Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES) Cooperative Extension helps the diverse population of New Jersey adapt to a rapidly changing society and improve their lives and communities through an educational process that uses science based knowledge. Through science-based educational programs, Rutgers Cooperative Extension truly enhances the quality of life for residents of New Jersey and brings the wealth of knowledge of the state university to local communities.
Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES) Cooperative Extension of Essex County:
- Provides educational programs to homemakers, home owners, agribusiness people, and youth.
- Is professionally staffed by Rutgers University faculty and support personnel.
- Uses the research and expertise of Rutgers University and other land-grant colleges to solve local challenges.
- Is guided by local advisory groups in identifying and meeting the needs of Essex County residents.
- Is supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and the Essex County Executive and Board of Freeholders.
- Is available to any county resident without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or family status.
- 4-H programs and projects depend on the skills and interests of volunteer leaders. If you are an adult, and would like to start a new club, contact the 4-H office at 973-353-1338, ext 109.
Master Gardener Volunteer Application (203k PDF)
The New Jersey Master Gardener Program, founded in 1972, now serves as volunteer arm of the University Extension programs in more than 40 states. Master Gardeners are required to pursue a year of intensive study of botany, entomology, plant diseases, landscaping and environmentally sound methods of horticulture.
Following state certification, master gardeners perform community service. Programs include a helpline for gardeners, lectures for community groups, and advice and assistance to schools, to bring an understanding of the interrelationships of nature to our lives.
Master Gardeners use their skills in a variety of areas, including: Gardening demonstrations, Telephone Helpline and Plant Clinics, Horticultural therapy, Information booths at county fairs and other public events, Research assistance at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Harvesting and packing food for the hungry
Master Gardeners receive in-depth, hands-on training in horticulture from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey faculty and professional staff.
Some basic topics include plant biology, propagation, soil science, and disease and pest control. There is a fee to cover material and program costs. (Scholarships are available.)
In exchange for the training, Master Gardeners agree to volunteer a certain number of hours, working in their community in programs sponsored by the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES). Successful graduates of the training become Certified Master Gardeners after they complete their volunteer service.
For More Information:
Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station
Cooperative Extension of Essex County
Master Gardener Program
621a Eagle Rock Avenue
Roseland, NJ 07068
Essex County Master Gardener Helpline: 973-228-2210
4-H is the youth development component of Rutgers Cooperative Extension. 4-H uses a learn-by-doing approach to enable youth to become competent, caring citizens of the world. Dedicated adult volunteers provide leadership to 4-H clubs and activities.
Essex County 4-H staff and volunteers work together to develop programs which will provide youngsters with opportunities for new experiences and a broader view of life. Under the guidance of caring adult and teen leaders, youth in grades K-13 develop characteristics of leadership and citizenship, improve their skills, become more aware of others and the environment in which they live, and help others through community service. 4-H works with all youth on a grade-appropriate basis, without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
Marissa Staffen (she/her) essex4h@njaes.rutgers.edu
4-H Dog Club: Discover the Paw-sitive World of Canine Companionship
Meeting dates: November 21; December 19; January 23 & February 20
5:30pm to 6:30pm
For youth in grades 4 through 12. Join the 4-H Dog Club and embark on a journey
of learning and fun! Youth in grades 4-12 and well-behaved dogs are welcome. Whether you're a
seasoned dog owner or a first-time pet parent, our 4-H Dog Club offers a welcoming and supportive
environment for you and your furry friend. Sign up here: https://essex.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h/
Participants gain valuable skills in:
• Dog Training Basics: Learn essential commands such as sit, stay and come.
• Responsible Pet Ownership: Understand the importance of proper care, nutrition and
grooming.
• Showmanship: Develop your dog's show ring skills and learn how to present your canine
companion with confidence.
• Community Service: Participate in community events and volunteer opportunities to give
back.
• Life Skills: Build leadership, teamwork and communication skills through club activities.
Wellness Wednesdays with FCHS
Wellness Wednesday webinars with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Department of Family and
Community Health Sciences (FCHS) focus on a variety of topics related to food, nutrition and healthy
lifestyles. All sessions are free, last approximately 45 minutes, and provided via Zoom. For a full list of
upcoming topics and to register, visit https://njaes.rutgers.edu/wellness-wednesdays/.
Rutgers Environmental Stewards
There are 16 weekly classes held on Tuesdays from 5:30pm to 8pm, with classes starting on January
12, 2025. The Rutgers Environmental Steward program trains volunteers on important
environmental issues in New Jersey and how they can make a difference in their community.
Stewards learn how to help advance sustainable climate change solutions, not just in their own lives,
but in their communities. This program is virtual with some in-person field trips. Fee: $325 or
$300 if registering before December 31.
