The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds educators that a year-round line of programming for schools and organized groups in grades pre-K - 12 is available at the Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource Education Center. All programs are designed to support most major subject areas while teaching about wildlife and the environment, and can be used to meet state standards for core course proficiencies as well as scout badge requirements.

Programs focusing on wildlife habitat and natural resources, forestry, hydrology, aquatic insects, river ecology, and many more are offered! All programs are geared to be fun, hands-on learning experiences that participants are sure to enjoy.

The best time to schedule a summer, fall or early winter program in 2012 for organized groups is now, as dates fill up quickly. Multiple programs can be combined to provide a full day's experience for groups. Programs are held Monday through Friday and can be scheduled to start as early as 9:30 am. All programs are held rain or shine.

For more information on all available programs, guidelines for booking a program, and to schedule a program for your group, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/peqprog.htm on the Fish and Wildlife website.