GSWA

Lunch & Learn: PFAS in our Waters
2023-01-27 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Zoom Webinar, NJ, United States
Registration closes January 27, 11:00 AM

Join us for an in-depth talk about GSWA’s PFAS sampling project. In 2022, GSWA undertook a large-scale PFAS sampling project throughout our watershed. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are long-lasting, human-made chemicals that are ubiquitous in our everyday lives and our environment. This talk will cover the results of our sampling efforts, what you should know about these persistent chemicals, how state and local governments are addressing the issue, and what you can do to help.
While this program is free for all participants, a small donation is always appreciated to help offset the cost of staff time. :-)
You will receive the webinar Zoom link via email prior to the start of the program.

2nd Annual "Source to Sea" Virtual Challenge
2023-01-21 00:00 - 2023-03-26 23:30 | New Jersey
Ready for a winter challenge? Join us for our 2nd annual Source to Sea 80-mile virtual challenge where you will virtually travel the distance of the Passaic River. Run, walk, bike, snowshoe, ski, dance, shovel, vacuum, roll – any indoor or outdoor activity you choose (as long as it is powered by you) – for 80 miles, the length of the Passaic River. This can be done from anywhere in the world. You will have just over 8 weeks to chip away at this goal that runs Saturday, January 21 through Sunday, March 26 from literally anywhere in the world!
Click below to learn more and register (this will take you to a 3rd party platform)

Choose one activity or any combination to accomplish your goal. Start small and build on it, tackle it in big chunks, or anything in between. This is your challenge to accomplish however you see fit.
Activity Conversion Chart
Click HERE to view an Activity Conversion Chart to help you calculate your mileage for the various activities you may choose to reach your 80-mile goal.
Free GSWA Decal

The $35 registration fee includes a fun, commemorative GSWA decal for you to proudly display on your car or fridge. You will receive this in the mail in March. Additionally, all finishers receive one free ticket to GSWA’s Great Swamp Great Music festival in June 2023 (a $30 value).
Kickoff Carb-load Pasta Dinner

Join other Source-to-Sea participants sometime in March for a Carb-load pick-me-up. You will enjoy baked ziti, a healthy salad, and some sides, served to you by GSWA staff members at our headquarters in Morristown, NJ. We will also provide soft drinks but feel free to bring whatever libations you would like to compliment your meal. Be on the lookout for the pasta dinner coming soon!

Questions on any of this? Email Lynne: LApplebaum@GreatSwamp.org
Are you ready? Let’s get moving together!

Lunch & Learn: Riparian Buffers and our Rivers
2023-01-20 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom Webinar, NJ, United States
Registration closes January 20, 11:00 AM

Take it to the Riverbank: Waterfront views may be popular, but what happens when we develop too close to a waterway? Riverside plants, or “Riparian Buffers” act as filters to slow and clean polluted runoff protecting our streams, groundwater and downstream land areas.
Grab your lunch and join us for a FREE Zoom webinar as we learn about how trees, shrubs, and grasses perform this essential service. We will look at examples of functioning riparian buffers and talk about those that have needed restoration for many years due to human activity. While this program is free for all participants, a small donation is always appreciated to help offset the cost of staff time. :-)
You will receive the webinar Zoom link via email prior to the start of the program.
Check out the last webinar in this 3-part series: January 27 “PFAS in our Water.”

Plants for Pollinators Webinar Series - Watch the Replay
2023-01-19 00:00 - 2023-04-03 13:00 | New Jersey
Whether you missed them or want to watch them again – register to receive the replay links for:
Native Plants for Native Wildlife – Cultivating Biodiversity
Host: Desiree Narango, Conservation Scientist with the Vermont Center for Ecostudies
&
Wasps: The Astonishing Diversity of a Misunderstood Insect
Guest Host: Eric Eaton, Acclaimed Author and Entomologist

Your yard, whatever size, can provide essential habitat for valuable pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects. This 4-part Plants for Pollinators webinar series take a closer look at our native pollinators, how we can contribute their survival, and important roles they play in our gardens and in supporting healthy ecosystems. Scroll to the very bottom of this page and register to receive these 2 webinar replay links.

Want to register for the remaining 2 webinars in this series? Register for individual webinars:

Mar 21, 7-8 PM – What’s the Buzz About Native Bees? (NOTE: This presentation is LIVE only, it WILL NOT be recorded.)
Apr 3, 12-1 PM – GSWA Native Pollinator Plant Sale Overview (prior to the start of the online sale)

(Or) Register for both at once HERE

While this speaker program series is free for all participants, a suggested donation of $5-$10 is appreciated to help offset the cost of bringing you these nationally recognized speakers. :-)

Mark Your Calendar: Apr 3, 1:30 PM – Native Plants for Pollinators online sale opens Apr 3 @ 1:30 PM and runs through Apr 28 @ 5 PM (Plant purchase pickup date is Saturday, May 6 at a location near you). Learn more about native pollinator plants, gardening, and GSWA’s online plant sale HERE.

Native Pollinator Plant Webinar Series
2023-01-17 19:00 - 2023-04-03 13:00 | Zoom Webinar, Morristown, NJ, United States
Building a “Jersey-friendly yard” creates a healthy foundation of soil, conserves water, attracts and supports wildlife, and adds beauty and interest to your home landscape.
Leading up to our 3rd annual, online Native Pollinator Plant Sale on April 3, we have secured three nationally recognized and diverse speakers to present at monthly webinars.

Scroll to the very bottom and register to attend all 2 remaining programs at once at the click of a button.

Register for individual programs below:
Mar 21, 7-8 PM: What’s the Buzz About Native Bees? Speaker: Heather Holm, biologist, pollinator conservationist, and award-winning author. NOTE: This presentation is LIVE only, it WILL NOT be recorded. Register HERE
Apr 3, 12-1 PM: GSWA Native Pollinator Plant Sale Overview. Speaker: Hazel England, GSWA Director of Education, Outreach, and Land Stewardship (GSWA online Native Pollinator Plant Sale opens directly following this webinar) Register HERE

While this speaker program series is free for all participants, a suggested donation of $5-$10 is appreciated to help offset the cost of bringing you these nationally recognized speakers. :-)

Mark Your Calendar: Apr 3, 1:30 PM – Native Plants for Pollinators online sale opens Apr 3 @ 1:30 PM and runs through Apr 28 @ 5 PM (Plant purchase pickup date is Saturday, May 6 at a location near you). Learn more about native pollinator plants, gardening, and GSWA’s online plant sale HERE.
Watch the Replay: Whether you missed them or want to watch them again, click HERE to register to receive the replay links for three of the four Plants for Pollinators Webinar Series.

Evening Briefing: Native Plants for Native Wildlife
2023-01-17 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom Webinar, NJ, United States
Registration closes January 17 @ 5 PM

Native Plants for Native Wildlife
Key steps toward cultivating biodiversity conservation in our gardens
Speaker: Desiree Narango
FREE Zoom Webinar
January is here and that can only mean one thing – it’s time to start ramping up for Spring! GSWA is offering a 4-part Native Pollinator Plant Webinar Series as we lead up to our 3rd annual Plants for Pollinator online sale. We are fortunate to have Desiree Narango, Conservation Scientist with the Vermont Center for Ecostudies, to kick things off.
Desiree will speak on the fascinating complexity of plant-animal interactions. This is your opportunity to learn more about the breadth of research which shows how native plants, and the pollinators and insects that feed upon them, are the foundation for cultivating food webs and encouraging biodiversity in our yards, patios, school grounds, and other privately-managed green spaces. You’ll leave knowing more about why native plants are crucial to sustaining biodiversity and specific plant species that are important for supporting specialist pollinators and songbirds.
You will receive the webinar Zoom link via email prior to the start of the program.

Mark your calendar for the 3 remaining webinars in this 4-part series and the start of the plant sale:
Feb 21, 7-8 PM – Wasps: The Astonishing Diversity of a Misunderstood Insect
Mar 21, 7-8 PM – What’s the Buzz About Native Bees?
Apr 3, 12-1 PM – GSWA Native Pollinator Plant Sale Overview
Apr 3, 1:30 PM – Native Plants for Pollinators online sale opens Apr 3 @ 1:30 PM and runs through Apr 28 @ 5 PM (Plant purchase pickup date is Saturday, May 6)
While this program is free for all participants, a suggested donation of $5-$10 is appreciated to help offset the cost of bringing you this great, nationally recognized speaker. :-)

Lunch & Learn: Eels - a Salt/Fresh Water Mystery
2023-01-13 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom Webinar, NJ, United States
Registration closes January 13, 11:00 AM

