Volunteer for Community Workday
2024-04-05 10:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | 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 10AM to 1PM and enjoy some well-earned snacks. 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 Saturday morning? See you there!

Stream Assessment Training- FREE
2024-04-07 13:00 - 16:00 | Morristown & Morris Township Library, 1 Miller Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
Unless there’s obvious pollution in the river or stream, to the untrained eye, the water may look healthy. But is it? This free training session, led by Sandra LaVigne, GSWA Director of Water Quality Programs, will provide you with all the necessary skills to make your own determinations. There will be an indoor training which will be hybrid for those who can not attend in person. This session teaches you how to conduct visual and biological stream assessments and recognize environmental factors that could impact stream health. This will be followed by a outdoor field training to practice your new-found skills at a local stream site. By the afternoon, you will be fully trained in visual and biological stream assessment. And if you are ready to take that next step, consider becoming a stream monitoring volunteer!
Tools and supplies will be provided. It gets a little messy so wear your boots and bring clean shoes to change into afterward. Preferred volunteers are 15 or older.

Plant Program Panel / Q&A
2024-04-11 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom Webinar, NJ, United States
3 friendly, local native plant enthusiasts with years of experience will be available in an interactive webinar to help answer your questions and share advice about choosing, planting, growing and sustaining native plants. You will be able to email questions in advance or ask them during the webinar.
Bridget Daley has been an avid gardener for 20+ years. In the last few years, she has immersed herself in learning about and planting native plants. In her yard, Bridget has been shrinking the lawn and removing non-natives — many of which she previously planted — including common invasives like English ivy. So far she has replaced them with 71 species of native plants, including trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. Bridget also co-led, with fellow Rutgers Environmental Steward Joan Maccari, the creation of Madison Public Schools Pollinator Habitat, a community project that replaced lawn and non-native shrubs with 600 native plants. She is a member of the Madison Environmental Commission.
Jess Miller is a designer by trade and a native plant geek in her off time. She is a volunteer with the NPSNJ and maintain a Little Native Seed Library outside of her South Orange home. She works with her local community to add native plants to local parks and schools. Jess’s goal is for more people to know how easy and inexpensive it can be to add native plants to your yard!
Bianca Wright is a gardener and landscape designer with over 20 years of experience. She worked for design-build firms, private studios as well as a public garden before starting habitats&gardens LLC in 2021 to offer landscape design and plant installation. Bianca strives to create adaptive and resilient gardens by embracing nature’s dynamics, integrating ecological horticulture and principles of green infrastructure. She volunteers with several community groups to help raise awareness around native plants and bring them to local parks and schools.

FULL- Volunteer for Community Workday
2024-04-13 10:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
THIS COMMUNITY WORKDAY HAS BEEN FILLED
Please email MHertgen@GreatSwamp.org if you can no longer make it, or to be placed on a waitlist
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 Saturday at the GSWA Conservation Management Area (CMA) to help us steward the land. We will work from 10AM to 1PM and enjoy some well-earned snacks. 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 Saturday morning? See you there!

CANCELLED: Spring Flower Paddle- AM
2024-04-27 09:00 - 10:30 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES, THIS PADDLE HAS BEEN CANCELLED. WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED.

Spring Flower AM Paddle
Kick off your day with a peaceful spring paddle at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. By late-April, most tree are bursting with buds with their leaves ready to emerge. Birds like pine warblers and woodcocks are migrating back our way. Spring peepers and chorus frogs are calling. Come experience all this and more from a magical place – the middle of the Passaic River at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.
Children 8 and up are welcome. All participants 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent. There are only 7 spots available – 2 spots/registration max. 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 GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

CANCELLED: Spring Flower Paddle- PM
2024-04-27 11:00 - 12:30 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES, THIS PADDLE HAS BEEN CANCELLED. WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED.

Spring Flower PM Paddle
Kick off your day with a peaceful spring paddle at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. By late-April, most tree are bursting with buds with their leaves ready to emerge. Birds like pine warblers and woodcocks are migrating back our way. Spring peepers and chorus frogs are calling. Come experience all this and more from a magical place – the middle of the Passaic River at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.

