Proclamation
WHEREAS, Wharton State Forest encompasses the largest state-owned property in New Jersey administered by the Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Parks and Forestry, and includes the protected area known as the Pine Barrens, which is both ecologically and historically significant; and
WHEREAS, the region served as a microcosm of the cultural, industrial, economic and political development of both New Jersey and the United States and made numerous contributions to the American military during the Revolutionary War; and
WHEREAS, Wharton State Forest contains approximately one-third of the Mullica River watershed and a vast ground water reserve, and serves as home to a number of rare and endangered plants and animals; and
WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey first acquired lands that were designated Wharton State Forest on December 30, 1954, thus preserving this rich and diverse portion of New Jersey’s past and its irreplaceable natural resources; and
WHEREAS, by offering visitors a variety of recreational and educational opportunities, Wharton State Forest provides them with the lessons of history and the inspiration of our noblest achievements, which are necessary to further understanding of our past, present and future well being;
NOW, THEREFORE, I RICHARD J. CODEY, Acting Governor of the State of New Jersey, do hereby proclaim
December 30, 2004 – December 30, 2005
as the
Fiftieth Anniversary of State Ownership of Wharton State Forest,
and encourage the citizens of the Garden State to rediscover and enjoy this valuable state resource during this year of celebration.
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GIVEN, under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of New Jersey, this thirtieth day of December in the year of Our Lord two thousand four and of the Independence of the United States, the two hundred and twenty-ninth. |
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RICHARD J. CODEY
ACTING GOVERNOR |
BY THE GOVERNOR:
