Rutgers Professor Dr. Brooke Maslo Honored for her Contribution to Wildlife Conservation
By: Lindsay McNamara, Communications Coordinator
As a Rutgers University professor, 2014 Women & Wildlife Inspiration Award Winner Dr. Brooke Malso has impacted the lives of many students by demonstrating the value of wildlife conservation. Through her scientific research, she has also uncovered valuable findings that have positively impacted conservation efforts in New Jersey.
Brooke Maslo Education Award Winner
In her course “Wildlife Ecology and Conservation,” Brooke creates a first-hand experience in conservation for each of her students by assigning them to work with a wildlife professional to create and execute a management plan for a species of their choice. An avid scientist, Brooke’s current research on beach-nesting bird habitat focuses on the challenges of both protecting breeding habitats to conserve threatened wildlife and protecting coastal infrastructure for severe storm resiliency. Brooke also investigates the role of bats in the control of invasive agricultural insects, encourage New Jersey agriculturalists to provide suitable habitats for the species, and educate New Jersey residents about bats.
CWF asked Brooke a few questions about what working in wildlife rehabilitation means to her:
What is your favorite thing about your job?
“My favorite thing about being an academic researcher is that I am constantly learning. Conservation issues are complex and require solid understanding of the mechanisms that drive both the conservation threat, as well as the species’ response. In order to develop strategies to deal with new conservation issues, we must use what is known to explore how we can manage what is poorly understood. That requires a multidisciplinary approach, and it is often daunting to move out of one’s comfort zone to learn another branch of the field. However, arming yourself with the knowledge that can truly combat a conservation threat is incredibly rewarding.”
What do you find most challenging about your profession?
“Time management. Between teaching, advising students, conducting research, and engaging in public outreach, I often find myself staring at my to-do list, unsure of where to begin. When I am home, my mind is usually still on work, and I have to make a conscious effort to focus on relaxing and enjoying recreational time with my family. I succeed in that for the most part, but it is certainly a challenge.”
Do you have a New Jersey wildlife species that you like best? Why?
“That’s a tough question. I conducted my PhD work on piping plovers, which are probably about the cutest birds in the world. They will always hold a special place in my heart! But I am also quite happy working with little brown bats (and find them pretty cute, too!). I think my passion for little browns is driven by just how intelligent, adaptive, and social these animals are! The more I learn about them, the more intrigued I become.”
What is your favorite thing to do when you aren’t working?
“When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family outdoors… boating, swimming, going to sports games, etc. Doing any activity is great if you make it that way!”
Name one thing you can’t live without.
“Anyone who knows me knows that I cannot live without my NY Giants football Sundays. Obsessed might be an understatement.”
We are excited to recognize the leadership and inspiration they provide for those working to protect wildlife in New Jersey. Women & Wildlife will also celebrate the timeless and inspiring journeys of wildlife migration in New Jersey and beyond.
Lindsay McNamara is the Communications Coordinator for Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey.
Cathy Malok: Inspiring Others to Care for New Jersey’s Wildlife
By: Lindsay McNamara, Communications Coordinator
Over the last 27 years, 2014 Women & Wildlife Inspiration Award Winner Cathy Malok has made innumerable contributions to wildlife rehabilitation in New Jersey. She has played a role in the rehabilitation of tens of thousands of birds native to the state, shared her knowledge and experience with others, and inspired countless young women to follow a path similar to her own.
Cathy Malok Inspiration Award Winner
Cathy is currently the Vice President of the New Jersey Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators(NJAWR) and also serves on its Board of Directors. NJAWR, a recognized non-profit organization since 1991, has become an invaluable resource for information and educational opportunities for wildlife rehabilitators throughout the state. Cathy passionately serves as the Infirmary Manager of The Raptor Trust, one of the premier wild bird rehabilitation centers in the country, which treats nearly 3,000 injured birds with state-of-the-art medical facilities each year.
Through her rehabilitation efforts, Cathy has not only made outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation, but has also educated and inspired others to become involved. She is truly an inspirational leader, giving assistance and advice to local wildlife professionals daily with enthusiasm, compassion and skill.
2014 Women & Wildlife Legacy Award Winner Jeanne McArthur-Heuser has dedicated herself to protecting Sandy Hook’s natural resources and the species that call the area home for over 30 years.
When Jeanne began her career at Gateway National Recreation Area three decades ago, Sandy Hook was home to few pairs of breeding Piping Plovers. By 2012, there was a record high of 50 pairs, which is currently the largest population of breeding Piping Plovers in New Jersey. Jeanne’s conservation efforts on Sandy Hook have benefitted the entire ecosystem, causing increases in the populations of Osprey, American Oystercatchers, Least Terns, and Black Skimmers in the most densely populated state in the country.