Children 8 and up are welcome. All participants 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent. There are only 7 spots available – 2 spots/registration max. 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 GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

View the Map and Sale Items: Madison & The Chathams Town-wide Yard Sale May 2024
2024-05-04 09:00 - 14:00 | NJ
Registration is now closed and it looks like good weather for tomorrow’s yard sale!
CLICK HERE FOR A DIGITAL MAP OF ALL YARD SALE PARTICIPANTS
CLICK HERE FOR A LIST OF SALE ITEMS
(PS – if you missed registration, you can still conduct a yard sale without appearing on the map.)

RAIN DATE: SUNDAY, MAY 5, 2024
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 May 4 to get out and shop sustainably at this amazing three-town-wide yard sale! Be sure to check back here on May 3 before you head out to download the map.
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:

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.

ONLINE TICKET SALES CLOSED: 7th Annual Great Swamp Great Music Festival
2024-05-19 12:00 - 18:30 | Drew University Simon Forum, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, NJ, 07940, United States
Online ticket purchasing is now closed. Tickets may be purchased at the door at Drew University – 36 Madison Ave., Madison:
Adults-$40 • Students/Senior Citizens/Military-$30 • Children under 13 are still FREE.
Credit cards, Paypal, cash, and checks accepted.

PLEASE NOTE, DUE TO THE ONGOING RAIN, THE FARM FIELDS AT OUR ORIGINAL VENUE ARE FLOODED, SO WE HAVE DECIDED TO MOVE THE FESTIVAL INDOORS TO THE BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED DREW UNIVERSITY BALDWIN GYMNASIUM AT 36 MADISON AVENUE IN MADISON, NJ.
We chose this backup location because it is spacious and accessible, and other great music events have been hosted successfully at this venue. Drew also offers convenient parking, including a lot right in front of the Simon Forum. You will enjoy the same exceptional music festival activities while staying dry and mud-free!
The festival location has changed, but everything else remains the same! Bring your chairs or blankets, or utilize the bleacher seating, for 6+ hours of live music in celebration of clean water and open space. Enjoy adult beverages and a variety of food from our food trucks. Our fabulous merch vendors and the Kids’ Corner will be in the lobby just outside the gymnasium along with the restrooms. Please note, dogs are not allowed at the Drew University facility!
The doors will still open at 11 AM, with the bands playing until 6:30 PM.
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.
ENTRY & TICKETS: We encourage you to buy your ticket(s) in advance to save time and money. Scroll to the bottom of this page to purchase tickets. Show your email order confirmation on your cell as the entry ticket and for fast check-in.

Venue Location
Confirmed Indoor Location: Drew University Baldwin Gymnasium, 36 Madison Ave, Madison, NJ. See Drew Campus Map HERE.
(Due to ongoing rain, Brook Valley Farm’s fields at our original venue are flooded., 336 Loantaka Way, Chatham Twp. Special thanks to the Platt family of Harding Twp. for offering the GSWA this beautiful space again. Flanked by a lush, wooded mountainside and the historic Gibbons Horse Barn stables built in 1834, Brook Valley Farm has a rich history in Morris County and is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places.)

Lineup
Not Enough Jeffs • The Refugee Dogs • The Big Fuss • The Dust-Ups
The Cold Hill Band • The Tones • HighRidge Runners
Food Vendors
Norman Food Services: Funnel cakes, fried zeppolas, fried pickles, pretzels, fresh lemonade, more
Marley’s Gotham Grill: Home of the 300+ Chicken Wing Flavors
Oxtail Gravy: Caribbean cuisine also offering vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options

Adult Beverages
Available for purchase: Beer (IPA and Lager) • Wine • Hard Cider (Be sure to bring your ID, we will be checking.)
Merch Vendors

Annie’s Wreaths • Art by Alice • Beats of Wisdom • Cose Belle • House of Cork • MindCurves • Patches & Paws • Tribux Creations

Kids’ Corner
Music is for everyone! Bring the whole family – kids will jump for joy with all the activities just for them including face painting, arts ‘n crafts, games, a selfie station, and more!

