FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 28, 2010

VOLUNTEER TO BE A UNION COUNTY MASTER TREE STEWARD

Union County, NJ  – Union County residents can take a series of free guided learning tours in some of the region’s most beautiful conservation areas this fall, then share their knowledge with fourth grade students.  It’s all part of the Rutgers Cooperative Extension’s 4-H Union County Master Tree Steward Program, which certifies adult volunteers to help youngsters learn about the importance of trees in the environment.

To become a certified Master Tree Steward, no teaching experience is needed. Simply sign up for a series of training sessions guided by experts from the Extension, which is supported in part by the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders.  Most of the training consists of field trips to The Great Swamp, Rutgers Helyar Woods, and other nearby conservation areas.  Transportation is provided for the field trips.

The next series of Master Tree Steward training classes begins on September 15.  The entire series is free of charge, including trips, transportation and classroom materials. For more information, contact 4-H Agent James Nichnadowicz, 908-654-9854 or nichnadowicz@aesop.rutgers.edu.

The 4-H Youth Development Program is part of Rutgers Cooperative Extension and prohibits discrimination in all programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. Rutgers Cooperative Extension is an Equal Opportunity Program Provider and Employer.