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Young Defenders

Young Defenders: Empowering the Next Generation

No matter your age, you have the power to stand up for Barnegat Bay! Once you understand the challenges facing our Bay, you might ask yourself, “How can I help?” The good news is that YOU can make a real impact. By joining the effort to protect and restore Barnegat Bay, you’ll be contributing to a healthier environment for everyone.

Our Young Defenders program empowers passionate young leaders to take action in their schools and communities. As a Barnegat Bay Defender, you’ll receive the tools and support needed to drive positive change—starting right in your own backyard.

We encourage students to form clubs at their schools, guided by a teacher or mentor, and work through our Young Defenders booklet, a resource designed to help them grow as environmental leaders.

By equipping today’s students with the knowledge and skills to make a difference, we’re cultivating tomorrow’s engaged and informed community leaders!

Ready to get started? 

Sign up for a Young Defenders Introduction TODAY!

Alexandra Sellitsch

Alex is 27 years old and is an aspiring marine biologist who is finishing up her junior year at Stockton University. Growing up by the beach has made a significant impact on Alex’s life, which has influenced her passion for the ocean. She is an advocate for elasmobranch conservation, and enjoys getting her hands dirty in research. Alex is currently an intern with Barnegat Bay, researching pathogen influences in the bay’s water. She is also an active intern partnering with one of her professors, who is researching dual seagrass habitats in the Mullica River-Great Bay Estuary. In her spare time, Alex enjoys spending time at the beach and teaching herserself new hobbies. Hobbies that include roller skating, and surfing. Alex is also volunteering with the Berkeley Township Underwater Search and Rescue Team, and is in the process of obtaining her SCUBA certification.