UNION COUNTY, NJ — The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents looking for a fun and rewarding community service project to join the 4-H Master Tree Steward program and learn how to “speak for the trees.” Master Tree Stewards are community volunteers who visit fourth grade classes each spring to teach an interactive lesson about trees. No previous experience is necessary. All training and classroom materials are provided by the Master Tree Steward program.
“Our Master Arborists provide students with enriching learning experiences and important messages about trees and the environment. It’s a lesson in appreciation and responsibility that young people can take with them into adulthood and will benefit our community and the world beyond for years to come,” said Union County Chair Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.
Each fall, the Master Tree Steward program offers a series of training sessions consisting primarily of guided walks in nearby parks and preserves. Light reading assignments, indoor classes, and a simple project are also part of the program. The entire program, including a tree identification guide, is covered by a $25 administration fee.
Applicants who complete the series receive a Master Tree Steward certificate and are qualified to teach tree classes to fourth graders in the spring. The program provides a full lesson plan as well as posters, seeds and other materials. Master Tree Stewards can also organize additional projects, such as the educational “Tree Trails” in Union County parks.
The 2024 fall training series will be held every Wednesday from September 4 through December 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., except holidays that fall on a Wednesday. The fourth grade class schedule will be held on Wednesdays from January through June. Certified Master Arborists are asked to select six dates for their visits. Each visit lasts approximately one hour and typically runs from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
To apply or for more information, contact Union County 4-H Youth Development at James Nichnadowicz at 908-654-9854, extension 3, or (email protected).
The Master Tree Steward program is operated by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County as part of a statewide program under the auspices of the Rutgers New Jersey Agriculture Experiment Station. Information on all Extension programs in Union County, including Master Gardeners, Environmental Stewards and youth 4-H clubs, can be found at www.ucnj.org/rce. Quick links to all environmental programs and activities in Union County can be found at The Green Connection, www.ucnj.org/green-connect.
Photo courtesy of Union County