CWF asked Jeanne a few questions about what working in wildlife conservation means to her:
What motivates you to get out of bed and go to work?
“I have the best job in the world with the National Park Service. I do not consider what I do work. I have been working for the NPS for over 30 years. It never gets boring.”
What is your favorite thing about work?
“Every day is different and I love what I do. I get to mentor High School kids and share my knowledge with Student Conservation Association interns. I truly try to make a difference every day.”
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not working?
“I love going to auctions and bidding on antiques. It’s all about finding treasures and getting a good deal.”
What wildlife lives in your office?
“I have many animals that pass through my office. I have a holding cage for tagging box turtles and hognose snakes. I have transported an immature bald eagle, ospreys, great horned owls, baby raccoons, baby skunks, and baby opossums. I have not had a cat that could reproduce in 40 years but every year I find a litter of kittens. It is a running joke in the office that if I am carrying a box you should run otherwise you will become the proud owner of kitten.”
Do you have a wildlife species you like best and why?
“I have dedicated most of my career to improving the habitat and increasing the productivity of piping plovers. When I first started working at Sandy Hook, we only had 7 pair. Today my highest number of Piping Plover is 50. I hope someday they will be delisted.”
We are excited to recognize the leadership and inspiration they provide for those working to protect wildlife in New Jersey. Women & Wildlife will also celebrate the timeless and inspiring journeys of wildlife migration in New Jersey and beyond.
Lindsay McNamara is the Communications Coordinator for Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey.
The Conserve Wildlife Foundation (CWF) and the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission (NJMC) are proud to announce the arrival of their free downloadable e-book, “Bald Eagles in the Meadowlands & Beyond” with a book launch event on Wednesday, September 10, at 8 p.m. in the Meadowlands Environment Center in DeKorte Park, the home of the NJMC.
Biologist Kathy Clark of the State’s Endangered and Nongame Species Program will discuss her experience with bald eagles across New Jersey, with a special focus on the Meadowlands Region. The NJMC’s Jim Wright, who edited the book, and CWF Executive Director David Wheeler, who wrote the foreword, will also speak at the event. Several photographers will also talk about their photos showcased in the book.
The talk is sponsored by the Bergen County Audubon Society (BCAS) and will begin at the conclusion of the BCAS’ monthly business meeting. Light refreshments will follow.
By Dan Silvernail, Eagle Scout Candidate and Conserve Wildlife Foundation Volunteer
Big brown bats in an attic space (c) Phil Wooldridge
Bats don’t get enough credit. They fly around at night devouring thousands of mosquitoes and other unwanted insects. They reduce our need to use pesticides to protect crops and trees. Their droppings, or guano, can even be used as garden fertilizer.
Aside from their nightly all-you-can-eat buffet, they don’t have the easiest life. People needlessly fear them, believing myths that they all have rabies or want to fly into your hair! Over six million bats have been wiped out by a disease called White-nose Syndrome which attacks them while they are hibernating. Their natural forest habitat is often destroyed. When they find a nice building in which to live, they often get kicked out, leaving them in need of a tight, warm place to give birth and raise their young.
That’s where we can help. We can build these flying mammals nice summer homes where they can hang out with their babies. By creating narrow spaces inside the house, painting the outside a dark color and caulking up the sides to retain the heat, and roughening up the wood to make it easier for the bats to climb in, we give something back to the bats for sparing us hundreds more mosquito bites and playing an important role in our ecosystem.
That’s why I chose to put together bat house kits for my Eagle Scout Project and why you and your family can come to this weekend’s New Jersey Wild Outdoor Expo to help build them.
Family fun at the NJ Wild Outdoor Expo
When: Saturday, September 13 & Sunday, September 14, Noon and 2:00 PM
Where: Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area, Jackson Township, New Jersey
What: The workshops are free. Materials are available on a first come, first served basis.
Children can do a lot of the work to build the house, so families are encouraged to do the project together.
The bat houses will be donated to Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey to put up before bats are evicted from attics, eaves, and buildings, so they can easily find a new place to roost. Stop by CWF’s table in the Conservation Tent to learn more about bats and other imperiled wildlife species. You can always pick up plans to buy materials and make bat houses on your own.
Please come show New Jersey bats some appreciation!
If you are looking for some great outdoors activities that can help fulfill Girl & Boy Scout Badges, join us this weekend at the New Jersey WILD Outdoor Expo! Tons of great activities will be offered, all for FREE!
