Hike the Path of a Glacier
2022-03-26 12:00 - 15:30 (America/New_York) | Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area Visitors Center, 1 Mars Ct., Boonton, NJ, 07005, United States
Looking for a more challenging hike? Spend the afternoon with us for a unique experience where we will hike the path of a glacier and observe some unusual glacial erratics (stones and rocks that were transported by the glacier and then left behind after the glacier melted). Along with way we will stop to check out Tripod Rock, a 180-ton boulder balanced on three smaller boulders. It’s truly a sight to behold. A little further on we will see Bear Rock, one of NJs largest glacial erratics, along other fascinating signs of the Wisconsin Glacier that retreated over 18,000 years ago.
This is an intermediate hike with some rigorous conditions. Be sure to pack your binoculars, water, and snacks.
Location Coordinates: 40.94671186514669, -74.38827526886288

Native Pollinator Plant Sale - An Overview
2022-04-01 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom Webinar, Morristown, NJ, United States
Registration closes April 1 @ 10 AM
Join Hazel England, GSWA Director of Education, Outreach, and Land Stewardship (our resident pollinator expert) on Zoom to learn how different plants will help you build your pollinator garden to attract a variety of insects along with the plants you will need to attract pollinators. Discover why this type of garden benefits your yard, your neighborhood, and our shared watershed.
We will also walk you through our online storefront and simple ordering process with an overview of the native plants and plant kits available at our 2nd annual online Native Pollinator Plant Sale. Choose from 28 individual species to create or enhance your own garden in ways that best fit your needs. To simplify garden design and provide some additional savings, 20 of the species are also sold in 6 different garden kits of 5 species each. Each kit is designed for specific garden sizes and conditions.
If you’re considering starting or expanding your native pollinator garden, you’re going to want to check this out! Registration is required. You will receive your Zoom link prior to the start of the webinar.
The 2022 “Plants for Pollinators” Online Sale runs April 1 – April 22
Click HERE for a full list of participating Community Partners

GSWA 2nd Annual Plants for Pollinators Online Sale
2022-04-01 13:00 - 2022-04-22 23:30 | Online
2022 Ordering Will Be Open April 1st to 22nd
The Great Swamp Watershed Association Native Plant Sale provides a full selection of attractively priced native perennials and simple guidance for planting delightfully alive pollinator gardens that will thrive with minimal care. The Plants for Pollinators Online Sale is operated with the promotion and volunteers from Community Plant Sale Partners that include ten towns and seven community organizations. Our joint goal is to foster broad adoption of native plant gardens across our area to create necessary habitat for the pollinator insects and bird communities that are foundation elements of our local ecosystem – pooling our private yards to create what the popular lecturer and entomologist Doug Tallamy describes as a Homegrown National Park™.

Selection – Peruse the native pollinator plant kits and individual species add-ons in the GSWA Native Plant Catalog.
How Do I Pick Up My Orders? Order are to be picked up locally at your town’s participating pick-up location. At time of checkout, you can choose from one of the 14 locations to based on the location, date and time that works best for you. CLICK HERE to preview Pickup Locations made available through our Plant Sale Partners.
Need Guidance? Take advantage of the Native Garden Planning Resources to assist in making your decision.

Enjoy spring to fall blooms and amazing butterflies and other pollinators beginning this summer and for many years to come!

Stream Assessment Training - Free and In-person
2022-04-02 09:30 - 12:30 | Summit Free Public Library, 75 Maple Street, Summit, NJ, 07901
This stream assessment training program is presented in partnership with the Summit Free Public Library.
Interested in the health of your local stream? Concerned about clean water? Perhaps you’ve even considered becoming a stream monitoring volunteer. If any this makes you raise an eyebrow, this free training session is for you! An indoor classroom session, led by Sandra LaVigne, GSWA Director of Water Quality Programs, teaches you how to conduct visual and biological stream assessments, identify macroinvertebrates, and recognize environmental factors that could impact stream health. An outdoor session lets you practice your new-found skills at a local stream site. By afternoon you’re fully trained in visual and biological stream assessment!

Tools and supplies provided. It gets a little messy so wear your boots and bring clean shoes to change into afterward. Preferred volunteers are 15 or older.
TO REGISTER
Scroll down below “details”

POSTPONED: Nature Knowledge Pub Quiz - in-person
2022-04-09 13:00 - 15:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED. STAY TUNED FOR THE NEW DATE.

