Gen Z Activists Rally Community Against Controversial Residential Development Next to Black Run Reserve in South Jersey

When Zoe Welsch discovered that the Black Run Reserve, her beloved nature spot, might soon be turned into a housing development, she was heartbroken. “This is so upsetting,” she said. Zoe, a fashion and lifestyle influencer from South Jersey, has spent many years visiting this special place.

Located in Evesham Township, New Jersey, Black Run Reserve covers 1,300 acres and is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including over a hundred species. It also supplies drinking water to millions. Now, Devel LLC plans to build 270 single-family homes on 780 acres next to the reserve.

In response, the Climate Revolution Action Network and the Pinelands Preservation Alliance are rallying young people nationwide to push for the protection of this land. The Pinelands Commission has proposed changing the land designation from “rural development” to “forest area,” which would prevent building. This proposal triggered a 60-day comment period, but approval could take until mid-October.

“Unless we act to protect open spaces, millions may struggle to access clean water,” said Jason Howell from the Pinelands Preservation Alliance. The commission’s approval could come just as Devel is seeking a “certificate of filing,” which would allow them to move forward with the project.

The Pine Barrens, a unique ecosystem covering over 20% of New Jersey, has been recognized for its ecological significance since the 1960s. The Pinelands Preservation Alliance, established in 1989, has worked tirelessly to protect its habitats and resources.

The reserve is home to endangered species like the Pine Barrens treefrog, which relies on undisturbed forests for survival. Similarly, the northern pine snake, a state-threatened species, plays a crucial role in controlling local rodent populations but faces challenges due to habitat loss.

Besides wildlife, the area relies on the Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer, which holds 17 trillion gallons of water and is vital for regional water supply. However, increasing development pressure is a growing concern as local wells run dry and contamination risks rise.

More development could also worsen flooding issues—a significant concern as storms become more intense due to climate change. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, severe storms are more frequent, emphasizing the need for natural land to absorb excess water.

“This fight is for both present and future generations,” Ben Dziobek, Executive Director of Climate Revolution Action Network, stated. Young activists are playing a critical role in this movement, with many leading efforts to ensure their voices are heard in environmental discussions.

So far, over 100,000 letters opposing the development have been sent to New Jersey officials, mostly from young people aged 18 to 28. Their efforts highlight a growing trend of social media activism focused on environmental issues.

While the Pinelands Commission has a central role, local municipalities can strengthen protections. Evesham Township has the authority to rezone the area as a protected forest, which would require community support to happen.

“The local level has significant power,” Howell noted. “But it requires public pressure to make changes happen.” With the stakes this high, it’s clear that the future of Black Run Reserve—and the vital resources it provides—hangs in the balance.



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