Let’s face it, for many people, eels may not be easy to like. They can make many people feel… uneasy. Is an eel a snake? Is it a fish? They don’t fit in any clear category. Some may think of eels as a tasty sushi roll. And yet to others, eels are mysterious creatures with a very interesting life cycle. They are predators in freshwater streams helping to regulate the population of other animals. They are also a significant source of food for fish, mammals, turtles and birds.
Humans have been fascinated with eels for centuries, working to learn as much as they can about them. Yet we do not have all the answers. Nature has a way of keeping us guessing. One thing we do know is that eels are ecologically important and can be used as a bio-indicator for pollution to determine the health of their environment.
Grab your lunch and join us for a FREE Zoom webinar as we delve into the fascinating world of eels and their unique life cycle. While this program is free for all participants, a small donation is always appreciated to help offset the cost of staff time. :-)
You will receive the webinar Zoom link via email prior to the start of the program.
This is the 1st of 3 Lunch & Learn Zoom webinars focused on water quality and watershed friendly living. Check out our upcoming webinars: January 20 “Riverbanks and Riparian Buffers”; January 27 “PFAS in our Water.”

SOLD OUT - Full Wolf Moon Night Hike
2023-01-05 18:00 - 19:30 | Primrose Farm (Enter from Barrett Field), Barrett Field, 1413-000460000-000020001-00000, Morristown, NJ, 07960
If you cannot attend, please email nrago@GreatSwamp.org
to cancel so we can invite the next person on the waitlist email.
Kick off the new year with a leisurely stroll through the Primrose Farm meadow as the full moon lights the winter sky. The January full moon, known as the “wolf moon” is named for the fact that wolves tend to howl more often during the winter season, which is always when this full moon occurs.
The moon will guide us through this relaxing winter hike and if there happens to be snow on the ground, we can look for tracks and other signs of the critters who call Primrose Farm home. Dress for the weather and be sure to wear appropriate footwear.

This can be a tricky spot to find to please note the location details below:
Primrose Farm (see below for google map – click the + to zoom in and see details)
15 Brook Drive South, Harding Township, NJ (enter from Barrett Field)
http://goo.gl/maps/G4Lvc

Winter Solstice Night Hike & Story Telling
2022-12-21 18:00 - 19:30 | Visitor Center, Morristown National Historical Park, 600 Tempe Wick Road, Morristown, New Jersey, 07960
Bundle up and let’s celebrate the first day of winter (winter solstice) with a crisp, invigorating night hike and storytelling at Jockey Hollow. Winter solstice is the day with the fewest hours of sunlight in the whole year, making it the shortest day of the year. With the new moon just 2 days away, the stars in the winter skies will be shining brightly as we look and listen for owls and other nightlife. After the hike, we will warm up by a fire and sip hot chocolate as we learn about an 18th century viewpoint on how the early century colonists viewed the darkness vs. today. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity with some highly experienced and knowledgeable naturalists. Be sure to dress for the weather and wear your warm socks for this hike.

This special event is provided in partnership with Morristown National Historical Park and GSWA. Hike co-leaders: Eric Olson, Jockey Hollow Park Ranger and Historian; Hazel England, GSWA Director of Education, Outreach, & Land Stewardship; and Ginger Van Ryzin, GSWA Education, Land Steward & Water Quality Associate.

SOLD OUT: DIY Winter Wreath Workshop
2022-12-08 17:00 - 20:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
If you cannot attend, please email nrago@GreatSwamp.org
to cancel so we can invite the next person on the waitlist email.
It’s not winter until the wreath is on the door. Put on your warm clothes and come craft a homemade winter wreath made from native evergreens and other native plants. You’ll decorate your masterpiece with pinecones, berries, and other items found in nature. While your creativity blossoms, you’ll learn more about the natural items being used in this craft. Hot cider will be served. Registration fee covers everything you need to leave with a finished piece that’s ready to hang on your door or give as a gift.
Space is limited – registration is required.
If this 5:00-6:30 PM session it a little too early for you, go back to the GSWA there’s another workshop 7:00-8:30 PM!

