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The Rutgers Environmental Steward program empowers volunteers with the knowledge and tools to address pressing environmental issues across New Jersey. Through expert-led training and hands-on learning, Stewards discover how to promote sustainable climate solutions and drive meaningful change, both in their personal lives and within their communities.
This certificate program is offered through Rutgers Cooperative Extension, a unit of Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station.
Ready to make a difference? Sign up to receive updates about environmental programming through Rutgers Cooperative Extension, including classes, webinars, and workshops.
Thank you to our program partners, and the Atlantic County Utility Authority for their continued support.
Program Updates
Transforming Communities: The Landaus’ Journey from Local Action to Statewide Change
John and Susan Landau completed the Rutgers Environmental Stewards (RES) program in 2021. Their capstone project focused on restoring Foote’s Pond Wood, a 24-acre public…
Stories of Impact: How Environmental Stewards Are Making a Difference
Discover how the Rutgers Environmental Stewards program is transforming lives and communities across New Jersey. In this tribute video, program participants share their personal experiences,…
Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program Celebrates 20 Years of Environmental Impact
On Saturday, November 1, 2025, the Rutgers Environmental Stewards (RES) Program proudly celebrates 20 years of empowering New Jersey residents to become informed and effective…
Plant It and They Will Come
Written by Kirsi Bhasin, RES Class of 2024, Certified 2024 It all began with a Monarch butterfly, which I spotted fluttering through our backyard during…
Science
Go Blue in the New Year: Resolutions for Being a More Responsible Steward of New Jersey’s Marine Resources
Douglas Zemeckis and Paige Radcliffe, Rutgers Cooperative Extension You often hear about Going Green to be environmentally friendly, which is a great message to encourage…
Waste Not, Want Not: Going Green for the Holidays and into the New Year
Amy Rowe, Rutgers Cooperative Extension PDF version The holidays are upon us, and they bring gifts, feasts, and cozy spaces during the cold winter months.…
How Nature Can Make Urban Dwellers Healthier
A study by Rutgers ecologist Myla Aronson and colleagues has found “overwhelming” evidence that increasing biodiversity in cities – establishing parks, installing native plants and…
Principles of Integrated Pest Management for Home Gardens and Landscapes
Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension Introduction Integrated pest management (IPM) is an approach used in commercial agricultural production to conserve resources, save money, and act…