New Jersey Natural Gas Holds Second Annual Ocean Fun Days; Free Family Activities and Demonstrations; Hands-on Environmental Programs and Exhibits

Business Wire, May 13, 2005

WALL, N.J. -- New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG), the principal subsidiary of New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR), this weekend is holding the second annual Ocean Fun Days in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium (NJMSC). The event features two days of free activities and hands-on demonstrations by scientists and researchers, focusing on the Jersey Shore.

"Through Ocean Fun Days, we're able to share our appreciation for the environment with the families and communities we serve in a way that's fun and educational," said Laurence M. Downes, chairman and CEO of NJNG. "Because we're so fortunate to include two of our state's four coastal counties in our service area, we believe it's our responsibility as a reliable corporate citizen to help ensure a clean, healthy environment and work with others to promote the value of our marine ecosystems."

Ocean Fun Days will offer opportunities to explore the many wonders of the state's coastline and how to preserve its natural treasures. There will be free hands-on marine and environmental programs, tours and special activities for all ages, including touch tanks, seining and bird walks. Visitors can learn about beach and bay habitats, observe marine animals close-up, make coastal crafts and more.

"The activities at Ocean Fun Days demonstrate the importance of our shoreline to the economic viability and quality of life in our state," said John S. Watson, Jr., assistant commissioner, NJDEP. "NJNG's leadership of this event demonstrates their willingness to partner in ongoing efforts to protect and preserve the environment."

Ocean Fun Days will be held on Saturday, May 14, at Island Beach State Park in Seaside Park in Ocean County, and Sunday, May 15, at the NJMSC headquarters on Sandy Hook in Monmouth County. Event hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine.

Admission and parking are free. Prizes, giveaways and food will be available. For more information or directions, call 732-872-1300, Ext. 19.

"The experiences offered at Ocean Fun Days and NJNG's continuing contribution help further our mission to promote understanding and appreciation of our shore environment," said Dr. Michael P. Weinstein, president, NJMSC.

Caring for the environment and preserving natural resources are fundamental to NJNG's business. The company is committed to environmental excellence as a responsible corporate citizen, beginning with the clean-burning natural gas NJNG provides, which produces far fewer emissions than other fossil fuels. NJNG's efforts include promoting energy efficiency and alternative energy sources and partnering with environmental organizations on awareness programs, beach cleanups and other beautification projects.

NJNG's commitment to the environment also involves supporting New Jersey's Clean Energy Program, which encourages measures to conserve resources and protect the environment for a cleaner, healthier New Jersey. The company has led a number of projects in cooperation with this statewide program to demonstrate the benefits of solar energy for homes, businesses and the community, including the most recent installation of solar panels at Island Beach State Park. More information about New Jersey's Clean Energy Program, including how to qualify for rebates on high-efficiency appliances and renewable energy technologies, is available at www.njcleanenergy.com.

New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) is the principal subsidiary of New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR), a Fortune 1000 company and a member of the Forbes Platinum 400. NJNG is one of the fastest-growing local distribution companies in the United States, serving more than 459,000 customers in New Jersey's Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex and Morris counties. This service area's demographics and quality of life contribute greatly to NJNG's growth. NJNG's progress is a tribute to the dedicated employees who have shared their expertise and focus on quality through more than 50 years of serving customers and the community to make the company a leader in the competitive energy marketplace. For more information, visit NJNG's Web site at njliving.com.