We’re committed to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better.
Our passion and commitment to the integration of innovative science and engineering drive us to exceed on behalf of every client.
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[0] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 19417 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2026-03-23 15:30:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-03-23 15:30:32 [post_content] => Our team continues to grow with talented professionals who are passionate about our mission and the work we do. Today, we’re pleased to introduce our newest team members, who bring valuable experience and fresh perspectives to our organization. Please join us in welcoming them! Charlie Aquilina, PE, CFM - Water Resources Engineer Charlie is a licensed Professional Engineer and a Certified Floodplain Manager with over five years of experience in water resources engineering. His expertise includes hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, green stormwater infrastructure, civil site design, ecological restoration, and flood resilience. Charlie holds a M.S. in Biological Systems Engineering and B.S. Environmental Science/B.A. Geography from Virginia Tech. Prior to joining Princeton Hydro, Charlie worked as a Water Resources Engineer for Meliora Design, where he designed green stormwater infrastructure projects such as rain gardens and underground infiltration beds, created master plans for state and local parks, and modeled conceptual floodplain restoration studies for the Brandywine Creek Flood Study. Before Meliora, he worked at Kleinschmidt Associates where he worked on hydrologic and hydraulic projects such as dam breaches, dam removals, nature-like fishways, and FEMA LOMRs. Outside of work, he likes to play ultimate frisbee and lead his local Environmental Advisory Council where he plans park invasive removals and tree giveaways. Mike Chenosky - Business Administrator & Compliance Manager Mike serves as the Business Administration and Compliance Manager at Princeton Hydro. He brings a unique perspective to the team, built over a 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force as a KC-10 Extender Boom Operator. During his time in the service, Mike did more than just fly; he managed global logistics missions and was responsible for the essential training, certification, and compliance of aircrew members. After retiring from the military, Mike spent four years as a Senior Manager at Verizon, where he focused on business transformation and strategy. Today, he uses that background to lead our efforts in regulatory compliance, policy development, and keeping our administrative processes running smoothly. Mike holds an MBA from Temple University and a B.S. in Business from Penn State. When he’s not in the office, you’ll likely find him cooking, traveling with his family, or tending to his woodworking projects, garden, and chickens. Tyler Thomas - Staff Scientist, Aquatics Tyler graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 2024 with a B.S. in Environmental Science and Management. At URI, he began as a research assistant studying the rapid spread of aquatic invasive species throughout Rhode Island’s wetlands. Tyler later transitioned to marine systems, assisting a project at URI’s Graduate School of Oceanography investigating phytoplankton dynamics in the Gulf of Mexico. While studying abroad at the Universidad Católica de Valencia in Spain, Tyler researched the Mediterranean fan mussel and became Scuba certified. Following his graduation, Tyler stayed with the Graduate School of Oceanography to complete a project aboard the RV/IB Nathaniel B. Palmer. Here, he researched phytoplankton blooms along Antarctica’s coast and across the Southern Ocean while also achieving his dream of setting foot on all seven continents. During his free time, Tyler enjoys surfing, reading, playing music, and exploring Philadelphia, where he now lives. Our newest team members are already making valuable contributions, and we’re excited to see their impact continue to grow. We’re so glad to have them as part of the team! [post_title] => Employee Spotlight: Welcoming Our Newest Team Members [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => employee-spotlight-welcoming-our-newest-team-members [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-03-23 15:30:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-03-23 15:30:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19417 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 19339 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2026-03-20 15:29:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-03-20 15:29:39 [post_content] => When it comes to restoring lakes and safeguarding watershed health, effective and sustainable solutions depend on science, partnerships, and sustained investment. Princeton Hydro Senior Manager of Aquatics Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM was invited as one of the select experts chosen to represent the North American Lake Management Society’s (NALMS) 314 Working Group in Washington, DC to contribute technical insight and real world expertise during discussions with congressional staff and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) leadership about the policies and funding resources that help communities across the country address nonpoint source pollution. What This Visit Represented for Watershed Management & Water Quality There are several federal funding programs that states, tribes, local governments, and nonprofits rely on to support critical water-quality improvement initiatives. Among them, Clean Water Act Section 319(h) is a cornerstone program that supports nonpoint source management projects like watershed-based planning, stormwater retrofits, riparian restoration, and targeted education programs. It is administered by USEPA and delivered through states and qualified tribes, and funding typically requires a nonfederal cost share to leverage local investment. In recent federal budget cycles, elements of this funding landscape have faced proposed reductions or complete eliminations by the current administration, including sharp reductions to the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds. Against that backdrop, the NALMS 314 Working Group organized a bipartisan “fly in” to share data, case studies, and practical policy options with Senate offices and USEPA’s Office of Water, emphasizing how programs like Section 319 translate into measurable, local water quality gains. The group, which included Committee Member Mark Heilman; NALMS Board Member Ben Rhoades; government strategist Drue Winters; and NALMS Past-President Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM, held meetings with the offices of Senators Wicker (R-MS), Markey (D-MA), Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Sanders (D-VT); both majority and minority staff of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works; and the EPA Office of Water leadership. Another focal point of the DC conversations was the National Lakes Assessment (NLA), a statistically rigorous survey of lake conditions conducted every five years by USEPA and its state and tribal partners. The most recent NLA, fielded in 2022, provides nationally consistent insight into ecosystem health, key stressors, and recreational indicators, and it helps policymakers understand where water quality is improving or declining and how to target investments. [gallery size="medium" link="none" ids="19352,19344,19353"] A Closer Look at Section 319(h) Created under the Clean Water Act, Section 319(h) is one of the nation’s primary funding tools for tackling runoff driven water quality issues. Through this program, states and tribes can invest in incentive-based, nonpoint source pollution reduction projects. Examples of activities eligible for 319(h) funding include watershed-based planning, BMP implementation, education and outreach, and water quality assessment and monitoring. Because 319(h) is administered through state programs, it supports local priorities while aligning with national goals. Over time, this approach has enabled communities to design watershed specific strategies, from agricultural and urban stormwater controls to nature-based green infrastructure, and to document water quality improvements with consistent methods. In most cases, a 40% non-federal funding match is required. At Princeton Hydro, we’ve seen firsthand how Section 319(h) translates into action through state run grant programs. In New Jersey, the NJDEP Water Quality Restoration Grants support projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution, mitigate harmful algal blooms, restore riparian areas, enhance watershed and climate resilience, and restore water quality in New Jersey. The grants are funded through Section 319(h) and administered by NJDEP’s Watershed & Land Management Program. Princeton Hydro is proud to be a partner on five of the 17 projects most recently awarded funding (2025) through NJDEP’s Water Quality Restoration grants. Our contributions vary by project and encompass activities such as engineering design, water quality assessment, watershed-based planning, and technical support for implementing stormwater and habitat restoration measures. We also supported several partners in developing successful NJDEP Section 319(h) applications, including technical documentation, cost estimates, conceptual designs, and pollutant load reduction estimates. To take a deeper dive into our most recent collaborations, click here to read our blog: NJDEP Awards $8M for Water Quality Restoration Projects Advocacy Outcomes Princeton Hydro is grateful to NALMS and our fellow 314 Working Group members for convening this effort, and to the Senate offices and USEPA leaders who engaged in thoughtful, solutions-oriented conversations. These conversations are already translating into tangible results. Following these coordinated advocacy efforts Clean Water Act Section 319(h) funding was restored in the federal budget with an increase of $750,000. More broadly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ultimately fared better than many federal agencies during the most recent budget cycle, with several programs initially proposed for reduction or elimination reinstated through congressional negotiations. Chris Mikolajczyk is a Certified Lake Manager and aquatic ecologist with over 35 years of experience in conducting the management, oversight, and coordination of water resource projects in three main areas: aquatic resource restoration and management; aquatic ecosystem sampling and investigations; and stormwater quality modeling and management. Chris also manages the design and implementation of watershed restoration projects, many funded by EPA 319(h), such as structural BMPs; bio-engineering techniques for nutrient reduction; development of TMDL pollutant budgets; and watershed-based monitoring programs. To date, Chris has managed projects involving over 100 lakes and reservoirs. Chris has been a member of the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) for over 20 years. In that time, he has served on the Board of Directors, chaired the Professional Certification Committee, and served as president from November 2021- November 2022. He currently serves as Board President for the Colorado Lake and Reservoir Management Association. [post_title] => Championing Water Quality Funding: Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM Joins NALMS in Washington, DC [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => championing-water-quality-funding-chris-mikolajczyk-clm-joins-nalms-in-washington-dc [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-03-23 15:30:01 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-03-23 15:30:01 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19339 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 19444 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2026-03-18 15:30:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-03-18 15:30:49 [post_content] => Princeton Hydro recently joined coastal and climate resilience practitioners from across the region at the 2026 New Jersey Coastal & Climate Resilience Conference, hosted by the New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative (NJCRC) and the New Jersey Department of Environment