BASKING RIDGE, NJ – The Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center (EEC) makes learning about nature interesting for children both in and out of the classroom when professional Naturalists present science-based topics using a hands-on approach. Topics range from discovering how to identify animal tracks, to a discussion about the process of maple sugaring. Programs are appropriate for children in kindergarten through high school.

The EEC will create and adapt programs according to the educators’ needs for the classrooms and field trips. All programs meet the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards (NJCCCS) and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

Classroom Programs
In-class programs include: “Who’s Track Is That?” when children will learn how to identify animals by their tracks; “Maple Sugaring,” which provides participants with a glimpse of the secret life inside of a maple tree; “Amazing Adaptations,” explains how animals adapt and survive their habitat; and “Basically Bugs,” which investigates the creepy crawly life of bugs.

Field Trips
Fun field trip programs include: “Who Lives in a Pond,” where children will learn about unique pond life and the food chain; “Sensory Sleuths,” when kids discover nature through their five senses while walking; “Let it Rot,” when a Naturalist explains the recycling and decomposition process and how animals and species aid in this process; “Aquatic Habitat Math,” gives children the opportunity to experience what it is like to be a field scientist by collecting data, identifying species, and recording observations. These are just a few of the programs the EEC offers.

To schedule a program and for more information, call Kurt Bender at 908.722.1200 Ext. 5332, or email kbender@scparks.org. To view a complete list of in-school programs and field trips, please click here.

The Somerset County Park Commission
The Park Commission is committed to excellence in promoting stewardship of land and resources, providing outstanding recreation opportunities and leisure services, and fostering an environment that is service oriented and responsive to the public’s needs.

The Environmental Education Center (EEC)
The EEC at Lord Stirling Park offers approximately nine miles of hiking trails, Naturalist-led programs, school field trips, fun festivals, nature-themed exhibits, facility and classroom rentals, a resource library, science and conservation research, and more. The EEC’s goal is to improve environmental literacy in Somerset County and beyond.