47 Acres Added to Lodestar Park in Fredon Township

On August 18, 2011 Fredon Township purchased and preserved a second property to be added to Lodestar Park. Matching funds provided by the State of New Jersey Green Acres program, the Township’s Open Space Trust Fund was utilized to purchase this 47 acres property to enlarge Lodestar Park, enhancing the recreational activities available at the park for local residents.

Located along Paulinskill Lake Road, this beautiful property will allow for expansion of the developing trail network in Lodestar Park as well as protecting its scenic and environmentally sensitive land. In 2008 the Township purchased and preserved the 16 acre former Freeborn property which expanded Lodestar Park and provided the Township with space for a trail that leads to the stream and hemlock ravine now located within the park.

Lodestar is a wonderful and very different kind of park. It is anchored by a preserved historic house located on the rural agricultural setting of the property. The park provides a sense of place within this community and is a center for recreation and social gatherings in the Township. The development of the park facilities has complemented the surrounded natural features and this acquisition enhances the recreational value and conservation objectives of the community.

"Fredon Township is very excited over the recent acquisition of 47 acres adjacent to Lodestar Park. Not only will this land serve to expand our park, but it will also help to implement our plans for connecting trails throughout the township. With the assistance of The Land Conservancy and funding from both grant monies and our Open Space Trust, we were able to add this valued land to our inventory." Sandy Coltelli, Fredon Township Open Space Chairperson

“Lodestar is not your average park. Although it provides a place to play, this park is unique because it also provides lessons in history, agriculture and nature. It has been developed with respect for its environs and its past, and as a result it creates a sense of place for a wonderful community. If you want to know about Fredon Township, go to Lodestar Park,” said Sandy Urgo, Land Preservation Manager at the Land Conservancy. “We congratulate Fredon Township for its vision in creating this wonderful place for generations to visit, enjoy and learn from.”