Projection (NJDEP). With this year’s theme, “Navigating Changing Tides,” the three-day conference brought together hundreds of professionals to share ideas, explore solutions, and strengthen the partnerships essential to advancing coastal resilience. Princeton Hydro was proud to serve as a conference sponsor and to contribute to a diverse lineup of sessions, field experiences, and networking events throughout the week. [gallery columns="2" size="medium" ids="19456,19464"] Sunrise Bird Walk As part of the conference program, Princeton Hydro's Director of Marketing & Communications Dana Patterson Grear organized a Sunrise Bird Walk at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, led by Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE, Senior Wildlife Biologist at Princeton Hydro, alongside Drew McQuade and Aleshanee Mooney of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA). A group of 25+ participants traveled the eight‑mile loop along Wildlife Drive, collectively observing 62 bird species along the way. Highlights included two White Ibis, an Osprey perched on a nesting platform, and hundreds of Snow Geese. As the group approached the end of the loop, a Peregrine Falcon provided the perfect send-off, holding its perch on a refuge sign while the caravan rolled by. [gallery link="none" columns="4" ids="19446,19448,19447,19445"] Perspectives on New Jersey’s Changing Coast Dr. Clay Emerson, PE, CFM, Senior Technical Director of Engineering Services, shared his perspective on New Jersey’s changing coastal environment and the role bay island restoration can play in protecting vulnerable shorelines. Clay’s presentation explored how coastal dynamics, restoration design, and resilience planning intersect, offering practical insight into nature‑based strategies that support shoreline stability and long‑term adaptability. His ability to translate complex processes into clear, engaging concepts resonated strongly with the conference audience. Moderated by Tom Herrington of the Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute, Clay participated in a Q&A panel discussion with NOAA Coastal Resilience Fellow Heather Korzun and Research Scientist Dr. John Swartz of The Water Institute to conclude the "Building Community Resilience" breakout session. [gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="19452,19451"] Addressing Harmful Algal Blooms in Coastal Systems Dr. Fred Lubnow, Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, gave a poster presentation focused on Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in coastal environments. Fred’s work examined how HABs behave in dynamic coastal systems, how to identify HABs, and restoration strategies. In the context of the conference theme, his presentation reinforced that HABs are not just seasonal nuisances, but long‑term resilience challenges that require integrated science, monitoring, and restoration approaches. Tools for Public Engagement & Storytelling As part of the conference's Tools Café, Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing & Communications, led a digital storytelling demonstration, titled “Launching an Interactive ArcGIS StoryMap for Public Outreach.” The session demonstrated how digital tools like StoryMaps can be used to translate complex data into accessible narratives that support community engagement, education, and informed decision‑making. Dana guided participants through several ArcGIS StoryMaps created by Princeton Hydro for clients and project partners, showcasing applications ranging from restoration projects and environmental resource inventories to water quality assessments and community science initiatives. Click here to read about a StoryMap we recently developed in partnership with the Borough of Harveys Lake. Creating Space for Connection Princeton Hydro was proud to host a conference networking event alongside co‑sponsors Stantec, Baird, and Barnegat Oyster Collective. The gathering created space for conversation, collaboration, and relationship‑building, an essential part of advancing coastal resiliency initiatives and cross‑disciplinary problem‑solving. Attendees enjoyed brief remarks from each of the event sponsors, along with happy‑hour refreshments, and a complimentary oyster bar provided by the Barnegat Oyster Collective. Our team had a great time connecting with colleagues and celebrating the collaborative energy that defined the conference. [gallery link="none" ids="19455,19463,19462"] Field Trip to South Cape May Meadows Another highlight of the conference for our team was a field trip to The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey’s South Cape May Meadows, where participants explored the newly completed boardwalk, a Princeton Hydro-designed project that creates a half‑mile, universally accessible route through one of the region’s most ecologically significant landscapes. Commissioned by The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey and installed by Renova Environmental Company, the project was designed to provide inclusive public access and opportunities for environmental education while carefully protecting a fragile ecosystem that serves as a vital stopover along the Atlantic Flyway. Designing a public trail within such a dynamic wetland system required a careful balance between human experience and habitat preservation, with the goal of creating an inviting, educational, and fully accessible route without disturbing critical hydrology, soils, or wildlife. Walking the boardwalk alongside fellow NJCRC Conference participants was a meaningful, full-circle moment for our team, bringing the project’s vision to life. [gallery link="none" ids="19466,19467,19468"] Huge thanks to New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for pulling together another incredible conference. We headed home with new connections, new ideas, and a renewed sense of pride in the work we all do! [post_title] => Navigating Changing Tides: Highlights from the 2026 NJ Coastal & Climate Resilience Conference [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => navigating-changing-tides-highlights-from-the-2026-nj-coastal-climate-resilience-conference [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-03-23 15:31:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-03-23 15:31:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19444 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 19087 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2026-03-13 14:32:04 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-03-13 14:32:04 [post_content] => Nutrient-driven water quality impairments, particularly harmful algal blooms (HABs), continue to challenge lake managers, municipalities, and watershed organizations across the Northeast. Excess phosphorus and nitrogen can rapidly degrade ecological conditions, limit recreational use, impact sources of potable water, and increase management costs, often despite the implementation of conventional best management practices. As a result, there is growing interest in tools that can complement or augment existing approaches and address nutrients in more targeted ways. Biochar has emerged as one such tool. While it is best known as a soil amendment, its physical, chemical, and biological properties have prompted increasing use in aquatic systems as a means of improving water quality. Over the past five years, Princeton Hydro has applied biochar in a range of lakes, ponds, streams, and stormwater-related settings across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. These field applications, supported by monitoring, have provided important insight into when biochar is most effective, where its limitations lie, and why observed improvements in water quality are not always explained by phosphorus removal alone. [gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="9215,19122,9225"] What Is Biochar and Why Use It in Waterbodies? Biochar is a carbon-rich, charcoal-like material produced through pyrolysis, a process in which organic biomass is heated in a low-oxygen environment. The resulting material has a highly porous structure and extensive surface area, properties that make it effective at adsorbing nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen (Joseph et al., 2021). Because excess nutrients are a primary driver of eutrophication and HABs, biochar has emerged as a promising amendment for aquatic systems and stormwater best management practices (BMPs). In aquatic applications, biochar is typically installed in permeable sleeves (aka socks) or incorporated into stormwater treatment practices to intercept nutrient-rich water before it enters lakes or ponds. Used biochar can also be repurposed as a soil amendment, adding to its appeal as a sustainable, circular material. [gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="19134,9226"] Aquatic Ecologist Katie Walston-Frederick (right) leads a biochar sleeve filling session. Katie and her team members wear full protective equipment when handling biochar due to the fine, carbon-based nature of the material. Lessons Learned from Five Years of Field Applications Through approximately half a dozen monitored projects implemented since 2020, several consistent patterns have emerged. Standing Waters Show the Strongest Response: Biochar has proven most effective in low-flow or standing water environments such as ponds and stormwater basins. In these systems, Princeton Hydro has documented total phosphorus (TP) removal rates as high as 80%, with soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) reductions approaching 97% in some stormwater ponds (Princeton Hydro, Lake Hopatcong Report, 2022). The extended contact time between water and biochar in these settings appears to be a key driver of performance. Flow and Contact Time Matter: In streams and fast-moving stormwater infrastructure, nutrient removal rates tend to be lower, with phosphorus reductions typically closer to 50%. While still meaningful, these reduced efficiencies are largely attributable to limited contact time. Simply put, the shorter the interaction between water and biochar, the fewer opportunities there are for adsorption and other removal processes to occur. Enhancement to Conventional Stormwater BMPs: Biochar can be particularly effective when paired with stormwater BMPs that primarily rely on sedimentation. Traditional practices often excel at removing particulate-bound phosphorus but are less effective at capturing dissolved forms of phosphorus—the fraction most readily utilized by algae. Incorporating biochar into these systems can enhance removal of dissolved phosphorus, improving overall treatment performance. Streams Present Physical Challenges: Installing biochar in stream environments presents practical challenges. Even with careful anchoring, large storm events, including remnants of hurricanes, can dislodge biochar sleeves, transporting them downstream or onto streambanks. These risks must be considered during design and often limit the suitability of biochar for higher energy systems. Chemistry Alone Does Not Tell the Whole Story: At very high pH levels, phosphorus adsorption onto biochar can become less predictable, sometimes exhibiting a “decoupling” between measured phosphorus sorption and observed water quality improvements. Monitoring data from multiple projects indicate that reductions in chlorophyll-a, cyanobacteria abundance, and overall bloom severity cannot always be explained by phosphorus removal alone. Beyond Adsorption: The Role of Biology The disconnect between measured nutrient sorption and improved water quality suggests that additional mechanisms are at work. Increasingly, evidence points toward biological processes occurring within and around biochar installations. Biochar is known to favor the growth and proliferation of heterotrophic bacteria (Moore et al., 2023). These microbial communities may contribute to water quality improvements in the following ways:
Charlie is a licensed Professional Engineer and a Certified Floodplain Manager with over five years of experience in water resources engineering. His expertise includes hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, green stormwater infrastructure, civil site design, ecological restoration, and flood resilience. Charlie holds a M.S. in Biological Systems Engineering and B.S. Environmental Science/B.A. Geography from Virginia Tech.
