GSWA

POSTPONED: Water Workshop Weekends - Family Fun Day at GSWA’s Conservation Management Area
2023-07-15 11:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Due to extreme heat and changeable weather, this event has been postponed.

The Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) and Morris Museum are pleased to announce their new partnership; our inaugural set of events, beginning with Water Workshop Weekends, will take place on July 7, 8, and 15, 2023.
Saturday, July 15 from 11:00 AM-2:00 PM – Experience the wonders of nature at GSWA’s Conservation Management Area (CMA) nestled on Tiger Lily Lane in Harding. Immerse yourself in eco-friendly hikes, where you’ll be provided with binoculars to enrich your connection with the surrounding environment. Delight in family-friendly activities inspired by the natural world, fostering a deep appreciation for our planet. Engage with fascinating macroinvertebrates to gain a profound understanding of our ecosystem and its precious water quality. This is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the 16th year of the City of Water Day, which builds awareness and reaches towards the goal of a climate-resilient New York and New Jersey harbor.
Tickets: Members Free* | Non-members $12 | Children $8 (3-17)
BUY YOUR TICKETS BELOW
Don’t miss the Water Workshop Weekends kickoff event of the critically acclaimed and star-filled movie Dark Waters screening and panel discussion on Friday, July 7 at the Morris Museum and a Family Fun Day featuring a Smithsonian documentary – “Age of Human: Water”, along with fun water related activities at the Morris Museum on Saturday, July 8.
*NOTE: Great Swamp Watershed Association and Morris Museum members get free access for events on Saturday, July 8 and Saturday, July 15. RSVP is required for all Members.
Explore the 2023 City of Water Day Events in taking place across the five boroughs, New Jersey, and the lower Hudson Valley.

Volunteer for CMA Stewardship Day – July 21st
2023-07-21 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 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!

Firefly and Moth Hike
2023-07-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Come meet the fascinating nighttime insects of the Conservation Management Area! While fireflies light up the night we hike out to our moth light station. There, we’ll stop to observe the numbers and types of moths that live along the trails. Join us for this easy hike over our boardwalks to marvel at these nighttime critters while learning about what they need to thrive. Registration is required and space is limited so register today

Wildflowers of Ramapo Hike
2023-08-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Ramapo Mountain State Forest (Upper Lot), Hiking Trail Parking Lot, Oakland, NJ, 07436, United States
Come out and practice your wildflower ID! Join naturalist Ginger Van Ryzin on a Saturday morning hike at Ramapo Mountain State Forest. On the hike, we will pass multiple native plantings, admire the beautiful clear water of Ramapo Lake, and explore the Van Slyke “Castle” ruins. The hike will be 3 miles with some rough terrain and elevation change. Sturdy hiking books are recommended.

Fall Colors Sunset Paddle
2023-09-12 16:00 - 17:30 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
Fall Colors Paddle: 4:00 – 5:30 pm

Come out and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage as the sun sets along the banks of the Passaic River as we paddle the headwaters region of the Great Swamp. This area is full of wildlife, native vegetion and beautiful views. 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 meet up location is the Somerset County Park Commission Fisherman’s Parking Lot.

Hidden Colors UV Hike - SOLD OUT
2023-09-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Primrose Farm (Enter from Barrett Field), Barrett Field, 1413-000460000-000020001-00000, Morristown, NJ, 07960
Important information: Location has changed to Harding Land Trust’s Primrose Farm. See below for location address.

Explore the hidden colors of fungus, plants, and insects as we explore the Conservation Management Area with new eyes. UV lights allow us to see colorful, fluorescent organisms that the human eye cannot normally detect. GSWA will provide the UV lights for this short hike over our boardwalked vernal pools. Guests of all ages are encouraged to join!

Climate Proof Your Garden - Free Zoom
2023-09-20 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom Webinar, NJ, United States
Please note: registration closes September 20 @ 5 PM

As extreme weather events and warmer temperatures become more frequent, it’s time to start thinking about ways you can fortify your outdoor space. At this Zoom webinar, you will learn about ways to “climate proof” your garden including Xeriscaping water conservation strategies. Xeriscaping is the practice of designing landscapes to reduce or eliminate the need for irrigation. Xeriscaped landscapes need little or no water beyond what the natural climate provides. We will also discuss the best plant choices to help your garden weather the storms and droughts. Implementing these strategies can also allow more biodiversity, where your plants will flourish and attract more pollinators like bees, birds and butterflies!
You will receive the webinar Zoom link via email prior to the start of the program.