Nature-themed Holiday Cookies - Make & Decorate
2022-11-29 18:00 - 19:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Jump-start on your holiday baking during this DIY cookie workshop. It’s sure to put you in the holiday spirit. First you will channel your inner artist by decorating pre-baked, nature-themed gingerbread and sugar cookies. All icing materials will be provided along with some decorating ideas to get your creative juices flowing. While these set, Hazel and Sandra, GSWA’s resident bakers (and cookie eaters) will step you through making two different types of cookie dough that you can then take home and bake at your leisure. One is a Welsh Aberffraw dough – a type of shortbread cookie with a special twist. The other will be a delicious surprise.
All you need to bring is your creativity (and an apron if you like) and we will provide the rest. You will leave with a dozen beautifully decorated cookies (6 gingerbread and 6 sugar) plus enough pre-made dough to bake up to another 2 dozen cookies at home. BAM! You’re all set for the holidays!
Feel free to BYO liquid holiday cheer to this festive cookie event.
Space is limited so register today!

SOLD OUT: New Moon Night Hike
2022-11-22 17:30 - 19:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
If you cannot attend, please email nrago@GreatSwamp.org
to cancel so we can invite the next person on the waitlist email.
Come explore the stars and hike the trails of the Conservation Management Area under a new moon when the stars are at their brightest! A new moon is the first lunar phase, which means it will not be visible at all. But don’t worry, just because it’s dark out doesn’t mean the inhabitants of the woods have gone to sleep. During this guided hike, we will take advantage of the quiet, crisp autumn air by listening for the nighttime creatures of Harding Township like owls, raccoon, and possums. Dress for the weather – waterproof boots are recommended.

Fall Community Cleanup at the CMA
2022-11-20 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Here come the holidays and oh, the calories we will consume.
Let’s lean into the spirit of giving together and get some pre-holiday exercise along the way. We could use your help putting our 73-acre wetlands reserve (aka, our Conservation Management Area) to bed for the winter. There’s no shortage of things to accomplish on our honey-do list and a crisp, autumn morning is a great time to get outside and get your hands dirty. We will provide you with all the tools you need to participate for as long as you like!

NEW DATE - Breakfast Briefing: Drew Forest Update
2022-11-15 08:00 - 09:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Get an update on the efforts to save the Drew Forest from development!
As you may know, the 53-acre Drew Forest, located on the Drew University campus in Madison, NJ, is in jeopardy of being sold and disappearing forever. The Drew Forest sits within FOUR watersheds, benefiting the community, wildlife, and ecosystem. Among the many benefits it offers, most importantly, The Forest overlies the Buried Valley Aquifer, a sole source aquifer that supplies drinking water to Madison, Chatham Borough, East Hanover, and Florham Park. Join us for an important update led by Friends of The Drew Forest, a volunteer organization created by environmental leaders from Madison and neighboring towns, dedicated community volunteers and Drew alumni. A light breakfast will be served followed by the presentation and a Q&A session.

CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER: Veteran's Day Paddle (12:30 - 2:30 PM)
2022-11-11 12:30 - 14:30 | 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield, NJ 07004, 40.8978651,-74.2802894
Due to rain headed our way, this event has been cancelled.
Check back again in the Spring for more paddles.

Afternoon Paddle (12:30 – 2:30 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 their form and assume responsibility for the minor. Please complete, sign and bring the form(s) with you. The organizers will collect completed forms before put-in.

Adult Attendee
Minor Attendee

The put-in location is 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield. We will be paddling into Great Piece Meadows. Life vests will be provided. The GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER: Veteran's Day Paddle (10 AM - 12 PM)
2022-11-11 10:00 - 12:00 | 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield, NJ 07004, 40.8978651,-74.2802894
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 their form and assume responsibility for the minor. Please complete, sign and bring the form(s) with you. The organizers will collect completed forms before put-in.

Adult Attendee
Minor Attendee

The put-in location is 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield. We will be paddling into Great Piece Meadows. Life vests will be provided. The GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

Nature Detective Discovery Hike
2022-11-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
KIDS…UNLOCK YOUR INNER DETECTIVE
LOCATION CHANGED TO OUR CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT AREA
What’s hiding under those freshly fallen leaves? What’s going on in the trees? Let’s do some detective work and make some discoveries together!
To make the hike as exciting and kid friendly as possible, we have decided to change the location of our hike to the GSWA Conservation Management Area at 1 Tiger Lily Ln in Morristown.
It is also the perfect place to set off in hot pursuit of the region’s most-wanted autumn wildlife. Come learn how to identify animals from their tracks, scats (yes, poop) and other clues. Spy on secret hideouts used by birds, insects, and other woodland creatures. Discover the dining preferences of deer, raccoons, and even coyotes by putting a magnifying glass to some scat. All this detective work is easier than you think. And let’s face it, it’s fun being outdoors in the fall!
Recommended for all, but especially children 5 to 12 years old. We recommend wearing boots or shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. This event is free for our GSWA members. Non-members, a $10 donation for adults and $5 for children 6-17 is appreciated.

