaging their guests and community in unique eco-tourism experiences.

Paying homage to their New Jersey roots, the Manleys have donated an all-inclusive package for four valued at $50,000 to Monmouth Conservation’s Foundation Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party Live Auction. The event is being hosted by Arthur and Jill Kontos on September 23, 2023 evening at their historic, preserved Fairway Farm in Middletown, New Jersey overlooking Jim’s hometown of Fair Haven. At the event, MCF is honoring the late James J. Truncer (1936-2023), Director of Monmouth County Parks for 58 years, who grew the park system during his esteemed career from 350 acres across three parks to over 18,000 acres of parkland.

Camp Roosevelt at The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, MT

One of nine children, Jim grew up watching shows like Bonanza, The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp, and The Big Valley. His heart was set on owning a horse and a gun, and by age ten, he pledged to his father that he would someday own a ranch. Jim’s dream of ranch life was a far stretch from his childhood suburban home in central coastal New Jersey, with a small yard and houses all around. He yearned for beautiful open spaces, expansive landscapes, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife.

Jim fondly remembers life in New Jersey in the late 1950s and 1960s, when Delicious Orchards in Colts Neck was just a farmstand selling apples, cider, pies, and donuts, and the town was largely farmland and what he viewed as “the country.” Middletown was also much more rural, with dirt roads and quaint family businesses like Cedar Hill Farm & Nursery having a much larger footprint than today. He recalls visiting Cedar Hill often with family to get milk, apples, and peaches.

His quest for a ranch began at age 33 and took more than 20 years to come to fruition. Jim went on scoping trips twice per year, visiting hundreds of ranch properties across the Canadian Rockies, Montana, Idaho, northern California, Colorado, and Arizona. He ended up focusing on Montana, where it is greener but not as dry, and the latitude affords the high alpine feel at lower elevations. Throughout his search, Jim devised a set of criteria for his dream ranch, including the following characteristics:

  • Valley location with unobstructed views

  • Surrounded by national forest or parkland or other ranchlands

  • Ringed by white-capped mountains

  • Ski resort nearby

  • Low elevation

  • River running through the property with no paved road

  • Historical feel of old mining town

  • Minimum of 26 inches of annual precipitation, allowing for green summers and snowy winters

  • Habitat for diverse wildlife, excluding poisonous snakes and grizzly bears

Two decades into his search, in 2007, Jim received a call from his realtor, Bill McDavid, who was confident he had finally found the perfect property. McDavid was familiar with the site since he had sold it to the last owner ten years prior. Jim flew in, toured The Ranch at Rock Creek grounds by horseback, and bought it that same day!

The Manley Family

Jim and Marybeth, their son and three daughters, and friends enjoyed The Ranch for several years before deciding to share the experience with others. They transitioned their ranch in 2008 to 2010 during the Great Recession, and many people told Jim he was crazy and discouraged the family’s efforts. The Manleys persisted, and The Ranch welcomed its first guest in 2010.

By adding accommodations and restoring historic buildings, it became The Ranch at Rock Creek luxury guest ranch it is today. It took a few years to get going but began making a profit in 2015. That same year, The Ranch at Rock Creek became a founding member of National Geographic Society’s Unique Lodges of the World—a designation held by no other ranch or resort in the US.

A Commitment to Sustainability
The Ranch is unique because sustainability has been central to the property’s plans since it opened. They eliminated most single-use plastics in 2019 and offer guests refillable water bottles and bathroom amenities and hay straws as eco-friendly alternatives. The Ranch prioritizes local sourcing, with 75% of dining sourced from local farms, and 90 to 100% of meats, summer produce, grains, and dairy products coming from Western Montana.

The Ranch is engaged with professional consultants in a forest management project to improve the health of its forests and wildlife habitats. It contributes to waterway protection through river and highway cleanups to help keep trash out of the riverbeds, practicing catch and release fishing, and installing fish screens on the property. Use of bikes or walking is promoted on site to minimize vehicle use, and numerous, additional sustainability measures are implemented by every department at The Ranch. In addition, The Ranch’s philanthropy efforts are focused on giving back to the frontier community that supports them.

"My vision for The Ranch has always been as a place for guests to disconnect from the daily distractions of modern life and reinforce vital relationships while enjoying five-star amenities and activities,” said owner Jim Manley. “As a destination rooted in the landscape, there isn’t a day that goes by where we don’t consider the importance of the natural world that surrounds us."