Prior to joining Princeton Hydro, Charlie worked as a Water Resources Engineer for Meliora Design, where he designed green stormwater infrastructure projects such as rain gardens and underground infiltration beds, created master plans for state and local parks, and modeled conceptual floodplain restoration studies for the Brandywine Creek Flood Study. Before Meliora, he worked at Kleinschmidt Associates where he worked on hydrologic and hydraulic projects such as dam breaches, dam removals, nature-like fishways, and FEMA LOMRs.
Outside of work, he likes to play ultimate frisbee and lead his local Environmental Advisory Council where he plans park invasive removals and tree giveaways.
Mike serves as the Business Administration and Compliance Manager at Princeton Hydro. He brings a unique perspective to the team, built over a 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force as a KC-10 Extender Boom Operator. During his time in the service, Mike did more than just fly; he managed global logistics missions and was responsible for the essential training, certification, and compliance of aircrew members.
After retiring from the military, Mike spent four years as a Senior Manager at Verizon, where he focused on business transformation and strategy. Today, he uses that background to lead our efforts in regulatory compliance, policy development, and keeping our administrative processes running smoothly.
Mike holds an MBA from Temple University and a B.S. in Business from Penn State. When he’s not in the office, you’ll likely find him cooking, traveling with his family, or tending to his woodworking projects, garden, and chickens.
Tyler graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 2024 with a B.S. in Environmental Science and Management. At URI, he began as a research assistant studying the rapid spread of aquatic invasive species throughout Rhode Island’s wetlands. Tyler later transitioned to marine systems, assisting a project at URI’s Graduate School of Oceanography investigating phytoplankton dynamics in the Gulf of Mexico. While studying abroad at the Universidad Católica de Valencia in Spain, Tyler researched the Mediterranean fan mussel and became Scuba certified.
Following his graduation, Tyler stayed with the Graduate School of Oceanography to complete a project aboard the RV/IB Nathaniel B. Palmer. Here, he researched phytoplankton blooms along Antarctica’s coast and across the Southern Ocean while also achieving his dream of setting foot on all seven continents.
During his free time, Tyler enjoys surfing, reading, playing music, and exploring Philadelphia, where he now lives.
Our newest team members are already making valuable contributions, and we’re excited to see their impact continue to grow. We’re so glad to have them as part of the team!
When it comes to restoring lakes and safeguarding watershed health, effective and sustainable solutions depend on science, partnerships, and sustained investment. Princeton Hydro Senior Manager of Aquatics Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM was invited as one of the select experts chosen to represent the North American Lake Management Society’s (NALMS) 314 Working Group in Washington, DC to contribute technical insight and real world expertise during discussions with congressional staff and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) leadership about the policies and funding resources that help communities across the country address nonpoint source pollution.
There are several federal funding programs that states, tribes, local governments, and nonprofits rely on to support critical water-quality improvement initiatives. Among them, Clean Water Act Section 319(h) is a cornerstone program that supports nonpoint source management projects like watershed-based planning, stormwater retrofits, riparian restoration, and targeted education programs. It is administered by USEPA and delivered through states and qualified tribes, and funding typically requires a nonfederal cost share to leverage local investment. In recent federal budget cycles, elements of this funding landscape have faced proposed reductions or complete eliminations by the current administration, including sharp reductions to the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds.
Against that backdrop, the NALMS 314 Working Group organized a bipartisan “fly in” to share data, case studies, and practical policy options with Senate offices and USEPA’s Office of Water, emphasizing how programs like Section 319 translate into measurable, local water quality gains. The group, which included Committee Member Mark Heilman; NALMS Board Member Ben Rhoades; government strategist Drue Winters; and NALMS Past-President Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM, held meetings with the offices of Senators Wicker (R-MS), Markey (D-MA), Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Sanders (D-VT); both majority and minority staff of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works; and the EPA Office of Water leadership.
Another focal point of the DC conversations was the National Lakes Assessment (NLA), a statistically rigorous survey of lake conditions conducted every five years by USEPA and its state and tribal partners. The most recent NLA, fielded in 2022, provides nationally consistent insight into ecosystem health, key stressors, and recreational indicators, and it helps policymakers understand where water quality is improving or declining and how to target investments.
Created under the Clean Water Act, Section 319(h) is one of the nation’s primary funding tools for tackling runoff driven water quality issues. Through this program, states and tribes can invest in incentive-based, nonpoint source pollution reduction projects. Examples of activities eligible for 319(h) funding include watershed-based planning, BMP implementation, education and outreach, and water quality assessment and monitoring.
Because 319(h) is administered through state programs, it supports local priorities while aligning with national goals. Over time, this approach has enabled communities to design watershed specific strategies, from agricultural and urban stormwater controls to nature-based green infrastructure, and to document water quality improvements with consistent methods. In most cases, a 40% non-federal funding match is required.
At Princeton Hydro, we’ve seen firsthand how Section 319(h) translates into action through state run grant programs. In New Jersey, the NJDEP Water Quality Restoration Grants support projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution, mitigate harmful algal blooms, restore riparian areas, enhance watershed and climate resilience, and restore water quality in New Jersey. The grants are funded through Section 319(h) and administered by NJDEP’s Watershed & Land Management Program.
Princeton Hydro is proud to be a partner on five of the 17 projects most recently awarded funding (2025) through NJDEP’s Water Quality Restoration grants. Our contributions vary by project and encompass activities such as engineering design, water quality assessment, watershed-based planning, and technical support for implementing stormwater and habitat restoration measures. We also supported several partners in developing successful NJDEP Section 319(h) applications, including technical documentation, cost estimates, conceptual designs, and pollutant load reduction estimates.
To take a deeper dive into our most recent collaborations, click here to read our blog: NJDEP Awards $8M for Water Quality Restoration Projects
Princeton Hydro is grateful to NALMS and our fellow 314 Working Group members for convening this effort, and to the Senate offices and USEPA leaders who engaged in thoughtful, solutions-oriented conversations. These conversations are already translating into tangible results.
Following these coordinated advocacy efforts Clean Water Act Section 319(h) funding was restored in the federal budget with an increase of $750,000. More broadly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ultimately fared better than many federal agencies during the most recent budget cycle, with several programs initially proposed for reduction or elimination reinstated through congressional negotiations.
Chris Mikolajczyk is a Certified Lake Manager and aquatic ecologist with over 35 years of experience in conducting the management, oversight, and coordination of water resource projects in three main areas: aquatic resource restoration and management; aquatic ecosystem sampling and investigations; and stormwater quality modeling and management. Chris also manages the design and implementation of watershed restoration projects, many funded by EPA 319(h), such as structural BMPs; bio-engineering techniques for nutrient reduction; development of TMDL pollutant budgets; and watershed-based monitoring programs. To date, Chris has managed projects involving over 100 lakes and reservoirs. Chris has been a member of the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) for over 20 years. In that time, he has served on the Board of Directors, chaired the Professional Certification Committee, and served as president from November 2021- November 2022. He currently serves as Board President for the Colorado Lake and Reservoir Management Association.
Princeton Hydro recently joined coastal and climate resilience practitioners from across the region at the 2026 New Jersey Coastal & Climate Resilience Conference, hosted by the New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative (NJCRC) and the New Jersey Department of Environment Projection (NJDEP). With this year’s theme, “Navigating Changing Tides,” the three-day conference brought together hundreds of professionals to share ideas, explore solutions, and strengthen the partnerships essential to advancing coastal resilience.
