Outdoor Events

The Challenge Event may have ended but we encourage you to download the eco-bingo card and use it to help you explore your local watershed. On July 16, City of Water (COW) Day is all about connecting communities with the water. The Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA)* is observing 2022 COW Day by issuing an eco-BINGO challenge to our members and followers so we can celebrate together. We want to connect as many folks as possible with their local water bodies and watersheds. Everyone lives in a watershed. What we do and where we live impacts the water, even if it is far away! This year's theme is 'In Your Neighborhood'. So today, we challenge you all to head out into your neighborhood, connect with the environment, and see how you can make a difference! This FREE challenge runs now through July 23.  How to Play: Download the eco-bingo card and spend some time exploring your local watershed. (Some challenges can be completed on your computer or smartphone.) Have fun carrying out the challenges between July 8, 2022 - July 23, 2022 (cross out corresponding squares) until you complete a row horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. How to Submit: Snap a […]

Because of the heat advisory for Friday,  we have decided to postpone the paddle for one week. The well-being of our supporters and staff are our top priority. We regret any inconvenience this may have caused but the rescheduled date is 7/29/22 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm. If you are registered already and CAN attend 7/29, you DO NOT need to do anything. You're on the attendee list! If you CANNOT make 7/29, please send an email to nrago@greatswamp.org to cancel so we can invite the next person on the waitlist. Ease into your weekend with a leisurely paddle on the Passaic River. As you experience the sunset from the water, you may also be visited by some great blue heron, turtles, and other wildlife that uses the stream corridor as habitat and migration route. Children 8 and up are welcome. All participants 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent. This event is limited to 9 paddlers, so only 2 spots available per registration. All participants must be able to swim, be comfortable on the water, and wear clothes and footwear that can (and will) get wet and muddy. The put-in location will be near the Essex Environmental […]

With safety as our top priority and based on Saturday's forecast, we have decided to cancel tomorrow's paddle. Attention participants, an email will be sent with an alternate date and time to choose from. If you have question, feel free to email Nancy at nrago@GreatSwamp.org Morning Paddle (10 AM – 12 Noon) Experience the spectacular change of colors from the water! A central portion of the Passaic River, the preserved area of Great Piece Meadows is known for its slow, quite twists and turns. It's home to wildlife such as great blue heron, salamanders, turtles, mink, muskrat and more. Children 8 and up are welcome. All participants 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent. There are 7 spots available per session – only 2 spots per registration. All participants must be able to swim, be comfortable on the water, and wear clothes and footwear that can (and will) get wet and muddy. IMPORTANT - Kayak Waiver: Each participant MUST submit one of the forms below. If the person is under the age of 18 then a parent or guardian must sign their form and assume responsibility for the minor. Please complete, sign and bring the form(s) with you. The […]

With safety as our top priority and based on Saturday's forecast, we have decided to cancel tomorrow's paddle. Attention participants, an email will be sent with an alternate date and time to choose from. If you have question, feel free to email Nancy at nrago@GreatSwamp.org Afternoon Paddle (12:30-2:30 PM) Experience the spectacular change of colors from the water! A central portion of the Passaic River, the preserved area of Great Piece Meadows is known for its slow, quite twists and turns. It's home to wildlife such as great blue heron, salamanders, turtles, mink, muskrat and more. Children 8 and up are welcome. All participants 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent. There are 7 spots available per session – only 2 spots per registration. All participants must be able to swim, be comfortable on the water, and wear clothes and footwear that can (and will) get wet and muddy. IMPORTANT - Kayak Waiver: Each participant MUST submit one of the forms below. If the person is under the age of 18 then a parent or guardian must sign their form and assume responsibility for the minor. Please complete, sign and bring the form(s) with you. The organizers will collect […]

Due to rain headed our way, this event has been cancelled. Check back again in the Spring for more paddles.   Morning Paddle (10:00 AM-12:00 PM)   Veteran's Day is a wonderful day to get out in the water and reflect on how lucky we are to have what we have thanks to those who fought for our freedom. Enjoy a peaceful paddle with a small group of people as we explore a central portion of the Passaic River, the preserved area of Great Piece Meadows is known for its slow, quite twists and turns. It’s home to wildlife such as great blue heron, salamanders, turtles, mink, muskrat and more. Children 8 and up are welcome. All participants 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent. There are 7 spots available per session – only 2 spots per registration. All participants must be able to swim, be comfortable on the water, and wear clothes and footwear that can (and will) get wet and muddy. Life vests will be provided.   IMPORTANT – Kayak Waiver: Each participant MUST submit one of the forms below. If the person is under the age of 18 then a parent or guardian must sign […]