Kayaking, NJ WILD Outdoor Expo
On Saturday and Sunday this weekend, September 13 & 14, the New Jersey WILD Outdoor Expo is offering unique blend of conservation information, education and hands-on opportunities to learn outdoor skills and activities. Numerous environmental and conservation exhibits, demonstrations and seminars are planned for the weekend. Visitors can learn about, and try, a wide array of activities including fishing, hiking, shooting sports, kayaking, camping skills, rock climbing, wildlife watching and much more.
Many of these free activities can be help fulfill Girl and Boy Scout badge requirements. CWF will be providing handouts of these activities at the Expo, but they are also provided here on our website. Badge counselors will not be present at the Expo.
Archery, NJ WILD Outdoor Expo
Some of the badges that can be fulfilled at the Expo include:
Birds badges
Naturalist badges
Photography badges
Camping and hiking badges
Forester badges
Outdoorsman badges
And many more!
For more information, or to be added to the scout mailing list, please contact Stephanie Feigin at 609-984-0621 or sfeigin@conservewildlifenj.org
Looking for some outdoors activities this weekend? The New Jersey WILD Outdoor Expo gives you virtually every possible option in one place – and its FREE!
Tent Exhibit, NJ WILD Outdoor Expo
This weekend, September 13 and 14, the fifth annual New Jersey WILD Outdoor Expo will be held at the Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area in Jackson Township from 10am-5pm both Saturday and Sunday. Admission and parking are free. Food will also be available from a variety of vendors, or you can bring your own if you prefer!
The Expo celebrates the state’s natural resources and outdoor heritage, while connecting residents with education and hands-on opportunities to learn outdoor skills.
Participants of all ages can try a wide variety of free activities including everything from fishing, kayaking and camping skills to rock climbing, wildlife watching or shooting sports, as well as part environmental and conservation exhibits, demonstrations and seminars.
Rock climbing wall, NJ WILD Outdoor Expo
Visitors can also participate in turkey calling, get an introduction to archery, learn trap shooting, learn about local bats, get a primer on the Barnegat Bay watershed, hone their bird and tree identification skills, take in a hunting dog retrieval demonstration, get a close-up look at some quail and raptors, or participate in nature photography workshops, plus many other activities.
Families can also have plenty of hands-on fun – including insect safari shows, an inflatable soil tunnel, WILD crafts, and demonstrations on birds of prey and snakes of New Jersey.
More than 100 conservation, environmental and recreation exhibits will be at the Expo with demonstrations and seminars about the state’s air, water, soil, flora and fauna, and history. Numerous experts can provide information on an array of topics from hunting to bird watching to scuba diving and forestry stewardship in New Jersey. An outdoor equipment flea market will enable visitors to purchase gear needed for outdoor recreation or other environmental-related products.
NJ WILD Outdoor Expo
CWF helps sponsor this event as well as the DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife, State Forest Service and State Parks Service. It is partly financed by a grant from the USSAF Trailblazer Adventure Program and funding from the New Jersey Sportsmen’s Wildlife Foundation and the New Jersey Outdoor Alliance.
With the sun shining, everyone set out on a beautiful short boat ride from Island Beach State Park in Seaside, New Jersey to Sedge Island, a small island in the brackish waters (a mixture of salt and fresh water) of Barnegat Bay. There, the winners, proud parents and teachers from the Species on the Edge Art and Essay Contest learned about the island and the Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center. After the tour of the house and island, the group set off on a fascinating two hour-long kayak journey into the bay.
After paddling through a very narrow water channel, the group stopped at the first man-made Peregrine Falcon nest in New Jersey. This nest was the first hacking site for the once critically endangered Peregrine Falcons, ultimately leading to the rise Peregrine Falcon population in the late 1970’s. Hacking is an old falconer’s term for a process that provides captive-bred youngsters with a sheltered experience, giving them the advantage of a “soft release” into the wild.
The group getting ready to Kayak (c) Stephanie Feigin
As the group paddled on, we traveled through the different areas of the bay including the grassy areas where we learned about the different grasses that could grow in this brackish water, and which ones were edible.
Next we reached an area referred to as the Bahamas because of its shallow clear, calm water. We all got out of our kayaks and walked around to search for animals and plants on the sandy floor. We could see hundreds of fish, mud snails, and sea hermit crabs. Even a green crab made an appearance and the Sedge tour guide lifted him up from under the water to teach everyone about its unique body.
Clamming in the Bay (c) Stephanie Feigin
After returning to the island, the group then got to experience the thrill of clamming in the bay, and learned about the efforts of the biologists on Sedge Island to protect the Diamondback Terrapin population that breeds on the island. This was my first time at Sedge Island, along with many others. It was very interesting to learn about the history of this island, and the many wildlife species that inhabit the area. The trip to Sedge Island was a wonderfully breath taking experience – an experience I will never forget.