As part of the conference program, Princeton Hydro's Director of Marketing & Communications Dana Patterson Grear organized a Sunrise Bird Walk at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, led by Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE, Senior Wildlife Biologist at Princeton Hydro, alongside Drew McQuade and Aleshanee Mooney of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA).
A group of 25+ participants traveled the eight‑mile loop along Wildlife Drive, collectively observing 62 bird species along the way. Highlights included two White Ibis, an Osprey perched on a nesting platform, and hundreds of Snow Geese. As the group approached the end of the loop, a Peregrine Falcon provided the perfect send-off, holding its perch on a refuge sign while the caravan rolled by.
Dr. Clay Emerson, PE, CFM, Senior Technical Director of Engineering Services, shared his perspective on New Jersey’s changing coastal environment and the role bay island restoration can play in protecting vulnerable shorelines.
Clay’s presentation explored how coastal dynamics, restoration design, and resilience planning intersect, offering practical insight into nature‑based strategies that support shoreline stability and long‑term adaptability. His ability to translate complex processes into clear, engaging concepts resonated strongly with the conference audience. Moderated by Tom Herrington of the Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute, Clay participated in a Q&A panel discussion with NOAA Coastal Resilience Fellow Heather Korzun and Research Scientist Dr. John Swartz of The Water Institute to conclude the "Building Community Resilience" breakout session.
Dr. Fred Lubnow, Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, gave a poster presentation focused on Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in coastal environments.
Fred’s work examined how HABs behave in dynamic coastal systems, how to identify HABs, and restoration strategies. In the context of the conference theme, his presentation reinforced that HABs are not just seasonal nuisances, but long‑term resilience challenges that require integrated science, monitoring, and restoration approaches.
As part of the conference's Tools Café, Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing & Communications, led a digital storytelling demonstration, titled “Launching an Interactive ArcGIS StoryMap for Public Outreach.” The session demonstrated how digital tools like StoryMaps can be used to translate complex data into accessible narratives that support community engagement, education, and informed decision‑making. Dana guided participants through several ArcGIS StoryMaps created by Princeton Hydro for clients and project partners, showcasing applications ranging from restoration projects and environmental resource inventories to water quality assessments and community science initiatives.
Princeton Hydro was proud to host a conference networking event alongside co‑sponsors Stantec, Baird, and Barnegat Oyster Collective. The gathering created space for conversation, collaboration, and relationship‑building, an essential part of advancing coastal resiliency initiatives and cross‑disciplinary problem‑solving. Attendees enjoyed brief remarks from each of the event sponsors, along with happy‑hour refreshments, and a complimentary oyster bar provided by the Barnegat Oyster Collective. Our team had a great time connecting with colleagues and celebrating the collaborative energy that defined the conference.
Another highlight of the conference for our team was a field trip to The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey’s South Cape May Meadows, where participants explored the newly completed boardwalk, a Princeton Hydro-designed project that creates a half‑mile, universally accessible route through one of the region’s most ecologically significant landscapes. Commissioned by The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey and installed by Renova Environmental Company, the project was designed to provide inclusive public access and opportunities for environmental education while carefully protecting a fragile ecosystem that serves as a vital stopover along the Atlantic Flyway.
Designing a public trail within such a dynamic wetland system required a careful balance between human experience and habitat preservation, with the goal of creating an inviting, educational, and fully accessible route without disturbing critical hydrology, soils, or wildlife. Walking the boardwalk alongside fellow NJCRC Conference participants was a meaningful, full-circle moment for our team, bringing the project’s vision to life.
Huge thanks to New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for pulling together another incredible conference. We headed home with new connections, new ideas, and a renewed sense of pride in the work we all do!
Nutrient-driven water quality impairments, particularly harmful algal blooms (HABs), continue to challenge lake managers, municipalities, and watershed organizations across the Northeast. Excess phosphorus and nitrogen can rapidly degrade ecological conditions, limit recreational use, impact sources of potable water, and increase management costs, often despite the implementation of conventional best management practices. As a result, there is growing interest in tools that can complement or augment existing approaches and address nutrients in more targeted ways.
Biochar has emerged as one such tool. While it is best known as a soil amendment, its physical, chemical, and biological properties have prompted increasing use in aquatic systems as a means of improving water quality. Over the past five years, Princeton Hydro has applied biochar in a range of lakes, ponds, streams, and stormwater-related settings across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. These field applications, supported by monitoring, have provided important insight into when biochar is most effective, where its limitations lie, and why observed improvements in water quality are not always explained by phosphorus removal alone.
Biochar is a carbon-rich, charcoal-like material produced through pyrolysis, a process in which organic biomass is heated in a low-oxygen environment. The resulting material has a highly porous structure and extensive surface area, properties that make it effective at adsorbing nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen (Joseph et al., 2021). Because excess nutrients are a primary driver of eutrophication and HABs, biochar has emerged as a promising amendment for aquatic systems and stormwater best management practices (BMPs).
In aquatic applications, biochar is typically installed in permeable sleeves (aka socks) or incorporated into stormwater treatment practices to intercept nutrient-rich water before it enters lakes or ponds. Used biochar can also be repurposed as a soil amendment, adding to its appeal as a sustainable, circular material.
Through approximately half a dozen monitored projects implemented since 2020, several consistent patterns have emerged.
Standing Waters Show the Strongest Response: Biochar has proven most effective in low-flow or standing water environments such as ponds and stormwater basins. In these systems, Princeton Hydro has documented total phosphorus (TP) removal rates as high as 80%, with soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) reductions approaching 97% in some stormwater ponds (Princeton Hydro, Lake Hopatcong Report, 2022). The extended contact time between water and biochar in these settings appears to be a key driver of performance.
Flow and Contact Time Matter: In streams and fast-moving stormwater infrastructure, nutrient removal rates tend to be lower, with phosphorus reductions typically closer to 50%. While still meaningful, these reduced efficiencies are largely attributable to limited contact time. Simply put, the shorter the interaction between water and biochar, the fewer opportunities there are for adsorption and other removal processes to occur.
Enhancement to Conventional Stormwater BMPs: Biochar can be particularly effective when paired with stormwater BMPs that primarily rely on sedimentation. Traditional practices often excel at removing particulate-bound phosphorus but are less effective at capturing dissolved forms of phosphorus—the fraction most readily utilized by algae. Incorporating biochar into these systems can enhance removal of dissolved phosphorus, improving overall treatment performance.
Streams Present Physical Challenges: Installing biochar in stream environments presents practical challenges. Even with careful anchoring, large storm events, including remnants of hurricanes, can dislodge biochar sleeves, transporting them downstream or onto streambanks. These risks must be considered during design and often limit the suitability of biochar for higher energy systems.
Chemistry Alone Does Not Tell the Whole Story: At very high pH levels, phosphorus adsorption onto biochar can become less predictable, sometimes exhibiting a “decoupling” between measured phosphorus sorption and observed water quality improvements. Monitoring data from multiple projects indicate that reductions in chlorophyll-a, cyanobacteria abundance, and overall bloom severity cannot always be explained by phosphorus removal alone.
The disconnect between measured nutrient sorption and improved water quality suggests that additional mechanisms are at work. Increasingly, evidence points toward biological processes occurring within and around biochar installations.
Biochar is known to favor the growth and proliferation of heterotrophic bacteria (Moore et al., 2023). These microbial communities may contribute to water quality improvements in the following ways:
This emerging science mirrors what Princeton Hydro has observed in the field: water quality can improve in ways that chemical measurements alone do not fully explain, suggesting that biological processes may be playing an important supporting role.
Since 2020, Princeton Hydro has applied biochar across a range of aquatic and stormwater settings, tailoring each installation to site-specific conditions and management goals. Together, these projects demonstrate biochar’s versatility and its ability to integrate into holistic watershed and lake management strategies, often working best when paired with other nature-based and engineered solutions.
At Duke Farms, a 2,700-acre estate in New Jersey, Princeton Hydro has supported lake and wetland management efforts for more than two decades. Biochar was recently introduced as an additional tool within an established, science-based nutrient management program. By placing biochar in low-flow areas where contact time could be maximized, phosphorus removal was enhanced and improvements in water clarity were observed. This effort highlights how biochar can be layered into long-term management strategies alongside floating wetland islands and other nature-based solutions.
