There's a place tucked into the northern Pinelands that deserves a lot of recognition - it's the FOREST RESOURCE EDUCATION CENTER, or FREC, an understated part of of the NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection, Division of Parks and Forestry, NJ forest Service.

This place should be on the top of the list for any person or group, regardless of age, that wants to learn about the precious forests of the Pinelands, whether it be the uplands, wetlands or maritime forests. FREC has a great Interpretive Center and the State Forest Nursery is located here. FREC's goal is to teach and practice forest stewardship - managing New Jersey's forest resources so that we have healthy trees and forests, clean air and water, and places to learn and enjoy the outdoors.

Saturday, June 7th, 2008, 10 am to 2 pm, rain or shine, FREC is having a "Trail Exploration Day", to celebrate National Trails Day. The day is FREE, and runs from 10AM to 2PM, rain or shine. This is a great day for families, groups, and scouts - see website for trails and hikes available.

Reforestation is an important part of conservation in New Jersey's forests. In addition to the many programs offered, FREC's reforestation program offers public and private landowners tree seedlings for reforestation. Seedlings are available in both conifer and hardwood species, and there is no minimum acreage required to be eligible to buy them. The minimum order is 100 seedlings, or one packet. Orders are accepted annually from December to April 1; Delivery/Pickup is between March 15 and April 30. Questions? Call (732) 928-0029 email njforestnursery@optonline.net

INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS