Burlington County officials and Evesham Township leaders have announced a forthcoming land preservation deal that will expand the Black Run Preserve. The New Jersey Conservation Foundation has entered into a binding contract to purchase the 835-acre Samost property in Evesham, an area known for its ecological sensitivity. This land is located between Kettle Run, Tomlinson Mill, Kenilworth and Egret roads and forms part of the New Jersey Pinelands. It contains the headwaters of Black Run, which feeds into the southwest branch of Rancocas Creek, as well as habitats for native plants and animals.
Burlington County will contribute $5 million from its open space funds toward the $15 million acquisition cost. The county’s funding covers about one-third of the total price. Evesham Township will eventually take ownership of the property and add it to the existing 1,300-acre Black Run Preserve.
“Open spaces like the Black Run and its watershed are a big part of what makes Burlington County special, and we are thrilled to partner with the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, Evesham Township, the Pinelands Commission, New Jersey Green Acres and the property owners to make sure it remains protected for current and future generations,” said Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel. “Partnerships like this one allows us to preserve this ecologically-sensitive property while also making it more accessible so people can visit and enjoy what makes it unique and exceptional.”
Robyn Jeney, South Jersey Regional Manager for NJ Conservation Foundation, commented: “Preserving the Black Run Headwaters Property means water quality, critical plant and animal habitat, and the overall ecological integrity of the area will be protected for generations to come. This effort is a testament to the conservation values of the property owners, who have been a pleasure to work with.”
Evesham Mayor Jaclyn Veasy called this agreement “a historic milestone” for both Evesham Township residents and environmental protection efforts: “This agreement marks a historic milestone for Evesham Township and a victory for every resident who treasures our natural landscape. Working to bring this property into our protected lands means more than just saving 835 acres from development — it means securing the heart of our local ecosystem for generations to come,” said Mayor Veasy. “We are incredibly proud to partner with Burlington County and NJ Conservation to prove that when we prioritize stewardship over sprawl, everybody wins.”
New Jersey Assemblywoman Andrea Katz added: “Evesham created the Black Run Preserve to serve as an outdoor sanctuary for people to visit from throughout South Jersey. This deal will protect more of this fragile natural ecosystem. I applaud the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, Burlington County, Evesham and all the other partners involved.”
A recent Southern Regional Trails Feasibility Study conducted by Burlington County explored possible regional trail connections through Evesham Township including links with Black Run Preserve. The study details potential routes across eight towns in central and southern Burlington County along with objectives such as expanding access while preserving natural resources; further information is available on the county’s website.
County Commissioner Randy Brolo stated: “Preserving Burlington County’s landscape and natural resources is a worthwhile investment on its own,” he said. “But we’re also excited by this land deal because it may create additional opportunities to expand our trail network. We believe this can be done responsibly in a way that enhances access for all residents, including those with mobility challenges, while also protecting the unique natural resources that make this property so special.”
Burlington County is recognized as New Jersey’s largest county by area at 827 square miles according to official records. The county includes three cities among its 40 political subdivisions comprising boroughs and townships.
The Board of County Commissioners oversees operations in Burlington County alongside Eve Cullinan serving as county administrator.
Historic Smithville Park stands out among local attractions as a 312-acre site featuring forests, meadows streams, wetlands—highlighting ongoing efforts within Burlington County towards conservation initiatives.
