Join the New Jersey School of Conservation for this hybrid event that tackles the real-world challenge of motivating neighbors, local leaders, and communities to embrace sustainable practices.
How do we move past frustrating arguments over lawn care, native plants and land use to inspire real environmental stewardship in our communities? Join us at the New Jersey School of Conservation on Saturday, October 3rd, for a special workshop exploring Conservation Psychology — the science of changing environmental behaviors by meeting people where they are.
Program Highlights
• Virtual International Keynote: World-renowned conservation psychology expert Dr. James Danoff-Burg will deliver a live presentation from abroad on the mechanics of behavioral change. Learn why trying to “convince” people often backfires and how finding common ground can unlock lasting stewardship — drawing on global success stories, such as shifting Maasai lion hunting traditions into wildlife protection, to curiosity-driven suburban strategies like the Homegrown National Park movement.
• Guided Landscape Walk: Dr. Frank Gallagher of Rutgers University will then lead a hands-on walk across NJSOC’s 240-acre campus, translating conservation psychology concepts into physical ecological history across five field stops:
1. Native American Land Management: Examining historical stewardship practices visible on site.
2. Glacial Geology: Physical features left behind by the Wisconsin glaciation.
3. Agricultural History: Reading past farming footprints in tree species and pollen records.
4. CCC Legacy: Tracing the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps’ impact on the landscape.
5. Rapid Modern Change: Observing climate shifts, disease impacts, species migration, and a special stop to view wild American chestnut trees recently identified on campus grounds during prep surveys.
Who Should Attend?
This workshop is open to all — including educators, master gardeners, university students, conservation professionals, and residents looking for practical tools to make a difference in their communities.
Registration is open for both on-site attendance and remote participation.