As 2025 comes to a close, we’re proud to reflect on a year of innovation, collaboration, and impact. From advancing ecosystem restoration and water quality initiatives to sharing expertise on the global stage, these milestones showcase the dedication of our team and the strength of our partnerships. None of this would have been possible without the trust and support of our clients, collaborators, and community. Join us as we celebrate the Top 10 Successes of 2025:

1. Completed the Full Removal of 2 Dams:

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After more than a century of standing, the Paulina Lake Dam on the Paulins Kill River in Warren County, NJ, was fully removed, marking a transformative milestone for one of New Jersey’s largest tributaries to the Delaware River. Led by The Nature Conservancy New Jersey and funded by NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife, this multi-phase project concluded this summer with the third and final phase that included adaptive management work and habitat enhancements to boost biodiversity. We provided engineering design and oversight throughout the effort helping restore natural river flow and improve ecological resilience. On the Farmington River in Connecticut, the Winchell-Smith Dam was fully removed after more than a decade of planning and collaboration. Spearheaded by the Farmington River Watershed Association, this project reconnects 30 miles of critical upstream habitat, improving fish passage for species like American shad, alewife, and American eel. We contributed engineering, design, and project oversight, working alongside partners including Miss Porter’s School, CTDEEP Fisheries, and RiverLogic Solutions. The removal enhances ecological health, fish passage, public safety, and recreational opportunities along one of New England’s most celebrated rivers.

2. Secured $3.2 Million in Grant Funding for our Clients:

We delivered incredible results for our nonprofit and government partners, securing over $3.2 million in funding to support projects that restore ecosystems, enhance habitats, improve water quality, and implement watershed-based green infrastructure and stormwater BMPs, with grants awarded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund and Section 319(h) of the federal Clean Water Act, administered by NJDEP’s Watershed and Land Management Program. We assisted the Borough of Mountain Lakes in securing grant funding from the New Jersey Highlands Council to develop a comprehensive Lake and Watershed Management Plan for nine lakes within the Borough. Also noteworthy: of the 17 total 319(h) grants awarded statewide this year, we’re proud to be a partner on five, demonstrating our commitment to advancing watershed restoration and sustainability.

3. Launched an Innovative Initiative to Study HABs in the Delaware River Watershed:

In partnership with Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space, we kicked off a groundbreaking research project: “Monitoring Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the Delaware River Watershed Using Drones and Spatial Analysis.” Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation through the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund, this $1M initiative leverages drone technology, advanced data modeling, and community science to improve forecasting and management of HABs across a 73-mile stretch of the Delaware River and 23 associated waterbodies. We conceptualized and designed the project and are leading technical implementation, including field survey design, drone operations, data analysis, and volunteer training. By integrating drone-based remote sensing, on-the-water sampling, and spatial analysis, we aim to develop predictive tools for early detection and mitigation of HABs, helping protect drinking water supplies, wildlife, and local economies. This collaborative effort includes partners such as NYC College of Technology, Trenton Water Works, Mercer County Park Commission, The College of New Jersey, Aqua-PA, Philadelphia Water Department, Bucks County Conservation District, and Turner Designs. Data collection began in August will resume in Spring/Summer 2026 and culminate in 2027 with a final report.

4. Earned 7 Prestigious Awards:

Just this month, Princeton Hydro was honored with the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber “Innovator of the Year” Award and President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE received the “Notable Achievement” Award from SAME New Jersey Post during their Annual Holiday Luncheon. Geoffrey also received a “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the New Jersey Highlands Coalition for his dedication to protecting and enhancing New Jersey’s environmental, cultural, and natural resources. For another year in row, Princeton Hydro was recognized as one of New Jersey’s “Top Workplaces of 2025.” In partnership with Warrington Township, our transformative ecological uplift initiative at Lion’s Pride Park won the 2025 Pennsylvania Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence. We were selected as the recipient of the Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space “Corporate Conservation Recognition" Award, a distinction that celebrates our long-standing dedication to advancing ecological resilience through science-based, innovative solutions. And, along with Crow Holdings, we were chosen for the United Away "Spirit of Philanthropy” Award.

5. Constructed 2 Transformative Ecosystem Restoration Projects:

In New York, we completed the Spring Creek North Ecosystem Restoration Project, revitalizing 43 acres of degraded habitat within the historic Jamaica Bay salt marsh system. The project restored a mosaic of ecosystems, including low marsh, high marsh, scrub-shrub wetland, and maritime upland, through activities like recontouring uplands to intertidal elevations, thin-layer sand placement, invasive species removal, and native plantings. This effort improves water quality, biodiversity, and wildlife habitat, contributing to the long-term health of Jamaica Bay. In the Meadowlands of New Jersey, we helped design and build the Steven R. Rothman Overlook and Preserve, a new five-acre public open space within the 587-acre Richard P. Kane Natural Area. The site offers ADA-accessible trails, sweeping views of the Meadowlands and NYC skyline, and a gateway into one of the state’s most ecologically significant landscapes along the Atlantic Flyway. We provided environmental, civil, and geotechnical engineering, landscape architecture, and construction oversight, ensuring the space honors decades of conservation work while creating opportunities for community connection and nature-based recreation.

