Stop the Destruction of Sparta Mountain WMA: Protect Our Public Lands
The NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Division of Fish and Wildlife has contracted a Pennsylvania logger to remove hundreds of trees from the Sparta Mountain Wildlife Management Area in an area referred to as “Stand 2” in the (WMA). The logger was given a $19,500 payout to log our public lands, (that we paid to protect) and then he sells the timber on the open market and profits greatly from the destruction of our natural heritage. This is happening in the most densely populated state in the country!
Environmental Impact: Irreparable Harm to Local Species
The timing of this logging operation is nothing short of disastrous. The ground is not frozen, leading to major soil compaction and displacement, disturbing sensitive habitats. This area is home to the State Endangered Red-Shouldered Hawk (RSH), whose distinctive call can be heard in the area. These birds rely on mature forests for nesting, and this logging operation directly threatens their survival. We posted a on March 14th a Facebook post where you can hear its distinctive call. It is calling for help.
In addition to the loss of habitat for the RSH, the vernal pool amphibians that breed and nest in these forested areas are also being disrupted. These amphibians depend on the health of the forest floor to support their reproduction. Logging operations that disturb the soil and remove large amounts of canopy will have a long-lasting impact on these species. A gravel road has been placed right near vernal pool habitat and this is harmful to these sensitive ecosystems.
Loss of Carbon: A Long-Term Environmental Crisis
Logging in these areas means the permanent loss of carbon storage that our forests provide. Trees absorb and store carbon, playing a critical role in fighting climate change. By cutting down these trees, we not only lose precious wildlife habitats, but we also lose a vital tool in the global battle against climate change. The carbon lost will take centuries to replace, if ever.
This is a direct hit to the health of our forests. The idea that logging makes a forest “healthier” is a dangerous lie. The soil compaction, disruption to wildlife, and loss of biodiversity are leading to the degradation of our ecosystems, not their improvement.
Speak for the Species: Stand Up for Our Public Lands
This logging operation is not just an environmental issue—it’s a fight for our public lands, the species that rely on them, and the future of our forests. We must speak for the species that cannot speak for themselves. Together, we can demand better protection of our natural resources. We must advocate with our elected officials to stop the madness and to finally end this destruction and degradation of places like Sparta Mountain.
We need your help to raise awareness and stop this destruction.
Share this page, tell your friends, and join the fight to protect Sparta Mountain WMA and all our public lands.
Join the Conversation
Help us spread the word! Use the hashtags below to join the conversation and raise awareness about this critical issue:
- #SaveSpartaMountain
- #StoptheChopNJ
- #ProtectPublicLands
- #DefendOurForests
- #StopLoggingInNJ
- #EndangeredSpeciesProtection
- #SaveTheRSH
- #ForestsOverProfit
- #NJDeforestation
For more information, contact your local representatives or visit our social media channels to stay up-to-date on this issue.
