Industry and Nature Walk Along the Black River
MORRIS TOWNSHIP, NJ - From the Cooper Gristmill parking lot, visitors can start a 3.5-mile hike on Saturday, May 21, from 10 a.m. to 12 Noon, to discover the early industries along the Black River with industrial archaeologist Joe Macasek. They will also explore the flora, fauna, and the ecosystem with naturalist Janis Slutsky. This moderate walk is along the Hacklebarney branch of the old railroad, lower millpond, a 1930s hydro-electric plant, powerhouse and the newly restored Kay’s dam. Cost: $5 per family. Cooper Gristmill will open after the walk, not at 10 a.m. as on other Saturdays.
Cooper Gristmill is open April through October. In April, May and June, it is open Saturdays only from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting April 2. During July and August it is open Wednesdays through Sundays: on weekdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays from 12 Noon to 5 p.m. In September and October, it is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12 Noon to 5 p.m. Last tour begins at 3:30 p.m.
The suggested donation to tour the mill is $3 for adults, $2 for seniors (65+), and $1 for children ages 4 to 16. Children under age 4 are FREE. The Cooper Gristmill is located in Black River County Park on County Route #513 (old Rt. 24) in Chester Township 1.3 miles west of the Rt. 206 intersection. For tour availability and information, please call 908- 879-5463 or visit www.morrisparks.net.