Back by popular demand, live and in-person, it’s the GSWA Nature Knowledge Pub Quiz! Team up with some friends and come join the fun as we test your knowledge on nature and the environment. Your friends busy that day? No worries – we’ll team you up with other enthusiastic players. Multiple choice questions will be themed for each round ranging from beginner to expert level.
Sample Question
If night active animals are known as nocturnal, what are dawn and dusk active animals known as?
Answer
Crepuscular

Socialize and refuel your game with free pizza and soft drinks at the mid-game break! The $12 entry fee covers your individual quiz participation, pizza, and soft drinks. Feel free to BYOBeverages!
Ages 10 and older are welcome. Teams must have at least one member 18+ years of age to compete. Maximum team size: 3-5 people / maximum number of teams: 10.
We will open the windows and doors for plenty of ventilation. This will event fill up fast and space is limited, so register today and get ready to play for prizes and bragging rights!

POSTPONED: Water Quality Report Card
2022-04-20 19:00 - 20:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
This event has been postponed due to an unforeseen conflict. Stay tuned for the new date

Participate in-person or via Zoom webinar – it’s your choice!
(Registration for the Zoom webinar closes at 5 PM)

How important to you is clean water to you? We drink it, we bathe in it, we swim and kayak in it…
Join GSWA Water Quality Director, Sandra LaVigne, for an in-depth review of the water quality in the Great Swamp watershed and in the Passaic River region. This brief presentation will highlight the results of the sampling and testing we performed on our local streams throughout 2021. Sandra will also provide an update on our testing protocol for PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl) manmade chemicals also called “forever chemicals.” PFAS is a growing threat to our water. Join us for this informative report on your water with a Q&A session at the end. Registration is required. A Zoom link will be sent to you post-registration.

Town-Wide Yard Sale: Madison & The Chathams
2022-04-30 09:00 - 13:00 | NJ
This event has already happened. To register for the Saturday, April 29, 2023 spring Yard Sale, click HERE

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, April 27 @ 11:55 PM
DIGITAL YARD SALE MAP WILL BE SHARED HERE ON APRIL 29, as well as on social media in Chatham and Madison and on popular garage sale sites.

Calling all residents of Madison and The Chathams – Spring is less than a month away! Start planning your Spring cleaning today by registering to host a yard sale on Saturday, April 30. When you register for this community event (below) your address and sale items will be included on a digital, printable map that will be publicized far and wide to potential shoppers.
Check your basement, attic, cabinets, shelves, and even your tabletops. This is your opportunity to declutter your home while participating in an event that collectively will keep literally tons of refuse out of our landfills. Simply scroll down and complete the registration form.
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 April 30th to head out and shop sustainably at this amazing, three-town-wide yard sale! Be sure to check back here on Friday, April 29th 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? Over the last three years, 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 mec@rosenet.org
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 April 30, 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.

Springtime Twilight Hike
2022-05-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge – Bluebird Parking Lot, Bluebird Parking Lot, Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, NJ, United States
We have 1 spot left as of 5/3/22. Register ASAP!
Revel in the lengthening evenings and enjoy a natural history hike to explore the excitement of spring. We will seek out blooming ephemeral wildflowers and early migrants visiting Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. We will supply binoculars and teach you to use them properly to see those tiny migratory birds flitting around the greening undergrowth.
If the event reaches capacity and you would like to be placed on the waitlist, or if you have already registered and need to cancel, please email NRago@GreatSwamp.org

Volunteers Needed! CANCELLED
2022-05-07 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
5/7 Cancelled but Fear not! We have another volunteer workday on the books for Saturday, June 4. Click HERE to register.
Come learn more about what stewarding our 73-acre property in Harding Twp. entails by getting involved hands on! We’ll be conducting a variety of tasks including chipping and mulching our trail network, removing invasive plants, and constructing new boardwalk. We rely on our volunteers to help us take care of this natural area that’s open to the public for passive recreation and serves as an educational opportunity for students. Are you in the giving spirit and willing to brave the swamp? Wear long pants and long sleeves, and clothes than can get wet, muddy, and protect you from mosquitos!

SOLD OUT: Kayak the Upper Passaic River (10AM-12PM)
2022-05-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
This event is sold out. To be placed on a waitlist, or if you have registered and can no longer attend, please email NRago@GreatSwamp.org
Morning Paddle (10 AM – 12 Noon)
With generous funding from the Thomas Glasser Foundation, GSWA has purchased kayaks for use in our water quality and educational programming. But hey, let’s have a little fun too! Join us on our maiden voyages to learn more about current water quality issues and observe the natural history of the Passaic River in the best way possible – from the river itself. We’ll paddle the Passaic seeking 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.
There are 9 spots available per session – 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 is the Fishermens Parking Lot and we will paddle from there. The parking lot is slightly down the road from Lord Stirling Environmental Education Center. Life vests will be provided.