SOLD OUT - Harvest Full Moon Paddle
2023-09-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Ave, Roseland, NJ, 07068
Harvest Paddle: 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Delight in an evening paddle on the Passaic River to celebrate the beginning of Autumn as the sun sets. 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 meet up location is Essex County Environmental Center.
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
2023-09-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Morristown & Morris Township Library, 1 Miller Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
With all that’s going on with our planet, now is the right time to tune in to our environment a little more. Join us for this free training workshop and learn how to monitor a stream, or simply gain a better understanding about stream health. The first half of the program will be held indoors at Morristown/ Morris Township Library. Then we will drive over to Loantaka Park to complete the course streamside along Loantaka Brook. You will need to your own transportation from the Library to the park. By the afternoon, you will be fully trained and ready to conduct your own visual stream assessments! Registration is free but required so we can obtain a headcount.
Parking is available on the street or in one of the nearby parking garages.

Join Us for the Other Water Quality Events at The Morristown & Morris Township Library!
Deepen your understanding of water quality and its pivotal role in our community by attending the Stream Assessment Training, along with two others events described below. All three are free events, but registration is required for some.

Come to a Local Screening of the “Saving the Great Swamp: Battle to Defeat the Jetport” Documentary on Monday, September 25 at 7:00 pm. This award-winning one-hour documentary tells the story of the events, people, and politics behind the struggle to preserve this beautiful rural area between 1959 and 1968. A panel discussion will follow the screening. Registration not required but read more about it here.
The other event is the Water Quality in Loantaka Brook Presentation on Tuesday, September 26, 6 – 8 pm. The Great Swamp Watershed Association has been monitoring the water quality of our local streams for over 40 years. In this presentation by Director of Water Quality, Sandra LaVigne, we will focus on the water quality in Loantaka Brook, how it has changed over the years and what we can do in the future to help improve it. Registration is required.

Local Screening of the "Saving the Great Swamp" – Free
2023-09-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Morristown & Morris Township Library, 1 Miller Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Registration is NOT required!

The “Saving the Great Swamp: Battle to Defeat the Jetport” Documentary will be shown at the MMT Library
6:30 PM: Doors open, 7 PM: Film Begins, 8 PM: Panel Discussion

In 1959, the Port Authority of New York announced plans to build a huge international jetport in the swamp. This “done deal” proposal, would have filled in the swamp, demolished 700 homes, and changed the landscape forever. But a small group of concerned citizens opposed the threat and won. The award-winning one-hour documentary “Saving the Great Swamp,” tells the story of the events, people and politics behind the struggle to preserve this beautiful rural area between 1959 and 1968. USA Today called the film “a truly astonishing and entertaining history lesson” and it has aired nationally on PBS.
The film will be shown at 7:00pm in the Meeting Room of the MMT Library and admission is free. Registration not required.
Join Us for the Other Water Quality Events at The Morristown & Morris Township Library!
Deepen your understanding of water quality and its pivotal role in our community by attending the Local Screening of the “Saving the Great Swamp: Battle to Defeat the Jetport” Documentary, along with two others events described below. All three are free events, but registration is required for some.

GSWA’s bi-annual Stream Assessment Training – Sunday, September 24, 1 – 4 pm. Join us for this free training workshop and learn how to monitor a stream or simply gain a better understanding of stream health. Registration is required.
GSWA’s Water Quality in Loantaka Brook Presentation – Tuesday, September 26, 6 – 8 pm. The Great Swamp Watershed Association has been monitoring the water quality of our local streams for over 40 years. In this presentation by Director of Water Quality, Sandra LaVigne, we will focus on the water quality in Loantaka Brook, how it has changed over the years, and what we can do in the future to help improve it. Registration is required.

