Beginner Archery Course (3 sessions) for Youth (ages 8-13)
2025-04-12 09:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
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. Choose from two spring courses:

Saturdays, April 12, 19, and 26 @ 9:00 – 10:00 am
Saturdays, June 7, 14, and 21 @ 9:00 – 10:00 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 the next day (Sunday).
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Beginner Archery Course (3 sessions) for Adults (ages 14 & up)
2025-04-12 10:15 - 11:15
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. Choose from two spring courses:

Saturdays, April 12, 19, and 26 @ 10:15 – 11:15 am
Saturdays, June 7, 14, and 21 @ 10:15 – 11:15 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 the next day (Sunday).
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Advanced Archery Course (3 sessions) for Ages 10 & up
2025-04-12 12:00 - 13:30
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 and youth (ages 10+) who meet the following prerequisites:

Ages 10-14 must have completed a class with us previously
Ages 14 and up must be able to shoot at 20 yards.

Choose from two spring courses. Each and consists of three 90-minute classes on three consecutive Saturdays: Saturdays, April 12, 19, and 26 @ 12:00 – 1:30 pm Saturdays, June 7, 14, and 21 @ 12:00 – 1:30 pm Each Saturday class will include both instruction and supervised open shooting practice time. 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 the next day (Sunday). If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

3rd Tuesday Hiking Series for Women (ages 18+)
2025-04-15 09:45 - 12:00
Join like-minded women and hike on trails at NJSOC.

The 2025 Annual NJSOC Spring Cleanup
2025-04-16 10:00 - 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 painting the climbing wall pavilion and toilet, dismantling a wall on the ASE Road and scrubbing elements, perhaps some indoor painting, and invasives 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. 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 Friday April 18th and you will be notified of the change via email. Please make sure to monitor the email address you register with!

Nature by the Book: The NJSOC Book Club
2025-04-26 10:30 - 12:00
Help us pilot our first book club!

Join us as we read together The Forest Unseen by David Haskell.
“In this wholly original book, biologist David Haskell uses a one-square-meter patch of old-growth Tennessee forest as a window onto the entire natural world. Visiting it almost daily for one year to trace nature’s path through the seasons, he brings the forest and its inhabitants to vivid life (Amazon).”
This is our first book club, and participants will help shape the experience, including deciding what to read next! We’ll meet to discuss the book on Saturday, April 26th. We’ve reserved space at the School of Conservation at 10:30 am for this, but ultimately participants will decide whether to meet in person or virtually. You’ll receive weekly discussion points to ponder that will guide our group conversation.
High School students and up are welcome to join. Please register by March 15th. Our official kick-off date will be March 17th. Participants will receive addtional instructions via email (don’t forget to monitor the email address you use to register!).

Growing Botanical Literacy in the Garden State
2025-05-02 16:00 - 2025-05-03 16:00
Become a botanist! Deepen your plant knowledge and confidence through hands-on workshops designed for NJ educators of all grade levels.

Explore activities and resources to develop students’ knowledge, interest, and empathy of plants to complement climate-based education standards. Enrich your curriculum with NJDEP’s Botanical Literacy Lesson Plans designed to fulfill the 2020 NJ Student Learning Standards and discover ways to create the ideal outdoor classroom setting for budding student botanists.
Teachers will return to school with plant inspired enthusiam, toolkits and resources to build their own gardens in any size space and a set of innovative new lesson plans!
Tentative Schedule (Rain or shine)
FRIDAY (Optional early arrival to alleviate the stress of morning travel)

4:00 – 5:00pm – Arrive and settle in to cabins
6:00 – 7:00pm – Dinner – please bring your own
7:00 – 7:45pm – Sunset paddle on Lake Wapalanne
8:00pm – Campfire + Discussion: Botanical Sense of Place