The Manleys should be commended for pursuing a long-term conservation outcome for The Ranch. Their vision is to work with a local Montana land trust, to preserve the property and prevent any further, future development. The Ranch at Rock Creek aims to preserve its environment for future generations, while giving guests a meaningful adventure in the still wild West. Jim aims to keep The Ranch in their family for hundreds of years, employing preservation options that allow families like theirs to maintain property but forego development rights to protect the natural attributes.

Photo courtesy of Yellowstone

Fans of the one of the most popular series on cable – Yellowstone – may recall a similar storyline that played out on the show in part 1 of season 5. The Paramount Network drama centers around the Dutton family, owners of the largest contiguous ranch in the United States – the fictional Yellowstone Dutton Ranch in Montana, commonly called “the Yellowstone.” Kevin Costner portrays John Dutton III, the fifth-generation patriarch who operates the Yellowstone, and he and his family will stop at nothing to protect their land from continual disputes with developers and neighboring Broken Rock Indian Reservation and Yellowstone National Park. The latest and seemingly sure-fire tactic is for the Duttons to place their land in a conservation easement with a land trust.

While there is certainly not as much drama at the Ranch at Rock Creek, Jim credits the popularity of Yellowstone with attracting even more interest from guests around the world to visit The Ranch. Montana has also seen additional interest from people wanting to own ranches in Montana, as a result of the show’s popularity. This has driven up property values and increased sales across the state.

Between world-class farm-to-table meals and fireside relaxation, The Ranch’s year-round activities program provides access to ten square miles of ranchland, mountain peaks, and trails. Fitted with the finest gear, guests accompany their knowledgeable guides on daily Western adventures, choosing from over 20 on-ranch activities and optional off-ranch excursions including horseback riding, stagecoach and sleigh rides, a rodeo, snowmobiling, skiing, hiking, mountain biking, zip lines, Flint’s Forest Rangers Kids Club, and more, tailored to their expertise and comfort levels. Guests can absorb Ranch culture and breathtaking scenery, relax at The Spa at Rock Creek, or enjoy evening entertainment in the Silver Dollar Saloon with bowling, billiards, karaoke, a private movie theatre, and more. Everything is included!

For full details, visit theranchatrockcreek.com and be sure to attend MCF’s Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party this year for your chance to bid on the exclusive Ranch package. All proceeds will support MCF’s work to #KeepMonmouthGreen and our mission 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.

Grand Luxury and All-Inclusive Adventures Rooted in the Storied West

The Ranch at Rock Creek is located 20 miles outside of the historic town of Philipsburg, Montana in Granite County, an area known as Gold Country.

As was typical, the nearby town of Philibsburg originally began as both a ranching and a mining town – rich in silver and sapphires. Granite County and its county seat, Philipsburg, came to life during the silver mining boom of the late 1800s. Today, Ranch guests can sift through freshly mined gravel, looking for sapphires as one of many included activities.

Alongside the mining boom, Utah cattle baron Fred Burr introduced cattle ranching to the Flint Creek Valley in the 1850’s – a pursuit that has persisted through the decades. In the late 1800’s, The Ranch land was homesteaded by W.W. Shaffer and P.W. White. It has changed hands through the decades but has operated continuously as a working cattle ranch during that time.

The property is off the beaten path in the Western region of Montana and approximately half-way between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, near the cities of Missoula, Butte, and Helena.

The land on which The Ranch sits is part of the Rocky Mountain range at an elevation of 5,200 feet. The finer points of the landscape were carved out by Glacial Lake Missoula during the last ice age.

The fabled Blue Ribbon trout stream, Rock Creek, one of the top five in the world, runs through The Ranch, offering prized fly-fishing.

The Ranch’s varied terrain creates a hospitable environment for rabbits, prairie dogs, deer, elk, moose, big horn sheep, wolves, coyote, beaver, wolverine, and fox, as well as occasional bear and mountain lion. Bird watchers are thrilled with sightings of bald and golden eagles, osprey, hawks, grouse, and waterfowl. It’s no surprise, with Western Montana being home to the most abundant wildlife population in the lower 48 states.

