The New Jersey School of Conservation

Rustic Bread Baking
2022-10-15 11:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Explore a hands-on experience in bread baking in an outdoor, wood fired oven!

Warm homemade bread, fresh out of the oven, is a sumptuous culinary repast! Try this hands-on experience in rustic bread baking and you can learn how an outdoor wood fired oven works, and bring home your own loaf to share (or not!).
This workshop begins by following a Rustic Yeasted Bread recipe that will be kneaded and coaxed into a loving loaf of bread that will be baked in an outdoor, wood fired oven. During the rising time, participants will collectively make a bakers’ snack.
Every baking experience in the outdoor oven is unique! Feeding the fire, heating the interior of the oven high enough for quick bakers’ snack and stepping the temperature down for the bread baking has its challenges. We will share with you how it all works and keep our fingers crossed for a great bake day!
This workshop is open to individual adults, couples, and to children (ages 11 and up) with an adult partner. Each participant/pair will prepare and bake one loaf of bread to take home at the end of the session.
Please note: We will ask registered participants to bring an apron, large mixing bowl, 1-2 oven mitts, a large, clean dish towel, zip lock bag, and a large paper bag (to carry bread home).
Optional, but helpful: while a seasoned 8″” up to an 11″” cast iron skillet will be provided you may bring your own to bake in (no enamel).
A little about your instructors:
Susan, is a licensed mental health counselor, a former nutrition educator at family childcare homes, and enjoyed demonstrating cooking and baking using a wood burning stove at an outdoor ethnic history museum. Robin, a retired earth science teacher, taught middle school students the art and science of bread baking.
PLEASE NOTE: No pets are permitted on the NJSOC Campus.
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 Friends of the New Jersey School of Conservation is a U.S. tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization. When NJSOC closed in July 2020, the Friends launched a campaign to save it. This ultimately led to negotiations with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, owners of NJSOC, to obtain an interim management agreement for the School. This agreement was finalized in April 2021, and the Friends of NJSOC are proud to offer limited programming at NJSOC with the help of dedicated and talented volunteers. We are pleased to register you for one of our programs!

Wood-fired outdoor oven for bread baking.

The 2023 NJSOC Spring Cleanup
2023-04-15 10:00 - 16:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
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 get everything ready for 2023 programming to begin. Some of the jobs we’ll be tackling include raking, weedwhacking, trail maintenance, and gardening. We keep adding to the list! We’ll send registered participants an update and suggestions for tools it will be helpful to bring along shortly before the event. Bring a bag lunch and beverage for a well-deserved lunch break with your new, hard-working friends! You supply the labor; we’ll supply the campfire and a chance to make new friends while performing valuable service to the SOC!
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 Sunday, April 16th and you will be notified of the change via email. Don’t forget to check the email address you registered with!

Educators' Open House - POSTPONED TO MAY 31 DUE TO RAIN
2023-04-29 09:30 - 16:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Spend a day at the NJ School of Conservation learning about the outdoor field experiences we have to offer to you and your students.

We’ll highlight upcoming professional development workshops, online resources and volunteer opportunities. Then, you’ll get to “be a student for the day” and participate in several of our most popular field experiences, learn how they support New Jersey’s student learning standards, including the new Climate Change standards and Social Emotional Learning Competencies, and find out how you can continue to build on the experience back at your own school. Classes will include Nature Art & Poetry (with climate change emphasis), Metalsmithing, Water Ecology, and Archery.
The Open House will also include opportunities for networking, smore-making and lots of fun!
Your $20 ticket fee is a deposit. After attending the event, you will receive a full refund.

Spring Wild Edibles Information Walk - POSTPONED TO SUNDAY, MAY 7
2023-04-30 11:00 - 12:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Wild edibles: nutrition, gastronomy, survival and fun science

Jumpstart a foraging habit for your soups, stews, salads, pestos and fritters! Your program leader, Joanne White, will lead you on a walk to discuss and photograph whatever is available in woods and meadow-like areas. Although this is not an eating event, lots of follow-up information will be available including an email with photos and descriptions of items covered on the walk. There will be references to dichotomous keys, books, nutrition, safety, ethics, gastronomy, survival and fun science. Joanne is a former science teacher with over 40 years of teaching experience, and decades of enjoying wild edibles.
This program is for adults and older teens (age 16 and up). Registration is REQUIRED. Please dress for the weather, with rain gear or an umbrella in case of light rain. You will need your camera (or phone)! Heavy rain will postpone event to Sunday, May 7th.
Please note: No pets are allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.
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. The raindate for this event is Sunday, May 7th. If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Spring Wild Edibles Information Walk
2023-05-07 11:00 - 12:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Wild edibles: nutrition, gastronomy, survival and fun science

This is the raindate for a previously sold out event. As a result of rescheduling, there are a very limited number of tickets available!
Jumpstart a foraging habit for your soups, stews, salads, pestos and fritters! Your program leader, Joanne White, will lead you on a walk to discuss and photograph whatever is available in woods and meadow-like areas. Although this is not an eating event, lots of follow-up information will be available including an email with photos and descriptions of items covered on the walk. There will be references to dichotomous keys, books, nutrition, safety, ethics, gastronomy, survival and fun science. Joanne is a former science teacher with over 40 years of teaching experience, and decades of enjoying wild edibles.
This program is for adults and older teens (age 16 and up). Registration is REQUIRED. Please dress for the weather, with rain gear or an umbrella in case of light rain. You will need your camera (or phone)!
Please note: No pets are allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.
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.

