Essex County Environmental Center

Fall 2010

Public Programs

The Essex County Environmental Center is located at 621-B Eagle Rock Avenue in Roseland and is a facility of the Essex County Park System in Essex County West Essex Park. Our hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm and Saturday from 10:00am to 2:00pm. Essex County West Essex Park is open to the public every day from dawn until dusk. Pre-registration is required for all programs unless otherwise noted. For more information, please call 973-228-8776.

ONGOING CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

LITTLE EXPLORERS FALL NATURE PROGRAM

For ages 2½ to 3½ years

Mondays–September 13 through November 22

10:30am to 11:30am

or Thursdays –September 16 through November 18

10:30am to 11:30am

For ages 3½ to 5 years

Mondays–September 13 through November 22

1pm to 2 pm

or Thursdays–September 16 through November 18

3pm to 4pm

This child-caregiver class uses stories, walks and crafts to develop an awareness and appreciation for science and nature for the child as well as the caregiver. Each week, a different nature or science topic is covered. Advance registration and payment are required;

call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child per session. (Additional material fees may apply)

OUTSIDE NATURE DISCOVERIES CLUB

Tuesdays—September 13, October 11, November 8

4pm to 5pm

For children ages 5 to 6. Come venture into our wooded wetland with magnifiers, trowels, containers and more to observe living things in their environment. Curriculum is not structured; we will discover as we explore and document our observations in a journal. Dress for the weather as all classes will be outside. Advance registration and payment are required; call 973.228.8776.

Fee: $6 per child per session

BUG CLUB

Tuesdays—September 14, October 12, November 9

4pm to 5pm

For children ages 6 to 10. The Bug Club is devoted to young people who want to explore the wonders of insects through field walks, games, stories and crafts. This club meets year-round. Advance registration and payment are required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child per session (Additional material fees may apply)

NATURE CRAFTS WITH CHILDREN

Wednesdays—September 29, October 27, November 24

3:45pm to 4:45pm

For children ages 6 to 12. Take a walk through the woods and discover imaginative ways to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary by making art from nature. Join us to make apple faced people, autumn leaves under glass, edible turkeys and more! Advance registration and payment are required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child per session (Additional material fees may apply)

NATURE DISCOVERY GARDEN CLUB

Wednesdays—September 22, October 20, November 17

4pm to 5pm

For children ages 6 to 12. Discover the wonderful world of plants. We will dry the last flowers of summer, pick fresh herbs and save seeds for next year’s plantings. Advance registration and payment are required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child per session (Additional material fees may apply)

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CLUB

Wednesdays—September 15, October 13, November 10

4pm to 5pm

For children ages 7 to 11. Let’s get outside and see where the hour takes us. We just might build forts, collect firewood, skip rocks, tell stories, dig for critters, spot wildlife, play tag and more. Let’s blow like the wind. The hour will be directed by club members under the guidance of a Staff Naturalist who will facilitate all free-play activities. Dress for the weather as all classes will be outside. Advance registration and payment are required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child per session

ROCK-N-ROLL GEOLOGY CLUB

Tuesdays—September 28, October 26, November 30

4pm to 5pm

For children ages 7 to 12. Revel in the fascinating formations of Earth’s geologic creations. Hands-on club activities include exploring local geology, discovering what’s in local soil, and identifying rocks and minerals. Advance registration and payment are required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child per session. (Additional material fees may apply)

GREEN KIDS CLUB

Tuesdays—September 21, October 19, November 16

4pm to 5pm

For children ages 7 to 14. Discover all areas of environmental science with hands-on fun and service projects! Advance registration and payment are required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child per session (Additional material fees may apply)

4-H ENVIRONMENTAL KIDS CLUB

Thursdays-September 16, October 14, November 11

4pm to 5pm

For children in grades 2nd through 6th. Our environment is filled with things, big and small, that surprise and help us. Join us once a month to see how much fun it is to learn about our world! Meet in Garibaldi Hall. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.3785.