Composting: Black Gold for Your Garden - FREE Zoom Webinar
2022-11-01 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom Webinar, Morristown, NJ, United States
Note: registration for this program closes at 5 PM on Tuesday, November 1

Composting Simplified…
Put some pep into your garden’s step with compost made from your table scraps and outdoor material like leaves and lawn clippings. Compost is organic matter that has been decomposed. Through the compost recycling process, various organic materials, otherwise regarded as waste products, can be added to the garden or lawn as a soil conditioner. The addition of compost will build a better-quality soil for your trees, shrubs, plants and vegetables. Led by Master Gardener, Cheri Wilczek, this FREE Zoom webinar will outline what compost is, its benefits, how to start and build a compost bin, materials to avoid in adding to a compost pile, tips for success, and troubleshooting this process. Let’s get started on making our own “Black Gold” today!
The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session. Bring your questions!
Login logistic will be emailed to all registered participants prior to the program.

Intro to Birding Hike (Intermediate)
2022-10-22 09:00 - 12:30 | High Mountain Park Preserve – Red Trailhead, Intersection of Navaho Trail Drive and Reservoir Drive, Wayne, New Jersey, 07470
Join us for an intermediate-level hike at the beautiful High Mountain Park Preserve. This 4-mile/700 ft. elevation hike features stunning, panoramic summit views of New York City and northern New Jersey. If there has been rain, we may be treated to a waterfall or two. As we turn our eyes to the skies, we will watch for our feathered friends, perhaps even some red shouldered hawks, as the end-of-raptor migration approaches. The Preserve is also home to rare and threatened plants and wildlife including mountain mint and northern long-eared bats, as well as common local species like flying squirrels, wild turkeys, chipmunks, and white-tailed deer. This rigorous hike has some intermediate sections. Be sure to bring snacks and water.
We will meet at the Red Trailhead, at the intersection of Navaho Trail Drive and Reservoir Drive
https://goo.gl/maps/MoGc6vjAer6ScFD96

Gala & Silent Auction - Oct. 18, 2022
2022-10-18 18:00 - 21:30 | Brooklake Country Club, 139 Brooklake Road, Florham Park, NJ, 07932
Our Silent Auction is Live!
Browse, Bid & Donate Here

(Auction closes Tuesday, October 18 @ 8:59 PM)

Tickets are still available to the

Gala Celebration & Silent Auction
Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Brooklake Country Club
139 Brooklake Road
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Join us for an evening of good food and drink, spirited mingling, and browsing and bidding at our popular silent auction at our biggest fundraising event of the year! This year’s Gala keynote speaker, Olivia Carpenter Glenn, will provide a timely overview of the important topic, Environmental Justice. As Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor for Equity in Region 2 of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ms. Glenn will shine a light on the inequity that exists in New Jersey and the entire country when it comes to clean water and a healthy environment.

The Gala falls on the precise 50th anniversary of The Clean Water Act, the nation’s first comprehensive legislation protecting water quality by ending the culture of dumping raw sewage and untreated industrial waste into our waters. This dramatically improved the health of the waterways in the United States, but there is more work to be done to protect communities around the country and in our region to demand equal justice and access to clean water for all.

