Late Summer Plant Walk-About
2025-09-07 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Learn about the surprising uses of the plants we see everyday!

Come with herbalist and casual forager Reid Giacomarra as we explore the School of Conservation campus in search of seasonal edible, medicinal & historically relevant native, nonnative & invasive plants, trees and maybe even some mushrooms.
Your guide, Reid, has always been fascinated by all things wild, with plants having a particular pull. She’s studied herbalism with David Winston, Rosemary Gladstar and other plant lovers. She has previously worked at the NJ based herbal products company, Herbalist & Alchemist. She also enjoys gardening, foraging, & roaming about our local forests.
This program is open to adults and older teens (age 16 and up). This will be an easy walk over sometimes uneven terrain; comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Please dress for the weather, with rain gear or an umbrella in case of light rain! Heavy rain will postpone event to Sunday, September 14th and participants will be notified by email.
Refund Policy: Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
For events that are weather-dependent, a raindate/reschedule date is included in the event description. We do not offer refunds if an event is rescheduled for the specified date. The raindate for this event is Sunday, September 14th. If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Observing Nature: Inward and Outward
2025-09-13 09:30 - 17:30
Free yourself from your mental gerbil wheel and experience the peace and focus that come from simply being present!

In “Observing Nature: Inward and Outward,” you’ll learn how to still your mind, open your heart, open your eyes, and open your higher senses to take in what is going on within and around you at all times. The peaceful forest environment of the School of Conservation is the perfect place to accomplish this! The practical skills you learn to strengthen your own powers of observation will help make it easier to navigate the world and its unexpected surprises in order to succeed at reaching your goals.
This program is designed for ages 12* to adult (*children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult), and no prior experience is required– just a love of nature and learning. Instructor-led activities will include simple, yet powerful, mindfulness techniques, deep relaxation instruction, nature observation walks (some silent), private journaling, and cell phone nature photography.
This is the 4th year the Friends of NJSOC is offering this program! In order to make it possible for more people to participate, we are offering two single-day sessions on back-to-back days: Saturday, September 13th and Sunday, September 14th. You need only register for one date (although you are welcome to register for both days if you wish!).
This popular program is led by Peter Del Vecchio, using his training and life experiences as both a keen observer of the natural world and yogic mindfulness guide. Here’s what previous participants have had to say about Observing Nature: Inward and Outward:
• “Thoroughly enjoyed the program with Peter at NJSOC. Made me appreciate how important it is to practice being present and practice mindfulness on a daily basis.”
• “I loved the focus on ‘love and forgiveness’”.
• “I would recommend this program to anyone who has anxiety or other mental health struggles, as you learn a lot of coping strategies and how to be present.”
• “At first, I wasn’t sure about coming to this program because it didn’t sound like something that would be beneficial to me. However, after coming here, I can say that I have learned a lot about myself, what I need to work on, and how to do it.”
“Wonderful! This workshop was everything I was hoping it would be. I really enjoyed the day, the meditations were powerful, and sharing of participants’ nature photos was very enjoyable!”

Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. In the case of a multi-day event, you must cancel 7 or more days before the first day of the event. No partial refunds are given if you cannot attend all days of the event.
While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
For events that are weather-dependent, a raindate/reschedule date is included in the event description. We do not offer refunds if an event is rescheduled for the specified date.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Observing Nature: Inward and Outward
2025-09-14 09:30 - 17:30
REGISTRATION FOR SUNDAY’S PROGRAM IS CLOSED. TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR SATURDAY, SEPT. 13TH.
Free yourself from your mental gerbil wheel and experience the peace and focus that come from simply being present!

In “Observing Nature: Inward and Outward,” you’ll learn how to still your mind, open your heart, open your eyes, and open your higher senses to take in what is going on within and around you at all times. The peaceful forest environment of the School of Conservation is the perfect place to accomplish this! The practical skills you learn to strengthen your own powers of observation will help make it easier to navigate the world and its unexpected surprises in order to succeed at reaching your goals.
This program is designed for ages 12* to adult (*children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult), and no prior experience is required– just a love of nature and learning. Instructor-led activities will include simple, yet powerful, mindfulness techniques, deep relaxation instruction, nature observation walks (some silent), private journaling, and cell phone nature photography.
This is the 4th year the Friends of NJSOC is offering this program! In order to make it possible for more people to participate, we are offering two single-day sessions on back-to-back days: Saturday, September 13th and Sunday, September 14th. You need only register for one date (although you are welcome to register for both days if you wish!).
This popular program is led by Peter Del Vecchio, using his training and life experiences as both a keen observer of the natural world and yogic mindfulness guide. Here’s what previous participants have had to say about Observing Nature: Inward and Outward:
• “Thoroughly enjoyed the program with Peter at NJSOC. Made me appreciate how important it is to practice being present and practice mindfulness on a daily basis.”
• “I loved the focus on ‘love and forgiveness’”.
• “I would recommend this program to anyone who has anxiety or other mental health struggles, as you learn a lot of coping strategies and how to be present.”
• “At first, I wasn’t sure about coming to this program because it didn’t sound like something that would be beneficial to me. However, after coming here, I can say that I have learned a lot about myself, what I need to work on, and how to do it.”
“Wonderful! This workshop was everything I was hoping it would be. I really enjoyed the day, the meditations were powerful, and sharing of participants’ nature photos was very enjoyable!”

Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. In the case of a multi-day event, you must cancel 7 or more days before the first day of the event. No partial refunds are given if you cannot attend all days of the event.
While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
For events that are weather-dependent, a raindate/reschedule date is included in the event description. We do not offer refunds if an event is rescheduled for the specified date.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Tuesday Fall Hikes for Women (ages 18+)
2025-09-16 09:15 - 12:00
Join like-minded women and hike on trails at NJSOC.

Ladies only! Join us each month for a Tuesday morning hike on local trails, as we look for signs of the changing seasons, photo opportunities and forest calm. Along the way, we will learn hiking tips for the woods. Lois Lyons, an NJSOC Master Educator, will be your guide. This program is for ages 18 and up.
We will meet at NJSOC at 9:15 am and hike from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm.
Hike Distance: 3 – 4 miles
Pace: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Moderate to slightly strenuous; hikes include flat and rocky trails, some hills.
Hiking shoes or boots are required. Trekking poles are highly recommended. Bring a daypack holding 1 – 2 liters of water, some snacks and a rain jacket. Hike will be held in light rain. Dress in layers.
Join us for a single hike ($10), or register at a discounted rate for the 3-hike series (all three for $25):
Session #1 – “Beaver Dam” Hike – Tuesday, September 16
Session #2 – “Flatbrook River” Hike – Tuesday, October 21
Session #3 – “Towards Stokes Forest” Hike – Tuesday, November 11

Early Autumn Plant Walk-About
2025-09-28 10:00 - 12:00
Learn about the surprising uses of the plants we see everyday!

Come with herbalist and casual forager Reid Giacomarra as we explore the School of Conservation campus in search of seasonal edible, medicinal & historically relevant native, nonnative & invasive plants, trees and maybe even some mushrooms.
Your guide, Reid, has always been fascinated by all things wild, with plants having a particular pull. She’s studied herbalism with David Winston, Rosemary Gladstar and other plant lovers. She has previously worked at the NJ based herbal products company, Herbalist & Alchemist. She also enjoys gardening, foraging, & roaming about our local forests.
This program is open to adults and older teens (age 16 and up). This will be an easy walk over sometimes uneven terrain; comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Please dress for the weather, with rain gear or an umbrella in case of light rain! Heavy rain will postpone event to Sunday, October 5th and participants will be notified by email.
Refund Policy: Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
For events that are weather-dependent, a raindate/reschedule date is included in the event description. We do not offer refunds if an event is rescheduled for the specified date. The raindate for this event is Sunday, October 5th. If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Bees and Bee-havior
2025-10-04 10:00 - 14:00
Discover the awesome beauty of the honeybee!

Join enthusiasts, Kevin Roche and his son, Luke, in this introduction to the honeybee, Apis mellifera. We will get up close and personal (literally) to gain a better understanding of the lifecycle of honeybees and their important role in pollination.
We will spend time outdoors engaged in the sport of bee lining, a method used to locate a colony of wild honeybees. We’ll learn how to to distinguish honeybees from other pollinators (such as bumble bees, wasps, etc.), catch and mark foraging honeybees using a bee box, and use techniques to estimate the direction and distance to an active hive. This sport naturally provides us with an opportunity to evaluate and improve nesting habitat for these pollinators who are currently suffering alarming losses which surpass all historical trends. It also provides a great opportunity to practice our orienteering skills!
Your program leader, Kevin Roche, has worked with Rutgers NJPIRG students on behalf of our local honeybees, and is dedicated to helping these valuable pollinators thrive.
This program is open to all ages. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
Rain will postpone the event to Sunday, October 5th (bees don’t fly in the rain!) and participants will be notified via email. Please plan to keep both dates open!Refund Policy/Inclement Weather:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. In the case of a multi-day event, you must cancel 7 or more days before the first day of the event. Registration fees are not adjusted and no partial refunds are given if you cannot attend all days of the event.
While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
In the event of inclement weather, participants will be notified if a session will not be held as scheduled. The rain date for this session is Sunday, October 5th.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

October Beginner Archery Course (3 sessions) for Youth (ages 8-13)
2025-10-11 10:00 - 2025-10-25 11:00
Come join the fun!

Join the fun! We will have you flinging arrows in no time. Be advised, archery is great fun and habit-forming! No experience or equipment necessary!
This workshop series is open to youth (ages 8-13) and consists of three 60-minute classes on three consecutive Saturdays:

Saturdays, October 11, 18, and 25 @ 10:00 – 11:00 am

Each Saturday class will include both instruction and supervised open shooting practice time. Participants who complete the program will be able to easily transition into any archery program or move on to our Advanced Course. Eager to participate, but not able to make all three sessions? Email us at info@friendsofnjsoc.org and we’ll work out a solution!
Ruth and John Goralski are Level 3 Instructor/Trainers with USA Archery. They are also past PA state champions.
If you have any difficulty with the registration process, please let us know so we can help! Contact us at info@friendsofnjsoc.org.
Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Refund Policy/Inclement Weather:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. In the case of a multi-day event, you must cancel 7 or more days before the first day of the event. Registration fees are not adjusted and no partial refunds are given if you cannot attend all days of the event.
While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
In the event of inclement weather, participants will be notified if a session will not be held as scheduled. A session cancelled due to bad weather will be made up by adding time to the following class.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

October Beginner Archery Course (3 sessions) for Adults (ages 14 & up)
2025-10-11 12:00 - 2025-10-25 13:00
You pull back the bowstring… stare downrange at the target. Release! The arrow flies away and plunges into the target. Bullseye!

