south branch preserve
Our most active preserve, the aptly named South Branch is at the headwaters of the South Branch of the Raritan River. Home to a wide assortment of wildlife in the restored native forest. Here you'll find our community garden, City Green Farms, pollinator meadows, and family-friendly features like easy trails, a bird blind, land art, and a picnic area. 208 acres, preserved in 2010. Parking at 60 Wolfe Rd, Budd Lake, NJ 07828; near the intersection with Route 46.
south branch preserve storymap
Explore South Branch Preserve with this storymap that guides you through the history, restoration efforts, recreation opportunities, and future plans for The Land Conservancy of New Jersey's most active preserve.
south branch preserve master plan
Since establishing South Branch Preserve in 2010, TLCNJ has been restoring several fields there for agricultural use, planting others for reforestation and pollinator-friendly meadows, and caring for the riparian area above the river. The stewardship of this land is meant to be an invitation to the public for recreation—a safe, welcoming area to connect with nature.
This document has been developed to outline the next iteration of that vision for what this remarkable landscape can ultimately become, balancing increased public access with the critical need to preserve drinking water quality. It establishes a clear vision for improving existing facilities and identifying new, appropriate recreational spaces.