Tickets
PRE-PURCHASE PRICING: Save money and time – SCROLL DOWN to purchase advance tickets.
Adults-$30 • Students, Senior Citizens, and Military Veterans-$20 • Children under 13 are FREE.
Online ticket purchasing closes Saturday, May 18 @ 5 PM then tickets must be purchased at the gate.
AT-THE-GATE PRICING:
Adults-$40 • Students/Senior Citizens/Military-$30 • Children under 13 are still FREE.
Credit cards, Paypal, cash, and checks accepted.
Scroll to the Bottom of this Page for Tickets. Show your email order confirmation on your cell as the entry ticket and for fast check-in.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is this event rain or shine? Yes! In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved indoors at Drew University,
Are dogs allowed? Yes for Brook Valley Farm. Well-behaved pups on a leash are very welcome! Please come prepared to clean up any messes. If the event is moved to Drew U., unfortunately dogs are not allowed.
Can I bring outside food and drink into the festival? We request that you leave your coolers at home and support our festival vendors.
Can I bring my own pop-up tent? Yes, but for everyone’s safety, you must bring supplies to properly stake it in place.
What forms of payment do you accept? Accepted payment methods include: Credit Cards, PayPal, Venmo, Cash, and Checks.
Will there be free water available? Absolutely! New Jersey American Water be on-site offering free “H2O on the Go” so bring your reusable water bottles!

THANK YOU TO OUR FESTIVAL SPONSORS!
Barred Owl
Atlantic Health System, S. Dillard and Adrienne T. Kirby Family Philanthropic Fund
Blue Spotted Salamander
Debra & John Apruzzese, Reed & Adrienne Auerbach, Chatham Print & Design, Eagle Cliff Real Estate Partners, Agi & Matt Krauser, Morris County Economic Development Alliance & Tourism Bureau, Valley Bank, Lisa and David Welsh
Emerald Darner
Community Builders, Gwenn & Anthony DellaPelle, EAB Insurance Group, Glenmede, Guaranteed Rate, Lissa & Ian MacCallum, Jr., New York Life of NJ, Pipe Works Home Services, PSEG, The Raritan Group, Turpin Real Estate
…And some additional sponsors who wish to remain anonymous.
SUPPORTERS
Harding Twp. DPW • Morris County MUA • New Jersey American Water • Kit Stinson • Washington House

Gates open at 11 AM for a day filled with filled with great music, lots of fun, and community spirit for the environment!
Purchase Your Tickets Below. Show your email order confirmation on your cell as the entry ticket and for fast check-in. All ticket sales are final.

CANCELLED: Birds and Bees
2024-05-25 08:00 - 10:00 | Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge – Bluebird Parking Lot, Bluebird Parking Lot, Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, NJ, United States
DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES, THIS HIKE HAS BEEN CANCELLED. PLEASE CONTINUE TO CHECK BACK FOR NEW HIKES AND EVENTS.

Spring is in full swing here in the refuge, and its a great time to start honing you pollinator identification. Come join naturalist Ginger on a leisurely stroll through the refuge as we look for some birds and bees doing their spring thing. We will be hiking just under 2 miles on a flat, coarse gravel road.

GSWA 2023 Water Quality Report Card - Free
2024-05-29 19:00 - 20:00 | Morristown & Morris Township Library, 1 Miller Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
GSWA will present the 2023 Annual Water Quality Report Card. Join us for an evening briefing about the state of the water throughout the Great Swamp Watershed and the Upper Passaic River. Sandra LaVigne, our Director of Water Quality Programs, and our dedicated Stream Team of Citizen Scientists collect water quality data throughout the year to determine the health of our riverine ecosystems and the state of the water. This data forms the core of our water quality report and guides GSWA as we work together with state, county and municipal agencies as well as our local community members to protect and improve our streams.
Here’s what you’ll learn:

Assessments based on the combined data from visual, chemical, and biological assessments from each of our 21 sampling sites
Information about PFAS in our stream water and the new EPA Regulations on PFAS in drinking water
History and issues facing our streams, including our newest stretch of the Passaic River from Little Falls to Garfield.

This is your chance to:

Get informed about the state of our water.
Ask questions and have your water quality concerns addressed by an expert.
Become part of the solution for a healthier Passaic River.

Don’t wait! Register now for this free event today. Visit GreatSwamp.org or call 973-538-3500. (Donations are appreciated to help offset expenses.)