4-H PET CLUB

For children in grades 4-7

Wednesdays – September 15, October 13, November 10

4pm to 5pm

CLOVERBUD PET CLUB

For Children in grades K-3

Saturdays – September 11, October 9, November 13

10:30am to 11:30am

Do you love animals and want to learn how to take care of them? If so, then the Pet Club is for you. We will learn all about pets and small animals. Non-pet owners are welcome! 4-H Pet Club meets in Garibaldi Hall, CloverBud Pet Club meets in the Environmental Center. Advance registration is required; please call 973.353.1338.

4-H STAMP CLUB

Thursdays – September 23, October 21, November 18

4pm to 5pm

For children in grades 4th through 7th. What do Pocahontas, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rachel Carson have in common? They have all been honored on US Postal Stamps. Stamps have been moving mail around since the middle of the 19th century! Start a collection today. Meet in Garibaldi Hall. Advance registration is required; please call 973.353.1338.

4-H YOUNG GARDENERS CLUB

Tuesdays – September 14, 21, 28 and October 12, 19

4pm to 5pm

For children in grades 1-8. Have you ever wondered how vegetables and flowers grow? Where spaghetti sauce comes from? How you can find a rainbow in a garden? Come join the Young Gardener's 4-H Club to find the answers to these questions and many more. Learning and fun happen all the time here! Meet in Garibaldi Hall. Advance registration is required; please call 973.228.3785.

4-H LEGO CLUB

Mondays – September 20, October 18, November 15

4pm to 5pm

For children in grades 3rd through 6th. Come use your imagination and build animals, castles, and more with other children who are interested in Legos. Meet in Garibaldi Hall. Advance registration is required; please call 973.353.1338.

NJ AUDUBON

ESSEX COUNTY BIRDING FIELD TRIPS

Led by Dave Hall, Associate Naturalist

Have you ever wanted to "bird watch" but don't know where to begin? Would you like to find some of the hidden gems in Essex County? Let New Jersey Audubon be your guide! Walks encourage beginners and challenge experts! This is a wonderful time of the year to view the fall migrants, and Dave Hall has once again planned many exciting birding field trips. Many of these trips are to Essex County parks, the first county park system in the United States. Dave will set an easy pace, and most of the trails are level and wide; a few have steep trail sections and are a little muddy. For more information or to register, please call 973.226.6082 or email kelly.wenzel@njaudubon.org. Fee: $6 for members, $8 non-members; unless otherwise noted

THURSDAY MORNING BIRD WATCHING FIELD TRIPS

ESSEX COUNTY BECKER TRACT AND WALTER KIDDE DINOSAUR PARK

Thursday, September 9

8:30am to 10:30am

Walk along the rim of the Passaic River Valley for superb views and interesting birdlife. Meet in the parking lot of the Essex County Environmental Center in Roseland. FREE

MONTCLAIR HAWK WATCH

Thursday, September 23

9am to 12pm

With fall migration in full swing, you are sure to see a variety of hawks. Meet at the parking area on Edgecliff Road in Montclair, or if you arrive late, join us by climbing the stairway. Bring a hat, water and a folding chair.

ESSEX COUNTY GROVER CLEVELAND PARK AND TROTTER TRACT

Thursday, October 7

8:30am to 11am

This is a great time for woodland birds. We will visit this beautiful Essex County park and explore a nearby reserve in Essex Fells. Meet at the Tennis Courts at Essex County Grover Cleveland Park. FREE

ESSEX COUNTY BRANCH BROOK PARK

Thursday, October 21

8:30am to 11am

Take a leisurely walk in this Olmstead-designed park. This is an amazing place for migrating birds, including thrushes, wrens, waterfowl and more. Meet at the Cherry Blossom Visitor’s Center parking lot in Essex County Branch Brook Park, Newark (see http://essex.njaudubon.org for a map and directions). FREE

HATFIELD SWAMP

Thursday, November 4

8:30am to 11:30am

We will have a great chance to find migrating birds and maybe some native wildlife. Depending on recent weather, you may want to wear boots. Meet at the parking lot of King’s Grocery in West Caldwell, near the corner of Bloomfield Avenue and Passaic Avenue.

