Environmental Commission Speaker Series
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O’sakame Preserve is located on the river side of Rt 627 (Riegelsville - Milford Rd) between Church Rd and Crab Apple Hill Rd. The entrance is marked by a large sign noting "O’sakame Preserve.” There is a parking lot immediately behind the large O’sakame sign. Meet up spot is at the Kiosk Notice Board near the parking lot.
Summer is almost here, and we are pleased to present a guided “Walk and Talk” to enjoy nature as you explore our newest trail, the O’sakame Preserve Trail. Join Debra Reed for a stroll around the trail to explore the season. This summer’s tree walk will take you along the perimeter trail, noting the shapes, smells, and textures of the native species found in Hunterdon County. In addition to sharing her knowledge and love of the natural world, she will also talk about the invasive flora and insects that are affecting the health of our forests and fields. We will also have Tony Rizzello, from the Holland Environmental Commission, joining the walk to talk about the interpretive signs and the improvements to the trail.
Debra Reed
Debra is a naturalist fueled by curiosity, discovery and a love of the natural world. She has done a number of programs for Holland Township. A local resident of Raritan township, she spent her childhood hiking the South Branch River and exploring the pond at Echo Hill.
She joined the Hunterdon County Parks Division full-time as a Park Naturalist in 2018, after being the Seasonal Park Naturalist in 2017. As a previous teacher and master ecologist, she enjoys educating others and sharing her knowledge. She has created several new programs at the Parks, including Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing), an indoor insect program, Dragonflies, and a family-based nature club.
2024 Speaker Schedule
Date | Event | Place / Room |
Sat., Apr. 13, 2024 - 9-12pm | Free Tree Seedlings | Recycling Center |
Wed. April 24, 2024 - 7pm |
Trees! What, How, When and Where to Plant Them Neil Hendrickson, Ph.D. & John Anderson HC Shade Tree Commission |
Riegel Ridge - Library Room |
Sat., Apr. 27, 2024 - 10am | Arbor Day Planting | Holland Twp Municipal Building |
Wed., Jun. 19, 2024 - 2pm |
Walking the O'sakame Debra Reed Hunterdon County Parks Naturalist |
O'sakame Preserve Trail |
Wed., Jul. 17, 2024 - 7pm |
Birds of Holland Township David Harrison Local Birding Expert |
Riegel Ridge - Library Room |
Wed. Sep. 25, 2024 - 7pm |
What is the State of Recycling in NJ? by Rebecca Lunger Hunterdon County Recycling Coordinator |
Riegel Ridge - Library Room |
Recent Programs
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