The original 19th century barn and several other structures are still standing. The Historic Barn has been remodeled into three rustic but elegant accommodations.

Up to 125 guests can also choose from nine suites in the Granite Lodge, glamping in ten luxury canvas cabins, or seven luxury homes.

 
 

Monmouth Conservation Foundation Welcomes Five New Trustees

Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF) is delighted to officially welcome five new trustees to our board: Jerry Buffalino, Nora King, Tony MacDonald, Michael Rubin, and Andrew Spears (ex-officio). These individuals are volunteering their time, energy, and resources to advance MCF’s mission of creating parks, saving open space, preserving farmland, teaching environmental sustainability, safeguarding waterways, and protecting wildlife throughout Monmouth County.

L-R: Trustees Tracey Cole and Liz Rechnitz with new Trustees Tony MacDonald, Jerry Buffalino, and Nora King at MCF’s 2023 Spring for Conservation Family Day.
Photo by Marcella Shook

Jerry Buffalino is a native New Jerseyan and has been a Holmdel resident for 27 years. He is currently retired from a long career as a senior lender in the corporate banking division of several major commercial banks. He graduated from Fordham University and earned a master’s degree in finance from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He and his wife, Lorraine, have two daughters, Audine Christie and Laurette Jean. They are parishioners at St. Catharines Church and actively volunteer in several parish community services.

Jerry is currently President of Preserve Holmdel, an organization of concerned citizens devoted to the preservation of Holmdel’s open spaces and natural resources. He was previously a member of Holmdel Township’s Business Relations Committee, a former member of the Zoning Board of Adjustment, and currently serves on the Financial Advisory Committee. Jerry is an avid golfer and enjoys cycling and practicing yoga. Thompson Park, located near his home, where he does a lot of cycling in the summer, is his favorite park in Monmouth County.

Jerry and Lorraine Buffalino at MCF’s 2022 Fall for Conservation Cocktail Party. Photo by Tina Colella Photography

Nora King is a Monmouth County native, raised in Locust. She graduated from Tulane University and earned her JD from Seton Hall Law. She practiced law in New York City as a derivatives attorney, representing hedge funds, trading desks, and energy companies. After a move to London, she returned to Monmouth County, where she, her husband, Kenny, and two children, Clara and Gavin, have been living in Rumson for the last ten years.

Nora volunteers and supports the VNA Health Group and its Children's Auxiliary, which raises money specifically for the VNA's Children and Family Health Institute. She is also involved with The Rumson Country Day School, which their children attend, and its annual fundraising efforts. When not supporting local organizations or ferrying her children to their activities, Nora spends free time playing tennis around Monmouth County. Deep Cut Gardens is her favorite local park, where she loves seeing the plant life and trees in full bloom and having the ability to walk through so many native plant species. 

Nora and Kenny King. Photo by Marcella Shook

Nora and Kenny King. Photo by Marcella Shook

“Because Monmouth County was my childhood home, I have seen the huge transformation in the last 40 years. Farms have been subdivided and sold off to developers, golf courses have been repurposed, and entire areas of fields and open spaces have become office complexes. While I am cognizant of the need for reasonable development, I feel strongly that our parks and open space are vital resources that we must protect. I was lucky to be raised with Huber Woods essentially in my backyard, and it is my hope that all Monmouth County residents have access to local parks,” shared Nora.

Tony MacDonald is director of the Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute (UCI), which supports stewardship of healthy coastal ecosystems and sustainable communities through science and public policy.  He graduated from Middlebury College and earned his JD from Fordham University School of Law. He was previously the executive director of the Coastal States Organization (CSO) from 1998-2005. CSO, based in Washington, DC, represents the interests of the governors of the nation’s 35 coastal states and territories on coastal and ocean policy matters. Prior to joining CSO, Tony was the special counsel and director of environmental affairs at the American Association of Port Authorities, where he represented the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) at the International Maritime Organization on negotiations on the London Convention. Tony has also practiced law with a private firm in Washington, DC, working on environmental and legislative issues, and served as the Washington, DC, environmental legislative representative for the Mayor of the City of New York.

Another native New Jerseyan, Michael Rubin has lived in Monmouth County for 42 years with his wife, Cindy – the past 30 in Colts Neck and the previous 12 in Holmdel. They have one son. Michael retired in 2019 from his long career as a manufacturer of dance apparel and dance shoes made by Body Wrappers. He graduated from Upsala College and earned his MBA at NYU with a concentration in finance. He was a board member of the Monmouth Museum for fourteen years, mentors students through Give Back and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and now takes calls for the 988 national suicide hotline.