ESSEX COUNTY WEEQUAHIC PARK

Thursday, November 18

9am to 11am *Hidden Gem* This area attracts a wonderful set of waterfowl in the fall, and all can be viewed along an easy trail around the lake. We expect to find a good selection of wintering ducks. Meet in the park at the large parking area on the west end of the lake. FREE

SATURDAY BIRDING FIELD TRIPS

HATFIELD SWAMP

Saturday, September 11

8:30am to 12pm

Migrants might include Hummingbirds, Warblers, and many more. Dress in sturdy boots as this location might be muddy.

ESSEX COUNTY SOUTH MOUNTAIN RESERVATION

Saturday, October 9

8:30am to 11:30am

Essex County’s largest developed park has many good hiking trails leading into different habitats. At the peak of the fall migration, we will search for passerines, raptors and maybe a few waterfowl. Meet in the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo parking lot.

CANOE BROOK RESERVOIR

Saturday, November 20

8:30am to 11:30am

NJ Audubon has been granted access to one of the best places in Essex County for wintering waterfowl. We will also discover hawks and perhaps a Bald Eagle. Pre-registration is required for this field trip. A map and directions will be provided upon registration.

HOLIDAY HIKES

Led by Kelly Wenzel, Environmental Educator

For children in grades K through 5. Don’t just sit around on your day off from school – enjoy the great outdoors! Come hike with us and learn about your local parks and wildlife. These hikes have no agenda, so just come prepared to have fun! For more information or to register, please call 973.226.6082 or email kelly.wenzel@njaudubon.org.

Fee: $5 members, $7 non-members

ESSEX COUNTY GROVER CLEVELAND PARK

Thursday, September 9

9:30am to 11am

This is a great time to see woodland birds. Meet at the Tennis Courts at Essex County Grover Cleveland Park.

ESSEX COUNTY BRANCH BROOK PARK

Monday, October 11

9:30am to 11am

This is an amazing place for migrating birds including thrushes, wrens, waterfowl and more. Meet in the Cherry Blossom Visitor’s Center parking lot in Essex County Branch Brook Park, Newark (see http://essex.njaudubon.org for a map and directions).

ESSEX COUNTY SOUTH MOUNTAIN RESERVATION

Thursday, November 4

9:30am to 11am

Essex County’s largest developed park has many good hiking trails leading into different habitats. At the peak of the fall migration, we will search for passerines, raptors, and maybe a few waterfowl. Meet in the Tulip Springs parking area.

WONDER WALKS

Led by Kelly Wenzel, Environmental Educator

For children ages 18 months to 5 years with their caregivers. Get your little tykes out and about with these fabulous walks. Designed for safe exploration, these walks allow your child to discover nature with their senses. Children should either be walking or in a carrier. Strollers are not recommended. For more information or to register, please call 973.226.6082 or email kelly.wenzel@njaudubon.org. Fee: $5 members, $7 non-members

ESSEX COUNTY GROVER CLEVELAND PARK

Monday, September 13

10am to 11am

We will explore the forest to find migrating birds and explore what they eat along the way! Meet at the Tennis Courts at Essex County Grover Cleveland Park.

ESSEX COUNTY BRANCH BROOK PARK

Thursday, October 14

10 am to 11am

Enjoy the gem of the Essex County Park System with your child(ren). Explore hidden habitats and walk among the magnificent trees to find wildlife getting ready to hibernate. Meet in the Cherry Blossom Visitor’s Center parking lot in Essex County Branch Brook Park, Newark (see http://essex.njaudubon.org for a map and directions).

ESSEX COUNTY SOUTH MOUNTAIN RESERVATION

Monday, November 8

10am to 11am

Bundle up and explore the forest to find out who is ready for winter! We will walk through the pine forest and look for owls roosting up high. Meet in the Tulip Springs Parking Area.

SEPTEMBER 2010 PROGRAMS

A PROFFESSIONAL CRITIQUE

Wednesday, September 1

7pm to 9pm

The Essex County Nature Photography Club is hosting David Mills, a NJ Federation of Camera Clubs competition judge, who will critique members’ pictures that were taken during this past summer.