Join the fun! Participants will be taught by USA Archery certified instructors. We will have you flinging arrows in no time. Be advised, archery is great fun and habit-forming! No experience or equipment necessary!
This workshop series is open to adults (ages 14+) and consists of three 60-minute classes on three consecutive Saturdays.

Saturdays, October 11, 18, and 25 @ 12:00 – 1:00 pm

Each Saturday class will include both instruction and supervised open shooting practice time. Participants who complete the program will be able to easily transition into any archery program or move on to our Advanced Course. Eager to participate, but not able to make all three sessions? Email us at info@friendsofnjsoc.org and we’ll work out a solution!
Ruth and John Goralski are Level 3 Instructor/Trainers with USA Archery. They are also past PA state champions.
If you have any difficulty with the registration process, please let us know so we can help! Contact us at info@friendsofnjsoc.org.
Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Refund Policy/Inclement Weather:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. In the case of a multi-day event, you must cancel 7 or more days before the first day of the event. Registration fees are not adjusted and no partial refunds are given if you cannot attend all days of the event.
While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
In the event of inclement weather, participants will be notified if a session will not be held as scheduled. A session cancelled due to bad weather will be made up by adding time to the next session.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Painting Among the Pines: Lake Wapalanne in the Fall
2025-10-26 13:00 - 15:00
Get ready to unleash your inner artist among the vibrant fall foliage at Lake Wapalanne – no experience needed, just creativity and love!

The inspiration comes from a serene view of Lake Wapalanne captured in the golden hours of an autumn afternoon. Notice how the sun sets low, casting a warm amber glow across the bare branches. The trees have mostly shed their leaves, revealing intricate patterns of trunks and branches silhouetted in orange light. A few evergreen pines hold onto their deep green hues, adding contrast to the fall color palette.
In the foreground, the rippling lake reflects the fiery treeline, creating a dynamic mix of movement and mirror-like calm. The crisp air and fading light signal the quiet beauty of late fall—when the world pauses between the vibrant foliage and winter’s hush.
Materials are included in the fee, all you have to bring is excitement and some confidence.
You are welcome to bring snacks. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited but we will have apple cider provided.
This program is open to adults and youth ages 14 and up. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited to 10 artists.

Nature by the Book: the NJSOC Book Club...Fall Session
2025-11-16 10:30 - 12:00
Our FREE book club is back with a new title!

Join us as we read together Slow Birding by Joan E. Strassmann. Participants will read at their own pace, with an opportunity to discuss virtually using the Heylo app . You’ll receive weekly discussion points to ponder that will guide our group conversation. We’ll meet to discuss the book face-to-face on Sunday, November 16th at the School of Conservation from 10:30 to noon. This meeting will also include an outdoor activity related to our reading.
High School students and up are welcome to join. Participants will provide their own copy of the book. We will officially begin reading on Sunday, October 5th. Please feel free to register and jump in any time up to November 8th. Participants will receive addtional instructions via email (don’t forget to monitor the email address you use to register!).
About Slow Birding: “Many birders travel far and wide to popular birding destinations to catch sight of rare or “exotic” birds. In Slow Birding, evolutionary biologist Joan E. Strassmann encourages readers to slow down and notice the spectacular birds all around them.
In this inspiring guide to the art of slow birding, Strassmann tells colorful stories of the most common birds to be found in the United States—birds we often see but might not have considered deeply before. For example, northern cardinals thrive in the city, where they are free from predators. White brows on a male white-throated sparrow indicate that he is likely to be a philanderer. This essential guide to the fascinating world of common, everyday birds features:

detailed portraits of individual bird species and the scientists who have discovered and observed them
advice and guidance on what to look for when slow birding, so that you can uncover clues to the reasons behind specific bird behaviors
bird-focused activities that will open your eyes more to the fascinating world of birds

Slow Birding is the perfect guide for the birder looking to appreciate the beauty of the birds right in their own backyard, observing keenly how their behaviors change from day to day and season to season.“

Thankfulness Hike
2025-11-28 09:45 - 12:30
Let’s be thankful for our friends and the forest!

We’ll meander along the trails near the Flatbrook River and through the woods of the NJ School of Conservation. We will stop and be grateful for all the woodland sights and sounds. The hike will be led by Lois Lyons, a Master Teacher at NJSOC.
This Thanksgiving hike will be at an easy to moderate pace and terrain, for 3 to 4 miles. Bring a daypack holding 1-2 liters of water, some snacks (Thanksgiving leftovers?!) and a rain jacket. Hike will be held in light rain. Dress in layers.
Hiking boots or shoes and hiking poles are highly recommended.
This program is for adults 18 and over, and children over 12 are welcome with an adult.
We will meet on the NJSOC campus at 9:45 am and hike from 10 am to 12:30 pm.

