Getting outdoors in nature is good for our health and well-being. Studies have shown that if people feel safe, time in nature can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, and improve mood among many other benefits.
Unfortunately, access to the vast natural areas found in the New Jersey Pinelands can be difficult if not impossible for people with physical or other disabilities. Visiting natural places can often be a logistical nightmare – impossible access and lack of accommodations leave visitors feeling unwanted, unsafe, and uncomfortable. Barriers include a limited number of trails and other adaptive outdoor equipment, poor advertisement, poorly maintained, and a lack of comprehensive and reliable information on the accessible places that do exist
PPA launched The Pinelands is For Everyone project to address the lack of accessibility to nature sites in NJ. We are allying with individuals with disabilities, organizations dedicated to the welfare of those with disabilities, and public and private landowning agencies to help overcome these barriers so everyone can enjoy the benefits of time in nature by visiting the parks, forests, and preserves which our state and communities have protected.
Learn more about The Pinelands Is for Everyone project and other related initiatives below.
Pinelands is for Everyone Overview
Access Nature forum
Nature: Accessible for all
Videos, Reports, and town hall recordings
Projects
