Environmental Activities in Union County Continue this Winter

Union County residents who are interested in environmental activities and STEM topics can find a wide variety of online programs to explore this winter. Online programs include original videos produced by Union County's Trailside Nature and Science Center, a series of online classes leading to certification as an Environmental Steward, and the Mars Base Camp program for students ages 8-14.

Residents and visitors can also explore specially marked trails in and around Union County parks. On these trails you can learn about local history, geology, distinctive trees, and other points of interest. For information about COVID-19 guidelines in County parks visit ucnj.org/parks-recreation.

Online programs/classes are offered as well. Residents of all ages who are interested in science and nature can visit the Trailside Nature and Science Center online for curated online and at-home activities and original videos. These videos feature local wildlife, at ucnj.org/trailside. Students ages 8-14 can participate in the online 4-H Mars Base Camp STEM Challenge, hosted locally by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County. More information is available at 4-h.org/parents/4-h-stem-challenge or contact Union County 4-H Agent James Nichnadowicz at jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.

The Extension will also offer its Environmental Steward training course for residents who are interested in developing an environmental program for their community. No background in science is needed.

The registration deadline is January 22 and classes begin on January 26. All classes are online and field trips may be added as conditions permit. For details visit envirostewards.rutgers.edu, or contact Rutgers Region 2 coordinator Michele Bakacs at mbakacs@njaes.rutgers.edu.