Union County residents who are looking for a fun and rewarding civic service project can join the 4-H Master Tree Steward program and learn how to “speak for the trees.” Master Tree Stewards are community volunteers who visit 4th-grade classrooms each spring to present an interactive lesson on trees. No experience is needed. All training and classroom materials are provided by the Master Tree Steward program.
Master Tree Stewards can also organize additional projects, such as the educational “Tree Trails” in Union County parks.
“Our Master Tree Stewards provide students with enriching educational experiences and important messages about trees and the environment. It’s a lesson about appreciation and stewardship that young people can carry into adulthood, benefitting our community and the world beyond for years to come,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.
Each fall, the Master Tree Steward program offers a series of training sessions, consisting mainly of guided walks in nearby parks and nature reserves. Easy reading assignments, indoor classes, a simple project are also part of the program. The entire program, including a tree identification guide, is covered by a $25.00 administrative fee.
Applicants who complete the series obtain a Master Tree Steward certificate and are qualified to teach lessons about trees to 4th grade classrooms in the spring. The program provides a complete lesson plan along with posters, seeds and other supplies.
The 2022 fall training series will meet every Wednesday from September 7 to December 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., except for any holiday that falls on a Wednesday.
The 4th grade classroom visit schedule takes place on Wednesdays from January to June. Certified Master Tree Stewards are requested to choose 4-6 dates for their visits. Each visit takes approximately one hour, typically from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
To apply, fill out the downloadable application form on the Union County website, at ucnj.org/rce. A check for $25.00 should be made out to “Union County 4-H Association.”
Mail the form and check to Union County 4-H Agent James Nichnadowicz, Colleen Fraser Building, 300 North Ave East, Westfield, NJ 07090-1426.
For more information, or to receive an application form by mail, contact James Nichnadowicz at 908-654-9854 (ext.3), or jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.
More details + link to downloadable application form and class schedule: https://wp.me/p4sLwl-puv
Original source can be found here.
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