Madison Urges Drew University to Accept its Offer
The offer, valued at over $65 million, includes saving the Drew Forest.
Madison has collaborated with various stakeholders, including Federal, State, and County officials, the Friends of the Drew Forest, potential private donors, and the Fair Share Housing Center, to support the forest’s purchase.
“The Borough extends our gratitude to the Friends of the Drew Forest, the 15,000+ community members who signed the change.org petition, environmental advocates, and various government officials—including Senator Booker, Congresswoman Sherrill, New Jersey Senators Bucco and McKeon, Morris County Commissioners, and members of the Morris County Open Space Committee—who continue to support our efforts. The Borough reaffirms our commitment to protecting the Drew Forest and urges the public to remain engaged in this important cause.”
Drew Student Research Spotlight
Recently, Drew graduate Haley Weber ‘23 shared her research on the impact of deer fencing on vegetation and biodiversity. The striking results provide valuable information for conservation organizations across our region and illustrate how the Drew Forest has been transformative in student lives.
Haley compared plots inside and outside the deer enclosures at Zuck Arboretum and the Hepburn Woods using iNaturalist. Just outside of the Zuck Arboretum enclosure, 76% of plants were invasive – meaning alien plants that are detrimental to the ecosystem. Inside the enclosure, only 19% of plants were invasive. Haley’s study demonstrates the beneficial impact of deer fencing for restoration of a native plant understory in a forested area.
After earning an associates degree at Raritan Community College, Haley transferred to Drew University and graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a major in Environmental Science. She is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Botany at Miami University. The Drew Forest provided a living laboratory where she conducted meaningful scientific research, preparing her for graduate work and a future career in science.
Refresh with a Nature Walk
Who can resist a nature walk in this beautiful fall weather? Sign up for a guided nature walk with a forest expert or take a self-guided tour.
In addition to visiting, we need your help in giving the Forest a voice! We are grateful for our generous supporters during the past 3 years. Please donate to help us cover costs for legal and ecological experts.
Fallen tree gives way to new life
The magnificent oak by Long Pond at Zuck went down in a recent storm. This tree had long generous arms that grew up in an open field, reaching wide for the sunlight.
While we mourn its loss, we are comforted that in the Drew Forest, protected by deer fence enclosure and nurtured by volunteers, new life will emerge as the understory continues to thrive.
Take note of the native understory of plants: jewel weed, a maple sapling, white wood asters, ferns and a young tulip tree.
