To the Editor,

On behalf of the board, staff, and members of the Sourland Conservancy, I would like to thank the 325 participants of the 2020 Sourland Spectacular for riding, running, and hiking to Save the Sourlands.

The New Jersey Forest Service estimates that our 90-square-mile region is on track to lose over one million trees within the next few years due to the invasive emerald ash borer. This damage will impact the fresh air, clean water, carbon sequestration services, and critical habitat the forest provides. Funds from the Spectacular will benefit the Sourland Conservancy’s efforts to plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers on public preserves; remove invasive species; host free guided hikes and educational seminars; lead advocacy efforts; work in partnership with the Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum; and more.

I would like to thank the residents of our Sourland Community for welcoming Spectacular participants, taking extra care while driving to accommodate the increased bicycle traffic, masking up on the trails, and helping to keep everyone safe.

I would especially like to thank the hardworking Spectacular committee volunteers for their creativity in adapting this year’s event to follow CDC guidelines, marking and remarking the routes, and keeping the support facilities running throughout the nine-day event. They did an excellent job promoting and conducting the Sourland Spectacular while doing their best to keep everyone safe and healthy. 

Laurie Cleveland
Executive Director, Sourland Conservancy