Residents interested in environmental issues that would like to have a positive impact in their community are invited to participate in the 2025 Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program.
The Environmental Stewards program offers an opportunity to learn and make a difference locally. Participants learn from leading scientists and environmental experts about critical issues such as climate change, habitat protection, environmental justice, water quality, food waste, recycling, and solid waste management.
The Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA) serves as a program partner and helps to coordinate the statewide program locally.
“The Environmental Stewards program connects residents with resources and local professionals in the field. It’s a great way for participants to gain skills that can help build environmental awareness and to impact our local community in a positive way,” said Matt DeNafo, ACUA President. “If you are looking for a way to move your concern for the environment into meaningful action, this program is an excellent way to do so.”
Classes will be held weekly on Tuesdays, starting Jan. 21 through May 13, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Each week, participants learn about a different topic, presented by content experts. From 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the classes break out into regional groups to discuss local issues and meet with their coordinators for further discussions and activities.
“We’re very pleased to be able to continue our collaboration with the Rutgers Environmental Stewards program. Stewards have helped ACUA with programs to address recycling and have assisted many other local environmental organizations with a wide range of projects; from environmental education and research-oriented projects to hands-on projects to remove invasive species, improve wildlife habitat, and to develop green infrastructure projects,” DeNafo added.
The program fee is $325, with an early bird rate of $300, valid through Dec. 31. To register or for more information about the Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program, visit go.rutgers.edu/RES2025. For additional assistance, contact RES local coordinator Amy Menzel at the ACUA, amenzel@acua.com, 609-272-6950.