6. Celebrated Numerous Staff Achievements:

Our team continues to shine, reaching new heights in research, professional development, and industry leadership. Senior Wildlife Biologist Michael McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE co-authored a study published in Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, a leading journal in agroecological research, and was featured on the Native Plants, Healthy Planet podcast, a Top 20 Nature Apple podcast with over 7,000 monthly listeners. Senior Director of Field Services Scott Churm became a PRO Certified EutroSORB® Specialist, and Geotechnical Engineer Matthew Pappas, CSS earned the highly respected Certified Construction Specifier credential from the Construction Specifications Institute. We also welcomed five new team members: Controller Andy Ryba; Senior Water Resources Engineer Rich Farella, PE, CFM; Staff Engineer Patricia Hurley, EIT; Marketing & Proposal Manager Amie Souza, and Aquatics Project Manager Tanya Dapkey, CE who earned her ESA Certified Ecologist credential this year. Way to go, team! Your dedication and talent continue to inspire us all.

7. Partnered with Billion Oyster Project to Study Urban Reef Ecosystems:

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Princeton Hydro teamed up with Billion Oyster Project, AKRF, and Monmouth University to explore how restored oyster reefs are revitalizing New York City’s waterways. The project, “Monitoring of Mobile Estuarine Organisms at Restored Oyster Reefs,” combines hands-on species surveys with cutting-edge environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to capture a complete picture of reef biodiversity. As the field sampling lead, our team conducted monitoring at sites including Brooklyn Bridge Park, Bush Terminal Park, Flushing Bay, and Paedergat Basin. These efforts revealed a diverse array of estuarine life, from schooling fish to a surprise dogfish, and collected eDNA samples for advanced species detection. By integrating traditional sampling with innovative genetic tools, this collaboration is helping refine strategies for scaling up oyster reef restoration and strengthening the ecological resilience of New York Harbor.

8. Advanced International Collaboration in Aquatic Science and River Restoration:

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This year, Princeton Hydro shared expertise on the global stage and celebrated major milestones in international river restoration. Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow traveled to Lisbon, Portugal, for the 17th International Symposium on Aquatic Plants, where he presented on managing submerged aquatic vegetation to prevent harmful algal blooms. Director of Aquatics Michael Hartshorne spoke at the Southern African Society for Aquatic Scientists Congress in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, an event that convened researchers, industry professionals, and government leaders to advance aquatic science through collaboration and applied research. President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, participated in a symposium in Durban, South Africa, focused on Dam Management and Restoration of River Connectivity organized by Dam Removal South Africa and the Institute of Natural Resources. We also celebrated progress in Portugal: Dam Removal Europe published a new case study on the Perofilho Weir removal and stream restoration project in Santarém for which Geoffrey M. Goll contributed to the removal design, helping reconnect 2.5 km of stream habitat and restore fish passage. In February, we published a blog highlighting Geoffrey's ongoing collaboration in Portugal and his October 2024 visit to key restoration sites, showcasing how barrier removal is addressing river fragmentation and creating a blueprint for future efforts.

9. Unveiled 4 New Public Resources:

We collaborated with the Bucks County Conservation District and Bucks County Planning Commission to launch the Lake Luxembourg Restoration StoryMap, an interactive tool that chronicles the decade-long effort to restore Lake Luxembourg’s Conservation Pool. This dynamic resource combines maps, multimedia, and storytelling to make restoration details accessible to the public. Working with Rutgers University’s Climate Change Resource Center and The Nature Conservancy, we contributed technical expertise to the New Jersey Nature-Based Solutions: Planning, Implementation, and Monitoring Reference Guide. This comprehensive guide offers science-based strategies, case studies, and funding resources to help communities implement nature-based solutions statewide. In partnership with the Borough of Harveys Lake, we developed a ArcGIS StoryMap that chronicles the community’s long-standing commitment to water quality, showcases a pilot project aimed at reducing stormwater nutrient pollution, and connects local efforts to broader Chesapeake Bay watershed health. And, for the Lower Makefield Township Environmental Advisory Council, Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, developed a Rain Gardens 101 step-by-step tutorial on designing and building rain gardens. The recorded presentation, now available to the public, provides practical tips and visuals to help homeowners improve stormwater management and support pollinator habitats.

10. Participated in 50+ Conferences, Workshops, Community Gatherings and Sponsored 30+ Events:

We strengthened partnerships and advanced critical conversations through a year of dynamic engagement. From technical conferences to community events, our team shared expertise, fostered collaboration, and inspired action on climate resilience, water quality, and ecosystem restoration. Princeton Hydro was proud to participate as a sponsor, exhibitor, and session presenter at the New Jersey Association for Floodplain Management 20th Annual Conference and Exhibition - Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP, Director of Restoration and Resilience, presented on strategies to address climate-driven impacts in Philadelphia and Clay Emerson, PhD, PE, CFM, Senior Technical Director of Engineering, led a session on establishing a stormwater utility. We participated in six SAME events, including the National Small Business Conference in Phoenix, AZ. President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, presented to 300+ attendees during the 2025 National Dam Safety Program Technical Seminar. We gave two presentations at the Society for Ecological Restoration World Conference. Senior Manager of Aquatics Chris L. Mikolajczyk, CLM, and Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow presented at the 42nd Annual NYSFOLA Conference. As part of the Invasive Aquatic Plant Management portion of the Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society Annual Meeting, Aquatic Ecologist Jesse Smith led a workshop on Brittle Naiad (Najas minor) Management. Aquatics Project Manager and Environmental Scientist Pat Rose presented at NJDEP’s 6th Annual Harmful Algal Bloom Summit. During the New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative for its Coastal Ecological Restoration Technical Workshop, Director of Marketing & Communications, Dana Patterson Grear, presented “How to Build a Digital Communications Toolkit for Climate Action.” Locally, we celebrated community and stewardship through events like the Trenton Reel and Restore Day and Trenton River Fest. These are just a few highlights from a truly impactful year!

As we look back on these achievements, we are deeply grateful for the relationships that made them possible. Your confidence in and support of our mission empowers us to innovate, restore, and protect the natural resources we all depend on. Here’s to building on this momentum in 2026 and continuing to make a positive impact together!