Water Quality in Loantaka Brook – Free
2023-09-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Morristown & Morris Township Library, 1 Miller Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Great Swamp Watershed Association has been monitoring the water quality of our local streams for over 40 years. In this presentation by Director of Water Quality, Sandra LaVigne, we will focus on the water quality in Loantaka Brook, how it has changed over the years and what we can do in the future to help improve it. Registration is free but required so we can obtain a headcount.
Parking is available on the street or in one of the nearby parking garages.
Join Us for the Other Water Quality Events at The Morristown & Morris Township Library!
Deepen your understanding of water quality and its pivotal role in our community by attending the Water Quality in Loantaka Brook Presentation, along with two others events described below. All three are free events, but registration is required for some.

Our bi-annual Stream Assessment Training is on Sunday, September 24, 1 – 4 pm. Join us for this free training workshop and learn how to monitor a stream or simply gain a better understanding of stream health. Registration is required.
Come to a Local Screening of the “Saving the Great Swamp: Battle to Defeat the Jetport” Documentary on Monday, September 25 at 7:00 pm. This award-winning one-hour documentary tells the story of the events, people, and politics behind the struggle to preserve this beautiful rural area between 1959 and 1968. A panel discussion will follow the screening. Registration not required but read more about it here.

SUNDAY: View Map and Sale Items - Madison/Chathams Town-Wide Sale
2023-10-01 09:00 - 14:00 | NJ
All you shoppers:
Click HERE to view the map of participants
Click HERE for to view the list of sale items by location

Registration is now closed.
Saturday is Postponed, sale is now the RAIN DATE – SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1
Questions should be directed to the Environmental Commission of The Chathams and Madison at MEC@rosenet.org

Registration Deadline: Thursday, September 28 @ 11:30 PM to get your address and sale items on the map.
CHECK BACK HERE September 29 FOR A DIGITAL MAP OF ALL YARD SALE PARTICIPANTS AND A LIST OF SALE ITEMS.
These documents will also be shared in local media and on town sites.

One person’s trash is another person’s treasure. Now is the time to start checking your closets, basement, and garage for those hidden treasures and prepare to host a yard sale at the at this community event. Scroll to the bottom of this page and register to have your address and a list of your items for sale to appear on a digital, printable map. The map will be linked to this page and publicized far and wide to potential shoppers. You must be a resident of Chatham Township, Chatham Borough or Madison to list your sale.
Registration Fee: $10 tax-deductible donation to benefit Great Swamp Watershed Association.
Everyone else, mark your calendar for September 30 to get out and shop sustainably at this amazing three-town-wide yard sale! Be sure to check back here on September 29 to download the map before you head out to shop.
Happy sales to you!

Frequently asked questions:

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—and Pennsylvania. 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.
Do I need to pay a permit fee ? No. The permit fee for this event has been waived for residents of Madison and The Chathams.
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 the yard sale be zero waste. Contact following organizations to arrange pickups of your leftovers:

Dress For Success, Northern NJ – 25 Cook Avenue, Madison, NJ (By appointment only-northernnj.dressforsuccess.org)
Vietnam Veterans of America (vva.org)
Lupus Foundation of America (Lupuspickup.org)
GreenDrop (gogreendrop.com)
Market Street Mission – clothing only, please (marketstreet.org)
In addition, Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore (morrisrestore.org/donate) does some pickups; it accepts antiques, furniture, flooring, brand new plumbing, painting supplies, doors and more.

To register below, change the quantity from 0 to 1 and click “ADD TO CART” to begin the process.

Silent Auction & Gala Tickets
2023-10-05 18:00 - 21:30 | Brooklake Country Club, 139 Brooklake Road, Florham Park, NJ, 07932
Our Silent Auction is Live!
To Browse, Bid & Donate CLICK HERE

GSWA Gala Celebration & Silent Auction

Brooklake Country Club | 139 Brooklake Road | Florham Park
Join us for this much-anticipated evening of good food and drink, spirited mingling with like-minded eco-conscious friends, and browsing and bidding on our popular Silent Auction at our biggest fundraising event of the year!
5 PM – VIP Reception
6 PM – Cocktails & Silent Auction
7:30 PM – Dinner, Keynote Speaker & Tribute

With a Dash of Magic and Illusion Sprinkled Throughout the Night!
Keynote Speaker: Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

Congresswoman Sherrill has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the environment. She champions legislation against climate change, supports clean energy and conservation, and fosters collaboration for a greener future. Congresswoman Sherrill believes that protecting our environment is a moral obligation to future generations, and that we must come together across party lines for a cleaner, more sustainable world.