SOLD OUT: Paddle the Passaic Pre-Sunset
2024-05-31 16:30 - 18:00 | Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Ave, Roseland, NJ, 07068
If you cannot attend, please email ifilippini@GreatSwamp.org
to cancel so we can invite the next person on the waitlist.
Pre-Sunset Paddle: 4:30 – 6:00 pm
Ease into your weekend with a leisurely paddle on the Passaic River. As you experience beautiful golden hour 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. 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.

SOLD OUT: Paddle the Passaic- Sunset
2024-05-31 18:30 - 20:00 | Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Ave, Roseland, NJ, 07068
If you cannot attend, please email ifilippini@GreatSwamp.org
to cancel so we can invite the next person on the waitlist email.
Sunset Paddle: 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Ease into your weekend with a leisurely paddle on the Passaic River. As you experience beautiful golden hour 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. 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.

All the Colors of the CMA
2024-06-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
With our recent trail additions, we are proud to announce our trail system is now roughly 3.5 miles long; but can you say you hiked every single trail? If not, join us for a hike on the first of June and you will! Throughout our hike, we will discuss what our local wildlife is doing to gear up for summer, what our current projects are at the CMA, and what you can do to help steward the land in your everyday life.

SOLD OUT: Solstice Paddle- Experienced
2024-06-20 17:30 - 19:30 | Great Piece Meadows, 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield, New Jersey, 07004
SORRY, THIS PADDLE IS SOLD OUT
Please email iFilippini@GreatSwamp.org if you need to cancel, or to be placed on a waitlist

Take a beautiful paddle through the preserved Great Piece Meadows with GSWA staff on the longest day of the year.
As this paddle is geared towards experienced paddlers, all participants must be 15 and older. There are only 7 spots available – 2 spots/registration max. 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 GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

CANCELLED - “City of Water Day" Passaic River Cleanup & Paddles
2024-07-13 10:00 - 14:00 | Great Piece Meadows, 2 Camp Ln, Fairfield, New Jersey, 07004
**Cancelled: Due to an aerial flood watch affecting our work area, City of Water Day Clean-Up in Fairfield is cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience. GSWA looks forward to rescheduling the clean-up for early fall. Stay tuned to our website and e-news for updates.**
“City of Water Day” is an initiative led by the Waterfront Alliance, the NY/NJ Harbor Estuary Program, and the Hudson River Foundation, aimed at fostering community engagement with water resources. This initiative spans the region, encouraging communities to join in river cleanups and paddling events. GSWA, alongside REI, will participate by conducting a cleanup along the Passaic River. GSWA will organize a local stream cleanup along the Passaic River in Fairfield, NJ, and welcomes participants throughout the day to lend a hand. Additionally, short kayaking excursions will be organized with cleanup participants so they experience the beauty of the river they are working to protect. Register today to be a part of this important event in support of clean water and land.
DETAILS
Participants will engage in cleaning up trash including small items such as plastic bottles and carryout food containers as well as larger items like tires and coolers and everything in between. GSWA will provide gloves, trash pickers, and trash bags. Trash will be brought to a nearby location for pick-up by the local DPW the following week.
Those who would like may also join us for a short paddle along the Passaic River in our kayaks. We will run paddles throughout the day. Paddles will last approximately 15 – 20 minutes.
The event runs 10am – 2pm on July 13, 2024
Location: 2 Camp Lane, Fairfield, NJ
Clean-up is open to all ages / Kayaking is open to adults and children 12-and-up who are accompanied by an adult – life vests will be provided
Please be aware that the clean-up area is a wooded wetland forest floodplain. The terrain is uneven and can be muddy.

Stewardship Day at the CMA
2024-07-18 09:00 - 14:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
The forecast shows this lingering heatwave is finally breaking. So, let’s get back outside! The GSWA Conservation Management Area (CMA) desperately needs some tending to, and Thursday’s weather will be partly cloudy with a high of 84 degrees. Ginger Van Ryzin, GSWA Manager of Stewardship and GIS Specialist, will be on-site 9AM – 2PM to dole out tasks and make sure you have everything you need to get the job done. If you give us some of your time and elbow grease, Ginger will reward you with some well-earned snacks!
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, share some laughs, and enjoy some snacks. What better way to spend a Thursday in the summertime?

