Hackensack River Greenway and Pomander Walk Open Space

Our trip leader, DeeAnn Ipp, has lived in the area of the walk since 1960. She remembers when the entire 20 acres of Pomander Walk Open Space were wetland and transitional wetland forest. Over the years she witnessed the piecemeal development of this acreage. First came landfill and a subsequent landfill hill; then came a Swim Club and gravel parking lot; followed by the Classic Residence for senior citizens. The few remaining acres of open space are now used as a Leaf Transfer Station by Teaneck Township.

The land development and poor land use management practices caused loss of wildlife and bird habitat, loss of plant diversity, and subsequent invasion by exotic plants species. As DeeAnn observed these events, she came to...