Organization designates N.J. island as ‘Community Wildlife Habitat’

     Cape Island includes Cape May, Cape May Point, West Cape May, and portions of Lower Township. (Google Maps image)

    Cape Island includes Cape May, Cape May Point, West Cape May, and portions of Lower Township. (Google Maps image)

    The nation’s largest conservation education and advocacy organization has honored New Jersey’s southernmost municipalities with a major accolade.

    The National Wildlife Foundation has designated Cape Island, a man-made island consisting of Cape May, Cape May Point, West Cape May, and portions of Lower Township, as a Community Wildlife Habitat.

    “NWF commends the dedicated residents of Cape Island and New Jersey Audubon for their wildlife conservation efforts and for coming together for a common purpose: to create a community where people and wildlife can flourish,” an organization release says.

    According to the National Wildlife Foundation, over five years, dozens of projects have led to sustainable landscapes that require little or no pesticides, fertilizers, and excess watering, keeping water and air resources clean.

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    “There are few more rewarding ways to stay connected to nature right outside your door than by providing a home for wildlife in our cities – whether it’s at home, or in schools, businesses, or parks,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation, as he toured Cape Island last week.

    “This certification is especially exciting, as Cape Island plays an invaluable role for wildlife like migratory birds, who are particularly at-risk from changes in their ecosystems and will surely benefit from this new Community Wildlife Habitat,” he added.

    Cape Island joins High Bridge and Montclair as the only three communities in New Jersey with the designation.

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