SATURDAY

7:00 – 8:00am – Morning walk (optional)
8:00 – 8:45am – Breakfast for Overnighters (provided by NJSOC)
8:30 – 9:00am – Arrival for single day participants
9:00 – 9:15am – Icebreaker
9:15 – 9:45am – Welcome and Introductions
9:45 – 11:45am – “A School Yard Garden: Benefits, Engagements and Outcomes” with Dena Corbin, Natural Ground 1
Discover how a schoolyard garden can transform traditional classroom subjects into hands-on, engaging learning experiences. By aligning gardening activities with curriculum standards, this workshop will show how school gardens promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and holistic student development while building a meaningful connection to the natural world. Educators will gain practical strategies for fostering creativity, teamwork, and academic enrichment.
12:00 – 1:00pm – Lunch in Big Timbers (provided by NJSOC)
1:15 – 1:45pm – “Frog Hollow Pollinator Garden Tour” with Tanya Sulikowski, NJSOC
The NJSOC garden was established in 2018 as a habitat restoration project and learning space. Tour the garden to learn about the building process and how the garden is used as a year-round educational space.
1:45 – 3:30pm – “Plant Evolution Scavenger Hunt” with Doressa Williams OR “Plant and Pollinator Partners” with Eva Popp, NJDEP
Participants choose one of two afternoon sessions. Team up on a scavenger hunt to search for different evolutionary plant groups, learn to identify them based on their unique traits, and discover how these traits provide clues about the climate in which they evolved. Or focus on flowering plants: learn to identify flower traits that specific pollinators prefer and conduct a pollinator survey in the field to explore the co-evolutionary relationships between plants and their pollinator partners.
3:30 – 4:00pm – Workshop close-out discussion & Think Tank
4:00pm – Departure

Presenter Bios
Dena Corbin is a retired Special Education Teacher with 32 years of experience. She is deeply involved in environmental advocacy and community building, serving on various advisory boards and organizations. Dena has received notable recognition for her contributions, including the 2022 Greater Newark Conservancy Nelson Mandela Freedom Award for her service to the Newark community and the Community Vanguard Award for her leadership and dedication to community building in the Spring of 2024. In December 2024 she received the Yvonne Garrett Patterson Community Champion Award from Clinton Hill Community Action. She is the Board President for United Parks as One, serves on the Arts Ed Newark Leadership Council, a member of the South Ward Environmental Alliance Air Monitoring Advisory Board and a contributing writer for the New Jersey Native Plant School Guide and an advisory board member of the Essex County Chapter. Dena’s engagements with her community reflect her commitment to sustainability and positive impact.
Eva Popp is an ecologist and environmental educator who believes that nature is the ideal classroom. Her undergraduate research at Rutgers University earned her the Young Botanist Award from the Botanical Society of America in 2021. Eva has worked with students from pre-k to undergrad in the indoor, outdoor, and virtual classroom. While teaching at an outdoor nature preschool, she became fascinated with how the experiential, child-led, inquiry-based instruction resulted in deeper, more effective, and more enthusiastic learning in her students. Motivated to bring the benefits of outdoor learning to the indoor classroom, she researched and designed NJDEP’s Botanical Literacy lesson plans. As a Project Manager with the NJDEP Green Acres program, Eva facilitates land acquisition for the state by coordinating with private owners, nonprofits, and local governments to secure land for conservation and recreation.
Tanya Sulikowski’s sixth grade field trip to the NJSOC inspired her career path as a field ecologist and classroom teacher and she now serves as the NJSOC Director of Education. In 2016 Tanya earned the Women in Wildlife Award for Education by the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ. She is a National Geographic Grosvenor Teaching Fellow and is currently working with a team of Nat Geo Explorers to launch the new MacroBlitz initiative. Tanya is passionate about plants and, through her Landscape for Life Certification (U.S. Botanic Garden & Ladybird Wildflower Center), she has inspired students and teachers to create their own ecological garden spaces. During her off hours, she is an avid native plant and organic vegetable gardener and loves to hike, paddle, and explore the planet’s wildest places with friends and her husband Bruce.
Doressa Williams has been a lover of the natural environment since childhood and a plant enthusiast since 2016. Her fascination for botany has taken her across the country working various jobs involving botanical field surveys, native plant propagation, small-scale agriculture, and interior horticulture. Over the years, these experiences bolstered her belief that plants are divinely brilliant; yet at the same time, highlighted the disconnect many people have with plants. Assisting Eva with the Botanical Literacy lesson plans has given her the opportunity to dive deeper into the field of environmental education and lend help in enlivening plant passion in youth – after all, her passion for botany came from an educator. Currently, she strives to protect endangered and threatened plant species with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. When she’s not botanizing, she’s mommy-ing or crocheting.
Workshop Details:
Registration fee for overnighters includes breakfast and lunch, overnight accommodations in cabin-style housing (with a short walk to bathrooms) and all workshop materials. The fee for a single day includes lunch and all workshop materials.
Participating educators will receive a $150 stipend, made possible through grant funding, upon completion of the workshop.
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 canceled 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.