5 PM VIP Reception | 6 PM Cocktails & Silent Auction | 7:30 PM Dinner & Keynote Speaker

JOIN US AT THE VIP RECEPTION – Purchase a VIP Premier Ticket to attend this a private reception. Enjoy cocktails and gourmet hors d’oeuvres prior to the start of the Gala event. Scroll down to purchase tickets by October 4.
COCKTAILS, SILENT AUCTION, DINNER & SPEAKER – The annual Gala Dinner & Silent Auction is our biggest and most exciting fundraising event of the year! The evening will include a lively cocktail hour, a delicious dinner banquet, our expansive and renowned silent auction, and a keynote presentation by Olivia Carpenter Glenn. The Silent Auction goes live October 16 – be sure to come back at that time for the link to browse & bid on over 100 unique items. Scroll down to purchase tickets by October 4.
BECOME A GALA UNDERWRITER – Gala Underwriter Opportunities are Available! Strong underwriter support will assure this annual fundraising event is a big success which helps us continue our important work of water quality monitoring, education, land stewardship, and advocacy. Underwriters are listed on our website and linked to your website (see below) and receive additional benefits outlined here: Download form. To fully participate as an underwriter, the deadline is Tuesday, September 27.
PURCHASE GALA CELEBRATION WINE PACKAGES & ADVERTISING – Show your appreciation to friends, customers, or clients by choosing a Celebration Wine Advertising Package. Your advertisement will be prominently displayed throughout the event and you will also be listed on our website as a supporter of our mission. You may also opt to advertise without the additional wine package. Download form. The deadline for wine packages and advertising opportunities is Tuesday, October 4.
DONATE TO OUR POPULAR SILENT AUCTION – Our online silent auction has a great reputation! Your donation is an opportunity to promote your business to people near and far while demonstrating your commitment to clean water and a healthy environment. The auction goes live October 12 and is visited by hundreds of enthusiastic bidders! Download form. The deadline to make a silent auction donation is Tuesday, October 4.

Cannot attend but wish to support GSWA and the environment?
Click to: Donate In Lieu of Attending
Questions
Contact Val Thorpe at 973-538-3500 / VThorpe@greatswamp.org

Thank you to our generous 2022 Gala Underwriters & Advertisers!
When looking for a business to support, please consider these champions of the environment.

GREAT BLUE HERON UNDERWRITER
New Jersey American Water

BALD EAGLE UNDERWRITERS
Atlantic Health System
Dixon Energy

BLACK BEAR UNDERWRITERS
Adrienne & Reed Auerbach
Avelino Law
BASF
Eagle Cliff Real Estate Partners
Agi & Matt Krauser
McKirdy, Riskin, Olson & DellaPelle, P.C.
PSEG
Schenck, Price, Smith & King, LLP
Valley Bank
Lisa & David Welsh

ADVERTISERS
Bleakley Financial Group, EAB Insurance Group, Jaeger Lumber & Supply, Turpin-Gerry-Jo Cranmer,
The Angeletti Group, Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey, Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper, P.C., Nisivoccia LLP, The Tile Lady Design by Christine, Toyota of Morristown
Academy Electrical Contractors, Chatham Print & Design,
Herold Law, P.A., Liberty Payroll and HR, Minno & Wasko Architects and Planners, Smarties Candy Co.,
TeamLogic IT, Turpin Realtors-John Turpin, VoiceNEXT

NEW DATE! Town-Wide Yard Sale: Madison & The Chathams
2022-10-16 09:00 - 14:00 | New Jersey
This event has already happened. To register for the Saturday, April 29, 2023 spring Yard Sale, click HERE

THIS EVENT TAKES PLACE SUN, 10/16!
Registration is now closed.
All you shoppers:
Click HERE to view the map of participants
Click HERE for to view the list of sale items by location

DIGITAL YARD SALE MAP WILL BE SHARED HERE ON OCT 14th, as well as on social media in Chatham and Madison and on popular garage sale sites.
Declutter your home before the snow begins falling. This yard sale is open to all residents of Madison and The Chathams. Register by Oct. 12 to have your address and a list of your sale items sale appear on a digital, printable map. Both documents will be linked to our website – GreatSwamp.org – the day prior and will also be published in local media and on town sites. No additional permit needed.
Registration Fee: $10 tax-deductible donation to benefit Great Swamp Watershed Association.
You must be a resident of Madison, Chatham Township, or Chatham Borough to list your sale.
Everyone else…
Mark your calendar for October 15th to head out and shop sustainably at this amazing, three-town-wide yard sale! Be sure to check back here on Friday, October 14th at 9am for a digital map of all yard sale participants and items for sale at each location. The map will also be published in local media and on town sites.
To register
Scroll to the very bottom of this page below “Details.”
Change the quantity from 0 to 1 and click “ADD TO CART” to begin the process.

