Learn About Local Nature Through Island Beach State Park Lectures

ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK, NJ — Looking to learn more about the natural beauty that surrounds us at the shore? The Friends of Island Beach State Park are hosting a lecture series covering park programs, local fauna and flora, and more.

All programs are held on Sundays at 1 p.m., meeting in the Interpretive Center.

The first lecture will be held on Feb. 5, covering the IBSP Nature Program. This program "is a unique partnership between the park, the Friends of IBSP and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ," according to the Friends.

Next, on Feb. 19, Save Barnegat Bay will present a lecture about stormwater and its impact on the watershed. "Britta's presentation will cover updates on Save Barnegat Bay's grassroots powered work within the watershed, as well as updates on the critical issue of stormwater through the lens of our grant-funded NEMO (Non-Point Education for Municipal Officials) program, which looks to educate the community and civic leaders alike on proper stormwater management," the Friends said.

ReClam the Bay, a local charity promoting environmental awareness, will hold a lecture on March 5. "A few of RCTB's volunteers will be introducing you to some of the shellfish babies grown in our upweller 'nurseries,'" according to the Friends. "We will also be sharing how we support their propagation and growth during the April-October growing season."

And on March 19, learn all about the fungi of IBSP, an important part of New Jersey's native biodiversity that doesn't get as much attention as others. "Fungi are important elements of our natural heritage, and they are all around us," the Friends said.

Registration is required for each lecture. For more information and links to register, visit the Friends of IBSP website.