Celebrate World Archery Day at NJSOC! (for Adults and Children ages 8+)
2025-05-10 10:00 - 14:00
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 11th.
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+)
2025-05-17 09:00 - 16:00
Spend a day learning Fly Fishing with local experts at the NJSOC!

This Introductory course is a full day workshop (9 am to 4 pm) and encompasses everything you need to know to start enjoying the exciting world of fly fishing. Through discussion and hands-on experience, we will teach you the basic concepts and fundamentals of equipment needs, casting, knot tying, fly selection, basic entomology, river & stream assessment and fishing etiquette. All the stuff that you need to know when getting started. Then, we will put these skills to use by trying to catch some fish on local waters.
Don’t worry if you do not own a fly rod outfit, the SOC can provide a free rental to anyone enrolled in the workshop, but please bring your own gear if you want. If interested in having your own equipment to use during the class, we can provide you with a detailed list of approved rods, reels, waders, accessories and where to find them. Properly fitted and functioning equipment is essential for a safe, enjoyable experience.
Fly Fishing is a relatively economical and beginner-friendly sport that provides both a mental and physical escape while gaining a greater appreciation for nature and its resources. The zen-like feeling of a perfect cast, the relaxation of tying your own flies, and then the excitement of catching a fish with it, are only a few of the rewards encountered while enjoying a lifetime of the sport of fly fishing. Start your journey and “Come Fly with Us”.
This event is rain or shine, so please dress accordingly. Sunblock & Insect repellent are recommended.
IMPORTANT: Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. New Jersey Fishing licenses and trout stamps are required for anyone ages 16+. Both can be purchased or renewed here.
Learn more about fly fishing and your instructor, Paul Weiss, 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.
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

3rd Tuesday Hiking Series for Women (ages 18+) - MAY HIKE
2025-05-20 09:45 - 12:00
Join like-minded women and hike on trails at NJSOC.

Mark the 3rd Tuesday of the month on your calendar and let’s enjoy morning hikes on local trails, as we look for wildflowers, 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 Long House, on the NJSOC campus at 9:45 am and hike from 10 am to 12:00 pm.
Hike Distance: 3 – 5 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, April 15
Session #2 – “Flatbrook River” Hike, Tuesday, May 20
Session #3 – “Towards Stokes Forest” Hike, Tuesday, June 17

June Beginner Archery Course (3 sessions) for Youth (ages 8-13)
2025-06-07 10:00 - 2025-06-21 11:00
REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS: PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL FOR INFORMATION ABOUT POSSIBLE RESCHEDULE OF JUNE 7 CLASS DUE TO RAIN.
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 youth (ages 8-13) and consists of three 60-minute classes on three consecutive Saturdays:

Saturdays, June 7, 14, and 21 @ 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 the next day (Sunday).
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

June Beginner Archery Course (3 sessions) for Adults (ages 14 & up)
2025-06-07 10:00 - 2025-06-21 11:00
REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS: PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL FOR INFORMATION ABOUT POSSIBLE RESCHEDULE OF JUNE 7 CLASS DUE TO RAIN.

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, June 7, 14, and 21 @ 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 the next day (Sunday).
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

June Advanced Archery Course (3 sessions) for Ages 10 & up
2025-06-07 12:00 - 2025-06-21 13:30
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 and youth (ages 10+) who meet the following prerequisites:

Ages 10-14 must have completed a class with us previously
Ages 14 and up must be able to shoot at 20 yards.

The course consists of three 90-minute classes on three consecutive Saturdays:
Saturdays, June 7, 14, and 21 @ 12:00 – 1:30 pm
Each Saturday class will include both instruction and supervised open shooting practice time. 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 the next day (Sunday).
If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs - Youth Fishing Challenge 2025
2025-06-08 10:00 - 13:00
RESCHEDULED TO SUNDAY JUNE 8, 10 AM TO 1 PM, DUE TO RAIN.

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.)
NOTE: Fishing licenses are required for anyone ages 16+. Please go to the online link here for NJ fishing license purchase/renewal.
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.