By Mikhail Velez, Communications Coordinator

Across Eswatini’s rural landscape, geography often dictates opportunity. Rivers that swell during rainy seasons can separate families from schools, healthcare, and markets, making daily routines unpredictable and sometimes unsafe. In the three years before the Imphumelelo Footbridge was completed, five people tragically lost their lives and ten were injured attempting to cross during floods. To help address this challenge, volunteers from the Engineers in Action chapter at Rutgers University joined with other students from the University of Iowa, Hofstra University, and Northwestern University, during the summer of 2025, living and working alongside local communities to build the Imphumelelo Footbridge. Each student chapter is responsible for raising the funds needed to purchase construction materials, making the project both a test of resourcefulness and commitment. For Rutgers students, the experience offered not only the chance to apply technical skills in the field, but also invaluable hands-on learning that deepened their understanding of engineering in practice.

At 108 meters long, the Imphumelelo Footbridge is the second longest bridge completed by the Rutgers Chapter in Eswatini, a small, landlocked country in Southern Africa, funded in part by the Microprojects Programme and constructed through the nonprofit Engineers in Action. Now providing safe, year‑round access for more than 1,320 people, the bridge drastically reduces travel distances to healthcare and schools, while standing as a testament to Rutgers students’ commitment to connecting communities and expanding opportunity.

This video offers a glimpse into the construction process itself, showing how the Rutgers Engineers in Action Chapter worked alongside community members in Eswatini to bring the bridge to life. Viewers can see the challenges that arose, the teamwork that solved them, and the collaborative spirit that carried the project from planning to completion:

Strength in Collaboration: Building the Imphumelelo Footbridge

The Imphumelelo Footbridge was the result of four months of careful preplanning and two months of intensive construction in southern Eswatini. This was the farthest site Engineers in Action has worked on, located nearly three hours by car from the nearest city. The remote setting added complexity to the project, but it also underscored the importance of building a reliable crossing for the communities who would depend on it.

Construction was not without its challenges. When hoisting the suspension cables, the team’s winch broke because it was old and rusted. With the guidance of local masons, students improvised solutions, even resorting to manually knocking the cables to adjust their height. On anchor pouring day, when several batches of concrete were poured to secure the massive blocks through which the cables run, shifting wood supports forced the team to pause, reassess, and slightly reduce the bearing load to ensure stability. Concrete mixing also presented difficulties, since batches sometimes contained too much water.

Rutgers Engineers in Action Co-President, Ula Sokolowski devised a practical solution: mixing gravel, sand, and cement without water, then combining it with the wetter batch to achieve the correct ratio. Reflecting on the experience, Ula noted, "Much of engineering happens behind a desk, but being on site and contributing directly to the build was a completely different experience. Learning how to do every part of the process was not only valuable, but genuinely fun."

Aito Sterle, who served as a Quality Control Manager on Rutgers project in the previous year, the project was equally transformative. Aito explained, “The experience completely changed my engineering mindset. Traveling gave me a new perspective on life and exposed me to a whole variety of problems that required creative solutions. As a quality control manager, I was able to dive into the nitty‑gritty of bridge building and really understand the ins and outs of the process. Even though we weren’t part of the initial design, we felt connected to it on site — documenting each step, taking precise measurements, and ensuring everything was engineered to a T. It opened my eyes to how engineering truly works in the real world.”

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The process was a full collaborative effort between students and community members: mixing concrete, sifting sand, moving rocks, and passing buckets of concrete down long human chains. Local masons built walls from stone, while students documented each step and checked measurements to ensure precision. For many community members, the project offered not only a chance to contribute to lasting infrastructure, but also meaningful daily work in a region where jobs are scarce.

The bridge’s completion was celebrated not only by the Rutgers team and local residents, but also by community leaders. At the handover ceremony, MP David Ngcamphalala of Qomintaba emphasized the power of collaboration, stating, “Nothing is impossible when people work together.”

Engineers in Action Program Manager Ana Jovanovic echoed this sentiment, describing the Imphumelelo Footbridge as “a promise of safety, opportunity, and connection. It will save lives, open access to healthcare, and help the next generation reach their classrooms without fear.”

Local leaders also looked ahead to future development. Bucopho of Sigwe expressed gratitude to the Microprojects Programme and appealed for continued support, noting that the dedication of Members of Parliament, Indvuna Yenkhundla, and community leaders gave him confidence that more projects would follow in Qomintaba and Matsanjeni South.

These reflections, reported in the Africa-Press – Eswatini, highlight how the Imphumelelo Footbridge was not only a technical achievement but also a symbol of partnership, resilience, and hope for the communities it serves.

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Life with the Community

Beyond construction, the Rutgers Engineers in Action team immersed themselves in local life. Prior to travel, students studied language and cultural traditions with the help of a Cultural Relationships Manager, preparing them to build genuine connections. Once in Eswatini, those connections flourished. Community members welcomed the students warmly, eager to share experiences and perspectives.

Every Saturday, soccer matches and games brought students and residents together. Music often filled the downtime at the construction site, with dance becoming a universal language that bridged cultural and linguistic gaps. Families opened their homes to the volunteers, with one household affectionately adopting the students for the duration of their stay.

For Rutgers students, these relationships were as impactful as the bridge itself. The project was not only about engineering a structure, but also about building trust, friendship, and mutual respect across cultures.

How You Can Help Support Engineers in Action Chapter at Rutgers

Engineers in Action began in 2009 as an international nonprofit dedicated to connecting isolated communities to essential resources through sustainable infrastructure projects. Originally linked with the Bridges to Prosperity program, Engineers in Action has expanded its mission to include not only footbridges, but also water and sanitation systems that empower underserved communities. Student chapters across the United States and Canada have played a vital role in advancing this mission, gaining hands-on engineering experience while helping communities overcome barriers to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.