SOLD OUT: Full Moon Hike at the Refuge
2024-07-23 19:30 - 21:00 | Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge – Bluebird Parking Lot, Bluebird Parking Lot, Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, NJ, United States
Sorry, this popular hike is sold out. If you would like to be added to the waitlist, please email ifilippini@greatswamp.org

July’s Full Moon is known as the “Buck Moon” named after the antlers of male deer, which are at their full size in July before they shed them. Join us on this guided hike, led by a GSWA naturalist, to discover some gentle nighttime creatures. July is a 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 to all, but of course, donations are appreciated.

Mid Summer Paddle - Afternoon
2024-07-25 16:30 - 18:00 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
Please email iFilippini@GreatSwamp.org if you need to cancel, or to be placed on a waitlist
Mid Summer Paddle: 4:30 – 6:00 pm
Come out and enjoy the sights along the beautiful banks of the Passaic River as we paddle the headwaters region of the Great Swamp. This area is full of wildlife, native vegetation, and beautiful views.
There are 7 spots available per session – only 2 spots per registration. Children 8 and up are welcome. All participants 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent. 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 GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

The meet up location is the Somerset County Park Commission Fisherman’s Parking Lot.

SOLD OUT Mid Summer Paddle - Evening
2024-07-25 18:30 - 20:00 | Somerset County Park Commission, Fisherman’s Parking Lot, Approx. 170 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT! Please email iFilippini@GreatSwamp.org if you need to cancel, or to be placed on a waitlist
Mid Summer Paddle: 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Come out and enjoy the sights along the beautiful banks of the Passaic River as we paddle the headwaters region of the Great Swamp. This area is full of wildlife, native vegetation, and beautiful views.
There are 7 spots available per session – only 2 spots per registration. Children 8 and up are welcome. All participants 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent. 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 GSWA kayaks, used in our water quality and educational programming, were purchased with the generous funding provided by the Thomas Glasser Foundation.

The meet up location is the Somerset County Park Commission Fisherman’s Parking Lot.

Another Stewardship Day at the CMA
2024-07-26 09:00 - 13:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
The heatwave is over and the outdoors are ready for us to come back!
The GSWA Conservation Management Area (CMA) desperately needs some tending to, and the long-range weather looks pleasant for that day. Ginger Van Ryzin, GSWA Manager of Stewardship and GIS Specialist, will be on-site 9AM – 1PM to dole out tasks and make sure you have everything you need to get the job done. If you give us some of your time and elbow grease, Ginger will reward you with some well-earned snacks!
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, share some laughs, and enjoy some snacks. It’s an invigorating and feel-good way to start your day!

Emergency Storm Repairs @ the CMA
2024-08-23 09:00 - 14:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
The rain from Sunday’s storm took a toll on our Conservation Management Area (CMA) in Harding Twp. Many of the boardwalks have been shifted and trails have been washed out. We’ve got some volunteers out there today, but there’s lots more to be done. Please help us tackle these emergency repairs this Friday. The weather forecast predicts a beautiful day to be outdoors! Ginger Van Ryzin, GSWA Manager of Stewardship and GIS Specialist, will be on-site 9AM – 2PM to dole out tasks and make sure you have everything you need to get the job done. 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 water and snacks, bug spray, sun block, gloves, and all tools you will need. Thanks for lending your elbow grease to help get our trails back in usable shape!

SOLD OUT: Friday the 13th Paddle
2024-09-13 17:00 - 18:30 | Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Ave, Roseland, NJ, 07068
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT! Please email iFilippini@GreatSwamp.org if you need to cancel, or to be placed on a waitlist
Come test your luck with a fun Friday the 13th paddle on the Passaic River. 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.

CANCELLATION POLICY: Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) makes every effort to assure all programs and events go off as planned. Should an event be cancelled due to severe weather or other unexpected reasons, GSWA will promptly notify all registrants via email and the event page will reflect the status. To accommodate people on the waitlist, participants needing to cancel should do so ASAP. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance will not be refunded unless it is due to a health emergency. Unused registration fees may be converted into a tax-deductible donation.

