Check-In begins 8:30 a.m. in Kramer Hall, 30 Front St. Hammonton NJ. 08037

Participating in the field trip Walking Thru History on the 1808 Trail? You may check-in at Batsto Village. Because you will be driving yourself to this location, you do not need to come to Kramer Hall first. Please note: The tour will start promptly at 9:00 a.m. Directions are listed in the field trip description below.

If the weather turns foul or is deemed "too hot" for you to participate in any of the field trips, you can sit in any of the lectures that have open seating in Kramer Hall.

Lunch: There is limited seating in Kramer Hall for you to enjoy the lunch you bring from home. There are many restaurants, markets, and convenience stores within walking distance.

Habitats for Birds and Wildlife
Join us for a collaborative session about creating a yard habitat that is friendly to birds and other wildlife. We will explore many different ways to provide food, shelter, and water to birds throughout the seasons, which will naturally support other aspects of wildlife, particularly pollinators and beneficial insects. Presented by Kara Guerrieri.

Agriculture in the Pinelands
LIMITED SPACE REMAINS! This presentation will provide a unique perspective on the cultivation of native Pine Barrens plants, while examining the development of cultural practices over the past 100 years. Attendees will also learn about the current challenges of farming, including how issues such as groundwater quality, soil health, climate change and invasive species affect the survival of these important agricultural industries. Presented by Peter Oudemans, Professor and Director, Rutgers University, Phillip E Marucci Center for Blueberry and Cranberry Research and Extension 

Pine Barrens to Pinelands
Discover the Pinelands of today and learn how they evolved from the Pine Barrens of the past. Presented by Joel Mott, Principal Public Programs Specialist, NJ Pinelands Commission

Seven Bridges Road: From the Past to the Future
The essence of this presentation is focused on the natural and human history of Seven Bridges Road (formally Great Bay Boulevard) and includes the Sheepshead Meadows and the adjacent islands (Seven Islands, Story Island Complex).  It begins with the geology of the region and the earliest inhabitants, the Lenni-Lenape. It extends to the future with treatment of the effects of climate change and sea level rise. Presented by Kenneth W. Able

Mullica River Paddle Exploration
SOLD OUT! Goshen Pond in the Mullica River is teeming with life in June. Professional guides will point out the amazing flora and fauna and provide insight into the unique ecology of the Pinelands during a short, guided kayak paddle on calm waters. Boats, life jackets, and transportation will be provided. Participants should bring water, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a dry bag for any items they need to protect/keep dry. Transportation is provided. Meet out front of Kramer Hall. Guided by Jeff Larson and Monica Cahill, Pinelands Adventures. This trip is reserved for those 12 years and older. Each minor MUST be accompanied by an adult. 

Nature Walk Around Hammonton Lake Park
SOLD OUT! Nestled in the middle of suburbia, Hammonton Lake Park is an island of mixed pine and oak upland forest surrounded by Atlantic white cedar wetlands.  An Ocean County Parks Naturalist will lead the walk around the trails of Hammonton Lake and we will discuss topics such as forest fire, Pine Barrens ecology, and the plants and wildlife, including birds that you will find in the area.  We will walk approximately 2.5 miles.  Wear appropriate footwear, dress for the weather and bug spray with DEET is highly recommended.  Bring binoculars if you have them. Transportation is provided. Meet out front of Kramer Hall.  Guided by Josh Gant, Ocean County Parks

Walking Through History on the 1808 Trail
This course will feature a guided hike along the same road the loggers of the 1700’s traveled when they timbered out the majestic cedar trees in Mordecai’s Swamp. The walk is approximately 5 miles or less over 13 footbridges and through the middle of an old-age swamp. Attendees should wear sturdy shoes (no sandals or flip flops) and bring water, a snack and bug repellant. Participants will drive on their own to Batsto, where they will meet with the guide at the parking area in front of the Visitor Center. Presented by Rosemarie Mason and Diane Mason, Outdoor Club of South Jersey.