A Special Tribute to John J. DeLaney, Jr.

Jay DeLaney, who passed away in November 2022, was a lifelong resident of Morristown and former Mayor of his hometown. He was a dedicated GSWA supporter serving on the Board of Trustees and then on the Advisory Council for many years. He was an inaugural member of the GSWA municipal alliance which facilitated collaborative discussions among local government representatives on the environment, planning, and zoning issues. Jay made things happen and was the definition of a networker, introducing people he felt should meet. He was passionate about community service and was an outspoken advocate for GSWA’s mission. We are thankful for Jay’s contributions and will celebrate his leadership, friendship, and guidance; or in Jay’s words, his “work, wealth, wisdom, and worry.”

And New This Year
Enjoy the nationally touring professional magician, comedian, and mentalist, Simon Mandal, who will entertain attendees with up-close magic and captivating illusions to engage and delight our attendees throughout the evening.

Get Tickets at the Bottom of this Page!

JOIN US AT THE VIP RECEPTION – Purchase a VIP Premier Ticket to attend this private reception. Enjoy cocktails and gourmet hors d’oeuvres prior to the start of the Gala event. Scroll down to purchase tickets by September 21.

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 Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. The Silent Auction goes live September 28 – be sure to check back at that time for the link to browse and bid on over 100 unique items. Scroll down to purchase tickets by September 14.
BECOME A GALA UNDERWRITER –Gala Underwriter opportunities are available! Underwriter support assures this annual fundraising event will be a big success. Your support 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 business website. You will receive additional benefits outlined here: Download form. To fully participate as an underwriter, the deadline is September 14.
SPECIAL NEW GALA SPONSORSHIPS –New this year is a $4500 special underwriting opportunity to sponsor the evening’s entertainment. Another new underwriting opportunity is to sponsor our popular 50 bottle cork pull. Download form. To fully participate as a sponsor, the deadline is September 14.
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. Send a bottle of red and a bottle of white to 2 or 5 of your clients, customers, or colleagues. You may also opt to advertise without the additional wine package. Download form. The deadline for wine packages and advertising opportunities is September 14.
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 September 28 and is visited by hundreds of enthusiastic bidders! Download form. The deadline to make a silent auction donation is September 15.
Cannot attend but wish to support GSWA and the environment?
Click to:Donate In Lieu of Attending
Questions
Contact Melanie Hertgen at 973-538-3500 / MHertgen@greatswamp.org

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS 2023 GALA
UNDERWRITERS & ADVERTISERS
GREAT BLUE HERON UNDERWRITER
New Jersey American Water
BALD EAGLE UNDERWRITER
Atlantic Health System
BLACK BEAR UNDERWRITERS
Adrienne & Reed Auerbach
Avelino Law
BASF
Eagle Cliff Real Estate Partners
Agi & Matt Krauser
PSEG
Valley Bank
Lisa & David Welsh

GALA ADVERTISERS
Academy Electrical | Bucco/Dunn/Barranco Campaign 2023 | Chatham Print & Design | Columbia Bank | Conserve Wildlife
EAB Insurance Group | Jaeger Lumber & Supply | Liberty Payroll | Minno & Wasko Architects and Planners | Nisivoccia LLP
Starr, Gern, Davison, and Rubin | Sun Pools, Inc. | TeamLogic IT | The Angeletti Group LLC | The Tile Lady Designs by Christine
Toyota/Subaru of Morristown | Turpin Realtors/Gerry-Jo Cranmer | Turpin Realtors/John Turpin | VoiceNEXT

When you shop, or shop around, please support these champions of the environment!