Michael has actively taken part in land conservation, having owned 1,000 acres in West Virginia which were placed under state forestry management plans, meant to encourage wildlife habitat and manage the ecology of the forest. “This experience gave me an education in what forest management means and how individual land owners can act responsibly for their entire community, “ shared Michael. He has downsized to 43 acres of largely wooded acreage in Vermont, which are being placed under the Family Forest Carbon Organization to preserve the carbon catching power of trees.

When introduced to MCF recently, Michael was drawn to working with our organization to promote smart development. With a pro-business mindset, he aims to find balance where we retain open space and farmland and do not saturate with warehouses and strip malls. His favorite green space is their property overlooking the Swimming River Reservoir, and Thompson Park tops his list of Monmouth County parks – for its proximity and many activities like the ceramic studio programs. He enjoys kayaking on the Swimming River Reservoir, gardening in his yard here and at his Vermont home, reading, and doing a bit of financial research. 

As the Director of Monmouth County Park System, where he has worked for 38 years, Andrew Spears feels excited when he sees our residents discovering nature. “There is so much “wildness” in nature still left in Monmouth County, much of which is unknown to residents, and I am glad to play a small part in preserving the precious resources in our midst,” he shared.

Andrew grew up in Middletown, then graduated from Gettysburg College and Monmouth University, where he earned an MBA. The service project for his Eagle Scout rank was creating a picnic grove at Tatum Park, which has become Andrew’s favorite park in Monmouth County. The park’s towering tulip trees sparked his interest in nature as a youth. Andrew is an avid birdwatcher and often can be found combing the marshes of Monmouth County’s Bayshore searching for migrant birds. He currently lives in Tinton Falls with his wife, Michelle and three teenage boys. Andrew and Michelle feel fortunate that all three of their children have the opportunity to attend one of the Monmouth County Career Academies.

We are grateful to our new trustees and current members for working with MCF to #KeepMonmouthGreen. MCF was established in 1977 by a group of citizens to acquire, hold, preserve, and protect the open lands, historic areas, and park and recreational areas of Monmouth County, New Jersey, together with any buildings located thereon. In 2022, MCF celebrated the 45th anniversary of our founding by visionary leaders Judith Stanley Coleman and Michael Huber. To date, MCF has assisted with the preservation of 9,030 acres overall in Monmouth County. Among these, we have helped to conserve 4,350 acres of County parklands – 24% of Monmouth County Park System’s current 18,000 acres, acting as a facilitator among stakeholders and partners and/or by contributing funding.

L-R: Michelle, Brett, Christian, Andrew, and Reid Spears

L-R: Michelle, Brett, Christian, Andrew, and Reid Spears

A Preservation Story: The Mosley Family’s Triple L Farms

by Karen Keene

If you have visited the Monmouth County Fair or watched the Freehold Memorial Day Parade, chances are you have seen the Mosley Family’s beautiful, historic tractors. What you may not know is that the Mosleys, who describe themselves as a “conservation family,” run Triple L Farms in Colts Neck and recently preserved it, ensuring their farm will never be developed and will remain agricultural land forever. MCF recently spent time with the Mosley family to discuss their farming operation and brainstorm ways MCF and partners can save additional farms – an effort the Mosleys also hope to further advance.

Mosley Family Triple L Farm Tractors. Photos by Jill Sahner Photography

Triple L Farms was preserved in 2021 through an agricultural easement via the New Jersey State Agriculture Development Committee’s Farmland Preservation Program, in partnership with Monmouth County through the support of the Board of County Commissioners and the County Agriculture Development Board, and the Township of Colts Neck. The easement purchase leveraged public tax dollars to the greatest extent, financed by Township and County open space taxes and the New Jersey corporate business tax.

Although MCF was not directly involved in the preservation of the farm, MCF initiated conversations with the family to discuss preservation options and connected the family with the appropriate preservation partners to make it happen. MCF has prioritized farmland preservation as part of our mission since our founding in 1977. Saving farmland – what little is left – helps uphold our region’s pastoral character and agricultural roots; maintains fresh, healthy food sources; and supports local family farms like the Mosleys’.