Harvey’s Lake, the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania, has long faced challenges associated with nutrient loading and recurring HABs. As part of a broader stormwater management effort, Princeton Hydro incorporated biochar into select stormwater BMPs to reduce phosphorus before it entered the lake. Installed within targeted stormwater conveyance and treatment features, the biochar helped achieve measurable reductions in dissolved phosphorus, complementing other watershed-scale measures such as vegetated buffers and wetland enhancements. The spent biochar, having captured phosphorus and nitrogen from runoff, was then repurposed as a soil amendment to enrich a 500-square-foot pollinator garden. This repurposing effort served a dual purpose: demonstrating a closed-loop approach to managing excess nutrients while also creating a community-oriented space that supports local biodiversity.
Across multiple stormwater projects in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, biochar has been installed in detention basins, rain gardens, and other stormwater treatment devices. These applications were designed to target dissolved phosphorus, a nutrient form that conventional BMPs can struggle to remove. In several cases, biochar was paired with other nutrient control measures such as floating wetland islands to further improve nutrient capture. Collectively, these projects illustrate how biochar can be adapted and scaled to address local water quality challenges across diverse settings.
At Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey’s largest lake, biochar was deployed as part of a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy to reduce nutrient concentrations and mitigate HABs. Biochar was installed in permeable flotation bags and placed at targeted shoreline and inlet locations where nutrient loading is most pronounced, including several stormwater inlets and outlets around the lake. Funded through the NJDEP Freshwater HABs Prevention & Management Grant Program and implemented in partnership with the Lake Hopatcong Commission and the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, these installations complemented other in-lake management measures such as floating wetland islands.
In Manhattan's Central Park, Princeton Hydro supported the Central Park Conservancy in developing and implementing a long-term management strategy for the park's network of lakes and ponds, where harmful algal blooms driven by excess nutrients were a persistent concern. As part of a broader, phased approach to improve water quality, biochar was incorporated as a nutrient reduction tool and will be incorporated alongside other measures such as floating wetland islands, aeration and circulation, and stormwater treatment techniques. Used in targeted locations, biochar helped support efforts to reduce nutrient loading and mitigate cyanobacteria blooms within these highly visible urban waterbodies.
Across these projects, biochar installations have been associated with measurable reductions in total and dissolved phosphorus, decreases in chlorophyll‑a concentrations, and lower cyanobacteria cell counts. While performance has varied by site, the strongest and most consistent results have occurred in enclosed or low‑flow environments where contact time is maximized and physical disturbance is minimized. When thoughtfully designed and integrated with other BMPs, these case studies show how biochar can contribute meaningfully to broader efforts to reduce nutrient loads and improve overall water quality.
Biochar is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Reviewing site-specific water quality data is essential to determine whether biochar is an appropriate standalone treatment or should be combined with complementary approaches. Ongoing and future research is focused on better quantifying the relative contributions of chemical adsorption and biological activity associated with biochar. Current studies, including collaborative efforts with academic partners, aim to document pollutant removal capacity, characterize microbial communities, and evaluate biochar’s potential role in degrading cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins. As these processes continue to be studied and further understood in the water quality context, biochar may become an increasingly valuable component of integrated, science-based watershed management strategies.
Dr. Fred Lubnow, Princeton Hydro's Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, and Jenn Rogers, Executive Director of Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space (FoHVOS), were recently featured on the Native Plants, Healthy Planet podcast to discuss the collaborative, first‑of‑its‑kind initiative to monitor Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the Delaware River Watershed using drones, spatial analysis, and community science.
The Delaware River is a lifeline for more than 14 million people, a refuge for wildlife, and a defining natural feature of the region. In recent years, HABs, once confined mostly to lakes and ponds, have expanded into streams and rivers and appearing in colder months. Understanding why this shift is happening, and how to predict it, is essential for protecting water quality, public health, and ecological resilience within the Delaware River watershed and watersheds nationwide.
The podcast, hosted by Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick of Pinelands Nursey, highlights the urgency of addressing HABs and the innovative, cross‑sector partnership driving this work forward. Listen now: Harmful Algal Blooms with Dr. Fred Lubnow and Jenn Rogers.
Jenn Rogers, Executive Director of FoHVOS, brings two decades of conservation leadership to the partnership. Her background spans naturalist education, ecological stewardship, and the development of large-scale restoration and public engagement programs. During her fourteen years with the Mercer County Park Commission, she helped establish both the Environmental Education and Stewardship Departments and oversaw the care of more than ten thousand acres of parkland.
Jenn has spent her career building programs that connect people to the landscapes around them. Her commitment to community-driven conservation make her a key partner in a project that relies on both scientific rigor and public participation. Her perspective highlights how land use, watershed health, and community stewardship are deeply interconnected.
Dr. Fred Lubnow serves as Princeton Hydro’s Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services and brings more than 30 years of experience in limnology, watershed restoration, and community and ecosystem ecology. His career has focused on understanding how freshwater systems respond to nutrient loading, hydrologic change, and long-term environmental pressures. He has designed and led numerous lake and watershed restoration projects, developed USEPA Nine-Element and TMDL-driven watershed plans, and created field-based cyanobacteria and cyanotoxin monitoring programs that are now used across the region.
Fred’s expertise in the taxonomy, ecology, and management of algae, particularly cyanobacteria, has made him a leading voice in the study of HABs. He currently serves on New Jersey’s HABs Advisory Team, where he helps interpret water quality data and advises on mitigation strategies. His scientific leadership guides the technical design and implementation of the Delaware River HAB monitoring initiative.
Now entering its second year, the Delaware River HAB monitoring initiative is expanding both its scientific scope and its community engagement efforts. Building on the foundation established in 2025, the project team is conducting multi‑season drone flights, enhanced satellite‑based surveys, and targeted on‑the‑water sampling along 73 miles of the Delaware River and 24 connected waterbodies. These efforts are designed to strengthen the project’s ability to detect and forecast HABs under a wide range of seasonal and environmental conditions.
Year two also introduces several tools and activities intended to support broader participation and more efficient data collection. This includes the launch of a new ArcSurvey123 mobile data platform to support real‑time volunteer water quality submissions, as well as expanded training opportunities for community members interested in assisting with field sampling. Data collected through these efforts will contribute to the development of advanced algorithms capable of forecasting HAB occurrence at multiple spatial scales.
Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation's (NFWF) Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund (DWCF), in partnership with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the project continues to be supported by a diverse network of partners across New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including The City University of New York's (CUNY) New York City College of Technology (City Tech), Trenton Water Works, Mercer County Park Commission, The College of New Jersey, Aqua-PA, Philadelphia Water Department, Bucks County Conservation District, Turner Designs, and US Army Corps of Engineers - Philadelphia District's Blue Marsh Lake. Together, these organizations contribute technical expertise, watershed knowledge, and crucial on‑the‑ground support. This collaborative approach remains central to the initiative’s success and long‑term objective: establishing a scalable HAB‑forecasting framework that can ultimately be applied to additional watersheds across the United States.
For a deeper look at the research, partnerships, and shared commitment behind this initiative, listen to the full Native Plants, Healthy Planet podcast presented by Pinelands Nursery. Click here to learn more about the Pinelands Nursery and explore the full library of Native Plants, Healthy Planet podcasts. If you're interested in getting involved in the Delaware River HAB research initiative, the program is currently seeking volunteers for water sampling along the Delaware and select waterbodies. Contact FoHVOS Conservation Biologist Kaitlin Muccio at: kmuccio@fohvos.org for more details.
Spring is stirring! As the season of renewal approaches, the Princeton Hydro team is gearing up for a fresh lineup of conferences, community programs, and environmental stewardship events. In this Spring Events Spotlight, we highlight what’s ahead and share how you can get involved.
New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative (NJCRC) and Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) are hosting the 2026 New Jersey Coastal & Climate Resilience Conference from Monday, March 9, through Wednesday, March 11, at the Seaview Hotel in Galloway, NJ. With a theme of “Navigating Changing Tides,” The three-day event, themed "Navigating Changing Tides," brings together hundreds of coastal and climate resilience professionals to gather, learn, collaborate and celebrate.
Princeton Hydro is a proud conference sponsor and leading a full line-up of conference events:
We are proud to sponsor and excited to attend the Farmington River Watershed Association's Wild & Scenic Film Festival on Friday, March 20 from 7-9 PM at Miss Porter's School Hacker Theater. This 8th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival is a celebration of our river that will include 11 visually stunning films focused on a variety of interesting, engaging and inspiring topics, including Flora, Fauna, and Funga from Southern Chile; the restoration of the Klamath River, the largest river restoration effort in history; and a feature on the Farmington River Coordinating Committee's River Stewards! Participants will also enjoy lots of delicious snacks and fun raffle prizes from Ski Sundown, Hartford Yard Goats, Haworth's Flower and Gifts, Thule, Dick's Sporting Goods, Brewery Legitimus, Pia Sjolin Design, CT River cruise, Yoga Lessons, Collinsville Canoe & Kayak. The purchase of your $25 ticket includes access to the full program as Video-on-Demand so you can watch from home between March 20-26.
