Environmental Center

Center Manager/Environmental Affairs Coordinator

Tara Casella has been a primary force of leadership at the Center since her hire with the County in 2004.  With the support of the County Administration and other Center team members, Tara was instrumental in the start-up of the Center and continues to manage its day to day operations, offering guidance and input on all aspects of the facility’s functioning.   In addition to her responsibilities at the Environmental Center, Tara offers assistance and support to the Essex County Parks Department administration on a wide variety of projects, activities, issues and concerns.  Tara serves on the Essex County Open Space Trust Fund Advisory Board and is the County’s liaison to the Essex County Environmental Commission.  Having a degree in Human Ecology from Rutgers University, Tara is very passionate and proud to be working in this position and as a public servant in general, taking great pleasure as a County employee meeting/serving the needs of the public.    Tara is passionate about issues related to health, the environment, community and ecology and believes in forging partnerships between all levels of society as a necessary means to achieve environmental sustainability.    

Senior Naturalist & Program Director

David facilitates field trips, camps, clubs, scout groups, home school classes, teacher workshops and special events. He coordinates conservation themed service projects that support the natural landscape and biodiversity within our park system. He has a Masters in Conservation Biology, Teaching Certificate and a Bachelors in Parks & Recreation Management. He is the author of Buzz into Action and Hop Into Action Curriculum Guides and was the 2022 Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education Educator of the Year and 2023 NJ Parks & Rec Association Employee of the Year. 

Park Naturalist & Educator

Maura leads environmental education programming in a variety of settings, including forests, rivers, gardens, and classrooms both on site and throughout the community. She helps oversee the ECEC's volunteer program, providing more opportunities for learning through service and stewardship. She has a Masters in Sustainability Science, multiple certificates in composting, horticulture, and recycling, and has a professional background in environmental policy, community outreach, and education.  As a lifelong resident of Essex County, she is an avid explorer of our Essex County Parks and an active member of her local community garden. 

Administrative Staff

Teri is the office support for the Environmental Center, making sure the facility and the programs offered operate smoothly. She typically is the first person the public meets when they visit,  interacting with parents, vendors, partners and community groups, and performing various administrative functions.