Frequently asked questions:
Is there a rain date? No. The sale will be held rain or shine.
Why pay to be on the map? We have found that our town-wide sales attract shoppers from across NJ, NY, and PA. We promote the sale (and the map) in local media and on popular garage sale sites.
Can I have a sale without paying to be on the map? Yes. Residents of the Chathams and Madison are welcome to hold sales on their own without registering.
Do I need to pay a permit fee to my town? No. The permit fee for this event has been waived for residents of Madison and The Chathams. However, the $10 registration fee gets your address and list of sale items on the map.
Should I put up a sign if I’m on the map? Yes. Signs will attract additional customers who are just driving by.
Who do I contact with questions? Please direct all questions to the Environmental Commission of The Chathams and Madison at Claire.whitcomb@mac.com
What should I do with my yard sale leftovers? Our goal is to have zero waste for this yard sale. Please contact following organizations to arrange pickups of your leftovers:

Vietnam Veterans of America (vva.org)
Lupus Foundation of America (Lupuspickup.org)
GreenDrop (gogreendrop.com)
Market Street Mission (marketstreet.org)
Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore (morrisrestore.org/donate) does some pickups; it accepts antiques, furniture, flooring, brand new plumbing, painting supplies, doors and more.

NOTE: Registering on this site is the only way to have your listing appear in the official map of sale sites for the October 16, 2022 Chathams-Madison Town-Wide Yard Sale. The coordinated publicity undertaken by the Chathams, Madison and GSWA results in hundreds of buyers from all over the tri-state area. Supplementary ads are unnecessary.

Community Stewardship at the CMA
2022-10-10 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Are you looking for someplace to put all that elbow grease?
Don’t mind a little dirt under your nails?
Join us for a morning of stewarding the land at our 73-acre Conservation Management Area. It takes many hands to keep our CMA in good shape. Work includes clearing and mulching trails, building boardwalks, removing invasive plants and more. Come get in on the action and leave with a sense of accomplishment!
We will provide bug spray, sun block, gloves, and all tools you will need. Be sure to wear long pants/long sleeves (good protection from mosquitos) & footwear than could get wet and muddy. Bring a hat and a reusable water bottle (we will have clean water for refills).

CANCELLED - Fall Colors Paddle (12:30-2:30 PM)
2022-10-01 12:30 - 14:30 | 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield, NJ 07004, 40.8978651,-74.2802894
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 completed forms before put-in.

Adult Attendee
Minor Attendee

The put-in location is 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield. We will be paddling into Great Piece Meadows. Life vests will be provided. The GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

CANCELLED - Fall Colors Paddle (10 AM-12 Noon)
2022-10-01 10:00 - 12:00 | 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield, NJ 07004, 40.8978651,-74.2802894
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 organizers will collect completed forms before put-in.

Adult Attendee
Minor Attendee

The put-in location is 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield. We will be paddling into Great Piece Meadows. Life vests will be provided. The GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

Stream Assessment Training - FREE
2022-09-17 09:30 - 12:30 | Parsippany Troy Hills Public Library, 449 Halsey Road, Parsippany, NJ, 07054, United States
LEARN HOW TO MONITOR A STREAM’S HEALTH.
Take a moment to really look at one of your local streams. At first glance, it may look completely fine. But to the trained eye, it could be a very different situation. How can you tell?
This FREE, one-morning/two-part training session will show you how to gain a better understanding of stream health. An indoor classroom session teaches you how to conduct visual and biological stream assessments and recognize environmental factors that may impact a stream. An outdoor session lets you practice your new-found skills at a local stream site. By the afternoon, you will be fully trained in visual stream assessment and ready to conduct an your own. Whether you opt to become a volunteer or simply wish to gain some insight, this training session is for you!
Tools and supplies will be provided. Be sure to wear shoes that are suitable for walking outside and getting dirty. Preferred volunteers are 15 or older. Younger volunteers are welcome with parent participation. This training will be conducted in conjunction with the AmeriCorps New Jersey Watershed Ambassador Program. Registration required for this FREE training session.

