News

May 18th Mayapple Trail Runs to Offer
New 5-Mile Route Plus 10-50 Mile Distances

For the first tiime in 15 years, the Saturday, May 18th SMR Mayapple Trail Runs will add a new, shorter 5-mile route to its established 10, 20, 31 (50k) and 50-mile runs. There is also a more informal 1-mile Kids Run for children 5-12. To learn more and register, click HERE

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June 1-2 SMR 2024 Spring Family Campout Registration is Now CLOSED

We have reached our maximum of over 60 families and 230 participants. To get on the waiting list, contact familycampout@somocon.org. We will have another Campout in October.

Learn more about this award-winning program co-sponsored with Essex County Parks for families with children 4 to 11 and how to sign up. Hurry! Space is limited.

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National TV and Newspaper and Local Magazine Feature South Mountain Fairy Trail & Conservancy Volunteers

SMC’s Fairy Trail program coordinators (from left) Beth Kelly and Julie Gould talk about their enthusiasm for the Fairy Trail and the work of the originator, Therese Ojibway on CBS Uplift, Feb. 29th, 2024
See also:

• Weather Channel Live Interview, March 13, 2024
• Washington Post, March 28, 2024
• New Jersey Monthly, April 2024

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New Interactive SMR Map: Never get lost!

The Conservancy’s 2023 SMR map is now available from Avenza. This interactive map can be used on both Android and iOS-Apple devices to navigate easily and safely. Once a user purchases a map, they can download it on up to five tablets or smartphones. Learn more.

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2024 SMR County Deer Mgt. Program Culls 55

This winter, a total of 55 deer were removed from SMR, fewer than last year. As a keystone species with no natural predators, the deer overpopulation affects the entire ecology. We are awaiting the April results from a spotlight count (a survey of deer from the paved roads) and an infrared drone survey to determine the current density. Before the winter culling, the SMR deer population was estimated to be 42/sq. mile, more than four times the recommended level for an ecosystem that is damaged. LEARN MORE

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Three Win 2023 SMC Fall Photo Contest

Thanks to our 50 entrants and generous sponsors: @theablebaker; @wordsbookstore; @martinspretzels. View the three winners HERE.

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Join the SMC. Become a member and support the reservation!

Clearing the culverts and swales and improving the Pingry Trail, May 2023.

Even after 25 years as stewards, not everyone knows how hard SMC’s volunteers work to keep the reservation accessible and special. Your contribution allows the SMC to tackle an expanding set of projects large and small that ensures the reservation remains a revered place.
Become a member.
Learn about SMC’s recent work.

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Phase 1 Pollinator Meadow
Restoration Complete

On August 20th the final plastic on the acre meadow near Shady Nook was installed. For 14 months this “flat greenhouse” will solarize the current seed bank in preparation for planting native species. Learn more about this multi-year, $16,000 Conservancy project HERE.

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Coyotes in Reservation:
Be Aware!
If a coyote is approaching, here’s what to do:

First and foremost, remain calm, keep eye contact, and slowly back away while leaving the area. Never run from a coyote, Running may trigger its predatory response and give it a reason to chase you. If you have any personal alarm devices, such as a whistle, bell, or phone alarm, use them to scare the coyote.

– Stop and stand still
– Make yourself big, loud and assertive
– Slowly back away
– NEVER turn your back and run

Your goal is to deter the coyote from approaching. In the rare case that the coyote decides to continue to approach, throw rocks or sticks. Your goal isn’t to injure them, simply to scare them.

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Warm weather and  Outside, Check for Ticks!

Ticks can carry Lyme and other diseases so wear long pants, use insect repellent and check yourself after visiting the reservation. .TICK SAFETY TIPS.