Come Fly With Us! Intro to Fly Fishing for Adults (Ages 16+)
2023-05-20 09:00 - 16:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Spend a day learning Fly Fishing with local experts at the NJSOC!

This introductory course covers everything you need to know to start enjoying a lifetime of this rewarding sport. You’ll receive individual attention and hands-on experience as you learn about basic equipment needs, casting techniques, river and stream assessment, and fly fishing etiquette before heading out to test your skills on local waters.
We have some rods and reels you can borrow, but please bring your own if you have them. Stokes Sports Shop will be offering participants a discount on equipment with proof of enrollment. You’ll also receive a detailed list prepared by your instructors of approved rods, reels, waders and other items, as well as where to find them. This expert advice will be a valuable reference to help you select the right gear as you hone your skills and continue on in the sport of fly fishing. Properly fitted and functioning equipment is essential for a safe, enjoyable experience! If you choose to purchase your own equipment beforehand, we can help you get set up, and you’ll be able to continue to practice the skills you learn when the class is over.
Fly fishing is not only an economical and beginner-friendly sport, it also helps you learn patience and agility (both physical & mental) while gaining a greater appreciation for our beautiful natural resources! Come fly with us!
This event is rain or shine, so please dress accordingly. Sunblock & tick repellent are recommended.
IMPORTANT: Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Fishing licenses and trout stamps are required for anyone ages 16+. Both can be purchased or renewed here.
**Estimated cost of fly fishing equipment:

Serviceable rod, reel, line and combos start at $150 and up
Accessories (leaders, strike indicators, flies, and tippet) total about $50 and up
Hip boots/waders/wading boots start at $100 and up (you will not need waders for this class)

Stokes Sports Shop (29 US-206, Sandyston, NJ 07826 – (973) 948-5448) will offer a discount to workshop participants with proof of enrollment.
Learn more about fly fishing and Paul, one of your instructors, in this short Youtube video: The Greatest Gift.

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. 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 session.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Searching for Salamanders
2023-05-20 10:00 - 12:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
What can salamanders tell us about our environment? To find out, join us for a salamander search!

Salamanders are an important but often elusive part of an ecosystem. In this program, participants will have an opportunity to learn about these amazing little creatures and their role in our environment. We will also learn about how salamanders can indicate the quality of the environment, for them and us.
Spend the morning with Jennifer Correa-Kruegel, our salamander expert! Registration is required. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

2023 Spring Fling Archery Course (3 Sessions) for Children ages 8 -14
2023-06-03 10:00 - 2023-06-17 11:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Explore Archery! Course consists of 3 Saturday sessions that will include basic archery skills, fun drills, and archery games.

You pull back the bowstring. You stare downrange at the bullseye. 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 children(ages 8-14) and all participants must register in advance. There will be a total of three sessions consisting of 60 minutes classes on three consecutive Saturdays.
The sessions will be:

Saturday, June 3rd @ 10 am – 11 am
Saturday, June 10th @ 10 am – 11 am
Saturday, June 17th @ 10 am – 11 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.
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@njsoc.org.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pets are not allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.
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 session.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

2023 Spring Fling Archery Course (3 Sessions) for Adults (Age 14+)
2023-06-03 12:00 - 2023-06-17 13:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Explore Archery! Course consists of 3 Saturday sessions that will include basic archery skills, fun drills, and archery games.

You pull back the bowstring. You stare downrange at the bullseye. 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 all participants must register in advance. There will be a total of three sessions consisting of 90 minutes classes on three consecutive Saturdays.
The sessions will be:

Saturday, June 3rd @ 12 pm – 1:30 pm
Saturday, June 10th @ 12 pm – 1:30 pm
Saturday, June 17th @ 12 pm – 1:30 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.
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@njsoc.org.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pets are not allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.
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 session.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs - Youth Fishing Challenge 2023
2023-06-04 10:00 - 13:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Give your child an amazing day of fishing in beautiful Lake Wapalanne! They might even win a prize!

This fun fishing event is open to all youth (17 & younger). Spend some quality time fishing with your family at Lake Wapalanne. 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.)
NOTE: Fishing licenses are required for anyone ages 16+. Please go to the online link here for NJ fishing license purchase/renewal.
Please note- Space is limited and registration in advance is required. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Pets are not permitted.
This event is sponsored by NJDEP Fish & Wildlife’s Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Program and hosted by the Friends of NJSOC. Registration is required.
Please note: No pets are allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.