An Introduction to the Hidden Kingdom of Fungi, with a Special Focus on Pine Barrens Species
Join naturalist Keara on a virtual fungi foray through the NJ Pine Barrens, uncovering the myriad roles fungi play in this environment, from functioning as nutrient cyclers, to acting as pathogens, to forming mycorrhizal mutualistic associations with trees and plants. Whether you're already a fungi enthusiast or just a curious beginner, this program offers something for everyone interested in the fascinating world of fungi and the Pine Barrens ecosystem. Ms. Giannotti is the director of Camp Creek Run, a 50-acre camp & nature preserve in Marlton, NJ, and a member of the NJ Mycological Association. Presented by Keara R. Giannotti, Naturalist, and Executive Director Camp Creek Run

Drop Out Zone
New Jersey is situated perfectly along the Atlantic Flyway – a pathway that hundreds of species of birds follow during both northward and southward journeys to and from their wintering and breeding grounds. New Jersey is blessed to be both centralized to this pathway while inherent with a broad array of landscape diversity. In combination, these two factors make the state a prime “stopover” area for birds to refuel their tanks during their long peregrinations. This presentation is designed for adult audiences that want to become more familiar with New Jersey’s many natural areas, avian biology and behavior and how a states geology can drive its natural heritage. Presented by Blaine Rothauser, Senior Ecologist, GZA, GeoEnvironmental, Inc.

Orchids of the Pinelands and Why the Smithsonian is Interested
The Pinelands is home to more than two dozen species of wild orchids. Although some are flamboyant, many are small and inconspicuous. This presentation will employ the magic of macro-photography to provide close-up views of all of them. In addition, attendees will learn about the amazing life histories of some of these fascinating plants as well as why the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center has chosen the Pinelands as an important study site.Presented by Robert Sprague, President, Native Orchid Conference

Nature Printing Workshop
LIMITED SPACE REMAINS! Nature printing is a simple, direct-printing process that stirs our kinship with the Earth andcharges our creative energies. Try this intriguing, ancient art and science and follow in the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci, Ben Franklin and many historic nature printers! Laura Bethmann, artist and author of Hand Printing from Nature, will discuss, demonstrate and guide class participants in making basic nature prints from leaves. We will use printmaking inks and simple tools to print their beautiful forms and textures on paper. (Recommended: participants bring a bib apron to wear for this class.) Presented by Laura Bethmann, artist and author

Climate Change-Makers! Using Art & Poetry to Raise Awareness of Climate Change
Discussing climate change often evokes many different thoughts and emotions that can be hard to express. This class provides an introduction to this science concept and a framework for participants to express those thoughts and emotions regarding climate change through ephemeral art and various types of poetry. Participants will become acquainted with their senses outdoors and will develop an increased knowledge, appreciation, and respect for the environment through the opportunity to create ephemeral art and express the process through poetry with an emphasis on Climate Change. This class will meet on the front porch of Kramer Hall. Presented by Lois E. Lyons, NJ School of Conservation

An Introduction to the Hidden Kingdom of Fungi, with a Special Focus on Pine Barrens Species
Join naturalist Keara on a virtual fungi foray through the NJ Pine Barrens, uncovering the myriad roles fungi play in this environment, from functioning as nutrient cyclers, to acting as pathogens, to forming mycorrhizal mutualistic associations with trees and plants. Whether you're already a fungi enthusiast or just a curious beginner, this program offers something for everyone interested in the fascinating world of fungi and the Pine Barrens ecosystem. Ms. Giannotti is the director of Camp Creek Run, a 50-acre camp & nature preserve in Marlton, NJ, and a member of the NJ Mycological Association. Presented by Keara R. Giannotti, Naturalist, and Executive Director Camp Creek Run

Reptiles of New Jersey
New Jersey is home to a wide variety of reptilian residents. From turtles, to lizards, to snakes, New Jersey has them all. We will go over the common species that people are likely to encounter and learn how to keep both them and us safe when we interact. There will also be an opportunity to see a live Wildlife Ambassador or two! Presented by Staff of Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge

Habitats for Birds and Wildlife
Join us for a collaborative session about creating a yard habitat that is friendly to birds and other wildlife. We will explore many different ways to provide food, shelter, and water to birds throughout the seasons, which will naturally support other aspects of wildlife, particularly pollinators and beneficial insects. Presented by Kara Guerrieri.

