PROTECT
PRESERVE
MAINTAIN

• 5:45 Pizza/6:00 PM Presentation
• Hybrid Meeting via Zoom
• Meet  Steve Mariconda, Co-Chair DarkSky New Jersey

DarkSky New Jersey Contacts:
North Jersey – Steve Mariconda – steve.mariconda@darkskynewjersey.org

What is light pollution?

Light pollution is the excessive, misdirected, or obstructive artificial light at night that washes out starlight in the night sky, interferes with astronomical research, disrupts ecosystems, has adverse health effects on both wildlife and humans, and wastes energy and money.

Types of Light Pollution

Artificial Light at Night: State of the Science 2025

Artificial Light at Night: State of the Science 2026

New Jersey Light Pollution

New Jersey is being impacted by widespread light pollution and it continues to grow. It is noticable in all areas: urban, suburban, and even rural areas. Most people can’t go outside and see the night sky as it was meant to be seen.

For us here in Central New Jersey protecting the Barnegat Bay area and beyond is important for the health of the delicate ecosystem we have. The same applies to both North and South Jersey, we are all in it together.

The elimination of lighting is not necessary or desired. What is needed are better solutions for our lighting needs.

• 5:45 Pizza/6:00 PM Presentation
• Hybrid Meeting via Zoom
• Meet Judy Kroll, Board Co-Chair

Friends of Drew Forrest
Who We Are

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

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. 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.

We are dedicated to forming partnerships to:

Facilitate the enjoyment, understanding, and study of nature.

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;