To Save the Forest, We Went to the Man in the Red Suit.
With Gratitude🌿
In 2022, Friends of the Drew Forest ensured that our mission was heard far and wide. We collected thousands of petition signatures at farmer’s markets and community events, distributed stickers and flyers at parades, put up hundreds of lawn signs, hosted informational events, and filed a “Friend of the Court” brief to give the forest a voice in a legal action brought by Drew University. And of course, spoke at every Borough Council meeting through November. We also launched our first fundraising campaign and thanks to you, we’re confident we’ll reach our goal!
In this season of giving, we extend our warmest wishes and gratitude to you for supporting our work in conserving the community gift we all share, the Drew Forest.
LETTER: Drew student critical of university's 'short-sighted' forest development plan
A strong, eloquent letter to the editor by Michael George, a senior at Drew, was published recently in the Madison Eagle. He writes that “The beauty and serenity of the forest is a major reason why many students and I decided to attend Drew”, and goes on to both criticize Drew’s current plan and outline his positive vision, explaining that “Instead of selling off a lush forest, Drew should capitalize on being a sustainability and environmental leader to bolster enrollment.”
All We Want for Christmas
The Friends made our second appearance at Madison’s annual holiday parade. This year we were warmly welcomed by the home-town crowd. Children rushed to get stickers and the crowd chanted “Drew Forest! Drew Forest!” all along the route.
Nature-Themed Gift Guide for Forest Lovers
Some books we love for your loved ones - click on the title to learn more!
Late Migrations: A Natural History of Love and Loss - Margaret Renkl
Nature’s Temples: A Natural History of Old Growth Forests - Joan Maloof
From the Nature of Reading Bookshop: Forest Reading List
From renowned ecologist and writer Doug: Tallamy’s Hub
Students from the Urban Scholars Upward Bound program kick off Forest nature walks.
Plus new funding requests to preserve the Drew Forest.
We need you to pack the court!
Leaders gather for Earth Day celebration. ➡️ We need you to join us at the next big event on May 20/21.
Over $9 million approved at the federal and county levels! What comes next?
Our 3rd annual Forest Valentines are here! Pick a design; then post, print & share!
Cool wildlife sightings during winter walks!
The good news: Morris County approved a $5 million grant to the Borough of Madison for a conservation sale of the Forest. There's still more to do.
Will the County Commissioners approve $10 million to conserve the Forest (Madison's request)? Or $5 million (Open Space Committee recommendation)? Something in between? We're on pins and needles.
Yep, it's time to show up (again) at the Morris County Commissioners meeting, 8 pm at 10 Court St, Morristown. On the agenda: a 6pm organizing dinner at Caffe India.
We need you to connect with Morris County Commissioners at 2 upcoming meetings (Oct 25 and Nov 8) and through email statements of support.
This is it—the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund Committee is voting on a $10 million grant to buy the Forest. But first there’s a public meeting. We packed it last time. Let’s do it again.
The Morris County Open Space Trust Fund Committee is reviewing Madison's $10 million funding request to purchase the Forest. Let's show up on Sept. 6—and do what we do best: represent the forest.
Help us blanket Morris County with Drew Forest yard signs!
Breathe easy when skies are smokey
Can you join us on May 22 to demonstrate community-wide support for Morris County funds to purchase the Forest? Wear your tee and see you at Madison Borough Hall, Monday, May 22, 8-8:45pm. RSVP below.
What’s blooming now—and later. You won’t want to miss a blossom.
The Drew Forest purifies 71.5 million gallons of water for the Buried Valley Aquifer, which services 31 towns.
Valentines to print & share, plus truly foxy love in Forest dens and another local petition to sign.
Red-tailed hawks, winter wonderland and a video by Dr. Douglas Tallamy, a prominent ecologist, that you’ll want to share.
Check out our last newsletter of 2022! Gratitude and gifts for all.
News updates from October 2022 🦇
2022 is off to a strong start — read more about recent updates, volunteer opportunities, and the upcoming New Jersey Forest Forum.
Twelve Days of Christmas: Drew Forest Edition
Featuring some of the many species that can be found in the Drew Forest’s diverse environment.
The fight to save the Drew Forest grows stronger each day, thanks to a strong community with Madison, NJ and beyond.
Updates on the invasive species haunting the Drew Forest, ongoing support from Madison Borough to conserve the forest, and more tips on how to help.
The Friends of the Drew Forest is a volunteer organization dedicated to protect and sustain the Drew Forest Preserve, 53 biodiverse acres that provide countless benefits to Drew University, Madison Borough and surrounding communities along with critical wildlife habit.