3rd Tuesday Hiking Series for Women (ages 18+) - JUNE HIKE
2025-06-17 09:45 - 12:00

Nature by the Book: The NJSOC Book Club... Summer Session
2025-06-22 10:30 - 2025-08-16 12:00
Our book club is back with a new title!

Join us as we read together The Nature Fix by Florence Williams.
“For centuries, poets and philosophers extolled the benefits of a walk in the woods: Beethoven drew inspiration from rocks and trees; Wordsworth composed while tromping over the heath; Nikola Tesla conceived the electric motor while visiting a park. Intrigued by our storied renewal in the natural world, Florence Williams sets out to uncover the science behind nature’s positive effects on the brain. From forest trails in Korea to islands in Finland to groves of eucalyptus in California, Williams investigates the science at the confluence of environment, mood, health, and creativity. Delving into completely new research, she uncovers the powers of the natural world to improve health, promote reflection and innovation, and ultimately strengthen our relationships. As our modern lives shift dramatically indoors, these ideas – and the answers they yield – are more urgent than ever.”
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 Saturday, August 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. Please register by June 22nd; we’ll officially begin on Monday, June 23rd. Participants will receive addtional instructions via email (don’t forget to monitor the email address you use to register!).

CCLC Professional Development Workshop: Climate Change’s Impact on Weather
2025-07-29 16:00 - 2025-07-30 16:00, 2025-09-26 16:00 - 2025-09-27 16:00
Due to climate change, the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events is predicted to increase, bringing more flooding, drought and storms to NJ. Our morning “Coffee and Climate Science” presentation will explore the impacts of and solutions to changing weather in NJ and beyond. Afternoon field-based experiences with meteorological experts will take teachers into Stokes State Forest to to explore how local research is informing action. Educators will leave with materials to turnkey lessons back to any classroom setting including focusing on their own community for place-based climate education.
View tentative agenda
Register here or use the link below!

CCLC Professional Development Workshop: Climate Change’s Impact on Wildlife
2025-07-30 16:00 - 2025-07-31 16:00
Climate change can alter where species live, how they interact, and the timing of biological events, which could transform current ecosystems and food webs. Our morning “Coffee and Climate Science” presentation will explore the impacts on and solutions for NJ wildlife. Afternoon field activities will provide tools for students and teachers to role play these scenarios from NJ’s Highlands to the Coastal Plain and to act as ecologists to explore solutions. Educators will leave with materials to turnkey lessons back to any classroom setting with a focus on wildlife in their own communities in order to study the climate’s effect.
View tentative agenda
Register here or use the link below!

CCLC Professional Development Workshop: Climate Change’s Impact on Health
2025-08-17 16:00 - 2025-08-18 16:00
Climate change has led to an increase in human exposure to heat waves, forest fires, storms, droughts and infectious disease vectors, with consequences to human health and communities. Our morning “Coffee and Climate Science” presentation will explore the impacts of and solutions for NJ residents. Afternoon field activities will provide tools for students and teachers to experience the restorative power of our natural resources- from a single tree to an entire forest. Educators will leave with materials to turnkey lessons back to any classroom setting that will help them in turn focus on their own communities.
View tentative agenda
Register here or use the link below!

CCLC Professional Development Workshop: Climate Change’s Impact on Climate Justice
2025-08-18 16:00 - 2025-08-19 16:00
New Jersey defines “environmental justice communities” by three criteria: presence in a community of concern; the presence of disproportionate environmental and public health stressors; and the absence or lack of environmental and public health benefits. Our morning “Coffee and Climate Science” presentation will explore the impacts and solutions for some of our home state’s key environmental issues. Afternoon field activities will focus on a dive into some of NJ’s most vulnerable communities and the stakeholders that are impacted. Educators will leave with materials to turnkey lessons back to any classroom setting.
View tentative agenda
Register here or use the link below!

Nature Zen Tangle Drawing Workshop and Walk
2025-08-22 15:00 - 18:00
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!

Introduction to Fly Tying
2025-09-06 09:00 - 12:00
Catch a fish with a fly you made yourself!