Today at 8 pm, CWF’s habitat program manager Ben Wurst will speak on Northern Diamondback Terrapins during the Bass River State Forest’s “2014 Lectures at the Lake.” Wurst’s “Terrapins and Tires” program will discuss the history of terrapins and CWF’s efforts to protect them. For more information or to read the full article, click here.
To learn more about CWF’s efforts to protect Diamondback Terrapins along the New Jersey coast, click here.
To read our five part Terrapin Week blog series, here!
When it comes to choosing which Island Beach State Park Programs are best for you, it’s tough to decide from so many great options!
So today we bring you the expert naturalists and educators who teach the programs. Hear their own evocative stories behind each program then decide what’s best for you!
Part 1, Monday, summarized these exciting programs.Part 2, Tuesday, highlighted the Harvest the Bay Day happening this Saturday, August 9 from 3-8pm. Part 4, Thursday, will be a round table interview with the Island beach State Park naturalists. AndPart 5, Friday, will feature a personal account from one of CWF’s interns who works at Island Beach State Park.
John Leonard, Park Naturalist, Island Beach State Park
As a Park Naturalist for THE best park within the NJ Parks and Forestry system I’ve been able to do some wickedly fun and educational things within its borders for the past five years. From fishing its shores for monster striped bass, to kayaking and seining the waters of Barnegat Bay. Nothing satisfies me more than sharing those experiences and seeing the smiles with the thousands of visitors who visit our park daily. But what if I told you, the adventurous few, we have a program that happens only twice a summer, and is scheduled during a time and at a place where the park becomes virtually deserted. Alone. On a barrier island. Far from the lights and crowds you are accustomed to at the Jersey Shore. Tempted?
The Full Moon Hike begins deep in the park, 3.5 miles past our bathing beaches at our Nature Center, a building many say is haunted by old souls of the sea. After a quick introduction of your guides at dusk we begin our educational journey, slowly working our way westward through the dense maritime forest. Quietly walking all our senses slowly awaken. The sounds of far off birds, rustling of mammals and amphibians in the undergrowth searching for a meal, pungent odors of decaying matter all come into focus. Learning as we walk, taking note of all our surroundings. As we reach Barnegat Bay we are rewarded by a liquid orange sun dipping slowly beneath the horizon illuminating the sky in a spectrum of color, a perfect time to observe the bay and all its glory.
Retracing our steps with natural light fading we begin our trek ocean side. Dense, dark forest gives way to the moonscape like terrain of our secondary, then primary dune system. A place that seems inhabitable, but in fact are home to our famed red fox. In addition to being extremely important barriers of ocean storm surge, these dunes have been rumored to hold buried treasure from pirates as far back as the 1600’s.
As we cross that final dune we leave the quiet solitude of the secondary dunes and are rewarded with an impressive elevated view of the ocean and sands which we’ve all come to love. Immediately we feel the air temperature drop, we hear thundering waves crashing on our pristine shores and view a brilliant burning fire just waiting for us to enjoy. Here we are free to enjoy the beach, collect shells or simply gather around the fire and enjoy the dancing flames as the yellow full moon slowly rises above the waves in the eastern sky. As an added bonus for all guests big and small, we are comforted by the melty goodness of roasting marshmallows, decedent chocolate and lightly sweet graham crackers to enjoy.
“Seining tours are a fun, interactive way for kids and adults to gain first hand experience with the marine life in our area. They are also an invaluable tool for school groups learning about coastal ecology” – Becca Hanson, Seasonal Supervisor
Did you know that IBSP offers free daily seining tours every day, twice a day? Pull a seine net through the Barnegat Bay and discover the amazing creatures who live here. Can you scare away hungry predators by growing twice your size in less than 6 seconds? A pufferfish can! Scoop up some silversides, the ‘french fries of the bay’, and understand the importance of this abundant fish in the Barnegat Bay food chain. Meet the snails, our bottom-feeding friends who keep the bay clean. What’s today’s catch of the day?
The Snorkel/Kayak Program at Island Beach State Park is a mix of snorkeling and kayaking in the Barnegat Bay. After a brief introduction and overview of the necessary kayaking skills, participants start the tandem kayaking adventure. All snorkel gear and kayak gear are provided. Park educators explain the ecology and importance of the Barnegat Bay and its ecosystems, and also review the different species that can be expected while snorkeling. When the tide is right, kayaks are anchored on a nearby sand bar and participants can snorkel in the adjacent deeper channel. Participants may see a variety of species, such as pipefish, crabs, flounder, hermit crabs, schools of bait fish, as well as different types of aquatic vegetation. This tour is new at the park and is becoming increasingly popular! Come join us for this unique underwater ecosystem viewing experience!
