Trees vs. a deadly worm | Inquirer South Jersey
🦠 And an updated flu vaccine deadline for preschoolers.
Good morning, South Jersey.
The conservation team at Saddler’s Woods is doing everything it can to save the type of tree that makes up a substantial portion of the dense old-growth forest against an invasive worm.
And to keep their kids enrolled, New Jersey parents will need to ensure their preschoolers get their flu shots a month earlier compared to past years.
Plus, the New Jersey Pinelands Commission approved a restoration project despite opposition from some environmentalists, and more news of the day.
— Taylor Allen (southjersey@inquirer.com)
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The American beech trees in Saddler’s Woods in Haddon Township are under threat.
At least 200 of them in the 25-acre forest are infected with beech leaf disease caused by an invasive worm. Trees with the condition can be identified by dark banding between the leaves’ veins. Eventually, the leaves shrink, curl, and discolor as the disease progresses.
After the initial infestation, the trees usually die within four to five years.
If there are major losses of these trees, it can cause massive disruptions to the ecosystem. The trees are often the location of horned owls’ nursery nests, and the beech nut is food for many animals.
Despite the disease not having an effective treatment, the conservation team is trying to find ways to combat the disease.
Reporter Lacey Latch explains some of their tactics.
If they haven’t already, New Jersey parents will need to make a flu-shot appointment sooner rather than later.
The state health department now requires children 6 months and older who attend preschool or a childcare center to get their annual flu vaccine by Nov. 30. If they don’t get it by then, they can’t attend school until they get the shot or until flu season ends on March 31.
In the past, the deadline used to be Dec. 31 but was adjusted in January along with various other updates to the state’s immunization laws.
Read on to learn about the reasoning behind the new deadline.
What to know today
The New Jersey Pinelands Commission voted Friday to approve an Atlantic white cedar restoration project despite some environmentalists rallying against aspects of the plan, which include cutting existing trees.
According to an NJ.com investigation, Washington Township spent its opioid settlement money on SUVs and license plate cameras for its police department.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro enticed companies like Burlington to move its headquarters from its namesake city with state incentives, but some question if it will benefit the region.
A Cherry Hill man was struck and killed by a vehicle while crossing Route 38 near Longwood Avenue on Thursday night, according to local officials.
The New Jersey deadline to register to vote for the general election is Tuesday.
Democratic U.S. Sen. Cory Booker debated his Republican challenger Justin Murphy, a former Tabernacle committee person, over President Donald Trump’s policies on Thursday night.
Subaru intends to use sustainable landscaping for its recently approved Cherry Hill dealership, 70and73 reports.
Developers want to create a high-speed ferry that runs from New York City to Atlantic City as early as next summer.
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🧠 Trivia time
Lifetime’s film Death Saved My Life was primarily shot in Haddonfield. Which actress starred in it?
A) Ali Larter
B) Meagan Good
C) Gabrielle Union
D) Cristin Milioti
Think you know? Check your answer.
What we’re ...
🏡 Ogling: A saltbox-style home in Cherry Hill.
⚾ Deciding: Which Phillies should stay or go next year by swiping left or right.
💭 Wondering: What is too much when it comes to gory and realistic-looking Halloween decorations?
📬 Your South Jersey view
I spent my early Saturday evening strolling through downtown Medford on Main Street and then stopping by Tomlinson Park.
What does your community look like? What South Jersey memory would you like to share? Submit a photo and/or a brief description for a chance to be featured in the Monday edition of this newsletter.
🗞️ What other South Jersey residents are reading
And that’s been your Monday morning news roundup. Let’s make this a great week. Thank you for starting it with The Inquirer.
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