Forest Fun Day
2023-06-24 10:00 - 17:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Experience the magic that can only be found at the NJ School of Conservation during a day of fun in the forest.

This event is all about community and fun!
Bring your family (or not!) and your lunch and stay for a few hours, or spend the whole day! Pick and choose from some of our most popular activities at SOC including archery, boating, family hiking essentials, Fiber fun, campcraft, and rock painting. Bring your own fishing gear and fish in the lake (Valid NJ fishing license required for anglers 16+; catch and release only). Collect a stamp for each activity you complete and earn a chance to win some NJSOC prizes if you participate in every experience!
As the day winds down, we invite you to gather around the campfire* to share stories of your adventures while enjoying some s’mores. No visit to the SOC would be complete without a campfire and smore’s, and there’s just something about a campfire that kindles friendships!
*if permitted by current state forest fire restrictions
This is a rain or shine event! Activities are subject to change. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the event. Dogs are not permitted at SOC programs.
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.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.
The NJ School of Conservation strives to create an inclusive community where all have equal access to outdoor programs and environmental education, through our diversity, equity, inclusion and justice initiatives.

Summer Wild Edibles Information Walk
2023-07-01 11:00 - 12:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Wild edibles: nutrition, gastronomy, survival and fun science

Jumpstart a foraging habit for your soups, stews, salads, pestos and fritters! Your program leader, Joanne White, will lead you on a walk to discuss and photograph whatever is available in woods and meadow-like areas. Although this is not an eating event, lots of follow-up information will be available including an email with photos and descriptions of items covered on the walk. There will be references to dichotomous keys, books, nutrition, safety, ethics, gastronomy, survival and fun science. Joanne is a former science teacher with over 40 years of teaching experience, and decades of enjoying wild edibles.
This program is for adults and older teens (age 16 and up). Registration is REQUIRED. Please dress for the weather, with rain gear or an umbrella in case of light rain. You will need your camera (or phone)! Heavy rain will postpone event to Sunday, July 2nd.
Please note: No pets are allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.
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. The raindate for this event is Sunday, July 2nd. If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

STEAM into Monarch Butterfly Conservation
2023-08-01 17:00 - 2023-08-03 16:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
This workshop will result in K-12 educators feeling refreshed, excited, inspired and ready to challenge students with an authentic problem.

STEAM into Monarch Butterfly Conservation
In 2022, the migratory monarch butterfly was classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. We can all do something to help!
This fun, informative and mostly outdoor workshop will provide educators with the background knowledge and tools to challenge students to find an interdisciplinary Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) approach to help solve an authentic problem.
F﻿or two days, educators will work collaboratively to solve a “Content Driven Design Challenge” that will result in the hands-on design and installation of a pollinator garden at the NJ School of Conservation (see the detailed schedule below). Experience gained through this workshop will empower educators to implement The Challenge at home or at school.
This workshop will include STEAM curriculum aligned with NJ Student Learning Standards, including the NJ Climate Change Education Standards.
Other workshop benefits include:

Building a network with like-minded educators and experts in education and natural history from across New Jersey that will extend beyond the workshop.
Forming deeper connections to nature and educational practices.
P﻿ractice in citizen science using the iNaturalist and SEEK Apps
E﻿xperience in the creation of green spaces for wildlife at your home or school- from small scale flower pots to larger pollinator gardens.
C﻿lassroom resources to take home.
A﻿ free flat of native plants to get your green space started.
The opportunity to stay and play at the NJ School of Conservation in Stokes State Forest – the oldest and most beautiful environmental education center in New Jersey.

Workshop Facilitators:
Dena Corbin- Founder and Program Designer, Natural Ground 1
Megan Edson- Township of Ocean Intermediate School
Erik Mollenhauer– Founder, Monarch Teacher Network
Holly Romahn- Hardyston Township Elementary School
Tanya Sulikowski- Director of Education, NJ School of Conservation
Bruce Taterka- Mendham High School
Vince Walencik – NJ Technology and Engineering Educators Association
*﻿****************************************************************************************************************
Workshop Schedule :
I﻿n order to alleviate the stress of morning travel, participants are invited to arrive on Tuesday evening. Wednesday morning arrival is also welcome if more convenient.
Tuesday August 1, 2023
– 5-6pm- Check In
– 6-7pm- Potluck Dinner
– 7- 8pm- Guided Evening Paddle on Lake Wapalanne
– 9p-?- Optional Nighttime Moth Survey and Soundscape Activity

