The Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center at 190 Lord Stirling Road in Basking Ridge has scheduled the following Naturalist-led programs to help children and adults enjoy the wonders of nature in Somerset County. The Environmental Education Center provides many entertaining and educational programs for children and adults year around.
Pre-registration is required for programs and may be done by calling 908-722-1200, ext. 5002. or NJ Relay at 711 for individuals with a hearing or speech impairment. Registration is available online at www.somersetcountyparks.org
CHILD/PARENT PROGRAMS
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Young Explorers Club
Mondays, April 1, 15, 22, 29 from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
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Children age infant to 5 with a parent will experience the wonders of
nature through outdoor activities that stimulate the five senses.
Fee is $30 per pair and $15 per additional child for the 4-day program.
Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-722-1200,
ext. 5002. Advance payment required.
Spring Peepers – NEW PROGRAM!
Friday, April 5 from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
Children age infant to 5 with a parent will join a Naturalist to learn about
different frog species living in Lord Stirling Park with a hike,
stories, and crafts.
Fee is 10 per pair and $5 per additional child.
Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or 908-722-1200, ext.
5002. Advance payment required.
Story Hour – FREE PROGRAM
Saturday, April 6 from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
Children ages infant to 5 with a parent will listen to a Naturalist read an
environmental-based story and enjoy a short walk on the trails of
the EEC.
The program is free.
Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or 908-722-1200 x.5002.
CHILDREN/TEEN PROGRAMS
KinderNats
Mondays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 4:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Children ages 5 to 7 who are enrolled in kindergarten and first grade will
study science and explore the natural world through games,
Naturalist-led activities, and more.
Fee is $30 per person for the 5-day session.
Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-722-1200,
ext. 5002. Advance payment required.
River Rats
Saturdays, April 6, 13, and 20 from 10:30 A.M. to 12:00 Noon
Children age 5 to 8 will enjoy a weekend learning adventure, joining a
Naturalist for a themed exploration of the Great Swamp.
Fee is $27 per person for the 3-day program.
Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or 908-722-1200 ext.
5002. Advance payment required.
ADULT/FAMILY PROGRAMS
Forest Fitness Tuesdays
Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 from 9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.
Adults are invited to join a Naturalist-led weekly walking group, enjoying
nature along the level trails of Lord Stirling Park.
Fee is $25 for the 5-day program.
Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or 908-722-1200
ext.5002. Advance payment required.
Birding at Brig
Thursday, April 4 from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Adult birders will travel to Forsyth National Wildlife Refuge, home to
fantastic waterfowl, amazing shorebirds, spectacular raptors, and
beautiful songbirds. Beginner and advanced birders are welcome.
Fee is $50 per adult and $40 per senior.
Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or 908-722-1200
ext.5002. Advance payment required.
Family Nature Walk – FREE PROGRAM
Sunday, April 7 from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 P.M.
Family and friends will enjoy a Naturalist-led interpretive walk
through the Great Swamp.
The program is free and pre-registration is not required.
For information, call 908-722-1200, Ext. 5002.
Rare Herps – FREE PROFRAM
Sunday, April 7 from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Guests will join Conserve Wildlife Foundation (CWF) of New Jersey
biologist, Allegra Mitchell, for a talk about some of the rarest
reptile and amphibian species in the state. Learn what makes these
animals special and why they are vital to maintain a balanced
ecosystem. Allegra will discuss the threats to these species and
how CWF, the state, and other agencies are working to protect
these important and often misunderstood creatures.
The program is free.
For information, visit www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-722-
1200, ext. 5002. Advance payment required.
“The Great Swamp Experience,” on the lower level at the EEC, features interactive displays, vignettes, taxidermy, and archeological artifacts highlighting the history and ecology of the Great Swamp. The exhibit is open 7 days a week from 9:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission Is free.
Please note that dog walking is not permitted on the trails at the Environmental Education Center.
