Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey and the Greater Outdoors Project

Our friend and conservationist Ben Wurst needs our help

Ben’s organization, Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey, has been selected as one of five nonprofit finalists nationwide for the Greater Outdoors Project.  The contest, running now through May 31, boasts a substantial $50,000 cash endowment that would provide funding for an exciting restoration project in Cape May, New Jersey (Read the complete Ponderlodge Golf Course Wildlife Habitat Restoration Project proposal).

The mission of the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ is to protect and preserve rare and imperiled species of wildlife that live, breed and migrate through our state through research, species management, habitat restoration, education and citizen engagement.

The Foundation has targeted the Ponderlodge Golf Course where Habitat Manager, Ben Wurst aims to create 24.5 acres of restored habitat for migratory birds. Partnering with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife who currently owns the property, Ben’s team is ready to restore this large plot of land in New Jersey’s southern peninsula to its natural glory as an unrivaled birding sanctuary.

Despite New Jersey’s infamous reputation of urban sprawl it happens to be one of the most biodiverse regions in the country.  The South Jersey coastline serves as an important stopover for migratory birds and bird lovers worldwide come to witness the beauty of the fall migration better known as the Cape May Stopover.

Unfortunately, in its current state, the Ponderlodge Golf Course is of little value to wildlife due to low-quality habitat resulting from years of routine golf course operations.  This is where the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey, financed by the $50,000 grant will step in with an ambitious plan of restoration to make the area a welcome oasis for both migratory and resident birds.

In addition to being a desired sanctuary for wildlife, the habitat will be open to onlookers allowing eager nature lovers a closer look at the natural scenery as they hike along the miles of paved golf cart paths that meander beautifully throughout the site.

The Greater Outdoors Project

Redwood Creek wines established the Greater Outdoors Project to recognize and support nonprofit organizations that share its commitment to preserve, protect and provide access to America’s great outdoors. Together with Planet Green, a 24-hour eco-lifestyle network, Redwood Creek wines will award one, worthy non-profit with a $50,000 grant to fund a specific outdoor project as well as a feature in a national, Redwood Creek advertising campaign.

Help Support New Jersey Wildlife Today

Only with your help can the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey win this contest and the cash. The rules are simple. The organization that receives the most votes wins. You can vote online and by text message once daily.

To vote – Log on to www.blazethetrail.com/greatoutdoors/vote from April 1 through May 31 to view our project and vote.  For those on the trail, outdoor enthusiasts can simply text CONSERVE to 39668.

So please, help us support New Jersey Wildlife and help protect the Garden State!

Greater Outdoors Project Voting Status Update

Apr 13, 2009

Dear Friends of Redwood Creek & the Greater Outdoors Project,
We wanted to provide you with a current update of where we are (as of the end of the day 4/12/2009, midnight PST) with voting for the Greater Outdoors Project.

Without further ado…

• Arizona Trail Association 1,086 votes
• Friends of New Orleans City Park 746 votes
• Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey 529 votes
• WildEarth Guardians 285 votes
• National Forest Foundation 118 votes