Fee: $8 per adult; Free for ECNP members

LABOR DAY NATURE CAMP

Monday, September 6

9:30pm to 3:30pm

For children in grades 1st, 2nd & 3rd. Campers will explore nature around our fields, forests and gardens, and then create their own journal pages to document their exciting discoveries. Bring your own bagged lunch; afternoon snack is included. Advanced registration is required; please call 973-228-8776. Fee: $60 per child

AUTUMN YOGA SERIES FOR BEGINNERS

Fridays, September 3, 10, 17, & 24

Saturdays, October 30 & November 6

9:30am to 10:45am

For adults. This class will introduce adult beginners to the many joys of yoga. Gain strength, flexibility and warmth as we move into the cool autumn season. Explore the benefits of rhythmic breath and movement in preparation for the cooler months to come. Great for beginners, but all levels are welcome. Join us for the series or just one class. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Dress comfortably and bring your own mat. Fee: $10 per class

BACKYARD BIRDS AND FEEDERS

Saturday, September 11

10:30am to 12pm

What birds can we expect to see in our backyards in autumn? Learn how to make a recycled bird feeder and discover how you can help your backyard visitors get ready for winter. We will walk outside to see and hear some familiar friends. Fee: $5 members, $7 non-members

SUNRISE PADDLE

Saturday, September 11

9am to 11am

For ages 10 and up. Take a leisurely paddle on the Passaic River! Paddlers will enjoy scenery and peacefulness as they paddle up the river and float down stream. The session includes paddling safety, techniques, and all equipment. Geared for beginners and children 10 and up must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $30 per canoe or $15 per seat

2010 NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

All entries are due on September 15, 2010. This contest is designed to highlight the best that the Essex County Parks have to offer its many residents. Anyone with a camera is invited and encouraged to submit photos that capture a part of your visit to the County park system. Please contact the Environmental Center for rules and regulations. Grab a camera and enjoy our Parks! For details, call 973.228.8776.

BIRDING IN AND AROUND ESSEX COUNTY

Tuesday, September 14

7pm to 9pm

Join us in welcoming Montclair Bird Club member Jim McGregor as he presents a list of locations and birds to find in and around Essex County. Jim will also discuss the influence of migration on local birding, highlighting hawk migration and the New Jersey Audubon’s Montclair Hawk Watch program. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child; $8 per adult

SUNSET PADDLE ON THE PASSAIC RIVER

Thursday, September 16

6pm to 8pm

Evening offers wonderful opportuni ties to view wildlife awakening for a night full of activity. All equipment is included. Some paddling experience is required. Meet in the Garibaldi Hall parking lot. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $30 per canoe or $15 per seat

VOLUNTEER FALL CLEAN-UP DAY

Saturday, September 18

10:30am to 1:30pm

Come one, come all! Spread woodchips, pull weeds, and do a general spruce-up during this volunteer outdoor workday at the Environmental Center. Be prepared to get dirty. Wearing old clothes is advised. A pizza lunch will be provided for participating volunteers.

HORTICULTURE FOR SENIORS

Monday, September 20

1pm to 3pm

Join the Master Gardeners of Essex County for this horticulture class especially designed for senior citizens. This month’s topic is making the most of the summer harvest. Meet in Garibaldi Hall. Advance registration is required one week prior to program; call 973.379.5488 or 973.731.0717. FREE

FLOWER PRESS WORKSHOP

Wednesday, September 22

7pm to 8:30pm

Join professional designer, lecturer, and published author Bernice Peitzer for an evening of flower pressing. Over the years, she has sold pictures and stationary to Lord and Taylor, The Bombay Shops, and others. Bernice will share some of her favorite projects from her book “Forever Flowers”, which illustrates over 40 different flower projects for adults and children to enjoy. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. All materials are included. Projects made in class will be taken home. Fee: $25 per person

