Master Tree Stewards of Union County: Now Accepting Applications for the 2026-2027 Season
Learn how to help the environment and teach about the importance of trees – no experience necessary
Union County residents who love nature and are interested in volunteering may consider joining the 4-H Master Tree Steward program this fall. Master Tree Stewards are community volunteers who visit 4th grade classrooms each spring to present an interactive lesson on trees. No experience is needed. All training and classroom materials are provided by the Master Tree Steward program.
“Master Tree Stewards are essential to this community,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph C. Bodek. “In addition to educating our youth about trees, they help young people understand the connection between responsible stewardship and its effects on future generations. We are grateful for the work that they do, and are looking forward to welcoming new and returning volunteers this September.”
Each fall, the Master Tree Steward program offers a series of training sessions, consisting mainly of guided walks in nearby parks and nature reserves. Easy reading assignments, indoor classes, and a simple project are also part of the program. The entire program, including a tree identification guide, is covered by a $35.00 administrative fee.
Applicants who complete the series obtain a Master Tree Steward certificate and are qualified to teach lessons about trees to 4th grade classrooms in the spring. The program provides a complete lesson plan along with posters, seeds and other supplies.
The 2026 fall training series will meet every Wednesday from September 2nd to December 9th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., except for any holiday that falls on a Wednesday.
The 4th grade classroom visit schedule takes place on Wednesdays from January to June. Certified Master Tree Stewards are requested to choose 6 dates for their visits. Each visit takes approximately one hour, typically from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
To apply, or for more information please contact Union County 4-H Youth Development Agent, James Nichnadowicz at 908-654-9854 (ext.3), or jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.
The Master Tree Steward program is run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, as part of a statewide program under the umbrella of the Rutgers New Jersey Agriculture Experiment Station. For information on all Extension programs in Union County, including Master Gardeners, Environmental Stewards and 4-H clubs for youth, visit ucnj.org/rce.
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