Friends of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge Fall Festival
2024-09-14 10:00 - 14:30 | Helen Fenske Visitor Center, 32 Pleasant Plains Rd, New Vernon, NJ, 07976, United States
Celebrate some big milestones at GSNWR’s annual Fall Festival: the 60th year of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, the 60th year of the Wilderness Act, and the 25th year of Friends of GSNWR. Activities will include target archery, hover ball, river seining, guided nature walks, games, and nature crafts for kids.
Free grilled hot dogs will be available from 11 AM to 1:30 PM, and there’s plenty of parking.
This event hosted by Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Tickets are not required to attend this non-GSWA event.

Members Only: Fall Flora and Fauna Hike
2024-09-17 16:00 - 18:00 | Glenhurst Preserve, 185 Mountain Ave, Warren, NJ, 07059, United States
Thank you for being a GSWA member! As a show of appreciation, let us treat you to a meander through two miles of Passaic floodplain meadows and forests while admiring the beautiful fall fauna and flora. We will pass small ponds and walk along both Cory’s Brook and the Passaic River.
Trails may be muddy so bring shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. The hike will be roughly 2 miles with relatively flat elevation. This is a free hike available to GSWA members only!
Not a member? Not a problem. Purchase an annual family membership today at the discounted price of $40 (below) and you can come along! Please note: once you purchase the membership, you will need to return to this site to reserve your tickets.
Email Izzy ifilippini@greatswamp.org with any questions or concerns!

CANCELLED - Stream Assessment Training
2024-10-12 09:00 - 12:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association HQ, 568 Tempe Wick Rd, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
**CANCELLED: Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Stream Assessment Training has been cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience. If you registered, expect an email soon with further details.**
As our planet faces the challenges of climate change, it’s more important than ever to connect with our environment. Join us for this free training workshop and discover how to become a stream health advocate. We’ll start indoors at our Morristown headquarters, learning the basics of stream monitoring. Then, we’ll head to our 73-acre Conservation Management Area (CMA) in Harding Township for a hands-on experience. (You must have your own transportation to travel between the sites.) By the end of the day, you’ll be fully trained and equipped to assess the health of local streams and contribute to environmental conservation!
Training begins 9am @ Great Swamp Watershed Association’s headquarters: 568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown
Training continues @ GSWA’s Conservation Management Area (CMA): 1 Tiger Lily Ln., Harding Twp. (~8 minute drive from GSWA’s HQ)

REGISTRATION CLOSED: The Chathams & Madison Town-Wide Yard Sale Fall 2024
2024-10-19 09:00 - 14:00 | NJ
Registration for this event has closed.
Saturday looks like a great day for a community yard sale! Below are links to the digital map of yard sale host sites and a list of sale items by address. Check out both links ahead of time and plan your course of action to get outside and shop sustainably!
Click to view DIGITAL MAP
Click to view SALE ITEMS by ADDRESS
Please direct any questions to the Environmental Commission of The Chathams and Madison at MEC@rosenet.org
Everyone else, mark your calendar for October 19 to get out and shop sustainably at this amazing three-town-wide yard sale!

Yard Sale Registration Info:
Registration Fee: $10 tax-deductible donation to benefit Great Swamp Watershed Association.
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, October 16, 2024 @ 11:30 PM
**You must be a resident of Chatham Township, Chatham Borough, or Madison to list your sale.
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 this community event. Scroll to the bottom of this page to register and 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 in local media and on town sites to potential shoppers far and wide.
Frequently Asked Questions:

Who do I contact with questions?

Please direct all questions to the Environmental Commission of The Chathams and Madison at MEC@rosenet.org

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.

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 who register with GSWA to be put on the yard sale map.

Should I put up a sign if I’m on the map?

Yes. Signs will attract additional customers who are just driving by and help customers with maps to find the right place!

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:

Vietnam Veterans of America (vva.org)
Lupus Foundation of America (Lupuspickup.org)
GreenDrop (gogreendrop.com)
Market Street Mission – clothing only, please (marketstreet.org)
Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore (morrisrestore.org/donate) does some pickups; 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.
Happy sales to you!

