Educational Public Programs for July 2023

Pre-registration is required for all programs. Registration for July, August, and September programs is available beginning 9:00am on Wednesday, June 14, 2023. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to the start of a program. Pending availability, enrollment may still be possible by calling 908-722-1200 Ext. 5002.

For programs listed as ‘All Ages’, children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Dress for the weather and wear waterproof boots for all in-person programs.

CANCELLATIONS (by us): Programs are sometimes cancelled due to low enrollment or weather conditions. You will be notified by phone and given an option of a credit or a full refund.

CANCELLATIONS (by you): The Somerset County Park Commission will refund program registration fees if notified a minimum of seven days prior to the start of the program.

The EEC Program Punch Pass

The EEC Program Punch Pass can be secured when you attend an in-person program at the Environmental Education Center. Present the Punch Pass each time you attend a paid program at the EEC. Receive a hole punch for each paid participant within your household. Once you receive 10 hole punches, redeem the Punch Pass for one Leisure Pursuit Card!* Collect as many as you can! Advance registration is required for all paid programs.

*A Leisure Pursuit Card’s value is a maximum of $20 per use and may be applied towards one of the following activities: paddle boat rental, Colonial Park Putting Course, Green Knoll Pitch and Putt, admission to Warrenbrook Pool, tennis court rental, one round of golf, Environmental Science program, hack or intro ride at Lord Stirling Stable or reduced fee for a picnic grove. The cards cannot be redeemed through online or phone-in registration.

Please note:  Promotion may end anytime at the Environmental Education Center’s discretion.

Expectations for Meeting at Off-Site Locations

  • Naturalist will provide the participant with the trip destination’s meeting time and address.  Participant is responsible for obtaining directions.
  • Participants driving themselves are not permitted to follow the SCPC vehicle.
  • Participant must arrive on time. Program will begin at the scheduled meeting time. No exceptions.
  • Participant may contact the Naturalist cell phone at 908-801-2925. The Naturalist will only answer the phone when they can safely do so.
  • Arriving at the location is the responsibility of the participant. Refunds will not be issued for any reason.

July

YOUTH ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDS (Y.E.S.)
(Ages 14-17)
The Stewardship Team at the Somerset County Park Commission is offering a three-day, hands-on educational experience focusing on ecology, the impact of invasive species, pressing environmental concerns, and practical steps we can take today to promote a healthier forest tomorrow. The YES pilot program seeks hard-working individuals looking to enhance leadership, stewardship, and team building skills. The YES program is an excellent opportunity for individuals considering a career/degree in environmental science or natural resource management and wish to experience what it’s like to call the outdoors their workplace. Participants who complete a minimum of 2 out of 3 dates will be awarded a Stewardship Certificate. Email dross@scparks.org for more information or to request an application. Applications are due by June 30th. A limited number of participants will be selected.
$30 fee will be collected upon acceptance to the program
Wednesdays, July 12 & 19                        
                      9:00am-3:30pm                                          
Wednesday, July 26
                      3:30pm-10:00pm
(Rain date July 28 if necessary)

Wild for Blueberries!
(All Ages)
The search is on for the swamp’s superfruit! Learn how to identify wild blueberries, which animals enjoy them, and, of course, we will taste test these sweet superstars!
$9 per student/senior
$11 per adult
Activity Number: 51659
EEC-04          Monday, July 17
                        10:30am-Noon

Bird in the Nest 
(All Ages)
A parent’s job is never done, even if you are a bird! Let us take a walk on the trails to search for birds and their nests. Games and activities will help us to learn.
$6 per student/senior
$7 per adult
Activity Number: 51511
EEC-13          Tuesday, July 18
                        1:30pm-2:30pm

Nectar Sippers
(All Ages)
Summertime blooms are a sweet treat for the critters who find their food in flowers. Learn what animals drink nectar and what tools they use to do so.
$6 per student/senior
$7 per adult
Activity Number: 51290
EEC-13          Friday, July 28
                       10:30am-11:30am

Cool Critters!                                              
(All Ages)
Come and see some truly cool, live critters and learn what helps them to survive in nature. Our guest list includes bugs, reptiles, and more! 
$6 per student/senior
$7 per adult
Activity Number: 51424
EEC-21          Sunday, July 30
                       3:00pm-4:00pm