10,100 Signatures and Counting!
For 150 years Drew University’s Forest Preserve–53 acres of rare contiguous forest in Madison, New Jersey–has been a treasure for Drew University students and for many others in the surrounding area. Thanks to a 12-year effort by Drew and partner organizations, it has become a biodiversity hotspot and inspiring example of woodland habitat restoration.
Drew University, however, may seek to strengthen its financial footing by selling some of the Forest Preserve for development. A group of citizens has come together as Friends of the Drew Forest to work toward the preservation of the Drew Forest Preserve as articulated in Borough of Madison Drew Forest Resolution 156-2021 . We ask that you join us to help permanently protect the entire Forest Preserve and the countless benefits it provides and at the same time help Drew, known as the University in the Forest, continue its educational mission for years to come. This can be done with a combination of municipal, county and state open space funds, corporate or not-for-profit grants and donations.
This petition calls on the officials of Madison, surrounding towns, Morris County, the State of NJ, and Drew University to work together to achieve the goal of a permanently preserved Drew Forest.
If the Drew Forest Preserve or parts of it were to be sold for development, the benefits that would be lost or decreased include:
* A publicly accessible natural area complete with wooded trails, ponds, wildflower gardens, and benches.
* Large canopy trees that: moderate climate change through carbon sequestration; improve air quality and human health; modulate heat extremes, soil erosion and peak rain runoff.
* A harbor for birds and critical pond, vernal pool, and forest habitat for amphibians and other wildlife.
* Land providing Madison’s highest rate of recharge for the Buried Valley Aquifer, a major source of drinking water for 26 municipalities in four counties.
* Over 22 acres where deer have been fenced out, invasive plants controlled, and thousands of native plants planted – a model of woodland restoration that won the Governor’s Award for Healthy Ecosystems Award in 2013.
* A “living laboratory” for projects, research, and fieldwork utilized by Drew students and faculty. Also a refuge for contemplation and rejuvenation.
* A recruiting advantage for Drew University.
NOTE: We are NOT asking you to “Chip In” to Change.org! The fee mentioned does not go to Friends of the Drew Forest.