Wapalanne Women's Wellness Weekend
2025-12-05 17:00 - 2025-12-07 13:00
Welcome to Wapalanne Women’s Wellness Weekend where you can relax and refresh in nature

Welcome to Wapalanne Women’s Wellness Weekend where you can relax and refresh in nature
Welcome to Wapalanne Women’s Wellness Weekend on the historic NJSOC campus in the middle of beautiful Stokes State Forest!
Come and enjoy a weekend to refresh your mind, body, and spirit with Zen Tangle meditation, hiking, a vegan cooking demo, yoga, Mindfulness Meditation, and much more. Before the hustle and bustle of the Holiday Season take time to relax and center yourself in a beautiful natural setting. Maybe ask for an early holiday present to help you find calm before the busy season. Come on your own or bring some friends and stay in our rustic cabins with views of Lake Wapalanne.
The cost of this weekend includes two nights of lodging, six meals and six programs. It also helps us continue our work to foster environmental knowledge and action through education programs that promote sustainablility practices, climate change mitigation, and environmental justice.
Programs will include:
Zen Tangle Meditation – Learn the principles of Zen Tangles and practice drawing the basic patterns from Master Educator Lois. Then go for a walk and draw inspiration from nature to make your own Tangles and designs. Lois Lyons taught high school AP Chemistry, Chem and Biology for 30 years. She advised Environmental Clubs. Lois earned a Presidential Award in Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.Her hobbies are hiking, watercolor painting, kayaking and traveling. Lois has found a new passion at NJSOC—once again teaching students by combining her love of the outdoors, science and the arts. All supplies provided.
Interpretive Hike – Take a hike with a Master Educator Patrice and use your 5 senses to experience the forest as winter approaches. Patrice Kealy has shared her knowledge and love of science, history and the arts with children and adults in many settings throughout New Jersey for over 50 years. While she explores the natural world, Patrice expresses her passion for the wonders of creation as an avid photographer, artist and writer. Sturdy shoes recommended.
Yoga – Join us for a fireside session with Cindy Chiariello to learn why we practice yoga and how important it is to our wellness. Bring a mat or towel as we do some movement and end with a meditation. Cindy is a Licensed Social Worker and Yoga Teacher/Therapist whose approach to her work has been profoundly shaped by being primary caregiver to her oldest child, an adult daughter who has autism. She decided to become a yoga instructor in 2016 after finding yoga helped alleviate struggles with insomnia, stress, and inflamation and eventually completed additional certificates in Restorative Yoga; Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, Special Needs/Adaptive, and Kids Yoga. Cindy is a Yoga Alliance YACEP (Continuing Education Provider) and E-RYT (teacher trainer). She also earned an M.S. in Yoga Therapy from Notre Dame of Maryland School of Integrative Health, and is certified by the International Association of Yoga Therapists. All levels of experience are welcome.
Vegan Cooking Demo with DIY Kitchen Diaries – Learn how to cook healthy vegan Chickpea Noodle soup with fresh made Egg-free Noodles with renowned Chef Afi Green. Chef Afi Green graduated from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts for Patisserie and Baking in 2012 in Atlanta GA. She launched DIY Kitchen Diaries in early 2020 in Newark NJ, cooking classes that bring traditional techniques to an easygoing atmosphere.
Mindfulness Meditation – Learn how to practice being fully present, how to be aware of your experiences and surroundings, and how to learn to observe emotions and thoughts without judgement. This session is led by Diana Lapp, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, hiker, and owner of Inner Strength Counseling Services, LLC. She specializes in supporting adults navigating stress, anxiety, burnout, and life transitions through nature-based approaches. Diana is certified in Forest Therapy, with additional training in Wilderness First Aid and CPR/AED. She leads Walk & Talk therapy sessions, mindful hikes, women’s circles, and retreats. Her work is rooted in the belief that time in nature grounds us, restores balance, and fosters healing. Each participant will receive a wellness gift and a digital copy of Diana’s Mindfulness Photobook.
Campfire and Storytelling – Join a NJ Storytelling Network Storyteller around the campfire at Piney Point. NJSN was founded in 2002 to collect and preserve the oral tradition through events and educational programs to inspire, enlighten, and entertain the public with the art of storytelling.

Individuals who identify as women are welcome at this event.

Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 14 or more days before the event. While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 14 days of the event. If we must cancel, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Holiday Decorations from Natural Materials
2025-12-06 14:00 - 17:00
Deck the halls this holiday season with ornaments you make yourself from materials found in nature!

Usher in the Holidays with an afternoon of creating holiday tree decorations with natural materials. We’ll take a short walk to collect acorns, pinecones, sticks, leaves, or whatever natural treasures you can find to create your own ornament. We will supply glitter, glue, string, wire, acorns, pinecones and other natural materials, and examples of decorations you might want to create. Or use your imagination and creativity to come up with your own design!. Once everyone has finished, we’ll each hang one of our ornaments on a tree at Piney Point, enjoy a campfire, and light the tree we decorated together as darkness falls.
This program is open to adults and children of any age. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Please purchase a ticket for each participant age 3 and up.
If you have any difficulty with the registration process, please let us know so we can help! Contact us at info@friendsofnjsoc.org.

Introduction to Ice Fishing
2026-01-31 10:00 - 13:00
New to Ice Fishing? Start Here with the NJ School of Conservation!

