JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ – One of the hidden natural gems in New Jersey can be found in Jackson Township, at the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Forest Resource Education Center. You might be familiar with the center’s annual fall festival, but did you know the FREC hosts family events all month long for nature lovers young and old.
In February, the FREC has a packed schedule that includes guided hikes, learning sessions, nature identification,
Tuesday, February 1 at 11 a.m. Squirrels, Friends or Foes?
“But, they’re so cute! OR I hate those darned critters, always chewing up something on my house!”
Let’s look for some squirrels. We will see some signs that they’ve left behind and learn how they talk to one-another. After our walk, we will have an opportunity to express our feelings about these critters and share any notable experiences with them. Our walk is less than 1-mile.
Wednesday, February 2 at 2 p.m. Ground Hog Day Hike
Shake off the Winter Blues and come see your shadow!…… or not? Join the FREC for a midwinter ramble among the bramble. One hour easy walk. Dress for the weather.
Thursday, February 3 at 11 a.m. Winter Tree, Shrub and Vine ID
Identifying trees and shrubs in Winter can be challenging due the loss of leaves from deciduous species. However, there are often tree
seeds left on some branches or also found near the bases of tree trunks. Join us for a walk that will traverse several habitats to identify seeds for a variety of species.
Tuesday, February 8 at 11 a.m. Galls and Burls!
Put on those winter woolies and come with us on a leisurely walk on our wooded trails in search of gall and burl ! Learn how these natural
objects are formed, why they exist and if they have any useful purposes. Enjoy the beauty and fresh air of our New Jersey forests.
Thursday, February 10 at 11 a.m. Squirrels, Friends or Foes? For Kids!
“But, they’re so cute! OR I hate those darned critters, always chewing up something on my house!”
Let’s look for some squirrels. We will see some signs that they’ve left behind and learn how they talk to one-another. After our walk, we will have an opportunity to express our feelings about these critters and share any notable experiences with them. Our walk is less than 1-mile. Kids must be accompanied by and adult.
Friday, February 11 at 11 a.m. Forest Pre-School
Come to the forest and river at FREC to explore the outdoors. We will hike, play and learn about Nature allowing your child’s own interest
to guide the day. The Forest pre-School is geared for kids between 4 and 6 years old. An adult must be present. The School will include a seasonal theme activity so that we will have fun with pine cones and twigs in Winter then bird nests and flowers in Spring. Bring snacks or picnic lunch.
Tuesday, February 15 at 11 a.m. Benefits of Forests
Forests have been around for millions of years before humans. It’s time to take a good look at how forests have adapted to changes over time and provide for all life on earth. We will take a short easy hike in our Pineland forest to explore its details.
Monday Night, February 14 at 7 p.m. Night Hike: Valentines Day
Let’s look for some squirrels. We will see some signs that they’ve left behind and learn how they talk to one-another.
Thursday, February 17 at 11 a.m. Benefits of Forests For Kids
Forests have been around for millions of years before humans. It’s time to take a good look at how forests have adapted to changes over time and provide for all life on earth. We will take a short easy hike in our Pineland forest to explore its details.
Friday, February 18 at 11 a.m. Forest Pre-School
Come to the forest and river at FREC to explore the outdoors. We will hike, play and learn about Nature allowing your child’s own
interest to guide the day. The Forest pre-School is geared for kids between 4 and 6 years old. An adult must be present. The School will include a seasonal theme activity so that we will have fun with pine cones and twigs in Winter then bird nests and flowers in Spring. Bring snacks or picnic lunch.
Tuesday, February 22 at 11 a.m. Winter Tree, Shrub and Vine ID
Identifying trees and shrubs in Winter can be challenging due the loss of leaves from deciduous species. However, there are often tree seeds left on some branches or also found near the bases of tree trunks. Join us for a walk that will traverse several habitats to identify seeds for a variety of species.
Thursday, February 24 at 11 a.m. Galls and Burls! For Kids!
Put on those winter woolies and come with us on a leisurely walk on our wooded trails in search of gall and burl ! Learn how these natural
objects are formed, why they exist and if they have any useful purposes. Enjoy the beauty and fresh air of our New Jersey forests.
Kids need to be accompanied by an adult.
Friday, February 25 at 11 a.m. Forest Pre-School
Come to the forest and river at FREC to explore the outdoors. We will hike, play and learn about Nature allowing your child’s own interest to guide the day. The Forest pre-School is geared for kids between 4 and 6 years old. An adult must be present. The School will include a seasonal theme activity so that we will have fun with pine cones and twigs in Winter then bird nests and flowers in Spring. Bring snacks or picnic lunch.