Photos by Lauren Mosley

In 2016 the Mosley family was planning a move to Tennessee until a serendipitous meeting with local realtor and friend, Carl Zellers, at Delicious Orchards led them to what became their new farm. The property was not publicly for sale, but the former owner, Carolyn Morris was preparing to find the next stewards of her beloved farm. Carolyn and her late husband, a PSE&G executive, wanted the land to remain farmland and never be developed. Carolyn was intent on keeping this promise, as were the Mosleys. Carolyn and the Mosleys met at her farm on a beautiful spring day and realized that they had a mutual love and respect for the land. Triple L Farms was born.

The farm was named for three members of the Mosley family – Lillian, married to Chris for 34 years, and the couple’s two children, Luke and Lauren. Ensuring the 28-acre farm was preserved forever was the next step.

Photo by Jill Sahner Photography

Photo: Tara Moore- Farm & Fir Co

The Mosleys’ motivation to preserve their farm stems from Chris’ agricultural roots and desire to sustain the farming way of life. Chris Mosley grew up on a cattle farm here in Monmouth County – now a large development in Morganville. Chris worked briefly on a turkey farm in West Virginia, later returning to New Jersey where he and his wife Lillian would raise their two children, instilling an appreciation for nature, farming, and conservation early on. The family shares fond memories of planting and growing over one thousand seedlings on their three acres in Morganville to later be transplanted to various farms and businesses in the area.

Triple L Farms has been the Mosley’s home and beloved oasis. The family has invested in significant improvements, such as renovating the original home, adding agricultural infrastructure, restoring former farm fields, and rejuvenating the fertile soils.

Today at Triple L Farms, the Mosleys raise cattle, poultry, and various crops. The family sells prized farm products like select beef cuts and eggs. Their beef consistently earns the top USDA Prime rating – likely due to the family’s focus on the high integrity of their cattle pedigrees, nutrition, and processing. The cattle are fed corn grown on-site, provided water tested regularly, and grazed on pasture established and maintained through a carefully curated mix of forage – allowing the family to closely control and monitor everything ingested by the cattle. A very limited audience enjoys Triple L Farms products through word of mouth, and the Mosleys typically harvest three times per year – the first harvest marked with a large celebration.

Chris Mosley

Photos by Lauren Mosley

The family can’t currently meet demand and is working to expand production. This year, Triple L will see its first calves born and is preparing an additional 3.5 acres for pasture. The Mosleys plan to add turkeys to their roster, to be raised on the farm., and they hope to incorporate some beehives. They continue to grow the farm business and, in the process, are investing their capital into farm infrastructure.

Beyond their own marketed products, a portion of the corn crop grown at Triple L is used by Copper Kettle Spirits to distill bourbon and vodka. Through a new state law, the Mosleys and other owners of preserved farms in New Jersey may be eligible to host a limited number of special occasion events, like weddings or celebrations, under certain conditions.

Photo courtesy of Copper Kettle Spirits

What’s remarkable is the Mosley family manages Triple L Farms in addition to running their own business – Complete Security Systems one of the oldest and largest, full-service security and fire alarm companies in New Jersey. Chris founded the company in 1983, and he and Lillian grew the business to what it is today. Each family member essentially has two full-time jobs – one at the farm and one at the office.

The Mosleys’ farm is central to their family life – their little slice of heaven that serves as a gathering place for meals, holidays, and friends. Triple L Farm was the ideal setting for Luke and Alex Mosley’s wedding and will be the perfect location for raising future generations, with the couple welcoming their first child, son Connor, in April 2023.

As any farmer will tell you, it’s not easy. Challenges like weather, disease, and wildlife continually persist, but the Mosleys are all in. Ultimately, the Mosleys aim to raise enough meat & grow enough produce to support their family . They would also like to acquire additional acreage and increase their cattle production – and they have every intention of preserving their new land as well.

Chris, Alex and Luke, Lillian, and Lauren Mosley.
Photo by Kelly Sea Images

Photo by Lauren Mosley

Photo by Lauren Mosley

Seven percent of land in Monmouth County – 20,000 undeveloped acres – is yet to be preserved and is at risk of being lost forever. With Monmouth being the sixth most populous county in the most densely populated state in the nation, we are facing challenges including overdevelopment and urban sprawl, increasing environmental pressures, and barriers to sustainable farming and farm ownership transfer.