Wednesday August 2, 2023
9-10am- Educators check-in and get settled in cabins. Continental breakfast. Hands-On Monarch Butterfly Feeding Session.
10- 11am- Introductions, Orientation and Workshop Overview
11am-12pm- The Monarch Butterfly Content Driven Design Challenge
12-12:45pm- Catered lunch
12:45- 1:45pm- iNaturalist & SEEK Apps to Engage Budding Naturalists
1:45-2pm- Break
2- 5pm – Monarch Butterfly Cultural and Natural History
5- 5:15 pm- Bathroom Break
5:15- 5:45pm- Introduction to Pollinator Gardens
5:45-6:15pm- Cabin Break
6:15- 8pm – Dinner (Build Your Own Butterfly Pizza – A Bonus Design Challenge!)
8- 9pm – Campfire/Evening Activity- Monarch Storytelling

Thursday August 3, 2023
7- 8am- Morning iNaturalist walk or fitness hike (optional)
8- 9am- Catered breakfast
9:15-11:15am -Native Plant Pollinator Garden Design and Installation
11:30- 12pm- iNaturalist Data Crunching
12-12:30pm – Catered lunch
12:45-2:30pm- Monarch Butterfly Cultural and Natural History Part 2
2:45-3:45pm- Content Driven Design Challenge – Teacher Collaboration
4- 4:30pm – Wrap Up, Evaluations and Depart
P﻿lease note: The workshop fee includes cabin-style lodging at the NJ School of Conservation for two nights, food and workshop materials including a Native Plant Pollinator Garden Starter Kit courtesy of NJDEP Fish and Wildlife – ENSP. Scholarships may be available.
Contact the NJ School of Conservation’s Director of Education, Tanya Sulikowski, with any questions. tsulikowski@njsoc.org.

Explore Archery! for Children and Adults (ages 8+)
2023-08-26 13:00 - 15:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
You pull back the bowstring. You stare downrange at the bullseye. Release! The arrow flies away and plunges into the target. Bullseye!

Join the fun! Participants will be taught by USA Archery certified instructors. The class will include basic archery skills, fun drills, and archery games. We will have you flinging arrows in no time. Be advised, archery is great fun and habit-forming! No experience necessary.
Ruth and John Goralski are Level 3 Instructor/Trainers with USA Archery. They are also past PA state champions.
This workshop is open to adults, and children, age 8 and over. In case of rain, the event will be postponed to Sunday, August 27th and participants will be notified via email. Plan to keep both dates open!
If you have any difficulty with the registration process, please let us know so we can help! Contact us at info@njsoc.org. You will receive an immediate confirmation email when your registration is successful.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pets are not allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.
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, August 26th.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Observing Nature: Inward and Outward
2023-09-16 09:00 - 2023-09-17 18:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
An intuitive and exciting program to enhance participant’s lives with practical instruction on how to develop powers of observation.

Now in its second year, “Observing Nature: Inward and Outward” 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 to enhance participant’s lives with practical instruction on how to develop both internal and external awareness and conscious powers of observation.
The weekend’s activities are specifically designed to increase awareness of your own abilities of observation, both internally (perceptions and feelings) and externally (increased awareness of the natural world which surrounds us). The very concept of “observation” itself and how to strengthen one’s awareness and daily application form the core of the program.
The instructor-led activities will include simple, yet powerful, mindfulness techniques, deep relaxation instruction, nature observation walks (some silent), private journaling, cell phone nature photography, as well as fun “camp” activities, such as a campfire with s’mores, stories, etc.
This program is designed for ages 12 to adult, and no prior experience is required– just a love of nature and learning. This is a two-day workshop (9 am on Saturday to 6 pm on Sunday), rain or shine.
Although this is a two-day program, single-day tickets are also available as space allows, for those who cannot attend the full program. Registration is limited to a maximum of 20 participants per day – with priority given to those who register for the full two-day program – in order to ensure the focus on personal guidance and experience that is at the core of this unique program. Saturday Overnight Lodging at NJSOC is included in the full 2-day program cost, and is also available for one-day participants at an extra fee (see Eventbrite ticket options).
Meals are not included, and no food service is provided at or by NJSOC. However, there is plenty of space for you to store a cooler with your meals, snacks, and beverages. Also, refrigerator space and use of the kitchen will be made available. We can recommend places to purchase food locally before you enter Stokes State Forest.
Additional details are available on this flyer.
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 Friends of the New Jersey School of Conservation is a U.S. tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization. When NJSOC closed in July 2020, the Friends launched a campaign to save it. This ultimately led to negotiations with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, owners of NJSOC, to obtain an interim management agreement for the School. This agreement was finalized in April 2021, and the Friends of NJSOC are proud to offer limited programming at NJSOC with the help of dedicated and talented volunteers. We are pleased to register you for one of our programs!

