Nature Center Open House09

Inside exhibits include fossils of the world, geology of New Jersey, animal skulls, bones and tracks,
and artistic interpretations of the Lenape inhabitants of the nature reserve. Play a game of Bird
Bingo or Birdopoly, listen to the recorded songs of the birds or watch them at the Winter Wild
Bird Feeding Station from inside a warm and comfortable room. Outdoor guided walks through
the 35+ acre reserve will be conducted by members of the Friends of the Woods beginning at
1:30, all free of charge.

A new, permanent outdoor exhibit on Backyard Composting, comprising of 6 examples of compost
bins, has been installed adjacent to the Nature Center. The largest unit, a 3-bin system, was
constructed by members of the BSA fraternal organization, Flint & Steel, in November. Funding
for it was provided by a Lower Raritan Watershed Supplemental Environmental Project grant administered by Edison Wetlands Association. Construction plans are available at the Nature
Center as well as information on how to compost kitchen and backyard waste.

Other units on display include a tumbler, an Earth Machine, the Soil Saver and the Presto Geobin.
The last 3 are available to Middlesex County residents at discounted prices from the Middlesex County Improvement Authority and the Middlesex County Division of Solid Waste Management. Composting benefits your soil and plants, helps the environment by reducing the amount of garbage going to the landfill, and saves money on fertilizer and other soil amendments. Choose a model suitable for your household and start composting now. By spring, you will have material ready to spread on your gardens.

The Friends of the Woods are pleased to announce 2 impending Eagle Scout projects planned for installation at the Nature Reserve in the spring. Christopher Duffy and Joseph Ifrach have submitted projects which will enhance the educational and recreational enjoyment of all. Christopher plans
a raised garden bed and pathway, and Joseph is constructing a 100' boardwalk over a vernal pond.

For further information on the Open House, Backyard Composting Demonstration, Eagle Scout project opportunities, or to schedule a guided walk for your group, please e-mail: spnaturetrails@verizon.net.