Hiking the Pine Barrens with Ben DiMatteo

Despite what the name suggests, the Pine Barrens of Southern New Jersey is home to a vibrant ecosystem, including a number of unique species that evolved to thrive in this one-of-a-kind environment. The broken network of carriage roads, canals and ghost towns whisper of an extensive community lost to time that once played a vital role in America's founding. Connecting all this is the Back to Nature Trail, a 50+ mile ramble better known as the "Batona" Trail. Ben DiMatteo will introduce some of the local lore that make the Barrens a place of historical intrigue. You'll receive a trail map and details on where to make camping arrangements. You'll also learn of opportunities for side excursions, including canoeing and kayaking treks, tours of industrial age ruins and maybe a few pointers on where you might spot the notorious Jersey Devil.  This program is both in person in the library and live streaming via Zoom.  Register is necessary on mahwahlibrary.org events calendar to receive the Zoom Link (Don't forget to give us your email address).