POSTPONED: Geocaching 101
2023-10-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Kemmerer Library, 19 Blue Mill Rd, Morristown, New Jersey, 07960
This event has been postponed. Stay tuned for a new date to be announced soon.
What is geocaching? Geocaching is a “location-based game” that combines the internet and satellite technology by using any smart phone or GPS to locate hidden containers called “geocaches” These “caches” are marked by GPS coordinates, once you open the app and see what’s around, you’ll soon be outside enjoying the fun! This outdoor adventure combines nature, history, and education, it’s a great way to discover and explore new places.
Join John Neale, President of the Northern New Jersey Geocaching Club (NNJC.org), as he guides you through the fascinating and popular world of geocaching. NNJC is a non-profit organization with a goal to work with individual counties, the State of New Jersey, National Park Service, and many non-profit land managers to help promote their properties through educational geocaching programs. The boy and girl scouts have geocaching badges too! Also, as we approache the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution you will learn about the NJ American Revolution Geo-Trail, a heritage journey with geocaches located at over 80 historic locations with important connection to NJ and our independence. Info: njpatriots.org. Come learn more! This program is offered through a partnership with The Kremmerer Library.

SOLD OUT- Halloween Full Moon Hike
2023-10-30 18:00 - 19:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
When the Hunter’s full moon (named because it was the ideal time for hunting in the olden days) and Halloween collide, what’s better than a nighttime hike around the darkness of the swamp? Since trick or treating isn’t just for kids, we encourage you to dress up, if you dare, and come with some candy you’d like to share with your fellow hikers as we traverse the trails of the CMA. From ethereal haunting calls to howling – and that’s just the owls and coyotes – who knows what we will encounter? This is an easy, 2–3-mile hike across boardwalks and flat trails.

SOLD OUT- Fall Colors Afternoon Paddle
2023-11-10 14:00 - 15:30 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
Email mhertgen@GreatSwamp.org to get on the waitlist or if you need to cancel.
If you cannot attend, please be sure to cancel so we can invite the next person on the wait list.

Fall Colors Paddle: 2:00 – 3:30 pm

Come out and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage along the banks of the Passaic River as we paddle the headwaters region of the Great Swamp. This area is full of wildlife, native vegetion and beautiful views. 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 meet up location is the Somerset County Park Commission Fisherman’s Parking Lot.

SOLD OUT- Fall Colors Evening Paddle
2023-11-10 16:00 - 17:30 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
Email mhertgen@GreatSwamp.org to get on the waitlist or if you need to cancel.
If you cannot attend, please be sure to cancel so we can invite the next person on the wait list.

Fall Colors Paddle: 4:00 – 5:30 pm

Come out and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage along the banks of the Passaic River as we paddle the headwaters region of the Great Swamp. This area is full of wildlife, native vegetion and beautiful views. 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 meet up location is the Somerset County Park Commission Fisherman’s Parking Lot.

SOLD OUT: Paint 'n Sip Holiday Ornament Workshop
2023-11-14 18:00 - 19:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
SORRY, THIS WORKSHOP IS SOLD OUT
Please email MHertgen@GreatSwamp.org to be placed on a waitlist

Jump into the holidays with an instructor-led DIY project workshop and some wine. Led by local artist Alice Schwartz, you will learn glass painting tips and techniques to decorate and bring home your own winter/holiday-themed glass ornament! Once you have learned some tricks of the trade, you will have the skills and the know-how to make more of these hand-crafted ornaments to give as gifts to your friends and family. All supplies are included in the price, just bring your creativity! Wine and light snacks will be provided. Space is limited, so register today.

Fall Community Clean-up at the CMA
2023-11-19 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Earn some bonus points and pre-work off your Thanksgiving calories. We could use some help sprucing up the CMA for the winter. We spent a lot of time this summer building and replacing boardwalks and now the scrap wood needs to be hauled back out of the woods. Additionally, we need to clean up the trails and prepare them for winter hiking! Feel free to wander the CMA when we’re done. This is a fun workday that will leave you feeling satisfied that you have earned that extra piece of Thanksgiving pie!
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and dress for the weather.

SOLD OUT- DIY Winter Foliage Wreath Workshop 5:00-6:30 PM
2023-11-30 17:00 - 18:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
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. Price covers everything you need to leave with a finished piece that’s ready to hang on your door or give as a gift. Hot cider and cookies will be served. Two sessions to choose from: 5-6:30 PM & 7-8:30 PM.

