MONTVILLE, NJ — This article is part of Montville’s Open Space Spotlight, a TAPinto Montville series highlighting preserved lands throughout the township and their role in conservation and passive recreation.
From Development Proposal to Preservation
Located near Old Lane and Jean Drive in Towaco, the 19.62-acre Jean Drive Preserve was formerly known as the Gallen Property. Montville Township acquired the property in 2024 for $1.775 million, using funding from the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund and the Township’s Open Space Dedicated Trust Fund.
The property had been associated with residential development proposals during Montville’s affordable-housing planning process. In 2021, the Township pursued county open space funding to help acquire the land. The Morris County Open Space Trust Fund Committee recommended a $465,000 grant toward the purchase, which county commissioners subsequently approved.
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In February 2023, the Township Committee authorized a purchase agreement with Gallen Development LLC for the properties at 57 Old Lane and 21 Jean Drive. The acquisition was completed in 2024, preserving nearly 20 acres previously associated with potential residential development.
A Glimpse Into the Property’s Past
Jean Drive Preserve also reflects Montville’s agricultural history. A September 2021 Township resolution noted that portions of the property historically consisted of an orchard.
The preserve was once part of the Bonnie View Farms property, an agricultural operation established in 1941 that became known for its apple and peach orchards. At its height, the farm encompassed more than 130 acres, reflecting the importance of fruit farming in Montville during the mid-20th century.
Read more: Montville Township Landmarks: Bonnie View Farms
Protecting Montville’s Water Resources
Jean Drive Preserve lies within the Towaco Valley Aquifer Critical Water Resources District. The Township’s Open Space Committee identifies protecting the aquifer and its associated water-supply lands as a preservation priority.
An aquifer is an underground formation that stores and supplies groundwater. According to the Township’s Water Department, the Towaco Valley Aquifer is naturally replenished as rainwater and water from mountain streams seep through soil and rock. This process, known as groundwater recharge, helps replenish the underground water supply.
Preserving undeveloped land can help maintain areas where water can soak into the ground. By contrast, surfaces such as roads, parking lots and rooftops can increase runoff and reduce the amount of rainfall that infiltrates the soil.
The Township’s Open Space Committee reports that more than 600 acres have been preserved as part of efforts to protect Montville’s water supply.
Passive Recreation and Open Space
During the acquisition process, the Township envisioned passive recreational opportunities at the preserve, including hiking, walking and birdwatching. These activities would give residents opportunities to enjoy the property while maintaining its natural character.
The preserve adds to Montville’s protected lands in Towaco, where conservation can help safeguard natural resources while providing opportunities for residents to experience the township’s landscape.
Preserving Land for the Future
This preserve is part of the broader conservation efforts. Approximately 3,000 acres, or roughly 25% of the township’s land area, are reported to be preserved as open space.
Jean Drive Preserve adds nearly 20 acres to that total, protecting land with agricultural roots and environmental significance as Montville continues to balance conservation with future community needs.
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