UPCOMING EVENTS
Closter Cleanup 2026
Join us on Saturday, April 25 for Closter Cleanup 2026! (Rain date is Sunday May 3.) This is a chance for individuals, families, and volunteer groups to protect nature and keep Closter beautiful!
SOUP SUPPER
Come for our long running delicious fundraiser! Pay at the door for access to all you can taste soup, bread, and more, donated from a variety of local restaurants and families.
This is a family friendly event that offers the chance to get an easy meal by the pond while supporting a local environmental non-profit.
POND CELEBRATION
Get ready for a delightful day at Ruckman Pond! Groove to live music, paddle serene waters in a canoe, unleash your creativity with arts & crafts and tie-dye, and explore the wonders of pond science.
FREE admission and lots of FREE fun for all ages! It's a perfect way to learn about our reserve and enjoy a beautiful community event.
Seedling Potting with Wild Woods Restoration
Come help us pot native seedlings that will eventually be planted to restore and heal our local public lands. This is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the environment, meet fellow nature lovers, and learn directly from ecological experts—all while working comfortably outdoors in the shade.
Seedling Potting with Wild Woods Restoration
Come help us pot native seedlings that will eventually be planted to restore and heal our local public lands. This is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the environment, meet fellow nature lovers, and learn directly from ecological experts—all while working comfortably outdoors in the shade.
Native Planting with Wild Woods Restoration
Join us for a gentle day of forest restoration, where we'll be planting native greenery grown from local seeds to support our woodland understory. The site is a short walk from the trailhead and involves lightweight work, though we recommend waterproof boots and protective clothing for the wetland terrain. Everyone is welcome, no experience is necessary, and all tools are provided!
MUSIC BY THE POND
Join us for an afternoon of music, nature, and community at beautiful Ruckman Pond. Each month, both professional and amateur musicians come together to share their talents and bring joyful sounds to this peaceful setting.
It’s the perfect way to end your week—bring your family, friends, or simply yourself. Take a moment to pause, unwind, and enjoy live music in the company of neighbors and nature.
When: Every third Sunday of the month
Where: The Cabin by Ruckman Pond
As a non-profit, we rely on the generosity of our community to keep programs like this possible. If you are able, please consider making a donation to support our mission. Every contribution helps us continue bringing music and community together.
LECTURE: KNOW YOUR WOODPECKERS
Woodpeckers are more than just noisy neighbors; they are vital "ecosystem engineers" of our local environment. We invite you to join volunteer Daniel Kogan for an educational program dedicated to the diverse woodpecker populations of the Closter Nature Center.
This program will cover the specialized biology and ecology of these remarkable birds. Participants will learn about:
Species Identification: Distinguishing between the various species found in our preserve.
Specialized Anatomy: The fascinating science behind their shock-absorbing skulls and unique tongues.
Habitat & Conservation: How these birds find food and why they are essential to a healthy forest.
Come prepared to sharpen your observation skills and gain a new appreciation for the woodpeckers, large and small, that thrive in our canopy.
GUIDED MOON-LIT HEIGHT
Step into the enchantment of a winter night. Join us for a guided hike through the crisp evening woods as we seek out the sights and sounds of the forest after dark. From the rustle of nocturnal wildlife to the silent flight of resident owls, there is magic to be found under the moon’s glow.
After our trek, we’ll gather around a crackling bonfire to warm our spirits and enjoy freshly toasted s’mores (weather permitting).
This program is open to all ages; however, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Attendance is by donation. The suggested donation is $5 for CNC members and $10 for non-members.
Advance registration is required, as space is limited, sign up below!