Gala & Silent Auction - A Green Gathering
2024-10-24 18:00 - 21:30 | Brooklake Country Club, 139 Brooklake Road, Florham Park, NJ, 07932
Indulge in an unforgettable evening complete with fine dining, great banter, and spirited bidding at our premier annual fundraising event. This year, we honor the environment with our theme, A Green Gathering. Our restyled Gala and Silent Auction will feature 40 esteemed environmental experts who will mingle with guests throughout the evening and lead informal table discussions based on their area of expertise during dinner. Dive into lively discussions that will include native gardening, environmental art and education, sustainable farming and landscaping, ESG investing, local history and government policies, and much more. See below for a link to view the full list of discussion leaders.

Brooklake Country Club | 139 Brooklake Road | Florham Park, New Jersey
5:30-6:30 PM
VIP Cocktail Reception
6:00-7:30 PM
General Cocktail Reception & Silent Auction
7:30-9:30 PM
Dinner and Table Talks

Table Discussion Leaders – One Expert at Each Table!
CLICK HERE to view the list of the evening’s Table Discussion Leaders (to date). When you purchase a table or a VIP ticket, you can request which speaker joins your table. This is on a first-come, first-served basis so get your tickets today!

The Silent Auction is LIVE!
CLICK HERE to get a jump on bidding on your favorite items! We encourage you to bid generously and often to increase your chances and to support GSWA’s mission.
Already purchased tickets or contributed to the Gala in other ways? Please Sign In or Register using the email associated with your ticket purchase. This ensures your contact details are pre-filled and avoids duplication. You can start bidding right away. Click here for instructions on HOW TO BID.

For Gala attendees, enjoy Express Check-in by logging in before Gala night, confirming your details, and adding a credit card. Once done, head to the Express Check-in aisle and provide your last name. For other attendees, provide the desk agent your last name or company table name and confirm your information for check-in.

The Silent Auction closes October 24 @ 9:29 PM.

In-person attendees can collect their winning items and use Express Checkout by completing self-checkout with the credit card on file. Just proceed to the Express Checkout aisle and provide your last name. For other attendees, please finalize with the desk agent payment by credit card or check before collecting your items.
Offsite winners can call (973) 538-3500 to arrange pick-up at GSWA Headquarters starting October 28. Certificates may be mailed, but packages must be picked up in person. Winners are responsible for any applicable shipping costs.

Gala donations are appreciated and possible via the silent auction platform through Tuesday, November 30.
Good luck!

Scroll to the bottom of page for tickets – choose from the following:

Purchase a Table – Opt for a table of 8 or 10 and invite your colleagues, friends, and family for an evening of fine cuisine, silent auction browsing, and intriguing conversations. This option also qualifies you to request which Discussion Leader is seated at your table. (Select your top 3 choices at checkout.)
VIP Ticket – Elevate your experience with a VIP Premier ticket. Enjoy exclusive pre-event access to mingle with our esteemed guest speakers over cocktails and gourmet hors d’oeuvres. This option also qualifies you to request which Discussion Leader is seated at your table. (Select your top 3 choices at checkout.)
Benefactor Ticket– Make a lasting impact with a Benefactor Ticket. Your generous contribution, included in the ticket price, directly supports GSWA’s mission. Your name will be prominently displayed on our event monitors to recognize your generous donation. Enjoy all the benefits of an individual ticket, plus the satisfaction of making a significant difference.

Individual Ticket – Enjoy a lively cocktail hour, a delicious three-course meal, and engage in stimulating conversation with fellow guests and a knowledgeable discussion leader. The annual Gala Dinner & Silent Auction is our biggest and most exciting fundraising event of the year!
Young Professionals Ticket– Just starting out in the business world? Come check out our lively cocktail hour and enjoy a delicious three-course meal. Engage in stimulating conversation with fellow guests and a knowledgeable discussion leader. The annual Gala Dinner & Silent Auction is our biggest and most exciting fundraising event of the year!

Underwriting | Advertising | Silent Auction Donation Opportunities:
Become an Underwriter – Your support fuels our mission! Our annual gala raises approximately 20% of our operating budget, making it crucial to our work protecting water quality, educating our community, and preserving our land. As an underwriter, you will be instrumental in our success. Enjoy exclusive recognition and benefits. Download form. Deadline to fully participate: October 3.
Advertise – Elevate your brand by advertising at the Gala. Impress your clients and show your support of GSWA by adding a Celebration Wine Advertising Package. Enjoy prominent brand exposure throughout the event and online recognition as a mission supporter. Choose from packages including exclusive wine deliveries to your clients or opt for advertising alone. Download form. Deadline to fully participate: October 3.
Donate an Item –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 17 and is visited by hundreds of enthusiastic bidders! Download form. Deadline: October 3.

