Pinelands Science Forum: Rare Species – Research and Conservation

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Pinelands Preservation Alliance (PPA) is pleased to announce the third in its series of Pinelands Science Forums. This year’s theme is Rare Species in the Pines: Research and Conservation. Pine barren ecosystems naturally support rare and endemic species, adding to the wonder and natural beauty of our forests here in southern New Jersey. However, by definition, endemic and rare species are vulnerable and require special care and conservation in the face of human development and climate change.

An important goal of PPA is to facilitate that conservation. Through the establishment of the Pinelands Research Institute, PPA promotes scientific research that is the foundation of conservation and maximizes success. In this forum, we will highlight the biodiversity of the New Jersey Pinelands but with special attention to the threatened and rare species that are vulnerable. Scientists, from students to senior researchers, will share their research and understanding of the biodiversity of the pine barrens, from soil microbes to Barnegat Bay jellyfish. The program will kick off with a keynote address by Dr. Jay Kelly of Raritan Valley College and a lifelong scholar conserving endangered plants in the Pinelands.

The daylong forum takes place on June 3, 2025, in our renovated, two-story barn. The barn is handicap accessible with an elevator to the second floor. The conference includes a light breakfast and lunch as well as opportunities for a pre-breakfast bird walk or an afternoon short tour of PPA’s Rancocas Creek Farm, where we are practicing what we preach regarding carbon sequestration and chemical-free practices. Presentations will be recorded and shared publicly.

Cost: Register by May 20th for the early bird fee of $45 per person. After May 20th, the cost to attend is $60 per person. Students can attend for $15 per person.