To continue building bridges and expanding access to vital resources, Engineers in Action relies on donations. Contributions directly fund materials, logistics, and training that make future projects possible. Supporting Engineers in Action means helping students like those from Rutgers bring their skills to communities in need, while ensuring that families around the world can safely reach schools, hospitals, and markets. For more information check out the chapters Linktree. Readers who wish to make a difference are encouraged to consider donating to the Rutgers Engineers in Action Chapter at their year end campaign or their main donation page and become part of the effort to bridge divides and expand opportunity.

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Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber hosted its Legacy of Leadership Awards Dinner at the historic and elegant TPC Jasna Polana in Princeton, New Jersey. This annual tradition celebrates the accomplishments of Chamber members and shines a spotlight on leaders who make a lasting impact on the business community.

The evening featured four prestigious awards: Business Leader of the Year, Community Leader of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Innovator of the Year. We are proud to announce that Princeton Hydro was selected as the recipient of the 2025 Innovator of the Year Award.

Pictured below from left to right - Mike Coyle of PESG and Chamber Board of Directors with Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE and Vice President Mark Gallagher:

The Legacy Awards dinner also recognized an incredible lineup of honorees whose leadership and vision shape the Princeton Mercer business community and beyond:

Business Leader of the Year: Lisa Breza of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton
Community Leader of the Year: Studio Hillier of Princeton, NJ
Entrepreneur of the Year: Antonia James of K's Event Decorations & Rentals
Lifetime Achievement Award: Carol Beske of ACT Engineers for her decades-long career and community leadership

Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE accepted the award on behalf of the firm, accompanied by members of the firm's leadership: Mark Gallagher, Vice President; Megan Hunter Ruf, Chief Operating Officer; and Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing and Communications.

During his acceptance remarks, Geoff reflected on what innovation truly means: the courage to challenge the status quo, the curiosity to explore new ideas, and the collaboration needed to turn those ideas into impact. He emphasized that innovation at Princeton Hydro goes beyond technology—it’s about reimagining how we interact with nature and creating solutions that balance ecological integrity with human needs. From combating toxic algal blooms and restoring urban waterways to pioneering green infrastructure and building climate resilience, innovation drives everything we do.

Geoff also highlighted the importance of community engagement, noting that Princeton Hydro’s commitment extends beyond project sites. Whether supporting environmental education, partnering with nonprofits, or working with underserved communities to ensure access to clean water and green spaces, the company believes innovation is most powerful when it’s inclusive and community-driven.

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Princeton Hydro was also honored to sponsor the event, which brought together business leaders from across the region. Guests enjoyed an evening of networking, fine dining, and recognition of outstanding achievements. The Legacy of Leadership Awards Dinner highlights the Chamber’s commitment to fostering growth and collaboration.

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Receiving the "Innovator of the Year" Award is a tremendous honor for our team. At Princeton Hydro, innovation is at the heart of everything we do, from designing sustainable, nature-based solutions to restoring ecosystems and advancing environmental stewardship. This recognition reinforces our mission to create a positive, lasting impact on both people and nature.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber for this acknowledgment and to all who make this annual celebration possible. We look forward to continuing to innovate and collaborate with our partners and community in the year ahead.

Learn more about the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber here. To read about one of Princeton Hydro's award-winning projects, click here.

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Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space (FoHVOS), in partnership with Princeton Hydro, has launched a groundbreaking initiative, “Monitoring Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the Delaware River Watershed Using Drones and Spatial Analysis,” to improve understanding and forecasting of HABs throughout the Delaware River Watershed. Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, through the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund (DWCF), the project leverages drone technology and advanced data modeling to identify environmental conditions that contribute to HAB formation and aims to develop tools and methodologies for early detection and management.

For this innovative research project, FoHVOS, a 501(c)3 and accredited Land Trust located in Hopewell Township, NJ, has teamed with Princeton Hydro. Princeton Hydro conceptualized and designed the initiative and is leading the technical implementation, including field survey design, drone operations, data analysis, and volunteer training.

“The Delaware River is central to Hopewell Valley’s identity. It shapes our way of life, supplies drinking water to 14.2 million people, shelters wildlife like the endangered Atlantic sturgeon, and offers abundant outdoor recreation,” said Jennifer Rogers, Executive Director of FoHVOS. “HABs were once confined to ponds and lakes, but since 2018, they’ve appeared in colder months and spread to streams and rivers. Though land trusts traditionally focus on land, HABs show how land use directly affects water. These blooms often stem from excess nitrogen and phosphorus washed into waterways during storms. Protecting water means restoring land. Our partnership with Princeton Hydro aligns perfectly with our mission. Together, we’re working to better understand and safeguard the Delaware River and its tributaries in both NJ and PA.”

HABs, caused by nuisance growth of cyanobacteria, can have detrimental effects on water quality and are a growing environmental concern nationwide. These blooms deplete oxygen levels, release toxins, and disrupt ecosystems, potentially posing serious risks to drinking water supplies and the health of wildlife, pets, humans, and local economies. Despite advances in environmental monitoring, predicting when and where HABs will occur remains a challenge due to the complex interplay of nutrient loading, temperature, and hydrologic conditions that can lead to rapid bloom proliferation.

To address these challenges, this newly launched initiative integrates drone-based remote sensing, field sampling, and spatial data analysis to collect and interpret detailed environmental data over a two-year period. The study spans multiple monitoring sites along a 73-mile stretch of the Delaware River in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, focusing on near-shore sections and 23 associated waterbodies. The first survey event began in August 2025.

