Environmental Education Center Programs

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

Cool Critters

Thursday, October 31 from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.

Children age infant to 5 with a parent will meet creatures including Pete

the praying mantis, Rosie the red rump tarantula, a gorgeous gecko

named Smooth, hissing cockroaches from Madagascar, and a

special surprise guest.

Fee is $10 per person and $5 per additional child.

Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-722-1200,

ext. 5002. Advance payment required.

Baby Owls

Friday, November 1 from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.

Children age infant to 5 with a parent will learn about owls through fun

activities, crafts and stories

Fee is $10 per pair and $5 per additional child.

Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-722-1200,

ext. 5002. Advance payment required.

CHILDREN/TEEN PROGRAMS

River Rats

Saturdays, November 2, 9, 16, and 23 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 $36 per person for the 4-day program.

Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or 908-722-1200 ext.

5002. Advance payment required.

ADULT/FAMILY PROGRAMS

Haunted Paddle in the Pines

Thursday, October 31 from 7:30 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.

Paddlers will enjoy a relaxed but spooky trip through the Pines, seeking

out the Jersey Devil.

Fee is $75 per person.

Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-766-2489. Advance payment required.

Forest Fitness Sundays

Sundays, November 3, 10, 17, and 24 from 9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.

Adults are invited to join a weekly walking group, enjoying nature along

the level trails of Lord Stirling Park.

Fee is $20 for the 4-day program.

Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-722-

1200, ext. 5002. Advance payment required.

Paddling Repair Party

Sunday, November 3 from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

Paddlers and non-paddlers alike will enjoy a day of camaraderie as folks gather to winterize the EEC Paddle Fleet. No experience is

necessary.

The event is free.

For information or to register online visit www.somersetcountyparks.org

or call 908-722-1200, ext. 5002.

“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.