South Mountain Conservancy e-Bulletin. September 2020

Picture from 1010 Wins-Radio.com

What to Know about Increased Coyote Sightings in SMR

Coyote sightings have been on the rise in South Mountain Reservation. While it may be exciting and/or alarming to see one, it's important that we take responsible actions to avoid potentially negative run-ins. Coyotes play a critical role in maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem. By following these tips, you will help protect them as well as yourself and loved ones.

Don't run away or turn your back on a coyote.
Do not allow a coyote to get in between you and your pet or child—stay on the trails and keep children close to you.
Yell, clap hands, blow a whistle and try to make yourself look larger if you have a close encounter with a coyote.
Never feed coyotes—it is illegal to feed coyotes in most places.
Keep dogs on short leashes while walking outside; the Division of Wildlife recommends a leash no longer than 6 feet.

The above information is adapted from https://www.active.com/outdoors/articles/8-coyote-safety-tips
For more information click here: https://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/coyote_info.htm

Spotlight: Meet our New Forest Regeneration Coordinators!

Christy Zolty has been a volunteer for the Forest Regeneration Program since 2018 and loves to learn about the plants that grow within the regeneration sites. In her role as Forest Regeneration Co-coordinator, she is striving to maintain the natural habitats in the regeneration sites, organize volunteer events, and reduce the number of invasive plants in the preserve. She is a New York Master Naturalist (level 2) through Cornell University’s Cooperative Extension and an Environmental Steward through Rutgers University Cooperative Extension. Christy has a passion for connecting children with their natural environment and is the founder of the Maplewood Outside School.

Glenn Newman recently retired from a professional career in land surveying and transportation planning. He began his career with Bonneville Power Administration in Portland, OR and the experience of working in the Cascade Mountains solidified his lifelong desire to stay engaged and contribute to environmental preservation. In 1993, Glenn and his wife Maria moved to West Orange where they raised a son and daughter. Throughout his years in Essex County, Glenn has been a frequent visitor to the reservation, enjoying walks along the reservoir and hiking the trails. Glenn has volunteered with the Forest Regeneration crew since 2019, joining others to plant varieties of native plantings and remove invasive plant species in and around the Preserve.

Upcoming Programs

Fall Hike Status

Due to new safety protocol hikes are temporarily limited to 10-12 participants and you must be a current SMC member. Current members will receive a special invite via email, with directions for registration. If you have questions about your membership status, email opsdirector@somocon.org. Thank you for your understanding and happy hiking!

Trail Work Crew

October 4th, 9am-noon
This work is strenuous, but rewarding. For ages 15 and above. Wear solid shoes and layers. Again, we will not be providing water and gloves and we will expect people to wear masks if within 10 feet of anybody. For information, contact info@somocon.org, or call John Verzani, xxx-xxx-xxxx, or Dennis Percher, xxx-xxx-xxxx.

Details & Signup

Plogging is Back!

Fall Weekend Contest: October 30th-November 1st
Do you like to run, hike, or walk in the Reservation? Are you looking for a way to volunteer and help take care of SMR? SMC and Sassquad Trail Running is asking you to get involved for this fall clean-up weekend event, and bring the family! Prizes will be awarded for most trash collected and weirdest item found. Follow our Facebook page for upcoming details!

You can help support South Mountain Reservation!

Donate

12-Month Membership