The New Jersey School of Conservation

iNaturalist: A Tool for Exploration and Citizen Science. The Field Edition!
2021-08-07 10:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Merrill Creek Reservoir, 34 Merrill Creek Road, Washington, NJ, 07882, United States
Spend the day exploring Merrill Creek Reservoir with like-minded educators!
Get out into the field with other educators who are excited to use iNaturalist! Workshops will be held around the forests, meadows and streams at the NJ School of Conservation and Merrill Creek Reservoir. Educators will learn valuable tips for taking students outdoors and will work together to complete team challenges. Sign up for just one or join us for both!
This workshop will be led by Tanya Sulikowski, former faculty member at the NJSOC who is currently the Environmental Specialist at Merrill Creek Reservoir and Evangelina Pena, Science Teacher at Gill St. Bernard.
Workshops are limited to 25 participants and current CDC recommendations will be followed during these events. Participants should bring a bagged lunch. All program fees support the NJ School of Conservation.
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!

iNaturalist: A Tool for Exploration and Citizen Science. The Field Edition!
2021-07-31 10:00 - 14:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Spend the day exploring the NJ School of Conservation with like-minded educators!
Get out into the field with other educators who are excited to use iNaturalist! Workshops will be held around the forests, meadows and streams at the NJ School of Conservation and Merrill Creek Reservoir. Educators will learn valuable tips for taking students outdoors and will work together to complete team challenges. Sign up for just one or join us for both!
Workshops are limited to 25 participants and current CDC recommendations will be followed during these events. Participants should bring a bagged lunch. All program fees support the NJ School of Conservation.
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!

Teaching Climate Change in K-5 Classrooms
2021-07-28 10:00 - 18:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Ready or not… Learn how (and why) to meet the new climate change standards in your K-5 classroom and have fun doing it!
Ready to teach climate change? This program is designed to support K-5 teachers in incorporating the new climate change standards into your already-tight curricula. We will model an interdisciplinary and participatory approach that reflects the pedagogies of inclusion and equity in formal and informal learning environments. This workshop will help you understand the basic science of how climate change occurs and the way it affects society differently. The causes and effects of climate change will be explored through art, literature, and other media, as well as an easy nature hike. Workshop activities will include climate change modeling, an interpretive hike, water quality assessment (by land and/or canoe), and analyzing and interpreting data. We will be working both indoors and outdoors (rain or shine) on the beautiful campus of the New Jersey School of Conservation. Whether you teach in a classroom or in an informal setting, you will gain skills and strategies to enable you to address this important issue. Follow up support will be provided!
Your instructors are Liz Carletta and Rae Cade.
Liz is a formal and informal science educator. She has taught environmental/conservation education at Jenkinson’s Aquarium and the Bergen County Zoo, as well as high school biology and forensic science in Newark, NJ. Liz earned her MAT from Montclair State University (certified K-12 biology and students with disabilities teacher) and is currently pursuing a PhD in Teacher Education and Teacher Development. Her research interests include the partnerships between formal and informal educators and education, teaching with an equity lens, and science teacher retention.
Rae Cade is a doctoral student and teaching assistant at Montclair State University in the Environmental Science and Management department. She has a Bachelor’s degree from William Paterson University where she double majored in Earth Science and Anthropology and a Master’s degree in Sustainability Science from Montclair State University. While her thesis explored the beliefs and perceptions of climate change and sustainability amongst millennials who are non-environmental science majors, her current research focuses on the interactions between water quality and environmental racism.

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!

Forest Fun Day
2021-06-26 10:00 - 15:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Bring your family and join us to put the FUN back in the FOREST!
Join us for a day of fun in the forest and experience the magic of SOC for yourselves. Build a sense of community as you engage with others in the outdoors.
During your visit you will participate in experiential activities in the outdoors such as: boating, fishing, archery, forest frolic and geocaching. Upon arrival you will have the opportunity to select two activities, first come first served. As an added bonus Dolly Jingles Ice cream truck will be there with cold treats to purchase!
Come foster a love of nature through hands on aquatic and terrestrial activities at your NJ School of Conservation. During your time with us you will develop an understanding and appreciation of the legacy of SOC and the potential it has for future engagement.
In case of rain, this event will be postponed to Sunday, June 27th and participants will be notified in advance. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the event. Events and activities subject to change.
Come help us put the ‘FUN’ back in the forest!
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!

Wilderness Survival and Bushwacking
2021-06-19 09:30 - 12:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
“I’ve never been lost, but once I was confused in the woods for three days.” –Jim Merritt

For fifteen years, Jim Merritt led groups of school kids and adults on hikes in Stokes State Forest near NJSOC. On Saturday, Jim will once again lead a group on a bushwhack hike in the forest. He will be your guide for a hands-on session where you may build fires, construct shelters, and taste some local plants. Jim’s famous quip is, “I’ve never been lost, but once I was confused in the woods for three days.” Join us for this rain or shine* event that offers the perfect blend of hiking and survival skills with a healthy dose of humor!
*Remember, there is no such thing as “bad weather,” it is only inappropriate clothing that leads to discomfort.

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!

