Angelo Dellomo of Mays Landing was an early proponent of declaring the New Jersey Pine Barrens a National Preserve. A lifelong educator, Angelo Dellomo went on to author two books on New Jersey Pine Barrens history. Angelo Dellomo has even been called to lecture throughout Southern New Jersey on the topic of Pine Barrens Ghost Towns. So, what makes the Pine Barrens such a special place? And why does Angelo Dellomo believe so strongly in the opportunities it provides for education? Well, first it is important to understand what the area represents
For those unfamiliar with the New Jersey Pine Barrens, it refers to an area that stretches through more than seven counties of the Garden State. Locals often refer to the areas as the Pines or the Pinelands. Although movies often portray New Jersey as a densely populated place, the ecosystem of the Pinelands is 1.1 million acres of plant life, wild animals, and some of the most scenic nature views in the continental United States.
Angelo Dellomo is proud of all those who work endlessly to protect the Pine Barrens. With major cities like Philadelphia and New York City close by, there are many different groups who would love nothing more than to convert part of the Pine Barrens into retail stores, housing developments and more. Fortunately, the 1.1 million acres fall under the New Jersey Pinelands Protection Act of 1979 as well as the National Parks and Recreation Act of 1978. These laws were put in place to help preserve the natural resources of this wondrous place. The Pine Barrens is home to many rare species of plants and wildlife, which would be unable to survive without these laws in place.
Throughout its existence, Angelo Skip Dellomo notes that residents have relied on the health and well-being of the Pine Barrens. In addition to providing so much natural beauty, the Pine Barrens is a large producer of clean water and pure air. The natural resources of the Pinelands help offset some of New Jersey’s issues with pollution as it absorbs greenhouse gases. As the masses become more familiar with the climate change movement, the importance of keeping areas like the Pinelands preserved only grows in importance.
Despite the laws in place to protect the Pinelands, there are always different groups and organizations that would like to leverage the land for profit. For this reason, several different organizations exist that work tirelessly to protect the region and improve the accessibility and vitality of the parks. Thousands upon thousands of people visit the Pine Barrens daily to take in nature, exercise, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern society.
As a retired educator, Angelo Dellomo can’t say enough positive things about the educational opportunities provided by the Pine Barrens. There are numerous options for educators to bring their students to the region for nature tours. Developing a passion for the preservation of the Pine Barrens in the next generation is essential. Seeing the area up close is also a great reminder of the importance of nature for kids who spend an increasing amount of time glued to their phones or tablet. Angelo Dellomo encourages anyone unfamiliar with the Pine Barrens to dive deeper into the history of the area and see why this area holds such a special place in the hearts of so many who call New Jersey home.
