MORRISTOWN, NEW JERSEY (February 17, 2025) — The Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) is thrilled to announce an action-
packed schedule of events and programs for the next 30 days, offering something for everyone in the community. From nature enthusiasts to foodies, families to history buffs, there’s an activity to pique almost everyone’s interest. Registration is required for all events at GreatSwamp.org or by calling 973-538-3500.
Exploring the Natural World
- Breakfast Briefing: Geology and Humans—The Making of the Great Swamp: Delve into the fascinating history and geological processes that shaped the iconic Great Swamp. Historian Pat Wells will trace the region’s transformation from a volcanic landscape to a swamp, farmland, and finally, a protected refuge. This program is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone curious about how the Great Swamp became the ecological treasure it is today. A continental breakfast will be provided. Thursday, February 20, 8:00–9:30 am at GSWA’s headquarters, 568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown, NJ. Registration fee – Members: Free; Non-members: Adults $10, Children $5.
- Kids Winter Detective Hike: Budding sleuths can explore the winter landscape and learn to identify animals by the clues they leave behind. Recommended for everyone, but especially children ages 5 to 12. Saturday, February 22, 10:00 am–12:00 pm at GSWA’s Conservation Management Area (CMA), 1 Tiger Lily Ln., Morristown, NJ. Registration fee – Members: Free; Non-members: Adults $10, Children $5.
- Paterson Falls Explorer Hike and Tour: Explore Paterson near the end of the Passaic River with an afternoon of nature and natural history. Staff from GSWA and the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park will lead an informative hike to explore the 77-foot-high waterfall and more. Hikers will gain insight into the importance of Paterson, the first planned industrial city, which was centered around the Great Falls, and how it changed the face of the country. Saturday, March 15, 10:00 am–1:00 pm at the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, 72 McBride Ave., Paterson, NJ. Registration is free for all participants; however, a suggested donation of $10 per adult and $5 per child is appreciated.
Unique Experiences
- Free “Spring into Spring” Mimosa Tasting: GSWA invites adults 21 and older to raise a glass to the warmer days ahead with a selection of creatively crafted mimosas and tasty food pairings. A fun and informal “pub quiz” offers an opportunity to win prizes. Thursday, March 6, 5:30–7:30 pm at GSWA’s headquarters, 568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown, NJ. This event is free for non-GSWA members. GSWA members are $25 unless accompanied by a non-member, in which case both sip and sample for free.
- 5th Annual Plant for Pollinators Webinar Series: Green thumbs and aspiring gardeners can tune in to informative webinars focusing on native plants and the essential role pollinators play in the ecosystem. In partnership with plant program partners and led by nationally acclaimed experts, these hour-long, information-packed webinars lead up to the organization’s annual, online Native Plant for Pollinators plant sale, featuring 37 native perennials and 6 kits, which runs April 1–18.
- Practical Gardening: Native Garden Transformations with Bianca Wright: Area native plant expert, landscape designer, and gardener. Thursday, February 27, 7:00–8:00 pm.
- The Secret Lives of Wild Bees with Nick Dorian: Ecologist, educator, and naturalist. Wednesday, March 19, 7:00–8:00 pm.
- Plant for Pollinators: Plant Sale Overview and Prep with Hazel England: GSWA Director of Education, Outreach, and Land Stewardship. March 31, 7:00–8:00 pm.
- Register for the full series and receive replay links for all four webinars, including the January 29 presentation: From Wasteland to Wonder—Biodiversity Shifts that Can Heal the Earth, presented by Basil Camu, treecologist, arborist, and author of From Wasteland to Wonder: Easy Ways We Can Help Heal Earth in the Sub/Urban Landscape.
“We are excited to offer these unique opportunities for the community to enjoy,” said Bill Kibler, GSWA Executive Director. “GSWA is committed to providing enriching experiences for people of all ages that foster a deeper appreciation for the Great Swamp and its surrounding ecosystem.”
Register for these and all GSWA events at GreatSwamp.org or by calling 973-538-3500.
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