JACKSON – The state Department of Environmental Protection’s Forest Resource Education Center (FREC) in Jackson will hold free Forest Explorer programs every Thursday from July to the end of August.
These programs give families the opportunity to learn about native plant and animal species and get a hands-on nature experience, according to a press release.
Programs begin at 10 a.m. in the Interpretive Center and will be about 90 minutes long. There is no pre-registration. The FREC Interpretive Center is at 495 Don Connor Blvd, Jackson. Attendees are advised to wear comfortable sneakers/boots and to bring plenty of water and insect spray.
July 9 — Exploring the Project Learning Trail. On this 1-mile hike, explore a variety of woodland habitats.
July 16 — Sounds from the Forest. Learn about and listen to drums, flutes and rattles made from items that grow in the forest.
July 23 — Swamp Life. Take a hike in the forested wetlands and discover a variety of fascinating species such as painted turtles, salamanders, carnivorous plants and the great blue heron.
July 30 — Animals of the Forest. Take a woodland habitat walk on an FREC trail and explore the different types of animals that live on the property. At the end of the walk, enjoy interacting with reptiles and amphibians courtesy of Ocean County Parks.
For more information and a list of the August programs at the FREC, visit the website www.forestrycenter.nj.gov