Ocean County officials announced on Mar. 16 the acquisition of a 98-acre parcel in the Forked River Mountains, Lacey Township, expanding the county’s preserved lands and reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship.
The expansion is part of Ocean County’s ongoing efforts to protect natural resources and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The newly acquired land will join more than 12,500 acres already safeguarded by the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust Fund in the region.
“The Board of Commissioners is proud to continue expanding preservation efforts in the Forked River Mountains,” said Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, co-liaison to the Natural Lands Trust Fund. “This acquisition strengthens our preservation efforts in the region, protecting the ecological integrity of these forests while expanding opportunities for residents and visitors to experience them.”
The $200,000 purchase allows for forestry management activities such as prescribed burns aimed at reducing wildfire risks. The county has also applied to the Pinelands Commission for permission to establish a trailhead on an adjacent property, which would improve public access and hiking options throughout the area. “Expanding the Forked River Mountains preservation area is about more than just protecting land, it is about safeguarding wildlife habitats, maintaining healthy forest ecosystems, and ensuring these natural treasures remain for future generations,” said Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi, also a co-liaison to the Natural Lands Trust Fund. “We appreciate the continued support from Lacey Township and our community partners as we work together to preserve these important natural resources.”
This latest acquisition follows previous conservation milestones including nearly 8,000 acres purchased by Ocean County in 2018 and a donation of over 3,100 acres from The Nature Conservancy in 2023.
Ocean County delivers programs and services such as senior assistance, parks and recreation, health efforts, consumer support and transportation to enhance community life, according to the official website. The county operates under a Board of Commissioners led by Director John P. Kelly with Deputy Director Frank Sadeghi and Commissioners Virginia E. Haines, Robert S. Arace and Jennifer Bacchione according to its official website. Serving residents across New Jersey’s region according to its official website, Ocean County functions as a government entity managing local administration from offices at 101 Hooper Avenue in Toms River according to its official website.
The Board of Commissioners continues advocating for land preservation across Ocean County with an emphasis on environmental protection as well as recreational and educational benefits for current and future generations.
