The Fowler’s Toad (Anaxyrus fowleri) is native to New Jersey, as well as Michigan and parts of the US coast of the Gulf of Mexico. These amphibians thrive in a wide range of habitats from woodlands to beaches. However, they cannot withstand extreme temperatures, so they burrow underground for protection during the hot and cold months

On Saturday, November 1st, NJSOC proudly hosted our annual Staff, Board, and Volunteer Appreciation Day, a special opportunity to recognize the incredible individuals who pour their passion, time, and talent into our mission year-round

This month, we are spotlighting the Marbled Salamander (Ambystoma opacum) as part of our Wildlife At Risk blog series. This amphibian has a black body with markings that differ in color based on its sex (gray for females and white for males). Residing in moist forested regions, this solitary salamander is oftentimes discovered underneath rocks or in leaf litter, and can be found throughout the entire state of New Jersey

Last week, teachers from across New Jersey gathered together at NJSOC for our latest professional development workshop, Beavers: Nature’s Engineers. Led by NJSOC’s Director of Education, Tanya Sulikowski, and Holly Romahn, a 4th grade teacher at Hardyston Elementary School and part-time naturalist at High Point State Park, this immersive hands-on experience gave K-12 educators the chance to explore how one small mammal has an outsized impact on our ecosystems, and how to bring that story into their classrooms

By: Michela Sales, NJSOC Executive Assistant We were thrilled to welcome 15 students from Ramapo College’s Civic and Community Engagement Center for a weekend of service, learning, and discovery in Stokes State Forest. Led by NJSOC’s Director of Education, Tanya

Throughout the next few months, we are excited to showcase animals located around the NJSOC to raise awareness about conserving at-risk species and ways you could make a difference

As summer 2025 is nearing an end, I am saddened to announce that I will be leaving the NJSOC. I loved assisting the NJSOC team these past several months, including analyzing data for the Salamander Population and Adaptation Research Collaboration Network (SPARCnet), teaching Herpetology to 4th-12th graders, and caring for NJSOC’s Educational Ambassador Animals

Over the past few months, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to intern at the New Jersey School of Conservation, a place where environmental education, community, and stewardship come together in meaningful ways. As a proud Ramapo College of New Jersey alum, this experience has been such an important step in my journey—allowing me to step into new roles, gain practical skills, and see what environmental education looks like in action

As the seasons change and the air turns crisp, the Friends of the NJ School of Conservation invite you to join us for a series of programs designed to bring people closer to nature. From guided hikes and hands-on workshops to creative arts and mindful observation, our Fall and Winter 2025 programs offer something for everyone who loves the outdoors

By: Amelia Basile, NJSOC Education Volunteer At Stokes Music Camp, campers from ages 10 to 17 partake in outdoor activities, learn about the environment through NJSOC classes, challenge their musical skills and meet new friends that share a love for

For two weeks in July the New Jersey School of Conservation hosted Stokes Music Camp; an opportunity for student musicians to expand their musical talents and creativity in our beautiful and inspiring outdoor setting