But there is hope. Together with our public agency partners, thoughtful landowners like the Mosley family, community supporters, and our donors, MCF can preserve the farmland and natural land that remains.

MCF has a tremendous opportunity to preserve even more land through a new partnership with the US Department of Defense Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program, working to permanently protect additional land that buffers Naval Weapons Station Earle’s (NWSE) nearly 12,000 acres. Our efforts will prevent incompatible development, preserve farmland, open spaces, and forests, protect wildlife, and add to existing parks allowing NWSE to maintain operations security and decrease potential risk to the public. Multiple properties are in the pipeline for preservation through the REPI program including over 300 acres in Colts Neck. MCF is working to raise the necessary and significant matching funds.

Photos by Lauren Mosley

Preserving Land to Safeguard At-Risk Military Capabilities

Aerial View of Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Earle                  Photo by Jeffrey C. Doepp, Courtesy of US Navy

Since being awarded just over $2 million in federal funding through the Department of Defense (DOD) in 2018 and 2019, MCF and Monmouth County have been working to permanently protect additional land that buffers Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Earle’s nearly 12,000 acres from the Leonardo community in Middletown to Howell – containing one of the largest wooded areas in the County. Together we are collaborating with the US Navy through the Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program to prevent incompatible development, preserve farmland and wetlands, protect wildlife, and add to existing parks, which will allow NWS Earle to maintain operations security and decrease potential risk to the public.

The REPI Program funds Congress-authorized cost-sharing partnerships among the Military Services, private conservation groups (like MCF), and state and local governments to acquire property. This is typically achieved in the form of conservation easements from willing landowners and, where relevant, restoration is conducted on the land. MCF has identified several eligible parcels of land for protection and is actively negotiating with interested property holders to protect their land through an easement, a legal document that will restrict further development and uphold conservation values found on the property. Simultaneously, we are working to fundraise as the REPI award requires a 1:1 match from other funding sources.

L-R, Front: Lee Woodruff, Co-Founder of the Bob Woodruff Foundation; Larry Fink, MCF President; Anne Fink; Back: Lieutenant Commander James R. McCarty, Executive Officer at NWS Earle; Captain Edward L. Callahan, Commanding Officer of NWS Earle at MCF's 2022 Holiday Style Luncheon and Shopping Spree

As REPI projects come to fruition, they form areas of protected or restored land and build resistance to climate change impacts and hazards such as flooding, wildfires, and droughts. We expect our first easement to be finalized in early 2023 in Howell with additional sites in the pipeline in Colts Neck. We are hopeful that the REPI Program will be a steady source of funding for us and our partners to preserve significant acreage along NWS Earle’s borders.

 

The Road to Preservation

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. We partner with local, state, and federal governments and liaise with landowners to enable the various steps in the land preservation process – ultimately leading to the preservation of land through fee acquisition or an easement. Each opportunity is unique and handled on a case-by-case basis. MCF is a critical part of the equation, as we can act swiftly and impartially, free from government bureaucracy and political constraints. Our role is sometimes imperceptible in facilitating land preservation projects, while at other times we are the prominent driving force. In every instance, for land preservation to be successful, we must be supported by funding and through critical partnerships.


The road to preservation entails a great deal of negotiation and paperwork. Steps are achieved in varying order across projects, and must address a range of considerations and details for the property, including:

  • Alignment with MCF mission

  • Public benefit(s)

  • Impact(s) of Preservation

  • Property characteristics

    • Conservation, agricultural, recreational, educational /or historical

    • Proximity to already preserved property

  • Landowner goal(s)

  • Preservation method

  • Acquisition costs

  • Monitoring/Stewardship requirements

  • Timeline

  • Willing partner(s)

    • Alignment with municipal and/or public agency goals

    • Stakeholder support

  • Funding

  • Eligibility and availability

The road to preservation is not direct, but more like a game of Chutes and Ladders™ with its steps forward and slides back; varied pace of each player; and different obstacles they face along the way. And the reality is, preserving a property can take years – even a decade or more – from the first conversation with the landowner. MCF serves a valuable role in this regard, maintaining longstanding relationships with landowners and municipal collaborators throughout Monmouth County.