Social and Emotional Learning & Environmental Education: Perfect Together
2023-09-29 01:45 - 14:45 | Duke Farms, 1112 Dukes Parkway West, Hillsborough, NJ, 08844, United States
Challenged by integrating Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into your work? The NJ School of Conservation has paved the way for SEL for 75+ years. Meeting the needs of students and educators, the NJSOC has aligned our curricula with NJ Department of Education’s SEL Competencies. Leave feeling inspired and armed with easily adaptable activities and lessons. This workshop is presented by Maura Lincoln & Marian Janes as a concurrent session in the Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education (ANJEE) 7th Annual Autumn Outdoor Conference at Duke Farms in Hillsborough, New Jersey. The full conference schedule and registration link can be found at https://anjee.org/schedule–workshop-sessions.html. Online registration is open until 9/22/2023.

Bee Lining: The Exciting Sport of Bee Hunting
2023-09-30 10:00 - 14:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
AS OF 9/28 THIS EVENT IS STILL ON FOR 9/30. WE ARE WATCHING THE WEATHER. PLEASE CHECK THE EMAIL YOU USED WHEN YOU REGISTERED FOR INFORMATION ABOUT A POSSIBLE POSTPONEMENT DUE TO RAIN. Discover the lost art of Bee Lining! Bee careful as we’re certain you’ll get hooked!

Join bee enthusiast, Kevin Roche, in this introduction to bee lining, a method used to locate a colony of wild honey bees. We’ll learn how to to distinguish honey bees from other pollinators (such as bumble bees, wasps, etc.), catch and mark foraging honey bees using a bee box, and use techniques to estimate the direction and distance to an active hive. This sport naturally provides us with opportunities to discuss the importance of pollinators, the numerous challenges they face including climate change, loss of habitat, varroa mites, and insecticide use, and how any of these may contribute to colony collapse disorder. 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 honey bees, and is dedicated to helping these valuable pollinators thrive. There’s sure to be a lot of buzz about this new SOC program!
This program is open to ages 14+. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
Rain will postpone the event to Sunday, October 1st (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 1st.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Last Call Archery Course (2 Sessions) for Adults and Children (ages 8 +)
2023-09-30 10:00 - 2023-10-07 12:15 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
10/6/23: POSTPONED TO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8th
It’s our last archery class of the year!!

You pull back the bowstring. You stare downrange at the bullseye. Release! The arrow flies away and plunges into the target. Bullseye!
Join the fun! Participants will be taught by USA Archery certified instructors and past PA state champions. 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 and children(ages 8 and up). This course offers all the content of our regular three-session course in two sessions with extended classes (and fewer trips into the forest for you!).
Classes meet on Saturday, September 30th and Saturday, October 7th at these times:

Children (ages 8-14): 10 am – 11:30 am
Adults: 10 am – 12:15 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.
If you have any difficulty with the registration process, please let us know so we can help! Contact us at info@njsoc.org.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pets are not allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.
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 session.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Junior Birders (Ages 10-14)
2023-10-07 10:00 - 12:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
POSTPONED DUE TO RAIN. WATCH FOR NEW DATE!
Hey there, bird fans! Join us for Junior Birders, a fun event where we’ll explore the fascinating world of our feathered friends.

Do you love wildlife? Have you ever wondered about the birds in your backyard that you see and hear every day? Get to know your neighborhood birds! In addition to learning the biology, aesthetic, and recreational values associated with birds, we’ll also learn to identify species by sight and sound. Come see how many birds you can find!
During this program, Junior Birders will complete an “All About Birds” scavenger hunt and a “Binocular Challenge” on a mile-long hike through the NJ School of Conservation campus. Junior Birders will also learn bird calls by being part of a bird chorus and how to attract feathered friends with backyard bird feeders.
This program is designed for Junior Birders ages 10-14. All participants must be accompanied by an adult. Loaner binoculars will be provided.
Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before 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.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Autumn Wild Edibles Information Walk
2023-10-07 11:00 - 12:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
10/6/23: POSTPONED TO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8th
Wild edibles: nutrition, gastronomy, survival and fun science

Jumpstart a foraging habit for your soups, stews, salads, pestos and fritters! Your program leader, Joanne White, will lead you on a walk to discuss and photograph whatever is available in woods and meadow-like areas. Although this is not an eating event, lots of follow-up information will be available including an email with photos and descriptions of items covered on the walk. There will be references to dichotomous keys, books, nutrition, safety, ethics, gastronomy, survival and fun science. Joanne is a former science teacher with over 40 years of teaching experience, and decades of enjoying wild edibles.
This program is for adults and older teens (age 16 and up). Registration is REQUIRED. Please dress for the weather, with rain gear or an umbrella in case of light rain. You will need your camera (or phone)! Heavy rain will postpone event to Sunday, October 8th.
Please note: No pets are allowed on the NJ School of Conservation Campus.
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. The raindate for this event is Sunday, October 8th. If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Rustic Bread Baking
2023-10-07 11:00 - 15:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
10/5/23: THIS PROGRAM IS ON, DESPITE THE RAIN. PLEASE DRESS FOR THE WEATHER– RAINCOAT & BOOTS– AND DON’T FORGET YOUR SUPPLIES.
Explore a hands-on experience in bread baking in an outdoor, wood fired oven!

