COMMUNITY EVENTS
Community engagement reinforces the vision and commitment of a group be it a town, a social group, library patrons, hobbyists, etc. We continue to be inspired by the concerted efforts of these groups as they provide opportunities for community members to make positive environmental differences. Promoting local acts that have global potential is a staple of our community involvement.
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EarthFest Overpeck
Young visitor tries his hand at identifying animal tracks
Lots of new friends equals lots of fun!
Madagascar roaches model with our CEO.
Young visitor tries his hand at identifying animal tracks
Overpeck's EarthFest 25th anniversary did not disappoint! A celebration of clean water and a healthy environment, this countywide event came back from its "pandemic pause" to a community of enthusiastic families proactive in learning more about green living, environmental education, and simple, sustainable practices to be done at home. It was a joy to be back!
Butterfly Day
One of our favorite days of the year! Butterfly lovers came out to honor and learn more about our beautiful pollinator friends. Youngsters came to us with amazing knowledge and the coolest of costumes! We helped novice birders identify feathered friends of Dekorte Park, and went on a Spotted Lanternfly eradication spree with some energetic young naturalists.
Birding Festival
Rain and wind did not dampen the spirits of families looking to enjoy activities, presentations, and up close visits with feathered friends. It was great to be back in the Meadowlands Environmental Center education building with our fellow avian fans. Birding walks were a tad damp, but participant energy was bright and sunny!
Future architectDesigning a habitat hideaway for overwintering insects with style! | Ready to make friends | Owl pellet dissection |
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Awaiting artists |
Ridgewood Street Fair
The hustle of downtown Ridgewood always brings positive energy and excitement! Hundreds of visitors to the SOAR station shared their curiosity with us as they learned about the wonderful biodiversity in their lovely village.
Future scientists learned about their role in the future of the planet and showed off their creative skills when creating insect homes or painting decorative birds and butterflies. We are thrilled to receive invites from the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce for upcoming events.
has a great time!
Bring on the meet and greets!
Patience and planning makes all the difference
Getting all the deets on cool insect species
Small animal habitat created by a young animal advocate
Backyard critters will be happy in this mini-shelter
Bird lover shows her feelings in a rainbow
Franklin Lakes Public Library
Talk about a great partnership! The Franklin Lakes Public Library and Lorrimer Sanctuary helped bring together community members for our wildlife photography course and birding/nature walk. Photographers of all ages and ability levels gained insight into the only way to shoot wildlife - with a camera!
A great joy was seeing how many young people were interested in documenting wildlife via the medium of photography. New techniques were learned, and, combined with tips on bird and animal behavior, participants were able to apply how to plan for the best photos. Many bird species and a handsome 6-point buck accommodated the group.