Curious about ice fishing but not sure where to begin? Join us for an introductory ice fishing program designed especially for beginners. We’ll provide all the bait and equipment—you just bring your curiosity and sense of adventure.
The program begins with about one hour of classroom instruction, covering essential topics such as ice safety, ice formation, fish behavior in cold water, and the basic equipment and techniques used in ice fishing. Afterward, we’ll head out onto the ice at Lake Wapalanne for about an hour and a half of hands-on practice, where you’ll get to try what you’ve learned with guidance from experienced instructors.
Any fish caught will be measured, photographed, and safely released. For safety and consistency, only the equipment provided by the program may be used.
Inclement weather date: February 1
Please note: The class will be rescheduled or canceled if ice conditions are deemed unsafe.
Come learn the basics, build confidence on the ice, and enjoy a fun winter experience in a safe, supportive setting!

Painting Among the Pines: Birds of NJSOC
2026-02-22 13:00 - 15:00
Small but mighty, the chickadee is a reminder that even in the coldest months, the NJSOC campus is full of life and personality.

This painting captures the quiet, winter charm of one of the New Jersey School of Conservation’s most beloved year-round residents: the Chickadee. A meticulously detailed Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus), known for its unique call and its brave, curious personality that delights hikers on the NJSOC trails.
Set against a soft, ethereal background of muted earth tones and glowing light, this piece highlights the delicate balance between the rugged wilderness of the trails that make up the NJ School Conservation and the fragile beauty of its inhabitants.
Materials are included in the fee; all you have to bring is excitement and some confidence.
You are welcome to bring snacks. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
This program is open to adults and youth ages 14 and up. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited to 12 artists.

Spring Nature Zen Tangle Drawing Workshop and Walk
2026-03-07 09:30 - 12:30
Join us as we learn about this meditative drawing method.

Zen Tangles are an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun artform in which you use structured patterns to create beautiful images. The designs are non-representational and unplanned. There is no up or down to Zen Tangle art. You don’t need to know what a tangle is going to look like to draw it. The result is always a delightful surprise!
In this workshop, we’ll learn the principles of Zen Tangles and practice drawing the basic patterns. We will then go for a walk and draw inspiration from nature to make our own Tangles and designs. Back inside, we will practice our Zen Tangles, share our creations, and enjoy this calming kickoff to the weekend.
No artistic skill is necessary! All materials will be provided and you will leave with supplies to continue to practice your art at home. Light snacks will be provided.
This workshop is for artists age 18 and up; 12 and up are welcome with an adult. Everyone is an artist!

NJSOC Book Club: The Seed Keeper
2026-03-14 10:30 - 12:00
Our FREE book club is back with a new title for Winter 2026!

Join us as we read together The Seed Keeper, a novel by Diane Wilson. Participants will read at their own pace, with the opportunity to discuss virtually via the Heylo app. You’ll receive weekly discussion points to ponder that will guide our group conversation. We’ll meet to discuss the book face-to-face on Saturday, March 14th, at the School of Conservation from 10:30 to noon. This meeting will also include an outdoor activity related to our reading.
High School students and up are welcome to join. Participants will provide their own copy of the book. We will officially begin reading on Sunday, February 15th. Please feel free to register and jump in any time. Participants will receive additional instructions via email (don’t forget to monitor the email address you use to register!).

About The Seed Keeper:
“A 2025 National Endowment for the Arts Big Reads Selection
Winner of the Minnesota Book Award
A haunting novel spanning several generations, The Seed Keeper follows a Dakhóta family’s struggle to preserve their way of life, and their sacrifices to protect what matters most.
Rosalie Iron Wing has grown up in the woods with her father, Ray, a former science teacher who tells her stories of plants, of the stars, of the origins of the Dakhóta people. Until one morning, Ray doesn’t return from checking his traps. Told she has no family, Rosalie is sent to live with a foster family in nearby Mankato—where the reserved, bookish teenager meets rebellious Gaby Makespeace, in a friendship that transcends the damaged legacies they’ve inherited.
On a winter’s day many years later, Rosalie returns to her childhood home. A widow and mother, she has spent the previous two decades on her white husband’s farm, finding solace in her garden even as the farm is threatened first by drought and then by a predatory chemical company. Now, grieving, Rosalie begins to confront the past, on a search for family, identity, and a community where she can finally belong. In the process, she learns what it means to be descended from women with souls of iron—women who have protected their families, their traditions, and a precious cache of seeds through generations of hardship and loss, through war and the insidious trauma of boarding schools.
Weaving together the voices of four indelible women, The Seed Keeper is a beautifully told story of reawakening, of remembering our original relationship to the seeds and, through them, to our ancestors (Amazon).”

Painting Among the Pines: A Winter Fox on Skellenger Road
2026-03-22 13:00 - 15:00
This painting captures a quiet, wintry moment that feels both serene and a bit magical.

Imagine standing along the quiet stretch of Skellenger Road just as the morning light begins to filter through the frost. In this workshop, we’ll recreate this striking scene: a vibrant orange fox perched atop the roadway to the NJ School of Conservation, serving as a bold focal point against a minimalist winter forest.
This painting is perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists. Its folk-art charm and simplified shapes allow you to focus on color theory and composition without getting lost in overly complex details. It’s about capturing a feeling—the stillness of the woods and the wild spark of a fox on the move.
Materials are included in the fee; all you have to bring is excitement and some confidence.
You are welcome to bring snacks. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
This program is open to adults and youth ages 14 and up. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited to 12 artists.

Winter Tree Identification
2026-03-29 13:00 - 15:00
Do familiar trees suddenly become strangers once they lose their leaves?