Warm homemade bread, fresh out of the oven, is a sumptuous culinary repast! Try this hands-on experience in rustic bread baking and you can learn how an outdoor wood fired oven works, and bring home your own loaf to share (or not!).
This workshop begins by following a Rustic Yeasted Bread recipe that will be kneaded and coaxed into a loving loaf of bread that will be baked in an outdoor, wood fired oven. During the rising time, participants will collectively make a bakers’ snack.
Every baking experience in the outdoor oven is unique! Feeding the fire, heating the interior of the oven high enough for quick bakers’ snack and stepping the temperature down for the bread baking has its challenges. We will share with you how it all works and keep our fingers crossed for a great bake day!
This workshop is open to individual adults, couples, and to children (ages 11 and up) with an adult partner. Each participant/pair will prepare and bake one loaf of bread to take home at the end of the session.
Please note: We will ask registered participants to bring an apron, large mixing bowl, 1-2 oven mitts, a large, clean dish towel, zip lock bag, and a large paper bag (to carry bread home).
Optional, but helpful: while a seasoned 8″” up to an 11″” cast iron skillet will be provided you may bring your own to bake in (no enamel).
A little about your instructors:
Susan, is a licensed mental health counselor, a former nutrition educator at family childcare homes, and enjoyed demonstrating cooking and baking using a wood burning stove at an outdoor ethnic history museum. Robin, a retired earth science teacher, taught middle school students the art and science of bread baking.
PLEASE NOTE: Pets are not permitted on the NJSOC Campus.
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.

Wood-fired outdoor oven for bread baking.

Educators' Open House
2023-10-16 09:00 - 16:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Spend a day at the NJ School of Conservation learning about the outdoor field experiences we have to offer to you and your students.

We’ll highlight upcoming professional development workshops, online resources and volunteer opportunities. Then, you’ll get to “be a student for the day” and participate in several of our most popular field experiences, learn how they support New Jersey’s student learning standards, including the new Climate Change standards and Social Emotional Learning Competencies, and find out how you can continue to build on the experience back at your own school. Classes will include Nature Art & Poetry (with climate change emphasis), Metalsmithing, Water Ecology, and Archery.
The Open House will also include opportunities for networking, smore-making and lots of fun! Earn up to 7.5 hours of professional development. Lunch is included.
Your $20 ticket fee is a deposit. After attending the event, you will receive a full refund.

SOC After Dark
2023-10-28 19:00 - 21:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Fall is the perfect time for stories around the campfire. And that’s just the beginning!

Fall is the perfect time to gather around the campfire with friends for some not-too-scary stories. Popular storyteller Ken Karnas will be our featured speaker at this Pre-Halloween event. Throughout his 42-year teaching career, Ken used stories to enhance every academic area he taught. In addition to using storytelling in the classroom, Ken has shared his tales with audiences of all ages in libraries, museums, parks, and at NJSOC’s Piney Point fire circle.
Following the storytelling, you’re invited to join us for a not-at-all-scary night hike. Discover the beauty of Stokes State Forest by moonlight and learn about some of its residents who are active at night on this easy hike along an open path.
Or, if you prefer, bring some marshmallows and hang out at the campfire, or head over to the corral for some stargazing on your own.
Come just for the campfire and stories (about 30-40 minutes), or stay longer and enjoy the SOC “nightlife”. It’s up to you!
This program is open to adults and families with children of any age. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required for each individual. In case of inclement weather, we’ll move the storytelling indoors and hike as planned as long as the rain isn’t heavy.
If you have any difficulty with the registration process, please let us know so we can help! Contact us at info@njsoc.org.
Refund Policy/Inclement Weather:
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.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Climate on My Campus: Using Field-Based Data in the Classroom
2023-11-12 13:30 - 2023-11-13 16:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Increase your knowledge and classroom resources to implement the New Jersey Climate Change Standards across the curriculum!