RESCHEDULED - Boonton Falls "Little Niagara" Hike
2022-09-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Canal Side Park, Boonton
The postponed hike has been rescheduled to 9/10/22. If you signed up previously, will contact you again about the rescheduled date.
Here’s an awesome hiking experience close to home! Come see (and hear) about one of New Jersey’s amazing hidden treasures, the Boonton Falls. The Boonton area is rich in history so we’ll discuss how the falls and the Rockaway River made Boonton an ideal location for the now abandoned New Jersey Iron Company in the 1830’s. The Morris Canal transport system moved the manufactured nail rods and bar iron through the tri-state area. Come experience all this and more!
We will meet at the Upper Plane Street Parking Lot in Boonton. Use the following link coordinates: https://goo.gl/maps/5SDud5Dd8qomUdgs7. NOTE: On Saturday there will be the Boonton Farmers Market.

SOLD OUT - Harvest Moon Night Hike
2022-09-09 18:30 - 20:30 | Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge – Wildlife Observation Center, https://goo.gl/maps/tLD3KapcRC21245c8, Harding Twp., NJ, 07976, United States
This hike is sold out. If you wish to be added to the waitlist or if you are registered and unable to attend, please email nrago@GreatSwamp.org..
Enjoy maximum beauty, a full Harvest Moon.
With autumn just around the corner, this is a spectacular time of year to get outside for a night hike. Come enjoy the beauty of the full “Harvest Moon” over the water at the WOC (Wildlife Observation Center). A full moon this time of year is typically called the Harvest Moon because the angle of the moon’s orbit relative to the Earth’s horizon is at its minimum, causing the full moon to rise above the horizon much faster than usual. This once helped farmers bring in the harvest late into the night. For us, it means we will have a bright night sky to light the way as we traverse the beautiful trails of the Refuge. This is a free hike for our GSWA Members. Non-members: suggested donation of $10 for adults/$5 for children 6-17.

Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day - August 26th
2022-08-26 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Ready to get a little dirty and sweaty in the swamp? Need community service hours? College students, are you looking for something worthy to add to your resume?!
Join us on Friday mornings at the GSWA Conservation Management Area (CMA) to help us steward the land. We will work from 9AM to 1PM and enjoy some well-earned snacks provided by GSWA Director of Land Stewardship, Hazel England. We could really use your help getting our CMA tidied up by helping us with the following tasks: Carry in lumber • Build and elevate boardwalks which allows hikers to get through flooded areas • Clear branches and limbs from recent storms • Remove invasive plants • Spread woodchips on our trails.
Be sure to wear long pants, long sleeves, and hiking boots or old shoes you don’t mind getting muddy. Bring a hat and a reusable water bottle. We will provide bug spray, sun block, gloves, and all tools you will need.
You’ll work hard, but will also share in some laughs, and enjoy delicious snacks. What better way to spend a Friday morning? See you there!

Cook with GSWA: Pumpkin gnocchi, fresh mozzarella & pesto.
2022-08-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Back by popular demand, GSWA’s Hazel England and Sandra LaVigne make cooking fun!
Grab your apron and c’mon out for a hands-on cooking class. We will teach you about “eating local” as we walk you through three delicious recipes: Pumpkin gnocchi (from our GSWA cookbook), fresh mozzarella cheese, and a batch of fresh pesto. You may never go store-bought again!
Feel free to bring your own adult beverages and we will provide non-alcoholic beverages.
The registration fee covers everything you will need to make and take home your three delicious creations. GSWA members: $25, non-members: $30. Registration is limited to 12 participants so register today!

CANCELLED Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day - August 19th
2022-08-19 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
The 8/19 Stewardship Day has been cancelled because of an internal scheduling conflict. Check your calendar and consider volunteering for the August 26th workday.
Join us on Friday mornings at the GSWA Conservation Management Area (CMA) to help us steward the land. We will work from 9AM to 1PM and enjoy some well-earned snacks provided by GSWA Director of Land Stewardship, Hazel England. We could really use your help getting our CMA tidied up by helping us with the following tasks: Carry in lumber • Build and elevate boardwalks which allows hikers to get through flooded areas • Clear branches and limbs from recent storms • Remove invasive plants • Spread woodchips on our trails.
Be sure to wear long pants, long sleeves, and hiking boots or old shoes you don’t mind getting muddy. Bring a hat and a reusable water bottle. We will provide bug spray, sun block, gloves, and all tools you will need.
You’ll work hard, but will also share in some laughs, and enjoy delicious snacks. What better way to spend a Friday morning? See you there!
Can’t make this day? Want to do more? Check your calendar for our ongoing CMA Stewardship Days taking place on Fridays from 9AM – 1PM throughout Summer 2022. Other volunteer days are on August 26th.
