Citizens United To Protect The Maurice River - CU Saturday: The Untold Story of the Understory / 6-20-26

Join CU Maurice River at Menantico Preserve for a guided exploration of the thriving heath understory with naturalist Debbie Beer, joined by Matt Olson, Associate Professor of Environmental Science & Forestry at Stockton University. Often overlooked, this dense layer of shrubs, young trees, and groundcover plays a vital role in keeping forests healthy, supporting everything from soil stability to biodiversity. As spring unfolds, the understory becomes a hub of activity, providing food, shelter, and nesting habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.
 
During this walk, Debbie and Matt will highlight how these vital habitats support abundant bird life, from woodpeckers and songbirds to raptors like owls. Learn how native plants and regenerating forest growth create protective cover and critical resources for species that depend on the space beneath the canopy. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply curious about what makes a forest thrive, this walk offers a fascinating glimpse into the living world just below eye level.
 
Protecting places like Menantico Preserve helps maintain continuous greenways of native habitat that wildlife depend on for food, shelter, and safe movement through the landscape. From forest understory plants to the birds they support, these connected natural areas are essential to sustaining biodiversity throughout the Wild and Scenic Maurice River region.

Bring your binoculars or a scope if you have one, as well as snacks and water to stay refreshed during the day. Dress appropriately for the weather; wearing sturdy, waterproof boots is suggested.