In winter, the forest looks completely different—but the clues are still there. You just have to know how to look.
In this hands-on workshop, we’ll practice identifying trees the old-fashioned way—using our senses (not our phones!), along with traditional tree keys and field guides. You’ll learn how to notice the details that set each species apart: bark texture, branching patterns, buds, scent, habitat, and more.
We’ll begin with some indoor instruction and guided practice before heading outdoors where we’ll work together to “key out” some common local trees in their winter form. By the end, you’ll have practical tools—and the confidence—to identify trees even when they’re bare.
Who will enjoy this workshop? If you love solving puzzles, enjoy a bit of detective work (with a dash of educated guesswork), or simply want to truly learn how to tell one tree from another without looking it up every time—this workshop is for you! Open to adults and youth ages 14 and up. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Spring Sketching and Watercolor
2026-04-04 09:30 - 12:30
Grab your sketchbook & find your muse among the trees as we turn simple vignettes into colorful masterpieces with just three primary paints.

Walk on the beautiful School of Conservation campus and sketch vignettes of nature and scenery. Once our pencil-and-ink sketches are complete, we will use a triad of watercolors to create a range of colors to add to our sketchbooks and complete our themed artistic observations.
No artistic skill is necessary! All materials will be provided, and you will leave with supplies to continue to practice your art at home. Light snacks will be provided.
This workshop is for artists aged 18 and up; 12 and up are welcome with an adult. Everyone is an artist!

The Art of Being Human: Observing Our Nature Within
2026-04-18 09:30 - 17:30
Previously titled “Observing Nature: Inward & Outward”. Join us as we celebrate five years of our partnership with Peter DelVecchio.

(Previously titled “Observing Nature: Inward & Outward”)
This program offers a deep, personal experience in learning to still the mind, open the heart, open the eyes, and use our higher senses to observe within ourselves and around us at all times.
This popular program is now in its fifth year, designed and led by Peter Del Vecchio, sharing his decades of training and life experiences as both a keen observer of the natural world and yogic mindfulness guide.
Instructor-led activities include simple and powerful mindfulness and deep relaxation techniques, nature walks (some silent), journaling, discussions, and cell phone nature photography – a favorite!
The serene forest environment of the School of Conservation is the perfect place to accomplish this! Once we come in touch with our true self within, it is so much easier to navigate the world to attain our goals.
Throughout our lives from early childhood, we are guided toward intellectual learning: facts, dates, calculations, etc. The Art of Being Human: Observing Our Nature Within offers a practical, deeper type of learning to help free us from that “mental gerbil wheel”. We learn to focus inwardly in order to better focus outwardly. The benefit is a much cleaner, happier, giving, and more fulfilling life.
This program is designed for ages 12* to adult (*children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). No prior experience is required – just a love of nature and learning. Here’s what previous participants have had to say:
• “Thoroughly enjoyed the program with Peter at NJSOC. Made me appreciate how important it is to practice being present and practice mindfulness on a daily basis.”
• “I loved the focus on ‘love and forgiveness’”.
• “I would recommend this program to anyone who has anxiety or other mental health struggles, as you learn a lot of coping strategies and how to be present.”
• “At first, I wasn’t sure about coming to this program because it didn’t sound like something that would be beneficial to me. However, after coming here, I can say that I have learned a lot about myself, what I need to work on, and how to do it.”
Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. In the case of a multi-day event, you must cancel 7 or more days before the first day of the event. No partial refunds are given if you cannot attend all days of the event.
While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
For events that are weather-dependent, a raindate/reschedule date is included in the event description. We do not offer refunds if an event is rescheduled for the specified date.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

The NJSOC Earth Week Spring Cleanup
2026-04-20 09:00 - 16:00
It’s been a long winter and it’s time for some Spring Cleaning! We need lots of help to spruce things up. Can we count on you?

Join our work party as we make a clean sweep of NJSOC’s facilities and grounds to keep our campus looking its very best. Some of the jobs we’ll be tackling include resetting the benches at Piney Point, tidying up paths and elements along the ASE Road, weeding at the Frog Hollow Pollinator Garden and invasive plant removal. It’s an ever changing list, and we’ll send registered participants an update and suggestions for tools it will be helpful to bring along shortly before the event. You supply the labor; we’ll supply a quick lunch and a chance to make new friends while performing valuable service to the NJSOC!
Due to the nature of the work, this event is best suited for adults and older teens. Nearly all our work will be outdoors; heavy rain will postpone the event to May 12th and you will be notified of the change via email. Please make sure to monitor the email address you register with!

Spring Wildlife and Geology Hike
2026-05-02 09:30 - 12:30
Hike, identify, and explore: A 4-mile journey at the NJSOC

Spring SOC Hike
Join us as we hike through the campus of the School of Conservation and into Stokes State Forest. We will journey to the Spring Cabin past vernal pools and up to the Geology Loop, searching for wildflowers and rocks while identifying our botanical and geological findings.
This will be a 4-mile hike for adults and children over13 accompanied by an adult. A smartphone will be helpful for identification. Trails may be rocky or snow-covered. Be sure to dress appropriately. Hiking poles are recommended. Additional information will be provided upon registration. Please remember to check the email you use to register.
Your registration fee is a donation to the School of Conservation and will help to support our 2026 programs. Pay what you wish, knowing that you are making a difference.