Drones equipped with multispectral imaging systems capture high-resolution spatial data that is then integrated with digital platforms to link remote-sensing with the drone data and on-the-water collected data. The field-based water quality measurements are being collected by a team of trained community volunteers who are using phycocyanin fluorometer meters to measure concentrations of the photosynthetic pigment phycocyanin, which is produced primarily by cyanobacteria. Volunteers enter the data into a customized ArcGIS mobile-friendly survey. These combined datasets will be used to develop and validate predictive algorithms for both planktonic and benthic HABs under varying seasonal and hydrologic conditions.

The following photos depict the RGB (Visual) and corresponding Thermal image from the monitoring flights over Spring Lake in New Jersey:

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“This research project represents a major step forward in how we study and manage harmful algal blooms at the watershed scale,” said Dr. Fred Lubnow, Project Lead and Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services at Princeton Hydro. “By integrating satellite data, drone imagery, and on-the-water sampling, we’re developing predictive tools that will enable us take a proactive approach to mitigate HABs, improve response time, and better support our ecosystem health.”

Project partners include New York City College of Technology – The City University of New York, which donated the drone and is supporting remote sensing and data integration; Trenton Water Works, Mercer County Park Commission, and The College of New Jersey which are providing monitoring sites and contributing volunteers for water quality data collection in New Jersey; Aqua-PA and the Philadelphia Water Department, which are providing monitoring sites and volunteers to collect watershed data in Pennsylvania; the Bucks County Conservation District, which is coordinating volunteer data collection; and Turner Designs, whose advanced phycocyanin sensors are being used to calibrate and validate drone-based monitoring data.

In the photos below, volunteers are being trained by Princeton Hydro staff on how to use phycocyanin fluorometers and Secchi disks to gather water quality data and log their findings.

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This $1M project is funded through a $488,400 NFWF DWCF grant as part of the NFWF’s Research, Monitoring, & Evaluation Grant category and $513,700 in matching funds from project partners. This grant category aims to support high-performing science that is inclusive, adaptive, and innovative, with the potential to transform the Delaware River Watershed’s future through improved conservation, restoration, and public engagement.

Once complete, the project will produce a comprehensive report summarizing methods, analyses, and data-driven recommendations for practical, low-cost HAB monitoring and mitigation strategies that can be replicated across the Delaware River Watershed and beyond. Crucially, the report will identify tributaries and sources contributing to riverine HABs, enabling targeted restoration of the most affected lands and waters. Data collection will continue through Fall 2025, resume in Spring/Summer 2026, and culminate in a final report expected in 2027.

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FoHVOS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit land trust dedicated to conserving the natural resources of the Hopewell Valley region and beyond. Through land preservation, ecological restoration, community engagement, and science-driven initiatives, FoHVOS works to protect and enhance open spaces for future generations. Learn more at www.fohvos.org.

Princeton Hydro is committed to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better. The firm was formed in 1998 with the specific mission of providing integrated ecological and engineering consulting services. Offering expertise in natural resource management, water resources engineering, geotechnical design and investigation, and regulatory compliance, their staff provide a full suite of environmental services throughout the Northeast for the public and private sectors. Project Lead, Dr. Fred Lubnow, is an expert in HAB management and has worked with dozens of lake associations and government agencies to restore lakes, manage watersheds, reduce pollutant loading, address invasive aquatic plants, and mitigate nuisance HABs. To learn more about Princeton Hydro's work to mitigate harmful algal blooms, go here.

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As winter settles in, the Princeton Hydro team is staying active and connected. We’re sharing expertise at conferences, leading educational programs, and joining events that champion sustainability and community engagement. In this Winter Events Spotlight, we highlight the exciting opportunities ahead and how you can be part of them.

December 4: Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber - Awards Dinner

The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber will host its Legacy of Leadership Awards Dinner on Thursday, December 4 at TPC Jasna Polana, a historic and elegant golf club in Princeton, New Jersey. This annual tradition will celebrate the accomplishments of Chamber members and spotlight leaders who make a lasting impact on the business community. During the evening, four prestigious awards will be presented: Business Leader of the Year, Community Leader of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Innovator of the Year. Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor this event and will be honored as the recipient of the Innovator of the Year award. Our team looks forward to attending and is deeply grateful for this recognition.

Get more info and register.

December 11: The Jersey Water Works Annual Conference

Hundreds of leaders, practitioners, and stakeholders committed to strengthening New Jersey’s water systems will come together at the College of New Jersey for the Jersey Water Works' (JWW) Annual Conference. With the theme “Our Commitment to Future Generations,” the program features an expanded lineup of 12+ interactive sessions, offering fresh perspectives on water infrastructure, stormwater management, and solutions for a sustainable and equitable water future. Attendees can expect a dynamic mix of committee-led discussions in the morning and collaborative workshops in the afternoon, plus opportunities to earn valuable Continuing Education Units. Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing and Communications for Princeton Hydro and JWW Stormwater Utilities Subcommittee Co-Chair, is facilitating a panel on "Building Holistic Pathways for Resilient Municipal Stormwater Management." The conference serves as a hub for exchanging ideas, building partnerships, and driving collective action toward a healthier water future for all. We hope to see you there!

Get more info and register.