ECO FRIENDLY MELT & POUR SOAP MAKING

Saturday, September 25 and October 30

11am to 1:30pm

Home-made natural soaps can be easy on your budget and a great way to bond with family and friends. This workshop provides hands-on experience for students to learn how to use natural bases and additives to create textured and colored soaps that are perfect for at home self-care, gifts, or business inspiration. Students will be guided through the workshops in a way that allows them to easily replicate the process at home. Come prepared to have fun. Bring a snack/lunch to eat while your soap hardens. Students will leave with soap creations from each workshop. Please bring tie-backs for hair longer than shoulder length. Product ingredients generously provided by Whole Foods Market Montclair. Advance registration is required; call 973.619.2855. Fee: $45 per class for adults, $35 per class for children

4-H JUNIOR ENGINEERS: ELECTRICITY EXPLORATION

Monday, September 27

4pm to 6pm

For children ages 8 to 12. Explore the properties of electricity. This interactive workshop provides participants with the opportunity to create simple electric circuits and design electrical devices, including flashlights and switches. Advance registration is required; call 973.353.1338. Fee: $10 per person

NEW JERSEY WOODTURNERS

Mondays—September 27, October 25, November 22

6:30pm to 9:30pm

Learn to turn with the NJ Woodturners Association! Discover the wonders of creating art from found pieces of wood, wood species, and turning tips and techniques. Topics vary month to month; call the Environmental Center for details. Meet in Garibaldi Hall. Fee: $8 per adult; Free for NJWA members

OCTOBER 2010 PROGRAMS

ANNUAL OCTOBERFEST CELEBRATION 2010

Saturday, October 2

11am to 4pm

Come celebrate autumn at the Environmental Center! There will be fun-filled activities for the entire family to enjoy including a farmer’s market featuring a variety of NJ Fresh seasonal produce, games, canoeing, Native American life, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, nature crafts, food, and more. FREE EVENT! Some items may be for sale.

SUGAR AND SALT SCRUBS

Tuesday, October 5

6pm to 8:30pm

Feel refreshed, renewed and empowered by making your own sugar and salt scrubs from scratch. Sugar and salt scrubs help to exfoliate and brighten your skin. They invigorate the body and allow new cells to shine through and soften the skin. Why not make your own with simple ingredients, eco-friendly recycled containers and love? Learn about the healing qualities of sugars and salts from around the world. Bring two of your own recyclable 6-8 ounce containers made of glass or plastic. Product ingredients generously provided by Whole Foods Market Montclair. Advance registration is required; call 973.619.2855. Fee: $40 adults and teens, $30 children ages 8-12

NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

Wednesday, October 6

7pm to 9pm

The Essex County Nature Photography Club is hosting Ben Venezio, who will present "Night Lines" an educational program on night photography and present pictures of night scenes across the country. Ben is a New Jersey Federation of Camera Clubs competition judge and has won numerous awards for his photography. Fee: $8 per adult; Free for ECNP members

FRESH FROM THE KITCHEN… MANICURE FOR THE HANDS

Wednesday, October 6

6:30pm to 8pm

For children ages 10 and up. Let’s raid the kitchen and create a true at home manicure. Learn the tricks of the pros to achieve the “softest-to-the-touch” hands and cuticles. All materials for this hands-on workshop are included. Participants will leave class with their home-made spa product. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $12 per person

4-H JUNIOR SCIENTISTS: SODA SCIENCE

Thursday, October 7

6pm to 8pm

For children ages 8 to 12 years. Create your own soda! Young participants experiment with flavor and color as they create their own soda recipe. Parents will be encouraged to taste the final products. Advance registration is required; call 973.353.1338. Fee: $10 per person

FRIDAY MORNING AUTUMN YOGA SERIES

October 8, 15, 22, 29

9:30am to 10:45am

For adults. This ‘all levels’ yoga series will be guided by things commonly found in nature. Whether it’s a stick, a mountain, a heron, a frog, or a snake it can provide inspiration for building your own beautiful pose. All levels welcome. Join us for the series or just one class. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Dress comfortably and bring your own mat.

