Dismal Swamp is a unique habitat

I recently read about the Dismal Swamp as a target for redevelopment. Overdevelopment has already plagued New Jersey's natural landscape, changing it from a unique environment spotted with forests full of native species of animals and plants to an endless line of housing developments and shopping centers.

As a student of Rutgers University, I have been able to frequently visit the Dismal Swamp Conservation Area. Destroying this natural habitat would be a tragedy. There are many species of wildlife including mammals, birds, fish and plants that are native to New Jersey that can frequently be seen at the Dismal Swamp Conservation Area. In fact, bird watchers statewide come to view the hundreds of species of birds, including some on the endangered species list. Building over an area like Adams Farm in South Plainfield or the Visco site in Edison would only destroy this unique habitat that would be impossible to re-create.

The Dismal Swamp also has an active outdoor ecological learning lab in the Edison Wetlands Association's Triple C Ranch. This environmental education center is used to teach students and residents of all ages about the important natural habitat that central New Jersey has to offer. Since Middlesex County is mostly an urban and high-density suburban community, visitors are able to step out of this crowded area to experience New Jersey's wildlife by taking hikes on the numerous nature trails at the Dismal Swamp. It is imperative to preserve all the imperiled sites remaining in the Dismal Swamp so these activities can continue.

It would be a disservice to the community if the Dismal Swamp were to be further destroyed in the hands of developers. Housing developments are not an uncommon sight around New Jersey. What is uncommon is a gorgeous natural area like the Dismal Swamp Conservation Area.
Gianine E. Tompkins
New Brunswick