SOLD OUT- DIY Winter Foliage Wreath Workshop 7:00-8:30 PM
2023-11-30 19:00 - 20:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States

GSWA Annual Meeting
2023-12-07 17:00 - 17:30 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
We invite you to join us for wine and light snacks and to meet the dedicated individuals of the Great Swamp Watershed Association – our passionate staff and esteemed board of trustees! You’ll have the opportunity to hear about the accomplishments of GSWA in 2023, learning about our impactful work for the Great Swamp watershed and the broader Passaic River region, spanning advocacy, education, and water quality, as well as our land preservation and stewardship.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the support of our members and volunteers, who help us fulfill our mission to protect water and land for a healthier environment for current and future generations!
Registration is not mandatory, but your RSVP will help create a seamless evening. You must be 21 or older to consume alcoholic beverages.

A Winter Wander Hike
2023-12-09 10:00 - 12:00 | South Mountain Reservation, W South Orange Ave, West Orange, NJ, United States
Step outside on a crisp, December morning and enjoy some fresh air on this winter wander through South Mountain Reservation. As we hike, you will learn about how the Lenape braved the cold winters as well as some geologic history. Along the way, we will see a waterfall (or two) and depending on the temperatures, they may or may not be frozen! Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and dress for the weather.

POSTPONED: Members Only Winter Solstice Night Hike
2023-12-28 18:00 - 19:30 | Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge – Wildlife Observation Center, https://goo.gl/maps/tLD3KapcRC21245c8, Harding Twp., NJ, 07976, United States
We will unfortunately have to postpone the Members Only Winter Solstice Hike due to heavy rain and flooding concerns. Please check back in the new year for the rescheduled date.
Thank you for your understanding, and if you have any questions please email MHertgen@GreatSwamp.org
Thank you for being a GSWA member! We invite you to bundle-up and come celebrate the first day of winter (winter solstice) with a crisp, invigorating hike at the Refuge. Winter solstice is the day with the fewest hours of sunlight in the whole year, making it the shortest day of the year. It’s a great time of year to look and listen for owls and other nightlife. This is one of our most popular hikes with three highly experienced and knowledgeable GSWA naturalists. Be sure to dress for the weather and wear your warm socks for this hike. This is a free hike available to GSWA members only!

Stewardship Day at the CMA
2024-01-05 12:00 - 15:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Start the new year off by giving back! Our boardwalks are in need of alignment after the recent rainstorms dumped a combined 6+ inches of rain at our Conservation Management Area. Come out and brave the cold this Friday from 12-3PM to help fix up our trails and enjoy a hard-earned cup of hot cider!

CANCELED: Tracks & Scat Detective Hike
2024-01-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
PLEASE NOTE
This hike has been canceled due to the predicted snow/rain storm over the weekend.
Thank you for your understanding.

Ever wondered how to sleuth what animals are visiting an area – even when you are not rewarded with a sighting of the creature itself? As we enjoy a leisurely paced hike in the refuge, learn more about the scat (poop), tracks, and other markers our native wildlife leave to clue us into their presence. We will provide binoculars and poking sticks to help us get up close to these fascinating clues that enable you to become great wildlife detectives. Conditions can be wet or muddy. Wear appropriate footwear and dress warmly.

Free Zoom Webinar: Why We Love NJ's Open Spaces
2024-01-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom Webinar, NJ, United States
Due to the snowstorm, this program will now be conducted via Zoom. The time remains the same, 6-7:30 PM.
Please note: Registration closes at 5:30 pm, January 16.
There’s a lot of news about climate change and the devastating effects it has and will continue to have on the state of New Jersey. Now, who’s ready for some good news?
Join Dave Robinson, NJ State Climatologist and distinguished professor of geography at Rutgers University (and GSWA board member!) and discover why we are fortunate to live in the great state of New Jersey, thanks in part to our many scenic open spaces. From the Pine Barrens to the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, Dave will talk about how these geologic gems are more than just beautiful places to hike and relax, they also serve a valuable function in our ecosystem, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. [Photo Credit: Dave Robinson]

Creating a Woodland Garden with Indigenous Plants & Vertical Structure
2024-01-18 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom Webinar, Morristown, NJ, United States
Our kickoff webinar for the Plants for Pollinators series will discuss how to employ diversity in vertical strata in a woodland garden design using native understory plants and shrubs. Jean Epiphan, agricultural and resources agent and assistant professor with Rutgers Cooperative Extension in Morris County will be our guide. Jean will review the best choices of natural and green mulches to restore soil health and support native species. Jean draws from her experience in local forest research as well as practice in ornamental shade gardening to restore natural processes that fuel healthy native plant community rehabilitation.