SOLD OUT: Kayak the Upper Passaic (1-3 PM)
2022-05-14 13:00 - 15:00 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
This event is sold out. To be placed on a waitlist or if you have registered and can no longer attend, please email NRago@GreatSwamp.org

Afternoon Paddle (1-3 PM)
With generous funding from the Thomas Glasser Foundation, GSWA has purchased kayaks for use in our water quality and educational programming. But hey, let’s have a little fun too! Join us on our maiden voyages to learn more about current water quality issues and observe the natural history of the Passaic River in the best way possible – from the river itself. We’ll paddle the Passaic seeking 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.
There are 9 spots available per session – 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 is the Fishermens Parking Lot and we will paddle from there. The parking lot is slightly down the road from Lord Stirling Environmental Education Center. Life vests will be provided.

Great Swamp Great Music Festival
2022-05-22 12:00 - 18:30 | Giralda Farms Preserve, Madison Avenue, Madison, NJ, United States
Online ticket sales are now closed. Purchase your tickets at the gate:
Giralda Farms, Dodge Drive (off Madison Ave.), Madison, NJ
5th Annual Great Swamp Great Music Festival
Sunday, May 22, Giralda Farms, Chatham Twp., NJ
12 – 6:30 PM (rain or shine), Gates open at 11 AM
Online ticket sales are now closed. Purchase your tickets at the gate:
Dodge Drive (off Madison Ave.), Madison, NJ

Grab your blankets & chairs and c’mon out for 6+ hours of live music at the sprawling, tree-lined field of Giralda Farms in Chatham Twp. New to the festival this year, comedian and New Jersey native, Max Antonucci will emcee the event. The festival also offers food, merch vendors, adult beverages, free water, and more. Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) is a non-profit organization protecting and improving the Great Swamp watershed & Passaic River region now and for future generations. See you at the festival!
LINEUP
Pre-show band: Nick Amling & The Lifeline
Festival bands: Not Enough Jeffs • Lenox Underground
The Refuge Dogs • The Step Brothers Band
Stage-change solo act: Nick Amling
FOOD VENDORS
Avellino’s Pizza: classic, gluten-free, and veggie options
Summer Daze: cheesesteaks, burgers, hotdogs, fries, fresh squeezed lemonade
Scoops Ice Cream: ice cream truck that has old fashion flare with a modern twist
ADULT BEVERAGES
Beer • Wine • Hard Cider
MERCH VENDORS

Crafts by Alice (unique, handmade décor) • Daydream Creations (paintings & birdhouses) • It’s All About You (wall hangings, coasters, scarves, etc.) • Love is all you Bead (beautiful hand-crafted jewelry) • Patricia & Paul (flavor infused oils and vinegars) • House of Cork (sustainable cork purses) • Patches & Paws (hand-sewn puppy stuffed animals) • Happy Heifer Hairbows (hair accessories) • The Atticco (handmake scarves)
FREE WATER
Bring your reusable water bottles! New Jersey American Water’s “H2O on the Go” van will be onsite for free, potable water to all festival goers.
TICKETS
TICKETS (PRE-PURCHASED): SEE BELOW to purchase your ticket in advance. It saves you money and reduces lines! Please print your ticket receipt or have it available on your mobile device for a faster check-in experience. Online ticket purchasing closes Saturday, May 21 @ 5 PM. After that, tickets must be purchased at the gate at an increased price.
TICKETS (PURCHASED AT THE GATE): If you choose to purchase day-of at the gate, pricing increases to: Adults-$35 / Students, Senior Citizens, and Military Veterans-$25 / Children under 13-Free. Credit cards, cash, and checks will be accepted.
DIRECTIONS & PARKING
DIRECTIONS: Enter via Madison Ave. in Madison, then turn onto Dodge Dr. – follow the signs to registration and parking. The Woodland Ave. entrance in Chatham Twp. will be closed for the festival.
FESTIVAL ENTRY/REGISTRATION: Check-in will be conducted at the venue’s entrance through your vehicle window. We strongly encourage you to buy your ticket in advance.
PARKING: Parking is free and plentiful. Handicapped parking is available at the front of the lot. It’s a bit of a distance on grass to the festival area. If you have a special request, please call Val at 908-872-0344 and we will do our best to accommodate you.
THANK YOU TO OUR CURRENT FESTIVAL SPONSORS!
BARRED OWL SPONSORS:
Atlantic Health System • Community Foundation of New Jersey • Delta Dental of New Jersey • Adrienne & Dillard Kirby • Peapack-Gladstone Bank
BLUE SPOTTED SALAMANDER SPONSORS:
Athleta • A.M. Higley • Gwenn & Tony DellaPelle • EA Boniakowski Insurance • Glenmede Investment and Wealth Management • Investors Bank • Matt & Agi Krauser • Senlac Ridge Partners • Valley Bank
EMERALD DARNER SPONSORS:
Debra & John Apruzzese • Reed & Adrienne Auerbach • Lynn & Ralph Jones • Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper, P.C. • Pipe Works Home Services • PSEG • RegentAtlantic • Turpin Real Estate
SUPPORTER & IN-KIND SPONSORS:
New Jersey American Water • Interstate Waste Services • ShopRite of Chatham • Washington House Restaurant • Window Trends of Morris Plains • Harding Twp. DPW
Enjoy the Great Swamp Great Music Festival radio commercial inviting you on Sunday, May 22nd to Giralda Farms in Chatham Twp., for LIVE MUSIC, Food, merch vendors, adult beverages, and more. Support the environment & Great Swamp Watershed Association.
Purchase Your Tickets Below 👇

