MAY 2025

OCEAN COUNTY SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRICT Conservation Conversation

EDUCATE

We equip the community with knowledge needed to understand and care for our watershed.

REGULATE

We regulate soil disturbance to protect our landscapes and waterways.

ACTIVATE

We inspire stewardship to preserve the health of our soil, water and natural resources.

EDUCATE

Christine Raabe: A Champion of Environmental Education in New Jersey

Preserving the Pines: The New Jersey Pine Barrens and the Origins of Environmentalism, a new book by William J. Lewis, shines a spotlight on the roots of New Jersey’s environmental movement and honors the individuals who have shaped its legacy. Among those celebrated is Christine Raabe, Director of the Ocean County Soil Conservation District, whose visionary leadership in environmental education has transformed how teachers and communities connect with nature.

Raabe’s coordination of the annual Barnegat Bay Environmental Educators Roundtable, now in its 28th year, exemplifies her commitment to hands-on, place-based learning that fosters stewardship of local ecosystems. The Roundtable continues to inspire educators with immersive experiences in the Pine Barrens and Barnegat Bay, embodying Raabe’s belief in the power of education to drive lasting change.

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REGULATE

Soil Science in Action: Kean-Ocean Student Highlights New Jersey Vegetative Standards and the Power of Native Plants

Kean University student, Danella Funk, gained a transformative, hands-on understanding of soil conservation during a school field trip guided by Ocean County Soil Conservation District staff. Inspired by what she learned, Danella spotlighted the use of native plants in New Jersey’s Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Standards for her Principles of Environmental Soil Science class project—emphasizing how native vegetation can stabilize soil, support biodiversity, promote resilient landscapes and create a healthy environment. Her work exemplifies the power of experiential learning, community partnerships, and the importance of student-driven conservation efforts. Read about Danella's project in our Blog.

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ACTIVATE

Digging into Soil Science: OCSCD Celebrates

Earth Day with Whiting Elementary School


Sadie Sloan, 3rd Grade, Ms. Baranyay, Whiting Elementary

Izella Deckle, 3rd Grade, Ms. Baranyay, Whiting Elementary

Emily Greisch, 3rd Grade, Ms. Baranyay, Whiting Elementary

On Thursday, May 1st, the Ocean County Soil Conservation District (OCSCD) celebrated Earth Day by bringing soil science to life for students at Whiting Elementary School. In collaboration with the Barnegat Bay Partnership, OCSCD’s Education Coordinator Becky Laboy and environmental educator Paige Radcliffe led an engaging, hands-on soil program for students in grades K through 5. Read more on our Blog.

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Visit our website: www.SoilDistrict.org

In 2025 Ocean County Soil Conservation District celebrates our 73rd year. We remain committed to building and sustaining a conservation legacy by working with our partners and constituents to conserve, protect and restore our soil, water and natural resources by providing technical assistance, implementing restoration projects, and most importantly through education.