We will take advantage of the bucolic setting and exemplary natural resources at the NJ School of Conservation to investigate indicators of climate change and then connect our results to local and global communities. Numerous classroom resources will be highlighted through hands-on, field-based investigations.
During this workshop, you will be introduced to local scientists engaged in current research. Workshop sessions will focus on learning about how and why data is collected in order to help you incorporate near/real-time data into your curriculum.
This workshop is supported by the MBARI EARTH (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute’s Education and Research: Testing Hypotheses) program that brings together educators and researchers with the goal of bringing real data into classrooms. For more information, please visit the EARTH website. https://tinyurl.com/26n2se9k
In this workshop, you will:
– Learn to identify local indicators of climate change.
– Participate in a tree coring exercise and collect dendrochronology data for an active research project on the NJSOC campus.
– Collect data from the NJSOC campus and use the information to design a new schoolyard to reduce the Urban Heat Island Effect.
– Explore a variety of online data sources for classroom activities.
– Combine art and science to interpret and illustrate graphs to convey the “Bigger Picture” of climate change.
– Learn about MBARI’s EARTH lessons and other resources available.
– Network and collaboratively create a lesson plan with other NJ middle and high school teachers using the EARTH lesson plan template. (Participants may receive a $50 stipend upon submission of a completed lesson plan using data/ideas from the workshop.)
– Learn more about the history and resources available at the NJ School of Conservation, the oldest year-round residential environmental learning center in the country.
Workshop Agenda
In order to alleviate the stress of morning travel, participants are invited to arrive on Sunday evening. Monday morning arrival is also welcome if more convenient.
The overnight workshop fee includes cabin-style lodging at the NJ School of Conservation for one night, 3 meals and workshop materials.
The single day workshop fee includes lunch and workshop materials.
Sunday November 12, 2023- *optional arrival*
1:30-2:30 Arrival & Check-in
2:30-5:00 Welcome, NJSOC Tour & Activities
5:30-6:30 Dinner
6:30-8:00 What’s the Bigger Picture Lesson featuring guest Glaciologist and Artist, Jill Pelto
8:00-9:00 Campfire and S’mores
Monday November 13, 2023
7:30-8:30 Breakfast for overnighters
8:30-9:00 Arrival & Check-in
9:00-9:15 Welcome, Educator Introductions and NJSOC Introduction
9:15-10:15 MBARI EARTH Overview, Website Tour, Adopt-A-Float
10:15-10:30 Break
10:30-12:00 Dendrochronology and Climate In the Field
12:00-12:45 Lunch and Networking with Scientists
12:45-1:30 Accessing Climate Data for the Classroom
1:30-2:45 Albedo Lesson- Cool Schools: Designing for Climate Change
2:45-3:45 Lesson Plan Collaboration & Development
3:45-4:00 Evaluation & Adjourn
Workshop Facilitators:
Dr. Nancy FitzGerald- Jefferson Academy for Environmental Science Faculty (retired)
Dr. Frank Gallagher- Director, Environmental Planning Program, Department of Landscape Architecture. School of Environmental & Biological Sciences Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Dr. Missy Holzer- Science Standards Specialist, Great Minds PBC and retired NJ high school science teacher
Tanya Sulikowski- Director of Education, NJ School of Conservation
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Space is limited. Open to formal and informal educators of all disciplines, including pre-service teachers. Deadline to register: November 3, 2023
Contact the NJ School of Conservation’s Director of Education, Tanya Sulikowski, with any questions. tsulikowski@njsoc.org.
Cover art “Proxies for the Past” created by Jill Pelto, www.jillpelto.com
Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before 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.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Voices from the Land: Exploring Landscape and Language, Art and Culture
2023-11-30 16:00 - 2023-12-03 14:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
“Voices from the Land” is a creative process that encourages students to explore the connection between nature, art, language and culture.

The Voices process is standards-based and experiential. Voices builds “community” among people of different backgrounds, ages and abilities: social and emotional learning are integral to the process. Communication, speaking and listening skills, compromise and respect… are essential elements.
A Voices experience begins outdoors… as small groups of people (3-4 per group) explore a natural area: a meadow, stream, forest, beach, park, etc. As the Voices process unfolds, each group selects part of the site that “speaks” to them. Guided by principles of art, groups create art from natural materials found on-site: leaves, sticks, stones, mud, water, etc. After completing their art, the groups share their art with other groups.
Oral language captured during this first phase becomes raw material for the next phase, where groups use written language to create poetry. In the third phase of the process, groups use performance art to re-cast their poems into performance poetry, which they share with other groups. Digital photography documents the Voices process, allowing participants to create posters/books that showcase their work.
Voices has been used in schools across the US, Canada and Europe, with groups ranging from pre-school to adult, and special-needs. Educators Erik and Kris Mollenhauer (Voices originators) will facilitate this hands-on workshop. In 2018, Voices was recognized as “Project of the Year” by Virginia Master Naturalists for its effectiveness.
Tentative Agenda
Thursday night arrival is optional. Our hope is that early arrivals will alleviate the stress of Friday morning travel.
Thursday, Nov 30 Arrive at NJSOC approx. 4 pm; bring your own dinner.
7:00-9:00 pm Special Program – “Through the Dragon’s Mouth”, followed by a “Winter Constellation Star Party” on Lake Wapalanne.
Friday, Dec 1
8:00-9:00 Arrival and settle into cabins
9:00-9:30 Welcome… Introductions… Posters
9:30-10:30 Overview of the “Voices from the Land” process
10:30-12:30 Creating Voices art (outdoor activities)
12:30-1:30 Lunch
1:30-2:00 Overview of Voices poetry
2:00-3:00 Small group writing time
3:00-3:30 Teaching oral performance
3:30-4:30 Small group planning time
4:30-5:00 Designing Voices books and posters
5:00-6:00 Break
6:00-7:00 Dinner
7:00-8:30 Campfire and storytelling
Saturday, Dec 2
8:00-8:45 Breakfast
8:45-9:15 Discovery Walk
9:15-10:00 Small group planning time
10:00-12:00 Small group performances
12:15-1:00 Lunch
1:00-2:00 Summation, Poster Walk, Evaluations
Registration fee includes five meals, overnight accommodations for two nights in cabin-style housing and all workshop materials.
Please contact Tanya Sulikowski, NJSOC Director of Education, with any questions. tsulikowski@njsoc.org
Refund Policy:
Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before 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.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Holiday Tree Decorations with Natural Materials
2023-12-02 14:00 - 17:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Bring the outdoors in this holiday season with ornaments you make yourself!