December 16: SAME New Jersey Post

Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor the SAME New Jersey Post Annual Holiday Luncheon being held on Tuesday, December 16th, from 12:00 - 2:00 PM at Harvest Moon Brewery & Café in New Brunswick, NJ. This festive gathering will celebrate the holiday season and commemorate the NJ Post’s 50th Anniversary. Enjoy a delicious lunch, network, and learn about upcoming events. The luncheon will also recognize outstanding contributions for 2025 with awards in the following categories: Young Professional Member, Sustaining Member Firm, BG Patrick McCarthy Service Award, and Notable Achievement Award; Princeton Hydro President Geoff Goll, PE has been selected as one of this year's award recipients. The Princeton Hydro team and our Director of Marketing and Communications Dana Patterson Greer, who serves as the NJ Post’s First Vice President, hopes to see you there!

Get more info and register.

January 6 - 8: Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society (NEAPMS) Annual Meeting

NEAPMS will host its 27th Annual Meeting at the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa in Groton, Connecticut. The conference opens with a Tuesday afternoon workshop followed by an evening welcome reception. Wednesday features a full day of technical presentations focused on the active management of aquatic plants and algae, along with a poster session and evening banquet. The event concludes on Thursday with additional technical talks in the morning and a luncheon ending at 1:00 p.m.

As part of the Invasive Aquatic Plant Management section of the conference program, Princeton Hydro Aquatic Ecologist Jesse Smith is leading a workshop on “Exploring Observations and Results of Nine Years of Brittle Naiad (Najas minor) Management in Sleepy Hollow Lake, New York.” Brittle naiad (Najas minor) is an invasive macrophyte found in the Northeast that has received little attention in the literature in regards to control and management, despite its widespread presence within its invasive range. The plant is a priority target species for management efforts in Sleepy Hollow Lake, NY due to its nuisance growth throughout the waterbody and impacts on recreation. Jesse’s presentation will explore management strategies and methods of measuring long-term management success.

Get more info and register.

January 21: “Roots So Deep” Film Screening and Panel Discussion

A special screening of Roots So Deep will take place at the Newtown Theatre at 7:00 p.m. The four-part documentary series follows inventive farmers and pioneering scientists who are charting a path to addressing climate change through hooves, heart, and soil. This event will feature parts one and four and is co-hosted with Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve. The film investigates a central question: can a little-used grazing approach that mimics historic bison movement help lift farmers out of debt, restore depleted soils, rebuild wildlife habitat, and draw down significant amounts of carbon?

The documentary features Princeton Hydro’s Senior Wildlife Biologist, Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, and ACE. He is part of a multidisciplinary team of scientists whose research forms the basis of the documentary. Mike’s studies have focused on observing the dynamics of breeding bird populations in paddocks using adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing and those continuously grazed. The documentary highlights that when managed effectively, farmland can boost productivity and profitability for farmers while simultaneously contributing positively to the environment and the diverse wildlife that shares the planet with humans.

Following the screening, a panel of experts from Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, Princeton Hydro, and the Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast will discuss the film and answer audience questions.

Get more info and purchase tickets.

January 26 - 27: Lake Champlain Research Conference 2026

Lake Champlain Sea Grant, in partnership with the University of Vermont’s Water Resources Institute, the Lake Champlain Basin Program/NEIWPCC, and the Lake Champlain Research Consortium, will host the Lake Champlain Research Conference at the University of Vermont’s Davis Center in Burlington, VT. This year’s theme, "Research to Action," will feature representation and research from New York, Vermont, Québec, and beyond, providing an opportunity for discussion, networking, and collaboration across Lake Champlain’s multi-jurisdictional watershed. Princeton Hydro's Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, Dr. Fred Lubnow, will present on “The Monitoring and Management of Cyanobacteria HABs in Shallow, Nearshore Ecosystems such as Missisquoi Bay.” Registration will be open until December 18th at 4 pm.

Get more info and register.

January 27 - 28: Delaware Wetlands Conference

The Delaware Wetlands Conference brings together hundreds of environmental professionals, scientists, practitioners, and community partners at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington. In previous years, the event has drawn more than 425 attendees, featured 75 presentations and poster displays, and hosted 45 exhibitor and sponsor tables. This two-day gathering offers 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 spans a wide range of timely and technical topics, including soil science, climate adaptation, assessment and monitoring, and wetland restoration and creation.

Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the event, exhibiting, and leading two workshops:

Environmental Scientist Ivy Rose, PWS is presenting “Third River Urban Park and Habitat Creation Project - Brownfield Turned Wetland Sanctuary”
Director of Restoration and Resilience Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP is presenting “Urban Flood and Habitat Resilience in the Lower Darby Creek Watershed”

Don’t miss this premier forum for advancing wetland research, policy, and practice in the region.

Get more info and register.

Jan 28: Dam Removal in New Jersey Webinar

Join New Jersey Statewide Dam Removal Partnership (SDRP) and Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC) for a free webinar on Dam Removal in New Jersey. Hosted via Zoom on Wednesday, January 28 at 7PM, this session will explore why and how dam removal matters. Learn about case studies, ecological benefits, and opportunities for municipalities and counties to reduce liability, restore waterways, and enhance recreation. The webinar will include ample time for questions and share details on upcoming workshops and training for local officials considering removal projects, including potential funding for high-benefit sites.

Get more info and register.

February 25 - 26: Pennsylvania Lake Management Society (PALMS) Annual Conference

PALMS will host its 36th Annual Conference at the Wyndham Garden State College. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage 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 offers 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 is sponsoring the event, two of our team members are leading workshops: Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow will present on "A Review of the Use of Biochar for Lake and Watershed Management" and Project Manager - Aquatics and Environmental Scientist Pat Rose will present on "The Evaluation of Innovative Treatment Strategies to Proactively and Reactively Control Near-Shore HABS." Fred is also participating in an "Ask the Experts" panel.

Get more info and register.