Cannot attend but wish to support GSWA and the environment?

Questions?
Izzy: 973-538-3500 | ifilippini@greatswamp.org

Thank you to our 2024 Gala Underwriters and Advertisers (to date)

Underwriters
Great Blue Heron
New Jersey American Water
Bald Eagle
Adrienne & Reed Auerbach
Atlantic Health Systems
Black Bear
Avelino Law, LLC
BASF
Delta Dental of New Jersey
Eagle Cliff Real Estate Partners
Agi & Matt Krauser
PSEG
Valley Bank
Lisa & David Welsh
The William L. Gibson Fund

Advertisers
Jaeger Lumber & Supply, Preferred Financial Partners, LLC, Gerry-Jo Cranmer of Turpin Realtors, Conserve Wildlife Foundation, The Tile Lady Design by Christine,
Toyota/Subaru of Morristown, Bucco/Dunn/Barranco, Chatham Print & Design, GEI Consultants, OceanFirst Bank Foundation, VoiceNEXT

SOLD OUT: Madison Tree Identification Walk
2024-10-27 13:30 - 15:30 | Conservation Forest at the Madison Recreation and Conservation Complex (MRC), 184 Ridgedale Avenue, Madison, NJ, 07940, United States
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT!
Have you ever wanted to learn how to identify trees? October is a marvelous time. Join naturalist Ginger Van Ryzin, GSWA Manager of Stewardship and GIS Specialist, for a wander in the Conservation Forest of the Madison Recreation and Conservation Complex (MRC). Along the walk, you will learn how to identify native trees by examining autumn leaves, bark, persistent fruit, and overall tree shape. This fun educational opportunity will include general tree ID techniques and characteristics for common native trees in Madison, including a handout so you can practice and hone your new skill.
This walk is co-sponsored by Friends of Madison Shade Trees, Madison Shade Tree Management Board, and the Madison Environmental Commission.

Climate Proof Your Garden
2024-10-30 19:00 - 20:30 | Westfield Public Library, 550 E Broad Street, Westfield, NJ, 07090, United States
As extreme weather events and warmer temperatures become even more frequent around New Jersey, it’s time to start thinking about ways to fortify your outdoor spaces. Join Hazel England, Ecologist, Director of Education with the Great Swamp Watershed Association, and weather-weary gardener, to learn about ways to “climate proof” your garden or outdoor space.
We’ll look at the ways our climate conditions are changing and what to do to help your yard keep up. We’ll discuss the highs and lows of the seasons and their impacts on your yard, including water conservation strategies such as xeriscaping- the practice of designing landscapes to reduce or eliminate the need for irrigation. Xeriscapes need little or no supplemental 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 diversity into your yard where your plants will flourish…as well as improve area biodiversity.
Registration is required — register here for this FREE event!
Questions? Email Izzy at ifilipppini@greatswamp.org

CANCELLED: Veterans Day Kids' Hike
2024-11-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Great Swamp Watershed Association’s CMA, 1 Tiger Lily Ln, Morristown, NJ, 07960, United States
DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES, THIS HIKE HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

This Veterans Day, join us for a family-friendly hike, geared specifically for kids, at GSWA’s Conservation Management Area. Explore the wonders of our floodplain forest as we search for signs of wildlife and learn about the unique ecosystems that call this area home. Kids, be sure to bring your parent along for this fun adventure.
Ages 5-12 (includes a free parent ticket): $10 / (kids 4 and under: free)
Children 13 and older and additional adults: $15
Please note: All children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Questions? Email Izzy at ifilippini@greatswamp.org
CANCELLATION POLICY: Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) makes every effort to assure all programs and events go off as planned. Should an event be cancelled due to severe weather or other unexpected reasons, GSWA will promptly notify all registrants via email and the event page will reflect the status. To accommodate people on the waitlist, participants needing to cancel should do so ASAP. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance will not be refunded unless it is due to a health emergency. Unused registration fees may be converted into a tax-deductible donation.
