Building Homes for Ospreys: A Legacy of Conservation by the Glenn Family

Yesterday was more than just a day in the marsh—it was a celebration of community, conservation, and a shared commitment to protecting New Jersey’s wildlife. Together with Tim Glenn, the team from Glenn Insurance, and
Ben Wurst of Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ, we installed and repaired osprey nesting platforms in the coastal wetlands of Galloway Township. These platforms provide safe nesting sites for ospreys, a species that has made a remarkable comeback thanks to decades of dedicated conservation work.

Why Osprey Platforms Matter

Ospreys, often called “fish hawks,” are a vital indicator of healthy coastal ecosystems. They return to New Jersey each spring from wintering grounds in Central and South America, seeking tall, open structures near water to build their nests. With natural sites disappearing due to development and storms, man-made platforms have become essential. About 75% of New Jersey’s ospreys now rely on these platforms for nesting.

• Platforms should be placed close to water and away from predators.
• Perch poles and predator guards (like aluminum sleeves) help protect nests.
• Install platforms by mid-March to be ready for breeding season.

The Glenn Family’s Conservation Legacy

The osprey project is just one chapter in a long story of stewardship by the Glenn family. In a landmark act of generosity, Tim Glenn’s parents donated 42 acres of land off Route 9 in Galloway Township to the New Jersey Green Acres Program, ensuring permanent protection for open space and wildlife habitat. This property, once threatened by development, now forms part of a network of preserved lands that benefit both people and nature.

Their commitment didn’t stop there. In 2024, the Glenn family unveiled “Glenn by the Bay”, a welcome pavilion and pollinator garden at Veterans Memorial Park—a space designed to connect the community with nature and promote native habitat restoration. This initiative reflects the family’s vision of conservation as a shared responsibility.

A Day of Action

Working alongside WildlifeNJ and local volunteers, we not only installed a new osprey platform but also repaired and relocated several older ones. Each structure represents hope for these magnificent birds and a healthier coastal ecosystem. The camaraderie was palpable—neighbors, conservationists, and business leaders united by a common purpose. It was a reminder that protecting wildlife isn’t just about science; it’s about community.

Looking Ahead

The Glenn family’s efforts underscore a powerful truth: conservation succeeds when people care enough to act. From donating land to building osprey platforms, these initiatives create ripples that extend far beyond the marshes of Galloway. As ospreys soar overhead next spring, they’ll be returning to safe havens built by hands committed to preserving New Jersey’s natural heritage.

Join the movement: Support local conservation projects, volunteer with organizations like
Conserve Wildlife NJ, and help ensure that future generations experience the beauty of ospreys thriving along our shores.