Nutrients and Energy in Ecosystems
2021-06-14 15:30 - 18:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Come for a walk in the woods and investigate how energy and nutrients interact to keep an ecosystem functioning successfully.
Ecosytems are essential for earth’s survival. In this afternoon workshop, we’ll take a walk through the woods and collect some samples that illustrate how nutrients and energy move through ecosystems. We’ll discuss how the terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems of Stokes State Forest function, what they need to stay healthy, and what can happen when things go wrong. Some hands-on activities will be part of the tour. This workshop is geared for adult participants.
Your expert tour guide for the afternoon is Jon Connolly. Jon is a research biologist and the President of Sussex County Community College. His areas of research are tree anatomy and physiology, ecosystem ecology, biochemistry, and fungal physiology. Jon earned his Ph.D at the University of Maine and his Master of Forest Science degree at Yale University.
The class-tour will occur unless there is torrential rain. Bring rain gear if it is going to sprinkle. It also makes sense to bring along a small trowel and some scissors.

Hug a Tree (Preventing Search and Rescue)
2021-06-12 15:30 - 17:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Learn from a Search & Rescue expert how NOT to get lost in the woods (and how to stay safe if it does happen).

Nobody wants to get lost in the woods and New Jersey Search and Rescue wants to show young children and their parents ways of avoiding it and what to do if it does happen. There will be a movie, slide presentation, and demonstrations about subjects like what to carry, staying safe, sheltering and keeping warm in the woods. Join us to learn this very simple, but valuable survival information from a Search & Rescue expert. This program is offered as a FREE public service especially for children ages 4-12 and their parents.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Masks must be worn while indoors during this event.

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!

Hiking Navigation
2021-06-12 09:00 - 14:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Attention hikers! Wouldn’t it be great to have a better sense of where you are and where you’re going?

The call of nature has increased so much recently and many new hikers have joined the ranks of those heading into the woods. Imagine how much more enjoyable and safe the experience would be if you had a better sense of where you are and where you’re going! John Rovetto, Mountain Travel and Rescue adviser for the NJ region of the National Ski Patrol, a NY State Licensed guide, a member of New Jersey Search & Rescue and a NY/NJ Trail conference trail maintainer & Sawyer will give you the knowledge you need to improve your outdoor navigation skills. This workshop is for experienced and novice adult hikers and includes both classroom instruction and practical application while hiking in the woods together.
Pre-registration is required. COVID protocols, including mask wearing and social distancing will be practiced during this event.

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!

Dendrology and Tree Biology
2021-06-07 15:30 - 18:30 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
Can’t see the forest for the trees? Then let’s take a closer look at those trees and learn how to ID them by leaves, flowers, and bark.

A walk in the woods is much more satisfying when you know what you are looking at and something about it. Trees in the forest are the habitat for everything else. This afternoon class will be spent walking through the woods learning how to identify trees using leaves, buds, and bark. We will discuss how trees interact and how they function. The tour will consist of listening and observation along with touch and feel approaches. This workshop is geared for adult participants.
Your expert tour guide for this workshop is Jon Connolly. Jon is a research biologist and the President of Sussex County Community College. His areas of research are tree anatomy and physiology, ecosystem ecology, biochemistry, and fungal physiology. Jon earned his Ph.D at the University of Maine and his Master of Forest Science degree at Yale University.
The class-tour will occur unless there is torrential rain. Bring rain gear if it is going to sprinkle. It also makes sense to bring a small trowel and some scissors.

Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs Youth Fishing Challenge
2021-06-05 10:00 - 13:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
It’s FREE Fishing Day! Bring your family and your fishing gear and spend the morning fishing in Lake Wapalanne. You might even win a prize!

This event is open to all ages – no license or trout stamp is required on New Jersey’s Free Fishing Days. The entire family is encouraged to join the fun! You will need to bring your 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.) Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. This event is sponsored by NJDEP Division of Fish & Wildlife’s Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Program and hosted by the Friends of NJSOC. All Division of Fish and Wildlife programs strictly adhere to current New Jersey Covid-19 safety protocols including social distancing guidelines, mask wearing, and travel restrictions. Registration is required.

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!

NJSOC 72nd Anniversary Celebration and Open House
2021-05-29 10:00 - 14:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
This Memorial Day Weekend, kick off your holiday with Friends—Friends of NJSOC, that is!

Save the family barbeque for later in the weekend and drop by the NJ School of Conservation Open House on Saturday, May 29th between 10 am and 2 pm. We’ve got a lot to celebrate this year, and Memorial Day Weekend is the right time to do it.
The School of Conservation first opened its doors on Memorial Day weekend 1949; now, 72 years later, we are celebrating its RE-opening. Join us for a tour of this historic facility, paddle a canoe, fish in Lake Wapalanne (valid NJ fishing license required), express your creativity with a rock art project, talk with a wildlife researcher, or just enjoy the opportunity to walk the trails and admire the scenery. Bring a picnic lunch if you wish.
NJSOC has been closed to the public for nearly a year. It is our great pleasure to unlock the gate and welcome you back. Registration is required for this FREE event.

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!

Searching for Salamanders
2021-05-15 10:00 - 12:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
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 our salamander expert! Registration is required @ $10 per family. Children must be accompanied by an adult. COVID protocols, including mask wearing and social distancing will be practiced during this event.

NJSOC Spring Cleanup II
2021-05-02 10:00 - 15:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
After nearly a year behind a locked gate, NJSOC will reopen for programming! 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 programming to resume. Participants are asked to bring tools (weedwhackers, rakes, brooms), cleaning supplies (rags, paper towels, etc.), and a bag lunch. You supply the labor; we’ll supply the campfire and a chance to make new friends while performing valuable service to the SOC!

NJSOC Spring Cleanup
2021-05-01 10:00 - 17:00 | NJ School of Conservation, 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826, United States