We recently partnered with FRWA and Miss Porter's School for the removal of the Winchell-Smith Dam, which reconnects 30 miles of critical upstream habitat on the Farmington River. Click here to read more about that project.
Presented by the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, the 2026 Watershed Congress takes place in-person at Alvernia University in Reading, PA from 8:30am through 3:30pm. The Watershed Congress has evolved since 1998 to advance the best available information and techniques for protecting and restoring watersheds. The focus on networking across disciplines means that the Watershed Congress melds science, policy, and practical applications into one program. As a result, the annual Watershed Congress is a highly anticipated event for people interested in understanding, protecting, and restoring their local streams. Princeton Hydro, an event sponsor, is proud to share that our Director of Restoration & Resilience Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP, is giving the keynote address along with Lamar Gore, Refuge Manager of John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum and Kim Hachadoorian, Urban Conservation Project Manager for The Nature Conservancy. Their presentation is titled, "Resilience Rooted in Place: Partnering with Communities to Address Flooding Through Nature-Based Solutions, and Why “With Community” Needs to be Foundational."
Additionally, our team members are leading two educational sessions:
The Wayne Conservation District, in partnership with the Lake Alden Watershed Association is hosting a free seminar focused on aquatic invasive species. The program is funded through a PA Lake Management Society Mini Grant awarded to Lake Alden Watershed Association. This free, community event will take place Saturday, April 11 from 10am - Noon at the Park Street Complex located at 648 Park Street, Honesdale, PA 18431. Participants will hear from Pennsylvania Sea Grant and Princeton Hydro's Senior Director of Field Services Scott Churm who will discuss effective strategies for preventing the spread of invasive species and current treatment methodologies. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom (HABs) display. Whether you're a lake community resident, an outdoor recreation enthusiast, or simply interested in protecting local waterways, this event offers valuable insight you won't want to miss. The seminar is free, but registration is requested.
Presented by the Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space, the New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team Conference is considered the most comprehensive state-wide forum on invasive species. This year's conference, being hosted at the Boathouse at Mercer Lake, encompasses insights from both academic research and field experience, and features practical demonstrations by land stewards in addition to formal presentations. Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the conference and exhibiting. Our Director of Field Services Scott Churm along with Dr. Emile DeVito of NJ Conservation Foundation are presenting on efforts to eradicate the invasive silty pond mussel from New Jersey waterways. Over 200 people are expected to attend. We hope to see you there!
The Phoenixville Green Team invites you to participate in a special screening event of the award-winning documentary "The Little Things that Run the World" at the historic Colonial Theater in Phoenixville, PA. The documentary introduces viewers to a diverse group of scientists, nature lovers, gardeners, farmers, and general bug enthusiasts in exploring the importance of flying insects amid rapid declines in their numbers, what's causing the decline, and what can be done to reverse the trend. The special film screening will be immediately followed by a presentation and "talkback" session with Princeton Hydro's Aquatics Project Manager Tanya Dapkey, CE, a freshwater ecologist and entomologist with over 20 years of experience. Tanya has a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Pennsylvania where she used DNA barcoding and macroinvertebrate sampling to assess water quality in freshwater streams. The Colonial Theater is a non-profit arts organizations and an iconic landmark of downtown Phoenixville that attracts more than 60,000 patrons per year.
NJDEP is hosting the 7th Annual Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Summit, "From Plans to Progress: Taking Action for Healthy Waterways," a free virtual event from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM that brings together experts and stakeholders to discuss HAB drivers, impacts, current research, and management strategies. This Summit is part of a statewide effort launched in 2019 after widespread HAB outbreaks led to beach closures and health advisories across New Jersey, prompting a $13 million investment in local prevention and mitigation projects, the formation of a statewide HAB Expert Team, which includes Princeton Hydro’s Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow, and the creation of annual summits to support ongoing education and collaboration.
The Colorado Lake and Reservoir Management Association (CLRMA) is pleased to announce its 2026 Spring Conference, to be held at Pelican Bay Marina at Cherry Creek State Park. CLRMA brings together engaged citizens and water resource professionals who share a commitment to protecting, managing, and enjoying Colorado’s lakes and reservoirs. The 2026 Spring Conference will focus on this year’s theme, Resilient Reservoirs: Adapting Water Management to Climate and Drought, highlighting practical strategies, emerging research, and adaptive approaches to water management in the face of changing environmental conditions. The full conference agenda will be released soon. Lunch will be provided for all registered attendees, and park admission is included with registration.
Join SAME NJ Post for the sixth annual Coastal Resilience in NJ conference, a full-day program focused on innovative strategies, proactive planning, and implementation solutions for storm risk management and coastal restoration across New Jersey. This year’s program brings together leaders from government agencies, academia, nonprofits, and industry to explore real-world projects and collaborative approaches addressing increased storm intensity and coastal flooding. Featured speakers include representatives from NJDEP, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and regional universities. Attendees will gain insight into active restoration initiatives, barrier island planning efforts, and student-led research shaping the future of coastal resilience in the region. Continuing education credits are available. The day concludes with a networking happy hour featuring a complimentary oyster bar from the Barnegat Oyster Collective, along with wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Our team is looking forward to the 11th Annual George Stafford Highlands Golf Classic at the Hawk Pointe Golf Club, benefiting the New Jersey Highlands Coalition and honoring the legacy of longtime staff member George Stafford. Join us for a beautiful day on the green featuring 18 holes of golf, great food including our tradition of Empanadas on the Green, networking, and the presentation of the Highlands Lifetime Achievement Award, all in support of protecting the New Jersey Highlands. Princeton Hydro is proud to be a Hole Sponsor and excited to participate in the golf tournament! Princeton Hydro and the NJ Highlands Coalition have been working together for over a decade on regulatory compliance reviews, environmental impact analyses, and stormwater management projects throughout the region.
Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the Hackensack River Nation Summit 2026 hosted by Northern New Jersey Community Foundation. This one-day event, held at Fairleigh Dickson University from 8:30am to 3:30pm, has become one of North Jersey's largest gathering of river conservation experts. Join environmental experts, community leaders, public officials, and others working to protect the health of the Hackensack River Watershed and connect more people to the Hackensack River. Keynote speaker Captain Bill Sheehan of Hackensack Riverkeeper will kick off a day packed with workshops, networking events, and breakout sessions, including "Getting a Stormwater Utility in Your Community," which is moderated by Director of Marketing & Communications Dana Patterson Grear.
Lake advocates, environmental professionals, researchers, and community leaders will gather for the 44th Annual New York State Federation of Lake Associations (NYSFOLA) Conference at the Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center overlooking beautiful Lake George. Participants from across the region will explore longstanding lake and watershed challenges through the lens of innovation, collaboration, and science. This year’s theme, “Shared Lakes: Shared Responsibilities,” will guide conversations focused on strengthening stewardship and advancing collective solutions for New York’s lakes. The two-day program will feature a robust lineup of educational sessions, workshops, an exhibitor hall, and networking opportunities. Our team members are leading a variety of workshops:
Princeton Hydro is a conference sponsor, a long-time member of NYSFOLA, and looking forward to participating in this year's event!
Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor the 2026 New Jersey Land Trust Summit, taking place May 15 at the Johnson Education Center in Princeton, NJ. This gathering offers a dynamic forum for land trust staff, volunteers, board members, and conservation partners to explore emerging trends in land protection, strengthen practical skills, and collaborate on strategies that advance New Jersey’s conservation goals. Attendees will also have opportunities to visit exemplary restoration and land‑preservation projects that highlight the impact of coordinated stewardship across the state. Hosted by the Land Trust Alliance, an organization dedicated to empowering land trusts nationwide to protect the places people rely on and cherish, the Summit welcomes anyone engaged in land conservation in New Jersey. Registration opens March 16.
Princeton Hydro participated The Delaware Wetlands Conference at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington, which drew more than 425 attendees, featured 75 presentations and poster displays, and hosted 45 exhibitor and sponsor tables. The two-day gathering offered a robust mix of workshops, poster sessions, networking events, lunch-and-learn opportunities, an exhibitor hall, and plenary sessions, with professional credits available for participants. The agenda spanned a wide range of timely and technical topics, including soil science, climate adaptation, assessment and monitoring, and wetland restoration and creation. Princeton Hydro sponsored the event, exhibited, and led two workshops: Environmental Scientist Ivy Rose, PWS presented “Third River Urban Park and Habitat Creation Project – Brownfield Turned Wetland Sanctuary." And, Director of Restoration and Resilience Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP presented “Urban Flood and Habitat Resilience in the Lower Darby Creek Watershed.”