Using clever combinations of feathers, fur, and wire – a fly tyer aims to imitate the look, flutter, wiggle, color, and silhouette of a bug or bait fish, all in hopes of presenting an appetizing imitation to an unsuspecting fish. A skilled angler is also a student of nature and selects a fly that mimics what insects are doing in nature.
Join us at the New Jersey School of Conservation for an introduction to the art of fly tying. Golden Stone Outfitters of Lafayette, NJ is generously donating their expertise and all the materials you’ll need to tie your own wooly bugger fly. We’ll also provide opportunities to try your hand at casting a fly rod if you’ve never had the pleasure of doing so. Bring your fishing license if you’d like to test out your fly on one of our fly rods (or your own) and catch one of our warm water fish species in Lake Wapalanne.
No interest in casting a fly rod? Fly tying is also an ART! We totally get it if the artistic expression of creating the fly is what appeals to you! Whether your fly catches a fish or catches compliments as a colorful accessory, we’re sure you’ll enjoy this hands-on introduction to the traditional skill of fly tying.
This workshop is open to adults and youth ages 16 and up. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Limited to 12 participants. NJ fishing license is required should you actually want to fish; no license required if you just want to practice casting and fly tying.
In case of rain, this workshop will be postponed to Sunday, September 7, and participants will be notified via email (don’t forget to check the email you use to register!).
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 7th. If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.

Late Summer Plant Walk-About
2025-09-07 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, 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.

Beavers: Nature’s Engineers – A STEM Exploration for K-6 Educators
2025-10-02 16:00 - 2025-10-03 16:00
Join us for a field-based and hands-on workshop that brings the fascinating world of beavers into the classroom! Designed for K-6 teachers, this workshop will explore the vital role beavers play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating climate change.
Through a hike to explore an active beaver meadow, interactive STEM activities, learning games, and a creative costume activity, educators will build their own understanding and leave with fun, practical tools to help students understand the importance of these remarkable animals.
Objectives:

Understand the ecological role of beavers and their contributions to biodiversity, water management, and climate resilience.
Integrate STEM concepts into classroom activities with a focus on engineering, biology, and environmental science.
Encourage problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity through an interactive design challenge and active learning games.
Utilize a “Structure and Function” dress-up costume activity to make science concepts come alive in a kinesthetic way.

Acquire ready-to-use lesson plans that incorporate STEM concepts and active learning strategies and book and resource suggestions to fit the needs of your classroom.

Whether you’re teaching science, environmental studies, or simply want to inspire curiosity in your students, this workshop will provide exciting tools and activities that bring the incredible world of beavers to life!
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE (RAIN OR SHINE):
Thursday, October 2nd, Optional early arrival to alleviate the stress of morning travel.
4-5pm Arrive at NJSOC and settle into cabins
5- 6pm- BYO Dinner
6-7pm- Canoe Paddle on Lake Wapalanne to explore SOC’s own beaver lodge!
7-8pm- Campfire, Stargazing & S’mores!
Friday, October 3rd, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
8-9am- Overnighters will enjoy a NJSOC breakfast
9am- Arrivals for single day participants
9am-9:30 – Welcome & Introductions
9:30- 1pm- Outdoor activities: Round trip (3.5mile) hike to Steam Mill Beaver Meadow, “Ways of the Wild” Exploration and bag lunch
1-3:30pm – Indoor activities: STEM Design Challenge: Beaver Dam Building, Active Learning Games: The Beaver’s Role in the Ecosystem, Climate Change and Conservation and Structure and Function Dress-Up Activity
3:30- 4pm- Reflection, Feedback and Departure
Instructor Bios:
Holly Romahn With over 30 years of teaching experience, Holly has taught students in grades K-4. Currently teaching 4th grade science and social studies, she has a strong interest and background in elementary aged STEM and nature education. Holly teaches at Hardyston Township Elementary School and also works as a seasonal naturalist at High Point State Park, helping visitors learn about the outdoors. Holly’s goal is to engage students by making learning fun and hands-on.
Tanya Sulikowski is the Director of Education at the NJ School of Conservation. As a wildlife ecologist, Tanya spent a portion of her early career documenting beaver activity in the NJ Pinelands. She loves providing opportunities for educators to get into the field and get their hands dirty while exploring creative new ways to connect students to our natural world.
Workshop Details:
Registration fee for overnighters includes breakfast and lunch, overnight accommodations in cabin-style housing and all workshop materials. The fee for a single day includes lunch and all workshop materials.
Participating educators will receive a $150 stipend, made possible through grant funding, upon completion of the workshop.
Please contact Tanya Sulikowski, NJSOC Director of Education, with any questions. tsulikowski@njsoc.org
Register here or use the link below!

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.
