Pre-Conference Workshop

Are you passionate about environmental education and ready to inspire the next generation of conservationists? Join us for an immersive, hands-on Project Learning Tree (PLT) Facilitator Training Workshop. Become a certified PLT Facilitator recognized by the national Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) network.

Register now

Workshop Information
Title: Cultivating Environmental Stewards: Project Learning Tree (PLT) Facilitator Training
Date & Time: September 17th, 2026, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor Blvd, Jackson, NJ 08527
Fee: $60 ANJEE Members, $75 Nonmembers (Includes all PLT curriculum materials, facilitator handbook, and a catered lunch). 
Who Should Attend: Experienced educators, nature center staff, park rangers, and conservation professionals who have previously attended a basic PLT workshop or have a strong background in environmental education.

How To Register: Using the ANJEE Fall Conference Registration, look for the additional add on options and select Pre-Conference Workshop. Please contact director@anjee.org with any registration issues.

Workshop OverviewAre you passionate about environmental education and ready to inspire the next generation of conservationists? Join us for an immersive, hands-on Project Learning Tree (PLT) Facilitator Training Workshop.
This specialized professional development experience is designed to certify educators, naturalists, and forestry professionals to become official PLT Facilitators. As a Facilitator, you will be equipped with the tools, confidence, and curriculum knowledge to lead your own PLT workshops, empowering other educators throughout New Jersey to integrate environmental education into their classrooms and programs.
This event brings together the unique expertise of two of New Jersey’s premier environmental institutions: the New Jersey Forest Service’s Forest Resource Education Center (FREC) and the New Jersey School of Conservation (NJSOC)
What You Will Gain

• Official Certification: Become a certified PLT Facilitator recognized by the national Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) network.
  
• Curriculum Mastery: Deepen your understanding of PLT’s award-winning curriculum guides, focusing on tree biology, forest ecology, and climate change.
  
• Facilitation Skills: Learn adult-learning principles, workshop planning logistics, and dynamic presentation techniques to successfully host your own educator trainings.
  
• Resource Kit: Receive a comprehensive facilitator packet, including PLT activity guides, marketing materials, and digital access to statewide conservation resources.
  
• Networking: Connect with fellow environmental educators from across the state and foster collaborations with FREC and NJSOC staff.
  

Workshop Agenda & Highlights

• Welcome & Peer Networking: Start the day connecting with like-minded educators over morning coffee.
  
• PLT in Action: Participate in exemplary, hands-on PLT activities led by master trainers, utilizing FREC’s woodlands and interpretive trails.
  
• The Facilitator’s Toolkit: Step-by-step guidance on how to plan, market, and execute a successful workshop (including budgeting, paperwork, and securing professional development credits for your future attendees).
  
• Collaborative Practice: Work in small groups to practice facilitating a PLT activity, receiving constructive, supportive peer feedback.
  
• Closing & Next Steps: Learn how to access funding, request workshop materials, and stay engaged with the NJ PLT network.
  

Please dress comfortably for the weather, as a portion of this workshop will take place outdoors exploring the beautiful FREC woodlands.
How to Register
Spaces are limited to 25 participants to ensure a high-quality, interactive training environment.

• Register Online: ANJEE Website
  
• Registration Deadline: Sept 11, 2026
  
• Questions? Contact the workshop coordinator Kenny Lee Taylor at njplt@dep.nj.gov