Fee: $10 per class

PAINT SAFETY FOR PEOPLE, PETS AND PLANET

Saturday, October 9

10 am to 12pm

This seminar, presented by SmartLittleHouse of Roseland, covers the basics of proper room preparation focusing on keeping the occupants, whether they are people or pets, safe from dusts and vapors. The latest lead paint safety regulations will also be discussed, as well as how to safely paint your own home or hire a qualified contractor. This class will also address paint product ingredients such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and carcinogens, and discuss chemical labeling with respect to a variety of products on the market. Additionally, there will be information presented about the confusion and ambiguity surrounding green standards for paints and coatings. Finally, proper disposal of unused paint and brush washing will be discussed. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. FREE

COLUMBUS DAY EARTH SKILLS CAMP

Monday, October 11

9:30 to 4:30pm

For children in grades 3-5. Spend the holiday enjoying nature at the Essex County Environmental Center. How did humans live hundreds of years ago when they had to rely on their own woodland knowledge and skills to survive? Discover and learn as we hike in the wetlands with rubber boots (provided), make clay pots, cord, fire by friction and more. Participants are asked to bring a bagged lunch; a light snack will be provided. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $60 per child

BODY BUTTERS AND WHIPS

Tuesday, October 12

6pm to 8:30pm

Learn how easy it is to make your own body butters. After this class, you’ll be motivated and ready to mix at home, bond with family or friends – maybe even start your own business. Participants will use ingredients such as shea butter, cocoa butter, and jojoba oil with essential oils, extracts, and natural and healing colorants like blueberry fruit fibers. Bring two of your own 6-8 ounce glasses or plastic containers with lids. Pyrex, Anchor Hocking and clear 365, Sterilite or Rubbermaid containers are recommended. Product ingredients generously provided by Whole Foods Market Montclair. Advance registration is required; call 973.619.2855. Fee: $40 adults and teens, $30 children ages 8-12

HONEY BEE CUTIES

Tuesday, October 12

7pm to 9pm

Join the Essex County Beekeepers for their monthly meeting and special movie viewing. Learn a little about the sweet little honey bee while you kick back and relax with some popcorn. Fee: $6 per child; $8 per adult; FREE for ECB members

DO OTHER ANIMALS SENSE THE WORLD THE WAY WE DO?

Saturday, October 16

11am to 12pm

We perceive our world through our senses as do other animals. Does that mean all of us live in the same identical reality? In this presentation, animals will be shown to have senses that can perceive a greater range of sight and sound than we can. In addition, some animals have totally unique senses. Perception is a fun topic full of surprises. This presentation is recommended for families with children 8 years of age and older. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child; $8 per adult

HORTICULTURE FOR SENIORS

Monday, October 18

1pm to 3pm

Join the Master Gardeners of Essex County for this horticulture class especially designed for senior citizens. This month’s topic is on becoming a tree hugger and learning why we depend on trees. Meet in Garibaldi Hall. Advance registration is required one week prior to program; call 973.379.5488 or 973.731.0717. FREE

LOTIONS & BODY SPRAYS

Tuesday, October 19

6pm to 8:30pm

Treat your skin well by mixing your own lotion. We will start with a natural paraben-free lotion base of ingredients like aloe leaf juice, organic sunflower and virgin olive oils and organic shea butter, and add essential oils and natural colorants to create lotion blends that will make you happy, relaxed, motivated and inspired to be your true self. Bring laughter, joy and big smiles along with two of your own personal 8-12 ounce spray bottles for the body sprays that can be re-used for new mixes at home. Containers for lotions will be provided. Product ingredients generously provided by Whole Foods Market Montclair. Advance registration is required; call 973.619.2855. Fee: $40 adults and teens, $30 children ages 8-12

FULL MOON CAMPFIRE

Thursday, October 21

6pm to 8pm

Walk our trails and experience the night life under the light of the moon. Discover crepuscular creatures out on a feeding frenzy before the long winter ahead. After the hike, enjoy a campfire and roasting marshmallows. Bring flashlights. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child; $8 per adult