February 26 - 27: New Jersey Watershed Conference

The Watershed Institute's 9th Annual New Jersey Watershed Conference, titled All Hands on Deck: Multidisciplinary Approaches for Watershed Resilience, will be held on Friday, February 27, from 10:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in person at The College of New Jersey, with a virtual participation option available via Zoom. This statewide gathering brings together state, county, and municipal officials, nonprofit organizations, and environmental professionals for sessions designed to expand knowledge, build practical skills, spark dialogue among stakeholders, and promote collaboration on emerging watershed issues and solutions. Hosted by The Watershed Institute, the conference provides a dynamic forum for advancing resilient, science-based watershed management across New Jersey.

Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the conference. We will have an exhibitor booth and members of our team are leading a workshop: Senior Project Manager of Engineering Services Sean Walsh, PE and Landscape Architect Jamie Feinstein, RLA are presenting with Lambertville Mayor Andrew Nowick on “Green or Gray? Stormwater Solutions in Constrained Watersheds.” Their session is eligible for CFM and PE CEUs.

Get more info and register.

March 28: 2026 Watershed Congress

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 is a proud event sponsor, and Environmental Scientist Ivy Rose, PWS, is leading a breakout session about the Bloomfield Third River Floodplain Wetland Enhancement Project.

Get more info and register.

As we move into the new year, additional events will be announced, and this blog will be updated accordingly. Stay tuned for more details and upcoming opportunities.

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The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) recently announced $8 million in Water Quality Restoration Grants to support projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution, mitigate harmful algal blooms, restore riparian areas, and enhance watershed and climate resilience. Funded through Section 319(h) of the federal Clean Water Act and administered by the DEP's Watershed and Land Management Program, these grants were awarded to municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions across the state.

Princeton Hydro is proud to be a partner on five of the 17 funded projects. 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. Let's take a deeper look at these collaborative efforts:

1. The Watershed Institute – Watershed-Based Planning for Assunpink Creek

The Watershed Institute received $205K in 319(h) grant funding to develop a watershed-based plan for the Assunpink Creek watershed, located within the Raritan River Basin. This watershed spans 11 municipalities across two counties, where varied landscapes and demographics share common challenges such as localized flooding, stormwater management, and water quality degradation, highlighting the need for a coordinated, watershed-wide, science-driven approach.

The plan will evaluate pollution sources and identify large-scale restoration opportunities, including green infrastructure and riparian buffer restoration, to improve water quality and reduce flooding. It will also assess the cost, feasibility, and pollutant reduction potential of proposed measures to ensure practical implementation. Princeton Hydro supported the Institute in developing the grant proposal and planning framework, leveraging our expertise in watershed-based planning to prioritize nature-based solutions that address both water quality and climate resilience. This initiative represents a critical step toward regional collaboration, enabling upstream and downstream communities to work together on strategies that strengthen watershed health, protect public safety, and build long-term resilience.

2. Lake Hopatcong Commission – Watershed-Based Stormwater BMPs

The Lake Hopatcong Commission (LHC) was awarded $366K to retrofit an existing stormwater detention basin between King Road and Mount Arlington Boulevard in Roxbury Township. This retrofit is part of a larger Watershed Implementation Plan that Princeton Hydro developed in collaboration with LHC, which prioritizes nutrient reduction and stormwater management strategies across the Lake Hopatcong watershed. Over the past several years, LHC has actively implemented multiple elements of this plan to address harmful algal blooms (HABs) and improve water quality.

For this project, Princeton Hydro is providing engineering design and technical oversight to transform the existing basin into a green stormwater infrastructure system that slows, captures, and naturally treats runoff before it enters King Cove. The design incorporates native vegetation, invasive species management, and erosion control measures to stabilize soils and filter pollutants, reducing nutrient loading, which is one key driver of HABs. Public outreach and pre- and post-construction water quality monitoring will ensure performance tracking and measurable improvements. This basin retrofit represents a critical step in a coordinated, science-based approach to restoring ecological health and water quality in New Jersey’s largest lake.

3. Cozy Lake, Jefferson Township – Addressing Emerging Contaminants

Jefferson Township received $350K in grant funding to develop an Emerging Contaminants Management Plan for Cozy Lake, focusing on cyanotoxins and HABs. Cozy Lake is a 28-acre waterbody within a 1,152-acre sub-watershed that includes both forested (60%) and developed (29%) land. The lake is fed by the Rockaway River at its northern end and a smaller southeastern inlet, with outflow through a dam on the western edge.

The shoreline is primarily residential lawn with minimal emergent wetlands, and several inlets and rock-lined drainage ditches exhibit erosion and lack slope protection, contributing to sediment loading. Princeton Hydro provided early technical input to shape this innovative project with the creation of a comprehensive Jefferson Township Lake and Watershed Restoration and Protection Plan. As part of the plan, Princeton Hydro made recommendations for Cozy Lake, which included enhancing shoreline buffers with native vegetation and installing living shorelines at select properties to stabilize soils, filter stormwater and reduce nutrient loading, improve habitat quality, and enhance community access. These measures, combined with in-lake monitoring and proactive management strategies, will help mitigate HABs and protect ecological and public health.

4. Rockaway Township – Watershed-Based Green Infrastructure

Rockaway Township received $399K in grant funding to implement elements of its Watershed Implementation Plan, focusing on green infrastructure stormwater management and nutrient reduction to improve water quality. The project will retrofit the municipal complex by converting a rock-lined drainage swale into a vegetated swale with a bioretention basin, designed to filter stormwater runoff and reduce nonpoint source pollutants entering Fox’s Pond and Fox Brook.