PALMS hosted its 36th Annual Conference at the Wyndham Garden State College. Attendees engaged in a diverse lineup of professional presentations, workshops, and panel discussions highlighting the latest findings and innovative approaches related to invasive species, monitoring strategies, best management practices, pollutants, and harmful algal blooms. The conference offered a valuable forum for lake managers, researchers, consultants, and environmental professionals to exchange knowledge and advance effective lake and watershed stewardship across Pennsylvania. Princeton Hydro sponsored the event and two of our team members led workshops: Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow presented “A Review of the Use of Biochar for Lake and Watershed Management” and Project Manager – Aquatics and Environmental Scientist Pat Rose presented “The Evaluation of Innovative Treatment Strategies to Proactively and Reactively Control Near-Shore HABS.” Fred also participated in an “Ask the Experts” panel.
Municipal ordinances, when thoughtfully drafted and effectively implemented, are among the most powerful tools for protecting watersheds, managing stormwater, preserving forests and wetlands, and reducing flood risk. While the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) provides baseline regulatory standards, these requirements function only as minimum thresholds. Under New Jersey’s home rule framework and the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL), municipalities have broad authority to shape development patterns and use zoning, environmental ordinances, and master planning to adopt standards aligned with their community’s environmental constraints and development demands.
How municipalities put this authority into practice framed a recent webinar hosted by The Watershed Institute: “Municipal Ordinances: Key to Environmental Protection.”
Moderated by Michael Pisauro, Esq., Policy Director for The Watershed Institute, the webinar brought together three experienced practitioners to explore how municipalities can leverage local ordinances to strengthen environmental protection and community resilience:
Each presenter approached the issue from a different, complementary lens: science, land use law, and regulatory practice.
Mark began the webinar with an overview of New Jersey’s natural green infrastructure (forests, floodplains, riparian corridors, wetlands, and meadows) and its role in supporting stormwater management. Engineered systems are most effective when the surrounding natural landscapes can absorb, slow, and filter runoff. He stressed that municipalities shape the fate of these natural systems through their zoning and development decisions, making local ordinances essential to watershed health.
Mark examined how decades of land alteration, including stream channelization and straightening, impervious surface expansion, and floodplain encroachment, have dramatically changed stream systems across the state. As runoff volume increases, so does the frequency and duration of bankfull flows, which widen channels, erode banks, and transport sediment. A key indicator of watershed imbalance is floodplain disconnection: in healthy systems, streams access their floodplains during frequent storm events, dissipating energy and reducing downstream impacts. In many developed watersheds, streams remain confined within incised channels except during major storms, worsening erosion and downstream flooding.
Mark directly connected these environmental realities to municipal decision-making. Municipal ordinances play a critical role in maintaining and restoring the natural systems that support stormwater management, water quality, and community resilience. Municipalities can shape new development and use redevelopment projects as opportunities to repair historic environmental damage.
He highlighted municipal tools that strengthen watershed function, including well-crafted stream corridor ordinances, updated Environmental Resource Inventories (ERIs), master plan policies that prioritize open space preservation, and watershed improvement strategies that integrate ecological restoration with engineered BMPs.
Michele centered her presentation on a key message: the legal tools are already there for municipalities to guide growth responsibly, but they must be applied proactively and with precision.
She addressed a common assumption heard at planning board hearings: “If it’s zoned for it, it must be appropriate.” That assumption, she explained, is not always grounded in environmental analysis. Zoning districts set permitted uses and density ranges, but often without carefully accounting for wetlands, floodplains, sensitive habit, or limited infrastructure capacity.
For years, municipalities operated under the belief that the MLUL’s uniformity clause required identical development yield across parcels within a zone. However, the New Jersey Supreme Court's decision in "Rumson Estates, Inc v. Mayor Council of Borough of Fair Haven" (2003) clarified that municipalities may calibrate density based on the physical characteristics of a property. Environmentally constrained parcels don't need to support the same development intensity as unconstrained sites.
Michele also emphasized the importance of updating land-use definitions. Outdated definitions can inadvertently allow impacts far beyond what the original ordinance intended. Warehouse standards are a clear example: many were written decades ago and don't account for today's 24/7 high‑cube logistics operations with heavy truck traffic. She noted that timing of these updates is also critical. Under the MLUL’s “time of application” rule, existing zoning is locked-in once an application is filed, meaning municipalities must revise their ordinances before developers submit proposals.
Master plans also play a critical role. A well-designed plan evaluates full build-out potential, accounts for infrastructure and resource limitations, and directs growth away from sensitive areas. She urged municipalities to anticipate emerging high‑impact uses, such as data centers, and set appropriate standards in advance.
Michael G. Sinkevich outlined the legal framework that empowers municipalities to regulate environmental impacts and enforce local standards. He demonstrated how federal law, state regulations, and municipal authority intersect, especially in zoning and stormwater management, to create a strong foundation for local environmental protection.
Municipal authority to adopt environmental protections comes from two main sources: First is the zoning power granted under the MLUL, which allows towns to guide development in ways that protect public health, safety, and welfare. The MLUL also outlines what zoning ordinances may regulate, such as building density. The second source is municipal "police power," which permits towns to adopt environmental regulations, as long as they're consistent with state law, when needed to protect people, property, and general welfare. Together, these authorities give municipalities flexibility to craft and enforce environmental safeguards.
He highlighted tree protection ordinances as a clear example of validated municipal authority: In "New Jersey Shore Builders Association v. Township of Jackson" (2009), the New Jersey Supreme Court upheld Jackson Township’s ordinance that required developers to replace removed trees or pay into a dedicated planting fund, formally recognizing the critical role trees play in stormwater management and climate resilience.
Michael also reviewed MS4 permit requirements, which obligate municipalities to manage stormwater across public and private development. Beyond the permit itself, he emphasized that municipal land use boards have an independent responsibility to ensure compliance with state stormwater rules and cannot simply defer to NJDEP. To support municipalities in meeting these obligations, he highlighted several useful resources, including The Watershed Institute, New Jersey Future, Sustainable Jersey, ANJEC, and NJDEP.
Whether you serve on a governing body, land use board, or environmental commission, or work as an engineer, planner, or attorney, the full webinar offers practical insight into how local ordinances shape environmental outcomes. Community members and neighborhood advocates will also find the discussion clear, accessible, and directly relevant to how development decisions affect their town.
Watch the full webinar here:
The Watershed Institute regularly hosts workshops on stormwater management, watershed protection, and climate resilience. Click here to explore their extensive library of recorded webinars and sign-up for the next one.
On February 12, Princeton Hydro Senior Wildlife Biologist Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE joined Bird Town Pennsylvania for a virtual Zoom workshop titled “A Wholistic Approach to Managing Residential and Park Scale Habitats for Rare and Common Bird Species.” The talk brought together ecological science, practical land‑stewardship guidance, and a powerful call to reimagine how communities support thriving bird populations across Pennsylvania and beyond.
Bird Town PA’s Education Committee hosted the webinar as part of its ongoing effort to connect residents, landowners, and municipal leaders with science‑based strategies that enhance local biodiversity. Their mission, centered on community education, habitat conservation, and sustainable landscaping, aligned seamlessly with the themes Mike explored throughout the presentation.
To help extend the reach of this insightful discussion, we’ve collected highlights from the workshop and invite you to watch the full presentation:
Mike’s presentation provided a comprehensive look at the ecological principles behind bird behavior, the habitat features that sustain both common and rare species, and the steps landowners and municipalities can take to strengthen biodiversity within residential and park‑scale landscapes. He wove together life‑history science, soil and plant ecology, practical stewardship strategies, and community‑based conservation approaches to illustrate how thoughtful land management can meaningfully support bird populations across Pennsylvania.
He emphasized that all wildlife depends on very specific combinations of biotic and abiotic conditions, meaning that changes in habitat structure, vegetation, soils, and climate directly influence which species can persist in a landscape.
To illustrate this, Mike walked attendees through:
By examining real examples of species and their migratory behaviors, Mike demonstrated how the presence (or absence) of certain bird species can serve as a diagnostic indicator of habitat function and ecosystem health, revealing signs of environmental stress, habitat fragmentation, and the impacts of climate change.
