Flat Rock Brook is pleased to announce a two-part special guest speaker series generously provided through a sponsorship by:

  October 12, 2017 - 7:00 p.m.

Assessing Forest Health in NJ

Join FRB as we welcome Jay F. Kelly, Associate Professor of Biology and Environmental Science at Raritan Valley Community College, for a fascinating lecture about deer and invasive plant management. Dr. Kelly will explain his work studying and monitoring the effects of deer overpopulation and browsing on forest health and NJ local wildlife populations, including breeding bird populations. He will also discuss invasive plant species and their impact on forest health.

This event will be especially important to attend if you'd like context for Flat Rock Brook's decision to put up permanent deer fencing and how it will likely impact our forest in the coming years.

For more information and to register:  https://tinyurl.com/yaphqsw5

 November 8, 2017 - 7:00 p.m.

Environmental Pollution-Past, Present, and Future

Join FRB as we welcome Dr. Alexei Khalizov, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). In this exciting event, Dr. Khalizov will explain his background related to air quality and pollution. He will describe the importance of his research and how it relates to the study and protection of the environment. In addition, he will explain his proposed research project at Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, where he will set up a primary air monitoring station.

Come learn about how Flat Rock Brook will be involved in this fascinating resarch aimed at investigating novel techniques to reduce environmental pollution!

For more information and to register:  https://tinyurl.com/ydyl69q3

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Flat Rock Brook Nature Center’s forest has experienced extensive habitat degradation caused by the overpopulation of deer feeding on native tree seedlings and saplings. Overgrazing deer prevent the forest from naturally regenerating. The shrub layer disappears, leaving a barren understory that is no longer able to function as habitat for wildlife. This problem, combined with the rapid spread of non-native plants, or invasive species, is compromising the overall health and biodiversity of our forest. This has become a serious threat to forests across the state of New Jersey.

Our Board of Trustees and staff began discussing deer management options several years ago. After careful research and consultation with authorities that weighed various solutions, it was decided that a deer exclosure would be the most effective resolution. Creating deer exclosures on the preserve offers the most sustainable and effective method for long-term forest health and regeneration. The fencing in of crucial habitat within our preserve will give the forest understory a chance to regenerate and rebound after years of extensive damage. Native plant communities will return, biodiversity will increase and viable wildlife habitat will become more readily available.

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