The Middlesex County Improvement Authority (MCIA) launched “OPEN S.P.A.C.E.S.,” a free quarterly newsletter focusing on various facets of land preservation from local and regional perspectives.
With upwards of 7,500 acres of open space preserved in Middlesex County, the objective was to provide residents with updates on newly acquired parcels, environmental impacts, the wide array of outdoor hobbies and activities, procedural and policy insights, nature facts and quotes.
In a short time, this formula for content has led to a tutorial on geocaching, uncovered traces of the reputed Black Diamond Express on the Middlesex County Greenway, exposed pollutant-discerning insects in East Brunswick’s Ireland Brook, and outlined the guidelines for the Great Backyard Bird Count.
“For decades now, we’ve witnessed residents showing their dedication and support for preserving this land for future generations,” MCIA Chairman Leonard J. Roseman said. “So, in a way, we’re keeping them abreast on that investment — from the happenings to the history to the health of these properties.”
The “OPEN S.P.A.C.E.S” editorial board is currently seeking essays, short stories and other original literary works, photographs and drawings — especially from area youths and children — that highlight the public’s experiences with local open space.
All submissions must include contact information for verification purposes, and any written pieces should be limited to 150 words or less.
Interested parties may submit entries by emailing [email protected] or by mailing their content to the Middlesex County Improvement Authority, c/o Staff Writer Maria Prato, 101 Interchange Plaza Cranbury, NJ 08512.
The public can view the periodical at each of the county’s 25 municipal buildings and libraries at any of Middlesex County’s numerous trailhead markers or by visiting www.mciauth.com.