Events
The Sourland Conservancy hosts events that bring people together to celebrate the land and community we all love. From guided hikes to family festivals and seasonal gatherings, there’s always something happening in the Sourlands worth showing up for.
Talk of the Sourlands
Learn more about our previous talks by going to the education page
The Talk of the Sourlands is an educational series designed to educate and inspire audiences on topics related to nature and conservation. Admission is free but registration is required. Donations are greatly appreciated. Talks will be hybrid, and participants will be able to walk through the grounds at The Watershed Institute.
You can find most of our talks on our YouTube Channel!
September 10, 2026 – Talk of the Sourlands: Life of a Bear by Melissa Anahory
This talk is specifically geared to educate the public on the life of American black bears, and to create an understanding or these magnificent wild neighbors. It includes information on Woodlands Wildlife Refuge's black bear rehabilitation program.
Enchantment can grow as we understand night in the garden or really any outdoor space, however big or small. All life responds to the ancient signal of daylight becoming moon- and starlight. For humans, the resulting shift in our perceptions can be magical and even lull us to sleep. The same signal alerts myriad other creatures that it is time to rouse. This presentation invites you to think about the use of color, scent, sound and touch in your garden space to enrich your experience of the evening and support the often-unrecognized work of plants, microbes, insects and animals that ready the world for morning.
November 12, 2026 – Talk of the Sourlands: A Q&A with Dr. Emile DeVito
Join us for a lively and informative evening with Dr. Emile DeVito, New Jersey Conservation Foundation's Manager of Science and Stewardship, for an open Q&A about Sourland region flora and fauna. Bring your questions about planting native species at home, stewarding preserved land, controlling invasive species, reducing deer impact, or anything else on your mind about the region we call home.
Saturday, September 19th, 2026 at The Watershed Institute
The Sourland Spectacular is back, celebrating its 15th consecutive year on September 19 at 7 am, starting at the Watershed Institute. The $65 early bird or $75 registration fee (plus processing charge) the event includes a light breakfast, one lunch entree, and one beer/soft drink ticket, dessert (brownies & ice cream), snacks along the route, and a fun swag item.
We hope you will join us again this year—cycling through the gorgeous forest and farmland of the historic Sourlands.
Saturday, July 25th, 3-8:30 pm, Rain or Shine, Unionville Vineyards, (9 Rocktown Rd, Ringoes, NJ 08551)
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s Sourland Mountain Fest! The weather was glorious, the music never stopped, and so many of our amazing attendees stuck around until the very last note. More than one person told us it was the best Fest yet, and we must say, we agree!
Visit our Gallery to see photos of the 2026 Sourland Mountain Fest, taken by amazing volunteers! Please share your pics by emailing to photos@sourland.org
Certified Sourland Habitat
In the Sourland region, much of the land is privately owned and landscaped with traditional suburban lawns that emphasize visual appeal rather than ecological function. These lawns often include ornamental, non-native plants that do little to support the needs of local wildlife, offering limited food and shelter. This program addresses that challenge by inspiring homeowners to plant native species.
Stream School
In partnership with The Watershed Institute and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
Become a certified stream monitor! You will be provided in depth webinars prior to getting out into the field that will equip you with the skills to identify macroinvertebrates and assess stream health.
If interested, please reach out stewards@sourland.org with any questions.
Amphibian Crossing Guards
February-March 2026
How to help
Drive with care: During March nights with precipitation, avoid driving or drive slowly on forested and rural roads, and watch the road for amphibians crossing.
Volunteer to chaperone: At hot spots for amphibian crossings in the Sourlands, volunteers and conservation professionals gather to help salamanders and frogs make it across the road. You’ll witness a nature spectacle and save lives at the same time.
If interested, please reach out stewards@sourland.org with any questions.