Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning & Policy Commission

09/01/2026

September 12th from 10am to 4pm at Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge

Get ready for a free, jam-packed day of learning and laughter for all ages, from the littlest explorers to the wisest adults! Dive into the wonders of Long Island's hidden gem—the Central Pine Barrens!

Participate in games and activities, take nature walks, join the Bonsai Pitch Pine Tree Workshop, see amazing birds of prey, learn about local marine animals, explore
nature exhibits and so much more!

Click the link in our Bio for more information

Get ready for a jam-packed day of learning and laughter for all ages, from the littlest explorers at 5 to the wisest adults!

08/27/2026

Nearly two weeks ago, we wrapped up an incredible six weeks of Barrens to Bay Summer Camp! From exploring the Carmans River and discovering marine life to getting hands-on with nature and learning about Long Island’s environment, it was an unforgettable summer. A huge thank you to all of our campers, families, staff, and partners who made this summer so special. We can’t wait to see what next year brings!

08/04/2026

Throughout July, Central Pine Barrens Commission Compliance and Enforcement officers discovered multiple illegal dumping sites along North Street in Manorville, including furniture, mattresses, garbage bags and other household waste.

The CPBC is working with our law enforcement partners to gather evidence and identify those responsible. Illegal dumping is a crime and will not be tolerated.

If you witness illegal dumping, send us a direct message or call 1-877-BARRENS (1-877-227-7367) to report it. Your help makes a difference in protecting the Pine Barrens.

07/30/2026

Week 3 of Barrens to Bay Summer Camp was another incredible adventure! From hands-on nature activities and wildlife discoveries to games, crafts, and plenty of time exploring the outdoors, it was a week full of learning, laughter and unforgettable memories.

With two more weeks of camp to go, the adventure is far from over. We can’t wait to see what the rest of the summer has in store! 🌿☀️🐢

07/24/2026

CPBC Enforcement Officers are expanding our surveillance efforts across the Central Pine Barrens by installing additional cameras in areas that have recently seen an increase in illegal dumping.

This camera, recently installed in Coram, is one of dozens positioned throughout the Pine Barrens to help identify and hold illegal dumpers and environmental violators accountable.

Protecting our natural resources takes all of us. If you witness illegal dumping, report it. Together, we can help keep the Pine Barrens clean for future generations. 🌲📷

07/23/2026

Week 3 of Barrens to Bay Summer Camp has been full of adventure! From exploring the outdoors and discovering local wildlife to hands-on activities, games, and making unforgettable memories, it’s been another incredible week of learning and fun.

We’ve got one more day left to wrap up the week, and we can’t wait to see what tomorrow has in store!

07/15/2026

Barrens to Bay Summer Camp Week 2 is officially in the books! From hands-on nature activities and outdoor exploration to colorful sidewalk chalk sharks in celebration of Shark Week, it’s been another unforgettable week of learning and adventure.

We’ve made incredible memories, discovered new things about the natural world, and had plenty of fun along the way. We can’t wait to see what Week 3 has in store!

07/09/2026

Barrens to Bay Summer Camp is in full swing, and week one is officially in the books! From a special visit by Smokey Bear to discovering incredible marine life in the Carmans River, there was never a dull moment. We’re already making unforgettable memories and can’t wait to see what adventures week two has in store!

07/07/2026

Three conservation easements have been recorded this year, generating 4.63 Pine Barrens Credits! And there are seven more easements underway.
The Credit Program enables landowners within the Core Preservation Area to exchange their development rights for credits through the establishment of a conservation easement. These credits may then be sold and utilized in future development projects.

If you’d like to learn more about how to benefit from owning land in the core area, contact [email protected] or 631-563-0352.

https://pb.state.ny.us/our-work/credit-program-tdr/how-to-obtain-credits/

05/12/2026

On April 20th, Enforcement Officers discovered remnants of a bonfire near Birch Creek in Flanders. The beach was littered with piles of ash and firewood, along with numerous broken glass bottles. This area serves as a launching point for fishermen and boaters into Birch Creek and Flanders Bay, while also supporting a vibrant wildlife habitat and ecosystem. It is crucial for visitors to familiarize themselves with town rules and regulations, including prohibitions against glass, liquor and open fires on public beaches. Always remember to use the Carry In/Carry Out system when enjoying Long Island’s beaches and respect the natural habitat we share with wildlife and fellow visitors.

Illegal dumping poses significant risks to drinking water, wildlife habitats, and the scenic beauty of the Central Pine Barrens. If you witness dumping in progress or come across a dump site, please report it immediately by
calling 1-877-BARRENS.