Nature Printing Workshop
SOLD OUT! Nature printing is a simple, direct-printing process that stirs our kinship with the Earth and charges our creative energies. Try this intriguing, ancient art and science and follow in the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci, Ben Franklin and many historic nature printers! Laura Bethmann, artist and author of Hand Printing from Nature, will discuss, demonstrate and guide class participants in making basic nature prints from leaves. We will use printmaking inks and simple tools to print their beautiful forms and textures on paper. (Recommended: participants bring a bib apron to wear for this class.) Presented by Laura Bethmann, artist and author

Climate Change-Makers! Using Art & Poetry to Raise Awareness of Climate Change
Discussing climate change often evokes many different thoughts and emotions that can be hard to express. This class provides an introduction to this science concept and a framework for participants to express those thoughts and emotions regarding climate change through ephemeral art and various types of poetry. Participants will become acquainted with their senses outdoors and will develop an increased knowledge, appreciation, and respect for the environment through the opportunity to create ephemeral art and express the process through poetry with an emphasis on Climate Change. This class will meet on the front porch of Kramer Hall. Presented by Lois E. Lyons, NJ School of Conservation

Mullica River Paddle Exploration
SOLD OUT! Goshen Pond in the Mullica River is teeming with life in June. Professional guides will point out the amazing flora and fauna and provide insight into the unique ecology of the Pinelands during a short, guided kayak paddle on calm waters. Boats, life jackets, and transportation will be provided. Participants should bring water, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a dry bag for any items they need to protect/keep dry. Transportation is provided. Guided by Jeff Larson and Monica Cahill, Pinelands Adventures. This trip is reserved for those 12 years and older. Each minor MUST be accompanied by an adult. 

Nature Walk Around Hammonton Lake Park
LIMITED SPACE REMAINS! Nestled in the middle of suburbia, Hammonton Lake Park is an island of mixed pine and oak upland forest surrounded by Atlantic white cedar wetlands.  An Ocean County Parks Naturalist will lead the walk around the trails of Hammonton Lake and we will discuss topics such as forest fire, Pine Barrens ecology, and the plants and wildlife, including birds that you will find in the area.  We will walk approximately 2.5 miles.  Wear appropriate footwear, dress for the weather and bug spray with DEET is highly recommended.  Bring binoculars if you have them. Transportation is provided. Guided by Josh Gant, Ocean County Parks

A Walking Tour of Batsto Village
Batsto’s Historian will lead a walking tour of the Village. The tour will meet and conclude at the Wharton State Forest State Visitor Center at Batsto Village. Topics will include the notable people who lived in the village, and the ways in which humans interacted with the natural resources of the Pinelands through different eras of Batsto’s history. The tour will also include a stop at the blacksmith/wheelwright shop for a demonstration. Participants will drive on their own to Batsto, where they will meet with the guide at the parking area in front of the Visitor Center. Led by John Hebble, Historian, Batsto Village

Reptiles of New Jersey
New Jersey is home to a wide variety of reptilian residents. From turtles, to lizards, to snakes, New Jersey has them all. We will go over the common species that people are likely to encounter and learn how to keep both them and us safe when we interact. There will also be an opportunity to see a live Wildlife Ambassador or two! Presented by Staff from the Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge

Pinelands Flora and Fauna
This lively presentation includes sights and sounds while taking the audience on an insightful walk in the woods, familiarizing them with the flora and fauna of the New Jersey Pinelands. Presented by Joel Mott, Principal Public Programs Specialist, NJ Pinelands Commission

Orchids of the Pinelands and Why the Smithsonian is Interested
The Pinelands is home to more than two dozen species of wild orchids. Although some are flamboyant, many are small and inconspicuous. This presentation will employ the magic of macro-photography to provide close-up views of all of them. In addition, attendees will learn about the amazing life histories of some of these fascinating plants as well as why the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center has chosen the Pinelands as an important study site. Presented by Robert Sprague, President, Native Orchid Conference