Mission Statement

Our vision is that the Drew Forest Preserve will be permanently protected as open space through a conservation sale that will strengthen Drew University and its financial future.

Friends of the Drew Forest is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by environmental leaders from Madison and neighboring towns, dedicated community volunteers and Drew University alumni.

We are dedicated to forming partnerships 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 habitat.

• Raise awareness about the value of forests in aquifer protection, supporting biodiversity, climate resilience, temperature control, air quality and quality of life.

• Facilitate the enjoyment, understanding, and study of nature.

A Win-Win Scenario

Instead of selling to a developer, we propose a win-win: If Drew works with Madison Borough to sell this special land for full market value to a conservation buyer, Drew could benefit financially while securing the forest for student and public use.

1. An appraisal establishes the value of the Forest. Market value depends partly on permitted use, which depends upon factors such as the applicable municipal zoning ordinances and state environmental protection laws. Market value in a conservation transaction is typically established by one or more independent appraisals, which weigh a wide variety of pertinent inputs. There are significant potential resources to generate a highly competitive conservation bid for the property.

2. Madison assembles funding, which could include municipal, county, state, federal, and nonprofit funds, as well as individual donors.

3. Drew University receives funds from the sale.

4. The Forest and its public benefits are preserved.