The Meadowlands Commission is running its terrific pontoon boat eco-cruises out of its new marina in Carlstadt,
and NJMC naturalist Gabrielle Bennett-Meany reports that she has some openings on a few upcoming cruises, including Aug. 18 and 19 at 5:30 p.m.

On a cruise earlier this week had more than 1,000 semipalmated sandpipers (above) hanging out on a nearby dock alongside a Yellow-crowned Night Heron (righth). We also had Ospreys and a Peregrine Falcon (Thanks, Marcus!).

All four species are considered threatened, endangered or of special concern statewide.

The suggested donation is $15 per person for the two-hour cruise, making it one of the best deals around. Download a schedule and registration form here. For more information e-mail Gabrielle here.

Other pix from this week's cruise follow.