Evening Briefing: "Eat the Weeds" Backyard Foraging
2022-06-03 18:30 - 20:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Tired of looking at the weeds in your yard? EAT THEM!
Change your mindset about weeds and learn how some plants have edible uses. Join us at the GSWA Headquarters to learn about the common edible plants that can be found in nature and in your backyard, so the next time you pull weeds you might consider throwing the greens in a healthy salad.
Forage Safely! We will cover how to identify, prepare, and preserve these free greens so you can safely hunt and focus your diet on plant-based eating. We will provide foraged and homemade treats to enjoy.
IMPORTANT: Registration is limited but if the event becomes sold out, email nrago@greatswamp.org to be added to a waitlist. And if you become sick or have a fever, for the safety of everyone DO NOT attend. Email to cancel, so we can invite the next person on the waitlist.

Volunteers Needed!
2022-06-04 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Come learn more about what stewarding our 73-acre property in Harding Twp. entails by getting involved hands on! We’ll be conducting a variety of tasks including chipping and mulching our trail network, removing invasive plants, and constructing new boardwalk. We rely on our volunteers to help us take care of this natural area that’s open to the public for passive recreation and serves as an educational opportunity for students. Are you in the giving spirit and willing to brave the swamp? Wear long pants and long sleeves, and clothes than can get wet, muddy, and protect you from mosquitos!

POSTPONED: Explore Our Conservation Management Area (CMA) Hike
2022-06-10 18:00 - 20:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
This event has been postponed – please stay tuned for the new date!

We have been working hard since the big restoration at our 73-acre forested wetland site, the GSWA Conservation Management Area (CMA).
We’ve created boardwalk trails, and expanded the natural wetland habitat for the all the local aquatic and terrestrial plants & animals.
You are invited to enjoy this late spring hike in the beautiful seasonal conditions. Come to see which wildlife are making good use of these newly improved conditions! Wear long pants and long sleeves, and clothes that can get wet, muddy, plus protect yourself from mosquitoes.
IMPORTANT: Registration is required and limited so if the event becomes sold out, email nrago@greatswamp.org to be added to a waitlist. And if you become sick or have a fever, for the safety of everyone DO NOT attend. Email to cancel, so we can invite the next person on the waitlist.

SOLD OUT...AGAIN: Full Moon Hike at the Refuge
2022-06-15 20:00 - 21:30 | Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge – Bluebird Parking Lot, Bluebird Parking Lot, Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, NJ, United States
This event is sold out again! Email nrago@greatswamp.org to be added to a waitlist for any last minute cancelations.