HOLISTIC CHORES AND A HEALING WHISPER

Saturday, October 23

10am to 1pm

Learn how to have greater success by using a holistic partnership approach to garden chores like pruning or transplanting. Step inside the world of trees and plants in a guided visualization adventure with a live plant...or with a tree on the Environmental Center’s property if the weather is good. Learn one simple and effective energy-healing "whispering" technique to improve the health of your trees and plants. What are The Tree Whisperer Dr. Jim Conroy's secrets? How can you gain nature insights by “coming from the GREEN being’s point of view?” Get the 12 tree/plant stressors list and tips. Find out how declining forests can grow again holistically without the use of products. Bring your own lunch if you’ll stay for an optional Q&A at 1pm. Advance registration is required; call 201.745.5494. Fee: $35 per person

THURSDAY EVENING AUTUMN YOGA SERIES

October 28, November 4, 11, 18

6:15pm to 7:30pm

For adults. This ‘all levels’ yoga series will focus on alignment, flow, and warmth followed by a restorative pose to unwind the body and mind for bed. Explore the wonders of movement and stillness just like the falling autumn leaves. All levels are welcome. Join us for the series or just one class. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Dress comfortably and bring your own mat. Fee: $10 per class

ECO FRIENDLY MELT & POUR SOAP MAKING

Saturday, October 30

11am to 1:30pm

Home-made natural soaps can be easy on your budget and a great way to bond with family and friends. This workshop provides hands-on experience for students to learn how to use natural bases and additives to create textured and colored soaps that are perfect for at home self-care, gifts, or business inspiration. Students will be guided through the workshops in a way that allows them to easily replicate the process at home. Come prepared to have fun. Bring a snack/lunch to eat while your soap hardens. Students will leave with soap creations from each workshop. Please bring tie-backs for hair longer than shoulder length. Product ingredients generously provided by Whole Foods Market Montclair. Advance registration is required; call 973.619.2855. Fee: $45 per class for adults, $35 per class for children

NOVEMBER 2010 PROGRAMS

PROFESSIONAL PHOTO SHARE

Wednesday, November 3

7pm to 9pm

The Essex County Nature Photography Club is hosting James Moses, a club member and retired professional photographer, who will present a lecture on the many facets of his career as a professional. Jim’s presentation will include various slides that express his love for the craft. Fee: $8 per adult; Free for ECNP members

OCEAN GARBAGE PATCH

Tuesday, November 9

7pm to 8pm

There is an ever increasing global issue of waste that is accumulating and creating swirling seas of garbage called “garbage patches.” We will explore the impact on how consumer use and waste, in particular plastic products, are creating and having detrimental effects within our global environment as ocean garbage has become one of the major sources of pollution in the world’s ocean systems. Come learn about the ways we can positively and healthily move forward from here. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child; $8 per adult

TURKEY TIME

Saturday, November 13

10:30am to 12pm

Have you ever seen a Wild Turkey? Ben Franklin wanted it to be our national bird. Come prepared for an outdoor walk to try your luck with a turkey “caller.” Bring home a turkey decoration for your Thanksgiving table. Fee: $5 members, $7 non-members

FALL HARVEST CAMPFIRE

Thursday November 18

6:30pm to 8pm

Thursday, November 26

12pm to 1:30pm or 2:30pm to 4pm

Find a seat around the camp fire to celebrate the fall harvest. Roast marshmallows and enjoy some popcorn and cider. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather. Advance registration is required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $6 per child; $8 per adult

HORTICULTURE FOR SENIORS

Monday, November 22

1pm to 3pm

Join the Master Gardeners of Essex County for this horticulture class especially designed for senior citizens. This month’s topic is how to garden indoors during the winter. Meet in Garibaldi Hall. Advance registration is required one week prior to program; call 973.379.5488 or 973.731.0717. FREE

4-H JUNIOR ENGINEERS: BALLOON AND RUBBER BAND POWERED CARS

Monday, November 22

4pm to 6pm

For children ages 8 to 12 years. How far? How fast? Participants will build cardboard cars and design effective propulsion systems with balloons or rubber bands. Wind them up and watch them go! Advance registration is required; call 973.353.1338. Fee: $10 per person