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, some acorns and pinecones and a couple of 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@njsoc.org.

The 2024 Annual NJSOC Spring Cleanup
2024-04-13 10:00 - 16:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
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 get everything ready for 2023 programming to begin. Some of the jobs we’ll be tackling include raking, weedwhacking, trail maintenance, and gardening. We keep adding to the list! We’ll send registered participants an update and suggestions for tools it will be helpful to bring along shortly before the event. Bring a bag lunch and beverage for a well-deserved lunch break with your new, hard-working friends! You supply the labor; we’ll supply the campfire and a chance to make new friends while performing valuable service to the SOC!
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 Sunday, April 14th and you will be notified of the change via email. Don’t forget to check the email address you registered with!

MacroBlitz: Citizen Science at the Next Level
2024-04-20 10:00 - 16:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Come learn about what NJSOC offers teachers and students and MacroBlitz, a new National Geographic project that inspires citizen scientists.

Who doesn’t love field trips?
The NJ Science Teachers Assocation, the Alliance for the NJ Environmental Education and the NJ School of Conservation invite you to the NJSOC to learn about our resources for teachers and students and try MacroBlitz, a new National Geographic Society project.
The NJSOC has inspired students, teachers and researchers for 75 years. Come visit the beautiful campus in the heart of Stokes State Forest to learn why. You’ll explore the site and learn about the innovative work being done in field research, climate education and teacher professional development.
The second part of the day will feature MacroBlitz, a new National Geographic initiative that will empower citizen scientists to document aquatic macroinvertebrates using the iNaturalist App. Educators will hunt for stream insects in the Flatbrook River and learn how to document their findings in iNaturalist.
Participants will leave as members of MacroBlitz, with new field skills and tools for engaging students and a new appreciation for the aquatic underworld.
This fun, outdoor day will include a campus tour, hands-on (and instream) workshop and lunch.
Tentative Agenda (rain or shine):10am- Arrival & Welcome10:30am-12p- Campus Tour12-1p- Lunch1-4pm- MacroBlitz Workshop4pm- Summation and Departure
Please contact Tanya Sulikowski, NJSOC Director of Education, with any questions. tsulikowski@njsoc.org

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.

NJSOC Spring Cleanup II
2024-04-26 10:00 - 16:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
We had so much fun and got so much done, we’re doing it again! It’s Spring Clean Up, Part Two! Can we count on you?

Join our work party as we make a clean sweep of NJSOC’s facilities and grounds to get everything ready for 2024 programming to begin. Some of the jobs we’ll be tackling include painting, raking, weedwhacking, trail maintenance, and gardening. We keep adding to the list! We’ll send registered participants an update and suggestions for tools it will be helpful to bring along shortly before the event. Bring a bag lunch and beverage for a well-deserved lunch break with your new, hard-working friends! You supply the labor; we’ll supply the campfire and a chance to make new friends while performing valuable service to the SOC!
Due to the nature of the work, this event is best suited for adults and older teens. Nearly all our work will be outdoors; we can work in light or intermittent rain– if heavy rain is forecast, you will be notified by email if we have to cancel. Don’t forget to check the email address you registered with!

Celebrate World Archery Day at NJSOC! (for Adults and Children ages 8+)
2024-05-11 10:00 - 14:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Have fun learning the basics of Archery as we celebrate World Archery Day at NJSOC.You pull back the bowstring. You stare downrange at the bullseye. Release! The arrow flies away and plunges into the target. Bullseye! Join the fun! Drop by between 10 am and 1 pm for an hour-long lesson and some practice time with our USA Archery-certified instructors. Lessons will begin on the hour at 10, 11, 12, and 1. Come for an hour, or stay for the day! No experience or equipment is needed. We will have you flinging arrows in no time. Be advised, archery is great fun and habit-forming! This program is open to adults and children(ages 8 and up). Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants must register in advance. 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. Refund Policy/Inclement Weather: 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. In the event of inclement weather, participants will be notified if a session will not be held as scheduled. The raindate for this program is Sunday May 12th. If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.