Fool a Fish?
2026-05-02 10:00 - 13:00
Get ready for an outdoor fishing adventure designed just for curious and creative kids ages 10–16!

Have you ever wondered if you could design your own fishing fly and actually catch a fish with it? Now’s your chance to find out. Join us at Lake Wapalanne on the NJSOC campus for a hands-on program where you’ll learn how to tie your very own fishing flies from scratch.
Bring along a parent or guardian and work together as we teach you simple fly-tying techniques. Once you’ve learned the basics, it’s time to get creative—experiment with your own designs and see what you can invent!
Then comes the real test: we’ll head down to the lake to try out your creations and see if the fish are biting. No experience? No problem. We’ll provide special equipment, so you won’t need traditional fly rods or casting skills. And if you’re under 16, you don’t even need a fishing license.
Along the way, you’ll also learn about fish ecology and the fascinating life beneath the water’s surface—all while enjoying the great outdoors.
Come explore, create, and catch something amazing!
This program is limited to 8 teams of child and parent / guardian.

Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs - Youth Fishing Challenge 2026
2026-06-06 10:00 - 13:00
Spend some quality time fishing with your family at Lake Wapalanne!

This fun fishing event is open to all youth (17 & younger). Your child will need to bring their own fishing gear. Registered youth participants may be eligible to receive prizes for the fish they catch during the event. (Youth must be present at the end of the event to be awarded prizes.)
This event is sponsored by NJDEP Fish & Wildlife’s Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Program and hosted by the Friends of NJSOC. Space is limited and registration in advance is required. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Pets are not permitted.
This date is a NJ Free Fishing Day when a fishing license is NOT required for anyone age 16 and older.

Check-in / Event Schedule:

9:30 – 9:55 AM: Check-in at Long House. This is the red building with the statue in front.
Following check-in until 10 AM: Select and set up your fishing spot. Reminder: while accompanying adults are also welcome to fish, space along the lakeshore and earthen dam is limited and safety is one of our top concerns. Once youth participants have taken their spots along the lakeshore, adult anglers may fill in any remaining spaces as safety allows.
10 AM: We will all wait for a signal to drop lines in the water once everyone is situated.
10 AM – 12:30 PM: Fishing Fun! Each member of your family who is fishing will have a scorecard. Children will be eligible for prizes. A volunteer will fill in the information about each fish you catch on the scorecard. Volunteers will also be available to assist you.
12:30: Pack up your gear and meet in front of Long House. There will be 4 prizes awarded to youth participants at the end of the program. While volunteers review your scorecards, this is a good time to enjoy your lunch and learn a little bit about the School of Conservation.
12:50: Presentation of prizes to children and goodie bags. Each family will receive a goodie bag, but must be present at the end of the event to receive one.
1:00: Thank you and Goodbyes!

Sponsored by New Jersey Fish & Wildlife’s Hooked on Fishing Program

Fool a Fish? - One on One
2026-06-07 09:00 - 12:00
A fun fly tying fishing challenge designed for curious and creative kids ages 10–16

Have you ever wondered if you could design your own fishing fly and actually catch a fish with it? Now’s your chance to find out. Join us at Lake Wapalanne on the NJSOC campus for a hands-on program where you’ll learn how to tie your very own fishing flies from scratch.
Bring along a parent or guardian and work together as we teach you simple fly-tying techniques. Based on how much fun we had during our small pilot program last month, we’ve decided to limit our sessions to just two or three students. This will allow us opportunities for one on one instruction and individualized guided practice.
Once you’ve learned the basics, it’s time to get creative—experiment with your own designs and see what you can invent! Then comes the real test: we’ll head down to the lake to try out your creations and see if the fish are biting. No experience? No problem. We provide special equipment so you won’t need traditional fly rods or casting skills. And if you’re under 16, you don’t even need a fishing license.
Along the way, you’ll also learn about fish ecology and the fascinating life beneath the water’s surface—all while enjoying the great outdoors.
Come explore, create, and catch something amazing!
This June program will be limited to 3 teams of child and guardian

Wings Over the Water: A Dragonfly & Damselfly Workshop
2026-06-14 12:00 - 16:00
Get ready to spot and learn all about dragonflies and damselflies in this fun, hands-on outdoor workshop!

Did you know that Sussex County, NJ has more dragonfly and damselfly species than any other county in the US? In fact, we have more “Odonata” in Sussex County than the entire state of California!
Spend a day alongside the ponds, streams, and wetlands of Stokes State Forest as you discover the remarkable world of dragonflies and damselflies — some of the most ancient and acrobatic insects on the planet. New Jersey is home to over 170 species of these stunning fliers, and this hands-on workshop gives you the tools and knowledge to find, identify, and appreciate them.
Led by experienced naturalists and odonate enthusiasts, Bruce Taterka and Tanya Sulikowski, the day blends classroom learning with time in the field. You’ll learn to identify and photograph dragonflies in lake, stream and meadow habitats. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned naturalist looking to sharpen your skills, this workshop offers something for everyone.
Schedule for the Day
12:00p- Welcome & Orientation (Nature Center Classroom)

Introductions and overview of the day
Brief orientation to NJSOC grounds and habitats
Safety briefing and field ethics

12:15-12:45pm Dragonfly Biology & Ecology (Nature Center Classroom )