Mike outlined the fundamental elements birds need to thrive, including food, water, shelter, mates, and protected nesting or rearing spaces, and demonstrated how providing these through intentional plant selection, structural habitat diversity, and management practices rooted in natural processes results in predictable increases in wildlife use.
He paired these concepts with a practical decision‑making framework for landowners and municipalities, encouraging them to understand soils as living systems, increase plant diversity, and use ecological tools such as USDA zones and native plant lists to guide planning. Mike also highlighted the important role residential and municipal landscapes can play in supporting rare and declining bird species, offering real‑world examples and resources to help translate ecological principles into effective habitat improvements.
Access to nature is a fundamental right, and every community has the power to help shape a healthier ecological future. With this message in mind, Mike outlined a variety of ways residents and municipalities can support bird species of greatest conservation need, including implementing building standards that incorporate bird-safe features, expanding education on responsible pet practices such as keeping cats indoors, ensuring feeding stations remain clean, and adding decals to windows around the home to prevent bird strikes. He emphasized the importance of expanding and enhancing public parks and green spaces, particularly in underserved areas, and supporting programs that foster stronger connections between people and the natural world.
Mike McGraw is a Certified Senior Ecologist and Wildlife Biologist with more than 20 years of experience conducting ecological assessments, wildlife surveys, and conservation-focused research across the United States and Canada. His work spans ecological restoration, regenerative agriculture research, and master planning for large landscapes. He teaches Avifaunal Ecology at the University of Pennsylvania and serves on several municipal and land trust committees. Some of Mike’s research on regenerative agriculture has been documented in film.
The webinar was hosted by the Bird Town PA Education Committee of Bird Town Pennsylvania, LLC. Bird Town PA partners with communities to promote sustainable practices, habitat conservation, and public education aimed at supporting Pennsylvania’s bird species. Through workshops, citizen science initiatives, and municipal programs, they empower people to make informed decisions that benefit both wildlife and human well-being. Learn more at birdtownpa.org.
Princeton Hydro is proud to announce our work with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) at South Cape May Meadows Preserve received the New Jersey Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (NJASLA) Honor Award in the Landscape Architectural Design: Site Design category.
The award recognizes the Boardwalk Trail, a newly created half‑mile universally accessible route that offers visitors an immersive experience through one of the region’s most ecologically significant landscapes. Commissioned by TNC, the project was envisioned to provide inclusive public access and environmental education while safeguarding a fragile ecosystem that serves as a vital stopover along the Atlantic Flyway.
Award winners were celebrated during the NJASLA design Awards Program at Harrah's in Atlantic City. Landscape Architect Cory Speroff, PLA, ASLA, CBLP of Princeton Hydro, who served as both lead designer and project manager, accepted the award.
The South Cape May Meadows Boardwalk Trail sits within a 200-acre freshwater wetland estuary complex, a site historically restored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to function as a natural sponge—filtering runoff, storing stormwater, and supporting amphibians, aquatic plants, and migratory birds. Nestled between historic Cape May, Cape May Point, and the Delaware Bay-Atlantic Ocean shoreline, the preserve is framed by protective dunes and a rich mosaic of sensitive habitat.
Designing a public trail within such a dynamic wetland required a careful balance of human experience and habitat preservation. The project’s goal: create an inviting, educational, and fully accessible route without disturbing critical hydrology, soils, or wildlife.
Wetlands present a unique set of constraints, including seasonal water fluctuations, soft soils, sensitive habitat, and tight regulatory requirements. Traditional construction methods and materials risked unnecessary disturbance and long‑term maintenance issues, making innovation essential.
To minimize impacts, the design team utilized helical pile foundations installed with lightweight equipment. This allowed the boardwalk to be constructed from the top down, significantly reducing ground disturbance. Material selections, such as recycled plastic deck boards, anodized aluminum structural components, and stainless‑steel fasteners, were chosen for their durability and resilience in the harsh coastal environment.
The result is a low‑impact, elevated boardwalk that blends seamlessly into the landscape, allowing visitors to experience the wetland’s seasonal rhythms while deepening their understanding of its ecosystems, preserving ecological function, and ultimately serving as a model for sustainable recreation in sensitive environments.
The NJASLA Design Awards Program "highlights exemplary works of landscape architecture and brings recognition to organizations and individuals who demonstrate superior skill in the practice and study of landscape architecture." Each year, the NJASLA Design Awards Program is juried by a sibling ASLA chapter; this year’s jury consisted of selected members of the Arizona ASLA Chapter, who evaluated submissions based on design excellence, innovation, and alignment with professional standards.
This year’s NJASLA Design Awards program featured 17 entries, with only nine receiving awards: one Chapter award, three Honor awards, and five Merit awards. Entrants must be full or associate ASLA members, and submissions are evaluated on strict criteria that reflect the organization’s mission to elevate professional standards and expand public awareness of landscape architecture. In addition to being showcased during the awards celebration, award winners will be featured in upcoming NJASLA newsletters, on the chapter website, and in event displays promoting excellence in landscape architecture across New Jersey.
To learn more about NJASLA and this year's award-winning projects, go here. To learn more about the South Cape May Meadows Preserve and our work with TNC to create a space where people of all abilities can enjoy nature, reflect, and find peace, go here.
Our team participated in a special community screening of the 4-part docuseries, "Roots So Deep (You Can See the Devil Down There)" at the historic Newtown Theatre in Pennsylvania. As one of the country’s oldest continuously operating theaters, the venue provided a meaningful setting for a film centered on heritage, land stewardship, and community. People throughout the region gathered to explore how regenerative grazing can restore soils, support wildlife, and strengthen the resilience of working farms. The event was co-hosted by Newtown Theatre, Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, and Pinelands Nursery.
"Roots So Deep" follows farmers and researchers across the country as they test adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing and measure its ecological impacts. This method mimics the way bison once roamed the land. The film explores themes of soil health, biodiversity, and the value of collaborative land management. Can AMP grazing can help farmers reduce costs by not buying fertilizer, restore depleted soils, rebuild wildlife habitat, and capture carbon?
At the center of the evening was Princeton Hydro Senior Wildlife Biologist Michael McGraw, CSE, QAWB, and ACE, who appears in the documentary for his work studying breeding bird populations in AMP grazed landscapes. His research examines how breeding bird communities differ between paddocks managed with AMP grazing and those that are continuously grazed. The film emphasizes that when grazing is managed thoughtfully, farmland can support both agricultural productivity and ecological benefits, including healthier wildlife populations.
After the screening, Mike participated in a Q and A session and shared insights from his fieldwork. He discussed how grazing practices shape habitat quality and influence wildlife communities, and he answered a range of questions from attendees who were eager to learn about the ecological implications of AMP systems.
Mike was joined by two regional partners. Fran Chismar from Pinelands Nursery contributed perspectives from the native plant restoration community. Fran also co-hosts the podcast Native Plants, Healthy Planet, which is recognized as a top 20 nature podcast and serves as an important platform for discussions on conservation and ecological stewardship. Santino Lauricello, representing Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, added context through his expertise in native flora and conservation education. Together, their voices reinforced the collaborative spirit that drives ecological work forward.
As the conversation between Mike, Fran, Santino, and the audience began to take shape, the tone was warm, thoughtful, and deeply engaged. Members of the audience responded to the film’s themes with genuine curiosity, asking questions that reflected a sincere interest in the ecological studies presented throughout the documentary. Their enthusiasm created a sense of shared purpose, highlighting a collective desire to support healthier ecosystems and continue learning from the research behind regenerative grazing.
Even if you weren’t able to join us for the screening, you can still be part of the ongoing conversation. The trio came together on the Native Plants, Healthy Planet Podcast for a special Roots So Deep recap episode, where they explored Mike’s involvement in the project, generational shifts in family‑run agricultural operations, and reflections from the live Q&A at the Newtown Theatre. The podcast provides a meaningful way to revisit the insights from the event and continue exploring the themes of regenerative grazing and ecological restoration. Listen now: Roots So Deep with Mike McGraw and Santino Lauricella
We are grateful to the Newtown Theatre, the event organizers, and the conservation partners who helped bring this screening to life. Gatherings like this illustrate the power of bringing science and storytelling together, creating space for communities to learn, reflect, and connect.
If Roots So Deep resonated with you or sparked your curiosity about regenerative grazing and ecological research, we encourage you to continue exploring the film’s themes, follow upcoming screenings, and stay connected with the conversations it inspires. Your interest and engagement help support the momentum behind this important work. If you're a farmer looking to switch to AMP grazing and want to measure the impact, we'd be happy to talk with you about how to get started. Send us a message.
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