“From my personal experience with this program I find that it gives the children a wonderful hands-on approach to understanding the natural balance that takes place at Island Beach State Park.”- Josephine, Park Educator
Nature toddlers during craft time
This program is specifically designed for children ages 3 to 5 years old and takes place at the Nature Center. Age-appropriate hands-on activities, stories, crafts and hikes guide your child’s natural curiosity as they explore the animals and plants of Island Beach State Park. Natural Educators provide an educational hour of fun for parents and their children.
“From an educators stand point, I find that this program truly enriches the child’s love of learning. This program is supported with appropriate children’s literature and affords the children the opportunity to learn hands on; which in my experience is the most beneficial. It is delightful to take part in helping to create memories that are sure to last for a life time!” – Lisa, Park Educator
This program is specifically designed for children ages 6 to 12 years old and takes place at the Nature Center. With the help of Natural Educators, children get the chance to explore the outdoors, make crafts, listen to stories, learn about animals, and investigate the local ecosystem. This is a two hour program that explores different topics each week such birds, turtles, jellyfish, and much more!
IBSP Kayak Tours
Most people come to Island Beach State park to enjoy the swimming beaches. They drive to Ocean Beach Area 1 or 2, spend a few hours on the beach and go home feeling satisfied with their visit to the park. Little do they know they have only scratched the surface in terms of what this park has to offer!
Kayak tours are one of the more popular activities provided by IBSP park educators. Below is a list of tours and a brief description of each:
Learn about the history of Island Beach dating back to the first recorded description in 1609 by Robert Juet, the first mate to Henry Hudson, the parks involvement in the Revolutionary war, the War of 1812, pirates in the park, all the way to present day uses. All of this is done while kayaking around the Island visiting important historical landmarks and enjoying the beautiful Island ecosystems.
“The sunset paddle is one of my favorite programs offered at the park. Being on the water, witnessing the natural serenity of the area and its inhabitants, and watching the brilliant colors of the sunset is an experience like no other.” – Kelly Scott, Park Naturalist
Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing evening paddle through the famous Sedge Islands and watch the sunset over Barnegat Bay. This is prime time for observing the parks different wildlife species, including egrets, herons, gulls, turtles and maybe even a lingering fox watching from shore.
Learn about one of the largest estuaries in NJ by kayak! Park educators will discuss the bay’s geology, ecological function and importance, and local flora and fauna. In addition, the Eco-tour also includes a seining event to observe marine life and park educators will teach the “clammers dance.”
Expert Park Natural Educators will guide you on a peaceful paddle through the dynamic Barnegat Bay estuarine ecosystem. Discover the diversity of birds that inhabit Island Beach State Park in the summer. We will discuss migration patterns and year-round residents. Keep an eye out for additional birding tour during the upcoming fall migration!
Nature Center/Interpretive Center
Do you want to see wildlife close-up – and spend a day at the beach? Then come visit the Island Beach State Park Nature Center!
Once a coast guard building, the Nature Center showcases a unique combination of amazing views and lots of interactive fun for the whole family. Our Nature Center is home to a wide variety of local creatures from our 2 year old albino corn snake Newton, to our baby diamondback terrapins. Dont forget to take in the spectacular view from the top floor where the bay, the ocean, and Barnegat Bay lighthouse are all visible.
Just across from the Nature Center is the Forked River Interpretive Center where visitors can enter the world of yesterday and explore the incredible history of Island Beach State Park. Visitors can learn about the massive effort to bring Ospreys back to the Island, the historic Reeds Hotel and many other amazing stories and tales of life as it used to be on this breathtaking island.
Before you leave, make sure you take a visitors guide and check out the Summer Programs offered by IBSP Park Naturalists and educators! Let us show you how much fun nature can be!
“Surfing Safari is by far the most popular WILDCHILD program offered at IBSP. Space is limited, and classes typically fill up fast. Register early to reserve your spot!” – Tom Seager, Park Educator
Surf’s Up Dude!
Learn about waves, what they are, where they come from, and why they break. Paddle out with expert Natural Educators and IBSP Lifeguards, and maybe you’ll be hangin’ 10 by the end of the summer! Drop off your child for two hours of fun!
The Conserve Wildlife Foundation (CWF) and the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission (NJMC) are proud to announce the arrival of their free downloadable e-book,