Dragonfly and damselfly morphology and behavior
Life cycle: aquatic nymphs → aerial adults
Predator–prey relationships and ecological roles
Importance of habitat
Distribution of the Pocket Guide to Dragonflies of the NJSOC and overview of New Jersey’s odonate richness

12:45-1:15pm Introduction to iNaturalist & MacroBlitz (Lab Classroom)

Brief introduction (15 minutes) for participants to download the app and learn the basics of uploading observations
Outdoor practice with iNaturalist around Lake Wapalanne

1:15-2:15pm Macroinvertebrate Sampling (Flatbrook River)

Safety and ethics briefing
Kick nets and rock-flipping
ID keys, field guides, iNaturalist
Photographing specimens
Biotic index

2:30pm – 3:15pm: Odonata Exploration (Lake Wapalanne)

Exploring the shoreline and emergent vegetation

3:15pm – 4:00pm: Odonata Exploration (Flatbrook River)

Exploring the stream and adjacent riparian areas

4:00pm – 4:15pm: Wrap-up and Debrief

Reflection on the importance of odes the insect community, and the impacts of habitat degradation
Brainstorming conservation efforts and teaching and outreach strategies

Wapalanne Women's Wellness Weekend -- Summer Edition
2026-06-26 17:00 - 2026-06-28 13:00
Join us for the Wapalanne Women’s Wellness Weekend where you can relax and refresh in nature

Welcome to Wapalanne Women’s Wellness Weekend on the historic NJSOC campus in the middle of beautiful Stokes State Forest!
Come and enjoy a weekend to refresh your mind, body, and spirit with nature journaling, hiking, archery, yoga, boating, campfires, and much more. As we ease into summer take time to relax and center yourself in a beautiful natural setting. Come on your own or bring some friends and stay in our rustic cabins with views of Lake Wapalanne.
The cost of this weekend includes two nights of lodging, six meals and six programs. It also helps us continue our work to foster environmental knowledge and action through education programs that promote sustainability practices, climate change mitigation, and environmental justice.
Programs:
Nature Journaling – Learn how to use nature in your journaling from a Master Educator. Then go for a walk and draw inspiration from nature. All supplies provided.
Wild Plant Hike – Take a hike with a Master Educator and learn about native plants and their uses. Sturdy shoes recommended.
Outdoor Yoga – Join us for an outdoor session to learn why we practice yoga and how important it is to our wellness. Bring a mat or towel as we do some movement and end with a meditation. All levels of experience are welcome.
Boating – Enjoy a peaceful afternoon gliding across Lake Wapalanne and learn some basics of canoeing. No experience needed, life vests are provided.
Archery – Learn all about Archery from a certified instructor. Enjoy learning a new skill in a beautiful setting. No experience needed all equipment is provided.
Campfire – Join us around the campfire for songs and s’mores.

Lodging:
When you register you will be able to choose a cabin with or without an en suite toilet and shower. You will also choose top or bottom bunk in the cabins with an en suite toilet and shower. All accommadations have heat/AC and WiFi. The cabins with en suite toilet and shower also have a mini fridge or full kitchen. You will need to provide your own bedding, pillow, and towel. A detailed packing list will be sent after you register. Remember to let us know if you are coming with friends!

Individuals who identify as women are welcome at this event.

Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 14 or more days before the event. While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 14 days of the event. If we must cancel, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

The Art of Being Human: Observing Our Nature Within
2026-09-12 09:30 - 17:30
Previously titled “Observing Nature: Inward & Outward”. Join us as we celebrate five years of our partnership with Peter Del Vecchio.

This program offers a deep, personal experience in learning to still the mind, open the heart, open the eyes, and use our higher senses to observe within ourselves and around us at all times.
This popular program is now in its fifth year, designed and led by Peter Del Vecchio, sharing his decades of training and life experiences as both a keen observer of the natural world and yogic mindfulness guide.
Instructor-led activities include simple and powerful mindfulness and deep relaxation techniques, nature walks (some silent), journaling, discussions, and cell phone nature photography – a favorite!
The serene forest environment of the School of Conservation is the perfect place to accomplish this! Once we come in touch with our true self within, it is so much easier to navigate the world to attain our goals.
Throughout our lives from early childhood, we are guided toward intellectual learning: facts, dates, calculations, etc. The Art of Being Human: Observing Our Nature Within offers a practical, deeper type of learning to help free us from that “mental gerbil wheel”. We learn to focus inwardly in order to better focus outwardly. The benefit is a much cleaner, happier, giving, and more fulfilling life.
This program is designed for ages 12* to adult (*children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). No prior experience is required – just a love of nature and learning. Here’s what previous participants have had to say:
• “Thoroughly enjoyed the program with Peter at NJSOC. Made me appreciate how important it is to practice being present and practice mindfulness on a daily basis.”
• “I loved the focus on ‘love and forgiveness’”.
• “I would recommend this program to anyone who has anxiety or other mental health struggles, as you learn a lot of coping strategies and how to be present.”
• “At first, I wasn’t sure about coming to this program because it didn’t sound like something that would be beneficial to me. However, after coming here, I can say that I have learned a lot about myself, what I need to work on, and how to do it.”
Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. In the case of a multi-day event, you must cancel 7 or more days before the first day of the event. No partial refunds are given if you cannot attend all days of the event.
While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.
For events that are weather-dependent, a raindate/reschedule date is included in the event description. We do not offer refunds if an event is rescheduled for the specified date.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.
