People may know the Plainsboro preserve as a cherished place where you can have a stroll or look at the scenery. However, little do people know that behind

the tranquil facade of the Plainsboro preserve lies a story of origin which reveals local heritage and conservation efforts in the midst. The Plainsboro Preserve, nestled in the heart of New Jersey in Plainsboro township, is not just a preserve but a historical site which has a long history. Originally settled as farmland by European pioneers, the area underwent a significant transformation over the centuries.

In 1969 Walker-Gordon signed a contract with the McCormack Sand and Gravel Co. to extract sand and gravel to build skyscrapers in New York. McCormack would ship this gravel and sand by rail because there were train tracks behind what would become the preserve. This enterprise lasted till 1976 in which they hit the sand and gravel they didn’t need. However, they did end up hitting an underground spring which resulted in 50 acre lake McCormack. After McCormack’s operation ended Mayor Cantu believed it was necessary to preserve the land as a preserve. 550 acres of land was purchased from Walker-Gordon, the company that owned the land, to Middlesex county. Those lands would later merge with the 100 acre McCormack Lake tract now owned by Plainsboro preserve. The township later made a contract with the New Jersey Audubon society to reduce costs and preserve nature even further. The Audubon society later withdrew from the Plainsboro preserve. In conclusion, Plainsboro Preserve stands not only as a testament to the natural beauty of New Jersey but also as a testament to the dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to preserve it.