• We had some successful work days concentrating on removing Garlic Mustard, English Ivy, Japanese Honeysuckle, Knotweed and Mugwort. There is always more to do - join our next work day on July 21st!!!

• As part of spring maintenance, we mowed the Wildflower Meadow to allow native plants to thrive. We also replanted part of the meadow with the seeds from the pollinator grant given to SMC from the Pollinator Partnership
• This summer we will have two summer interns working in the Wildflower Preserve. Heather Carlson returns along with an new intern for 2024. 
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• Local high school student Alanya Friedman donated 90 saplings (American Sycamore, Eastern Redbud and River Birch) to the SMR that were planted by volunteers. Alanya told us: "I received a $2000 grant from Green Matters to give away 300 trees to be planted in SOMA, as well as pay for tree protectors for the saplings. I did this project through the organization Tree-Plenish, which is a non-profit that helps students host tree planting events, where the saplings planted are based on how much energy their school uses. I began working on this project in September and the planting event was April 27!" 

Forest Regeneration activities focus on the areas in and around the fenced 14-acre Forest and Wildflower Preserve located near the Dog Park in the Reservation. On workdays, we will focus on removing invasive plants like knotweed and mugwort. Ages 12 to 15 are welcome with a parent or guardian present. Ages 15 and above require a signature by a parent or guardian on a liability waiver; teenagers cannot just be dropped off.

Please dress appropriately! Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes or rain boots, bug spray, and layer as needed. We supply gloves and water.

Meet at the dog statue at 11 Bear Lane, Maplewood, NJ. Please be on time as we will hike to the forest by 9am.