NEW OFFERINGS…

HATFIELD SWAMP HIKES BY ARRANGEMENT Led by Michael Mazur

The Essex County Environmental Center (ECEC) is pleased to offer hiking tours in the Hatfield Swamp, led by Michael Mazur, local outdoor enthusiast and West Essex Park Conservancy Member/Essex County Trailkeeper. These hikes are ‘seasonal adventures’ that highlight the local ecology of Essex County West Essex Park and the surrounding area. Hikes are scheduled upon request and will run for two or more people. For more information or to schedule a hike, please contact Mike at mazurma@aol.com or call the Essex County Environmental Center at 973.228.8776. FREE

LOOKING AHEAD…

GINGERBREAD HOUSE MAKING WORKSHOP

Saturday, December 4

10am to 12pm

ON SITE REGISTRATION AND CREATION OF YOUR GINGERBREAD HOME OR HABITAT! Have you been too busy to pre-register for our contest? Maybe you don’t know where to begin! Stop by the Essex County Environmental Center and our resourceful staff will get you started on your own unique creation. You may arrive anytime between 3pm and 6pm. All gingerbread projects must be completed by 7pm to be considered for the contest. Some materials will be provided, however; you are encouraged to bring your own items. Meet in Garibaldi Hall. FREE

4th ANNUAL GREEN GIFT FAIR

Saturday, December 4

10am to 4pm

Give Green this holiday season with sustainable and alternative gifts! While you shop, we’ll keep the kids busy making recycled wrapping paper and other holiday crafts. For more information on becoming a vendor, contact the Center at 973.228.8776. FREE

5th ANNUAL SUSTAINABLE HOMES GINGERBREAD CONTEST & EXHIBIT

All entries submitted by Monday, December 6

Create a unique gingerbread house with natural accents and green building design features! Sustainable Gingerbread Homes will be on display from Monday, December 6 through Saturday, December 18. Prizes will be awarded in various categories. Call the Environmental Center to register or for more information.

LITTLE EXPLORERS WINTER CAMP

December 28, 29, 30

For children in kindergarten to 3rd grade. Camp sessions are available for Forest Explorers – Kindergarten to1st grade from 9am to Noon – and Wildlife Adventurers – 2nd to 3rd grade from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. Call for more information. Fee: $75 per child for all three days OR $30 per child per day

Days the Essex County Environmental Center is Closed:

Thursday, November 25 Thanksgiving Day

To register or to inquire about Essex County Environmental Center programs, please call us at 973.228.8776.

To register, or for more information about programs sponsored by our partner agencies, please refer to the contact list below and reach out to the agency directly.

Thank you!

ESSEX COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER PARTNER AGENCIES

New Jersey Audubon (NJA) - Kelly Wenzel 973.226.6082

Essex County Beekeepers Society (ECBS) - Joe Lelinho 973.403.8662

West Essex Park Conservancy (WEPC) - Ron Pate 973.669.8030

Essex County Nature Photographers (ECNP) - Gordon Emrich 973.239.0539

Master Gardeners of Essex County (MGEC) - Jan Zientek 973.228.3179

New Jersey Woodturners Association (NJWA) - Dr. Hitoshi Tanaka 908.889.5753

Essex County 4-H Youth Development Program (4-H)

Suzanne Mazur, Roseland Office 973.228.3785

Phillipa Myers, Newark Office 973.353.1338

The Essex County Environmental Center is situated in a wooded wetland habitat with access to the Passaic River which makes for an interesting and affordable site to book a naturalist-led field trip for school groups, scouts, and community groups. Book our state-of-the-art facility and nature setting for an educational birthday party, community event, or a corporate business outing. Take advantage of this County facility, stay local and explore the nature of Essex in your own "backyard." For more information call 973.228.8776.

COUNTY OF ESSEX

Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs

ESSEX COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

621-B Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland, NJ 07068

Phone: 973.228.8776 Fax: 973.228.3793

www.essexcountynj.org