Register for the rest of the 4 part webinar series HERE
This streamlined registration not only guarantees timely reminder emails with the Zoom link for each of the four talks, but also ensures that you receive recording links for all four webinars within 48 hours of each talk’s conclusion.
For those interested in specific talks, you can register individually for the 3 remaining webinars:
Feb 15, 7-8 PM – Plug in To Native Groundcovers
Mar 13, 7-8 PM – Pollinator Conservation: Creating and Protecting Habitat for NJ’s Bees, Butterflies, and Biodiversity
Apr 1, 12-1 PM – Plant Sale Overview
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. :-)

Mark Your Calendar: Apr 1, 1:30 PM – Native Plants for Pollinators online sale opens Apr 1 @ 1:30 PM and runs through Apr 19 @ 5 PM. Learn more about native pollinator plants, gardening, and GSWA’s online plant sale HERE.

Plant for Pollinators Webinar Series - FREE
2024-01-18 19:00 - 2024-04-01 12:00 | 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 4th annual online Native Pollinator Plant Sale on April 1, we have secured three nationally recognized and diverse speakers to present at monthly webinars.
Scroll to the very bottom and register to attend all 4 programs at once at the click of a button.
This streamlined registration not only guarantees timely reminder emails with the Zoom link for each of the four talks, but also ensures that you receive recording links for all four webinars within 48 hours of each talk’s conclusion. For those interested in specific talks, individual sign-ups are available below.
Register for individual programs below:
January 18, 7-8 PM: Creating a Woodland Garden with Indigenous Plants & Vertical Structure. Speaker: Jean Epiphan, agricultural resources agent and assistant professor with Rutgers Cooperative Extension in Morris County | Register HERE
February 15, 7-8 PM: Plug in to Native Groundcovers. Speaker: John Courtney, owner of Kind Earth Nursery | Register HERE
March 13, 7-8PM: Pollinator Conservation: Creating and Protecting Habitat for NJ’s Bees, Butterflies, and Biodiversity. Speaker: Kelly Gill, Pollinator Conservation Specialist from Xerces Society | Register HERE
Apr 1, 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. :-)
Add All Four Events to Your Calendar: FIRST, register for the Series below. THEN, add the four event dates to your calendar by importing the following custom ICS file. Right-click the link to save the file/download: PLANT WEBINAR SERIES ICS FILE. Once downloaded, navigate to your calendar app’s settings and/or choose ‘Import,’ then select the file from your computer. You can visit the scheduled dates to confirm they have been added correctly. Please be aware that Zoom links for each talk will be sent separately via email. The ICS file format is recognized by popular calendar apps like Google, Outlook, and Apple.
Mark Your Calendar: Apr 1, 1:30 PM – Native Plants for Pollinators online sale opens Apr 1 @ 1:30 PM and runs through Apr 19 @ 5 PM. Learn more about native pollinator plants, gardening, and GSWA’s online plant sale HERE.

Please see important notice below: Wolf Moon Hike
2024-01-24 17:00 - 18:30 | Primrose Farm (Enter from Barrett Field), Barrett Field, 1413-000460000-000020001-00000, Morristown, NJ, 07960
Important Notice: We are monitoring the weather for this hike. While Primrose Farm is higher ground than our board-walked swamp, it can still get muddy in rain. Be sure to wear appropriate boots and rain gear! If the temperatures drop and the rain turns icy, we may adjust our plans accordingly for driving conditions. January night hikes can be tough, but we hope to conduct the hike unless we feel it is unsafe. We will make the final decision by noon, January 24 and will email everyone and update this site. Thank you for your patience!

Join us for 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 after wolves who tend to howl more often during the winter season. 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.
