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Hello Friends,

Welcome August! We have quite a bit of ground to cover this month…hikes, events and some fantastic news!

Let’s start with the news…

I am ecstatic to announce that the 835 acres of privately-owned land, which includes the headwaters of the Black Run, has been protected from the encroachment of hundreds of new homes.

The New Jersey Conservation Foundation entered into a binding contract to purchase this property, which will eventually be transferred to Evesham Township. Mayor Jaclyn Veasy has stated, “This agreement marks a historic milestone for Evesham Township and a victory for every resident who treasures our natural landscape. Working to bring this property into our protected lands means more than just saving 835 acres from development - it means securing the heart of our local ecosystem for generations to come. We are incredibly proud to partner with Burlington County and NJ Conservation to prove that when we prioritize stewardship over sprawl, everybody wins.”

We are all very passionate about the Black Run Preserve and what better way to express and share that passion than through art. The FBRP are pleased to announce the Black Run Preserve 2026 Juried Photography and Art Exhibition! The exhibit will hang in the Perkins Center for the Arts - our new partner – in their new location in Evesham Township from October 25 - December 9, 2026. We are now open for entries of photographs and 2D artwork in any media. Cash and other prizes will be awarded.

Snap the QR code above or click here for all of the details and entry form. I cannot wait to see what wonderful creations you all submit.

5th Annual Moth Night
Mother Nature certainly creates her own beauty. That is evident in butterflies, moths and even insects (yes, there are some beautiful ones out there). Join us at the Links Golf Club for our 5th Annual Moth Night on Saturday, August 1 from 7:30pm - 10:30pm. Bring your cameras to capture all the beautiful moths and insects that will be drawn in with special lighting. Maybe you’ll even get a great shot or reference photo for an entry into our exhibition.

Learn more and register

FIRE! Guided Nature Hike
Fire continues to shape the landscape, regardless of what humans build on it. Join Black Run Preserve Ambassador and Founder, John Volpa, on August 8, for a 2 mile hike emphasizing local fires and their causes, fire ecology, and steps homeowners can take to reduce risks to their homes. John will discuss ecological history and current best practices to protect one’s family, providing valuable information for all local citizens.

Learn more and register

Curious about the fascinating world of fungi? Join us on Sunday, August 23 for a guided Mushroom hike through the trails of the Black Run Preserve. We’ll explore the basics of mushroom identification, learn about the important role fungi play in the ecosystem, and discover which species you might spot right here in the Pine Barrens. Led by the New Jersey Mycological Association’s Brandon Roddy, this beginner-friendly walk is perfect for anyone looking to connect with nature, ask questions and gain a deeper appreciation for the hidden life beneath our feet.

Learn more and register

The final days of summer can be very hectic as people cram in vacations and activities before school begins again, or feel pressured to squeeze in every last opportunity to bask in the sun or play in the surf. I like to take a break from all that and retreat into the BRP for a bit of therapy – go for a hike, breathe in the fresh air, take in the beauty, appreciate what surrounds me, and remember that so much of what we have right here at in our backyard is directly attributed to all our volunteers and supporters.These passionate souls work hard to preserve the land for our benefit and the benefit of all the flora and fauna who call the BRP home. You have my gratitude.

I hope to see you out on the trails (perhaps engaged in your own BRP Therapy),