Hike and see the June full moon…the “Strawberry Moon”. It’s really a sweet sign of summer!
Join Sarah Hunt, GSWA Land Steward & Water Quality Associate, on a hike to discover some of the gentle nighttime creatures. June is great time to enjoy a moonlit hike at the Refuge. The canopy and bright moonlight provide the perfect backdrop to hear and spot owls. Our full moon hikes are a real hoot, so don’t miss out on this unique, family-friendly opportunity! This hike is free, but your support helps further the GSWA mission of education, land stewardship, and advocacy. Suggested donation: $10 for adults, $5 for children.
Meeting Place: GSNWR Bluebird Parking Lot on Pleasant Plains Road, approx. 0.5 miles north of the refuge’s south gate, and 1.6 miles south of the Helen C. Fenske Visitor Center – New Vernon, NJ 07976

IMPORTANT: Registration is required and limited so if the event becomes sold out, email nrago@greatswamp.org to be added to a waitlist. And if you become sick or have a fever, for the safety of everyone DO NOT attend. Email to cancel, so we can invite the next person on the waitlist.

Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day - June 17th
2022-06-17 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!
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 July 1st, July 22nd. July 29th, August 5th, August 12th, August 19th and August 26th.

Lunch 'n Learn: Water Quality Report Card
2022-06-17 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom Webinar, NJ, United States
Zoom registration closes at 11 AM on Friday, June 17. This is the rescheduled Report Card from April.
DID YOU KNOW: Human beings can survive almost three weeks without food, but only a few days without water!
Take your lunch break and Zoom In for an in-depth review of the water quality in the Great Swamp watershed and the Passaic River region. GSWA conducts stream monitoring at 21 locations annually for a suite of chemical parameters. We are the only entity, non-profit, corporate, or government, monitoring the five main streams of the Great Swamp Watershed and Passaic River on a consistent basis.
GSWA Water Quality Director, Sandra LaVigne, will highlight the results of the sampling and testing we performed on our local streams throughout 2021. Sandra will also provide an update on testing for PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) manmade chemicals also called “forever chemicals.” PFAS is a growing threat to waters.
Join us for this informative report on your local water and will include a Q&A session at the end. Registration is required and the Zoom link will be sent via email prior to the program.

SOLD OUT Summer Solstice Celebration Hike
2022-06-28 19:00 - 21:00 | Jockey Hollow Visitor Center, 600 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960
Email nrago@greatswamp.org to be added to a waitlist.
Although the rescheduled hike is not on the solstice date, you will learn all about the solstice and welcome in the summer season with poems and stories!
Join us for a hike through the historic and beautiful trails of Jockey Hollow. As the moon slowly rises, we will look and listen for owls and other nightlife creatures as fireflies take to the sky. Later we will relax by a roaring bonfire and hear stories that 18th century colonists told around their own campfires and learn about their views on the darkness.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity with highly experienced and knowledgeable GSWA naturalists, Hazel England and Ginger Van Ryzin…along with National Park Ranger and local historian, Eric Olsen. Space is limited and it will fill up fast! This hike is free to all GSWA members; a $10 donation is appreciated from non-member adults, $5 for children. Registration is required.
IMPORTANT: Registration is required and limited so if the event becomes sold out, email nrago@greatswamp.org to be added to a waitlist. And if you become sick or have a fever, for the safety of everyone DO NOT attend. Email to cancel, so we can invite the next person on the waitlist.

Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day - July 1st
2022-07-01 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!
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 July 22nd. July 29th, August 5th, August 12th, August 19th and August 26th.

City of Water Day Bingo Challenge: Free
2022-07-08 - 2022-07-23 | NJ
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 photo of your completed card and share it with us by filling out this Google Form -OR- complete your submission and email it to GreatSwampWatershed@gmail.com. IMPORTANT: If you are submitting via email, please include your first name and last initial, town, state, and whether we can use your photo.
Submission Deadline: Midnight, July 23, 2022.
Winner Selection & Prize: We will post pictures of the entries as they come in. Our staff will randomly draw one winner from all who enter by 3 pm the following Friday. Winner can choose from three prizes: 1) Paddle for the winner and three friends; 2) GSWA Reusable Mug and Bag for winner and three friends; 3) GSWA Hike for winner and three friends.
* A community initiative through the Waterfront Alliance and funded by NY/NJ Harbor Estuary Program and the Hudson River Foundation.
Eco-bingo Challenges Explained:

