Weis Ecology Center
150 Snake Den Road
Ringwood, NJ 07456
(973) 835-2160
www.njaudubon.org/Centers/Weis/

The Weis Ecology Center has closed its doors as of the end of 2012. The parking area and trails may still be available. Check the website linked above or call the New Jersey Audubon Society to confirm: (908) 204-8998. Visitors should bring a map of Norvin State Forest.

With 160 beautiful acres in the North Jersey Highlands, the Center offers streams and hiking trails for study and exploration. And the area is rich in cultural history with old iron mines and abandoned farmsteads, providing insights into the past.

The main building features dormitory space for 60 people, a conference room, kitchen/dining area, and shower facilities. Cabin rentals and overnight accommodations, as well as Campsites are also available throughout the season for individuals, families and groups.

The Center offers a large array of family programs, special courses, field trips, events and activities, providing exciting new ways to learn about the outdoors. Each season takes on special meaning.

Programs for School Groups are tailored to the age and experience level of each group. They include, to name just a few: Action Socialization Experiences (ASE's) (grade 4 and up): involve a variety of physical problem solving activities that foster efficient cooperative and communicative skills among small groups of participants striving to achieve common goals; Iron Mine Study (grade 1 and up): explores an actual iron mine abandoned in the mid-1800's to teach about the early mining process, the inhabitants of a cave, and the influence of human impact on the landscape; Orienteering (grade 5 and up): is a 3 hour course (has prerequisite of Compass Skills course) teaching the parts of a compass, how to read a topographical map, and how to "bushwhack" from one point to another in Norvin Green State Forest.

Many other courses are offered, all equally interesting and useful. Most last 90 minutes and all contribute to rounding out a typical "city" education, teaching students about the natural world which is the basis for all of the material goods we enjoy.

Residential Programs provide a comprehensive environmental education opportunity. These programs, lasting a weekend or more, are offered to school and other groups of all ages, are very reasonable priced, and are sure to provide a memorable learning experience. Call for complete information if you are considering an extended program.