September 7, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 17 NJ Botanical Garden sponsors September Birding Walk The New Jersey Botanical Garden invites the public to learn more about the garden’s wildlife on a Birding Walk set for Sunday, Sept. 11, at 10 a.m. September is a prime migration time. The Bergen County Audubon Society will lead this easy walk as participants look for the great birds that visit the NJBG on their fall journey. Wear comfortable shoes and meet at the Carriage House Visitor Center. Rain cancels this event. This program is free of charge. NJBG/Skylands is located on Morris Road in Ringwood. For an event schedule, membership brochure, directions, or additional information, call (973) 962-9534 or visit www.njbg.org. The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the garden is always free. Parking is also free in the fall, winter, and spring. In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state’s first acquisition under the Green Acres preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the state’s official botanical garden in 1984. Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incor- porated, member-supported non-profit organization, has worked with the state to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG receives no funding from the State of New Jersey or from on-site operators. Donations and sponsorships are always appreciated. A red-winged blackbird flashes his epaulets. (Photo by Mike Malzone.)