Find out: Where does your household water come from? Is it taken out of a reservoir, from a well, or even the Passaic River?
Take a selfie of you and your favorite water spot and let us know where you are!
Pick up at least five pieces of litter on a hike or walk. Litter finds its way to the water when carried by rain.
Use only refillable beverage containers all day (no disposable coffee cups or single use bottles).
Spend at least 10 mins. watching wildlife in your watershed. Tag us and tell us how many species you saw. Tag GSWA on one of these social channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn.
Organize some friends to go out and pick up trash along your favorite path or waterbody. What is the main trash you are collecting? Share the photo and main trash and include #gswaecochallenge.
Identify some local flora. Find three plants you don’t know the name of and look them up. There are many apps to help you, like iNaturalist.
Visit the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park.
Like Great Swamp Watershed on Facebook.
Follow the Waterfront Alliance on Instagram.
Follow the Twitter profile for the NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program (HEP).
Use the Water Footprint Calculator to find what’s your water footprint. Tell us when you submit your entry.
Join the Great Swamp Watershed as a member or Donate to GSWA to help us achieve our mission to protect water and land for a healthier environment now and for the future.
Go for a hike at the Great Swamp Wildlife Refuge. or the Conservation Management Area.
Use the #Cityofwaterday hashtag and post a picture of one of your challenge squares being completed.
Collect rainwater to water your plants. Not only does rainwater collection encourage zero-waste but it is a great hydration source for your plants too.
Add a vegetarian meal to your day. Legumes like kidney beans require only a tenth of the water that beef does per unit of protein.
Skip buying new clothes. Shop Second Hand or join a local Buy Nothing community-based group. A new pair of jeans uses 1,800 gallons of water to produce, and a cotton t-shirt uses 400 gallons.
Buy locally grown fruits and vegetables. Eating locally grown food reduces your carbon footprint.
20. Time your shower. The average shower uses 2.5 gallons of water per minute, and hot water uses more energy than cold. Pick a favorite song that’s about 3 minutes long and put it on! This helps to track how long you shower, and conserves water helps the watershed.
Carpool or bike! On average, one gallon of gasoline takes three-to-six gallons of water to produce.
Skip watering your lawn for the weekend (or for the whole summer!) Lawns are considered the number one irrigated ‘crop’ in the US, using a whopping 9 billion gallons nationwide each day.
Make an eco-friendly swap in your cleaning products. Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to our health and the environment. Visit our website for a great breakdown of what you can use instead: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND CLEANING PRODUCTS.
Pick up five plastic water bottles during a walk. Tell us how long it took you to collect them.

Paterson Falls Explorer Hike and Tour
2022-07-08 10:00 - 13:00 | Paterson Great Falls National Park, 72 McBride Ave,, Paterson, NJ, United States
Explore Paterson from the other end of the Passaic. Join us for an afternoon of nature and natural history. Staff from the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park will guide us on an informative hike through the area where will check out the new viewing platform to explore the 77-foot high waterfall. From there we’ll hike along the old raceway, and we’ll even squeeze in a museum visit. It’s a great opportunity to gain insight into the importance of Paterson, the first planned industrial city that was centered around the Great Falls, and how it changed the face of our country. We will meet at the Great Falls and go from there. Dress for the weather, hiking boots recommended for potentially muddy conditions.

CANCELLED: Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day - July 22nd
2022-07-22 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
DUE TO THE EXTREME HEAT ADVISORY, FOR THE SAFETY OF OUR STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS, THIS WORK DAY HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
PLEASE CHECK OUT OTHER FRIDAY WORKDAYS SCHEDULED THROUGH THE END OF AUGUST.
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!
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 July 29th, August 5th, August 12th, August 19th and August 26th.

Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day - July 29th
2022-07-29 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!
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 5th, August 12th, August 19th and August 26th.

Sunset Paddle - POSTPONED DATE
2022-07-29 18:30 - 20:30 | Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Ave, Roseland, NJ, 07068
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 Center. The specific location will be announced to registered participants after we check conditions. Kayaks and life vests are provided.
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 on Friday. Ginger will be collecting them.

Adult Attendee
Minor Attendee

This event is sold out! Email nrago@greatswamp.org to be added to a waitlist.

Pollinator Box Workshop
2022-08-04 18:30 - 20:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Did you know some bees don’t live in hives? Come get the scoop about pollinator boxes and how they benefit the environment. This workshop will be “the bee’s knees!” (We apologize for that.)
Join us for an evening of building, learning and all-around good fun as we talk about the importance of solitary bees and pollinator habitats to the ecosystem, and build a pollinator box of your own to take home! Cost: $25/box. This workshop is limited to the first 15 people who register.
Missing this event will really sting, so make sure you register today!

CANCELLED - Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day - August 5th
2022-08-05 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Because of staffing issues, unfortunately we have to cancel the 8/5 CMA Stewardship Day. Please consider volunteering at another stewarding day, like August 12th, August 19th and August 26th.
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!
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 12th, August 19th and August 26th.

Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day - August 12th
2022-08-12 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!
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 19th and August 26th.

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.

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!
