Morris Leader

An 11-acre forested parcel along the North Branch of the Raritan River in Mendham Township, known as the Civille property, has been permanently preserved. The conservation effort was made possible through a partnership involving Morris County, the New Jersey Green Acres Program, and the Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA). The newly protected land, part of the Schiff Preserve, features steep slopes and woodlands along 550 feet of riverfront.

Stephen Shaw, Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director, emphasized the long-term goal of protecting Morris County's environment and natural beauty. "Open space enhances quality of life, and our trust fund offers all 39 municipalities and land preservation non-profits the opportunity to secure funding for open space preservation projects," Shaw stated.

The total cost of preservation was $882,850. Contributions included $447,234 from the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund, more than $441,000 from the New Jersey Green Acres Program, and over $20,000 from the RHA, which secured the land purchase on March 24. RHA will donate the land to the Schiff Natural Lands Trust, securing its management as part of the Schiff Nature Preserve.

“This parcel is an addition to the larger Schiff property, which is a well-known and popular preserve. The land will be managed for conservation and passive recreational purposes,” Barbara Murray, Morris County Open Space Program Coordinator, stated.

A trail along the river will be established to enable public access through the Schiff Nature Preserve, fostering opportunities for recreation, education, and appreciation of nature.

Mara Tippett, Executive Director of Raritan Headwaters, declared, "Every acre we protect strengthens the resilience of our watershed." The Civille property's preservation is intended to maintain critical habitats, sustain the North Branch's health, and protect the beauty of the riverbanks.

The president of the Schiff Natural Lands Trust, Dr. Marissa S. McDonnell, highlighted the benefits of their involvement, stating, "It will promote clean water, protect wildlife habitat, and add to our over 12-mile trail system that is open to the public without charge."

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners, in 2024, approved $1.8 million in grants for land acquisition and preservation across three municipalities. Since 1994, over 18,300 acres have been preserved in Morris County, with funding from a preservation tax approved in 1992.

The Raritan Headwaters Association has worked since 1959 to ensure clean water and engage citizens and policymakers through land preservation and environmental advocacy. RHA's efforts affect over 1.5 million homes and businesses in New Jersey.

Further details on the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund program and the 2025 funding application deadline can be found through official channels.