3 Family Friendly Hikes

Here are three easy and family-friendly hike options to do with kids (or kids-at-heart) to close out the summer or into the fall.

The Batsto Lake Trail in Wharton State Forest is a peaceful loop through the Pine Barrens, offering lakeside views and historic buildings in the Village of Batsto. It is 4.1miles and would take a little more than a hour to complete the loop along sandy paths, bog bridges, and pine needle-covered trails along Batso Lake. Wharton State Forest is the largest piece of land managed by New Jersey State Parks. The area was a regional hub for glass and iron manufacturing during the mid-1700s to mid-1800s.

The Fairy Trail at South Mountain Reservation in Essex County is a short and magical walk perfect for kids and curious adults. This is an easy half-mile path inhabited by fairies who have built homes along the trail. The rules help to introduce kids to the principles of Leave No Trace.

Watchung Reservation's White Trail (Union County) goes over gentle terrain with scenic views and historical landmarks. At 2.7 miles, it will take you about an hour, depending on how many stops you make. Of course, like most of these hikes, you can extend the hike by continuing on the white or purple and yellow trails or turn back. Information and directions at Watchung Reservation White Trail. The Reservation also has the Trailside Museum and other trails to explore.

Proposed Amendments to the NJ Fish Code

 

Amendments to the Fish Code have been proposed for 2026-2030. The proposed changes include:

• Removal of the three-week preseason closure to fishing on all trout-stocked lakes and ponds.

• Addition of 23 new trout-stocked waters to the spring trout stocking program, and removal of two waters.

• Addition of one fish species to the potentially dangerous fish species list.

• Modify existing season, size, or creel limits for several fish species.

• Change waters managed as Lunker Bass Lakes and the warmwater Conservation Regulations.

• Modify Trophy Trout Lake regulations.

A complete summary of the proposed changes can be accessed from the DEP Notice of Rule Proposal: https://dep.nj.gov/rules/notice-of-rule-proposals/

More information, including how to submit comments and attend the public hearing on September 10, can be found here: https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/news-2025-08-18-fish-code-amendments-proposed/

Spotted Lanternflies in New Jersey

If you've stepped outside lately and spotted a bug with gray wings and a flash of crimson underneath, you're not imagining things—the spotted lanternfly is back. These invasive pests have returned to New Jersey in full force, and while they may look striking, they’re causing serious trouble for our environment.

After reading about how lanternflies are devastating Virginia's vineyards, I looked for updates from our own state. As of summer 2025, lanternflies are active across the Garden State, especially in North Jersey, where their populations are most concentrated. By now, they’ve reached their adult phase and will remain active until the first hard freeze. You’ll likely find them clinging to trees, hopping around your garden, or even hitching a ride on your car.

adult

Spotted lanternflies aren’t just a nuisance—they’re a threat to our local ecosystem. These insects feed on over 70 types of plants, including grapevines, maples, black walnuts, and fruit trees.

Their feeding weakens plants and leaves behind a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts other pests and promotes mold growth. That means your backyard trees, local vineyards, and even public parks could be at risk.

One of the lanternfly’s favorite hangouts is the Tree of Heaven, itself an invasive species. These trees serve as prime egg-laying spots, making them a key target for control efforts. If you have one on your property, consider removal or treatment—it’s a proactive step in curbing the spread of the lanternfly.

New Jersey isn’t sitting idle. The state has extended grants to counties and municipalities to support lanternfly control efforts through 2026. But officials can’t do it alone—citizen action is crucial. So, here’s how you can help:

Stomp them: Yes, really. Squashing lanternflies is encouraged.

Report sightings: Use the NJ Department of Agriculture’s online portal to log infestations.

Check your car: Lanternflies love to hitch rides. Inspect your vehicle before traveling.

Good Grain Documentary Premieres August 27

In 2024, NOFA NJ partnered with filmmaker Jared Flesher of Hundred Year Films to highlight the artisans behind the local grain movement in New Jersey. The resulting documentary, Good Grain, explores the opportunity and excitement that the local grain economy brings, and why it is important to shift away from our reliance on synthetic chemicals in the production of grain crops. Good Grain features the Farmer (Morganics Family Farm), the Miller (River Valley Community Grains), the Maltster (Rabbit Hill Malt), the Baker (Sourland Bread), and the Brewer (Chilton Mill Brewing). 

GOOD GRAIN premieres August 27, 7pm, inside the historic 1930's barn at Pinelands Preservation Alliance in Southampton, NJ. Enjoy snacks made from local grains and a post-screening Q&A and discussion about the local grains movement. 

The screening is free, but registration is required.  

See nofanj-org-event-calender-calendar/#!event/2025/8/27/good-grain...rvation-alliance 

Be on the lookout for more GOOD GRAIN screenings in late summer and fall.