Anyone can prepare a New Jersey and National Register application. The two forms are extremely simple (download below). 

Do you have the time or previous experience? Please contact me if you are doing this - apparently several people may be working on applications, which is great, but it's no good if no-one knows about it! The application needs to be filed May 19th and the press notified. "" An application for inclusion on the Local and National Historic Register has been filed for the Doris Duke Gardens, which will close and subsequently be dismantled this weekend, May 2008."

Applications are handled by the Historic Preservation Office (HPO), NJHPO@DEP.STATE.NJ.US, (609) 984-0541.

Applications are typically prepared by individuals, cultural or historical organizations. Completed applications are submitted to the HPO where a staff member evaluates them. Property owners and county and local officials are notified and given an opportunity to comment, and a public meeting is held for large historic districts.

Applications are then presented to the New Jersey State Review Board for Historic Sites. Their last meeting was February 19th, the next is June 18th. Note that Duke Gardens destruction was announced March 2nd and will occur May 25th. Co-incidence?

Listing on the New Jersey and National Registers does not place restrictions on private property owner rights. Private property owners can do anything they wish with their property, provided no federal or state license, permit, or funding is involved. eg, Duke Farms can remove plants and cut down trees, demolish ornamental bridges, fill in koi ponds etc etc.

However, if an application is filed, History would note "the Doris Duke Gardens were under consideration for local and National Historic Register when they were destroyed in May 2008." Does that sound flattering to the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation?