NJ is home to the Pine Barrens, 1.1 million acres of “protected” lands. I use quotes when saying “protected” because just yesterday a pipeline was approved to be put through this fragile ecosystem. The Pine Barrens is not only home to many unique species of plants and animals, but it is also home to one of the largest and purest aquifers in the United States. It’s always fun to find sandy roads in the middle of the Pine Barrens and drive until you get lost. Of course you are still in New Jersey so you do eventually find civilization but it is still a great escape. I hate to get political in anything I contribute to our blog but I am saddened that these protected lands are not being protected by the people whose job it is to do so. When I see people more concerned with profit than they are for the safety and health of our environment and future generations it is disappointing.

I hope that this up coming trip gives me the opportunity to bring awareness to the beautiful open lands that we have in this country and their importance to all of us.