Middlesex Co. To Acquire 18.7 Acres Of Open Space In Metuchen

METUCHEN, NJ — Middlesex County plans to acquire 18.7 acres of land in Metuchen, which will later become part of the Peter J. Barnes III Wildlife Preserve. The land will be acquired from the Metuchen Realty Association. The announcement was made during a press conference on Wednesday.

In addition to the 18.7 acres, Middlesex County will enter into a conservation management agreement with Metuchen to manage an additional 12 acres of open space located near the newly purchased land which will provide the opportunity for possible future acquisitions.

Board of County Commissioners Director Ronald G. Rios. Thanked Metuchen for its “vision” and “hard work.”

“This land will ultimately become part of the Peter J. Barnes III Wildlife Preserve — formerly known as the Dismal Swamp — and will serve as a gateway to this unique area of Middlesex County. The strong working relationship between the County and the Borough helps to make projects like this possible — and successful,” Rios said.

Metuchen Mayor Jonathan M. Busch said the land was a vital wetland ecosystem, that is home to roughly 165 different species of birds. “This purchase is made possible thanks to the impressive environmental cleanup effort undertaken by Metuchen Realty Association. In addition to Middlesex County’s intends to acquire the 18.7 acres that include part of the Dismal Swamp, the County will also enter into a conservation management agreement with the Borough to manage an additional 12 acres of open space which will add to the overall scope of the project and provide for possible future acquisitions,” Busch said.

County Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro said that open space was a priority in Middlesex County and the acquisition aligns with the County’s “Destination 2040 Open Space and Recreation Plan.”

“Ultimately, we envision this space as not only an area dedicated to the preservation of this important ecosystem and wildlife, but an excellent place for members of the public to enjoy passive forms of recreation such as birding, photography, walking, and simply taking in the natural wonders of the Dismal Swamp,” Tomaro said.

“Together in partnership with the Borough of Metuchen, we will ensure that this area of the Dismal Brook Preserve is a space that can be enjoyed by generations to come.”

The new addition to the Peter J. Barnes III Wildlife Preserve will have many benefits including the preservation of essential habitats for plants and wildlife, the capture and storage of rainfall, and the protection of underground water sources.

Among the planned improvements for public access are trails, boardwalks, a footbridge, interpretive signage, and convenient parking for visitors.

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