Princeton Hydro played a key role in developing the Watershed Implementation Plan, which encompasses 11 private lakes within the Rockaway River watershed, prioritizing critical locations for intervention and designing cost-effective green infrastructure BMPs. This regional approach aligns with strategies recommended by NJDEP and the Highlands Council. The plan included a comprehensive watershed-based assessment to identify and quantify factors contributing to eutrophication, evaluate management measures, estimate costs, and establish an implementation schedule. Princeton Hydro authored the final report, which guided the Township in applying for the Section 319(h) grant and now informs the design and construction of green stormwater infrastructure that will deliver measurable water quality improvements while supporting ecological restoration goals.

5. Green Trust Alliance – Green Infrastructure and Community Engagement

Green Trust Alliance (GTA), a nationally accredited land trust and public charity dedicated to accelerating large-scale conservation, received $1.39 million in NJDEP funding to implement green infrastructure improvements at Pinelands Regional High School in Tuckerton, New Jersey. This initiative targets the Tuckerton Creek watershed, which drains into Tuckerton Creek and ultimately flows into Barnegat Bay—a critical estuary spanning 33 municipalities in Ocean County and four in Monmouth County. The retrofit will transform the school’s stormwater detention basin into a multi-functional system that mimics natural hydrology, enhances flow control, and improves water quality locally and in the larger Barnegat Bay watershed.

Working with GTA and GreenVest, Princeton Hydro is serving as the design engineer, applying nature-based engineering and ecological restoration techniques to intercept, evapotranspire, and infiltrate stormwater runoff at its source. In addition to its technical objectives, the effort includes a strong community engagement component and an educational platform for students. By bringing green infrastructure into the school environment, the initiative provides hands-on experience with water resources, stormwater management, and ecological engineering, help to build STEM skills while fostering a deeper connection to the surrounding landscape and an understanding of how natural systems work together to support environmental and community health.

Princeton Hydro also assisted several of these partners in developing successful NJDEP Section 319(h) grant applications, providing technical documentation, conceptual designs, and pollutant load reduction estimates to strengthen the proposals.

To date, the Murphy Administration has awarded more than $33M in Water Quality Restoration grants to improve the health of waterways in all corners of the state. Click here to read about all the 2025 grant funding recipients and their innovative projects.

As NJDEP Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette noted in the department's press release, “Enhancing the ecological health of our lakes, rivers, streams and coastal waters has long been a priority of the Murphy Administration. The Department of Environmental Protection is pleased to award these grants that will help our partners advance a variety of strategies to improve the health of these waterways and enhance the quality of life in our communities.”

We are proud to play a continued role in advancing that mission: helping communities implement practical, data-driven solutions that make a measurable difference for New Jersey’s waterways and the people who depend on them. Click here to learn more about our work to protect natural habitat and restore water quality throughout the New Jersey.

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Princeton Hydro is honored to be recognized by Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space (FoHVOS) with the 2025 Corporate Conservation Recognition Award. This distinction celebrates Princeton Hydro's long-standing dedication to advancing ecological resilience through science-based, innovative solutions. Over the past three decades, our team has led more than 10,000 water resource projects in New Jersey and beyond, integrating engineering and ecology to restore wetlands, manage stormwater, and safeguard natural resources.

The award was presented to Princeton Hydro Vice President Mark Gallagher by FoHVOS Executive Director Jenn Rogers during the organization's Annual Fundraising Gala on Sunday, September 14, at Glenmoore Farm.

"I’m honored and deeply grateful to accept the Corporate Conservation Award. It’s a privilege to be recognized among so many passionate and dedicated individuals and organizations working to protect and restore our natural world," said Mark during his acceptance speech. "We’re proud to collaborate with environmental nonprofit groups like FOHVOS, government agencies, and community stakeholders to restore habitats that support biodiversity, improve water quality, and enhance climate resilience. Every restoration effort is a step toward healing the land and reconnecting people with the natural spaces around them."

Also honored at the event was Jim Waltman, Executive Director of the Watershed Institute, who received the Jack Gleeson Environmental Achievement Award.

[caption id="attachment_18245" align="alignnone" width="1227"]

Mark Gallagher and Jenn Rogers.[/caption] [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="large" ids="18234,18246"]

This year's gala theme - "Flowing Together - Land and Water, People and Purpose, Community and Care" - celebrated science, stewardship, and the collective efforts of the conservation community. Alongside Mark, Princeton Hydro leaders Megan Hunter Ruf, Chief Operating Officer; Samara McAuliffe, Chief People Officer; and Christiana Pollack CERP, CFM, GISP, Director of Restoration & Resilience, attended the event. Guests enjoyed live music, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and the signature Green Carpet, where eco-inspired attire took center stage.

Guests weren't the only stars of the evening. Roaming the grounds of Glenmoore Farm was Rizzo, a resident turkey, who quickly became a crowd favorite. From strutting across the Green Carpet to mingling with guests, Rizzo delighted as she proudly paraded through the party.

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Princeton Hydro and FoHVOS have a long history of partnership and collaboration, rooted in a shared mission to protect natural resources and foster resilient communities. In addition to project collaborations, our Chief People Officer Samara McAuliffe has proudly served on the FoHVOS Board of Trustees since 2022. Princeton Hydro was also a proud sponsor of this year's gala.

We are deeply grateful to FoHVOS for this recognition and look forward to continuing our work together to advance conservation in Hopewell Valley and beyond.

Learn more about FoHVOS's initiatives and how you can get involved by clicking here.

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Welcome to our Partner Spotlight blog series, where we highlight the meaningful collaborations and shared successes Princeton Hydro enjoys with our valued partners. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Save Barnegat Bay, a nonprofit rooted deeply in environmental advocacy and stewardship, dedicated to safeguarding Barnegat Bay.

Fed by freshwater inputs from rivers, creeks, and streams, and saltwater from the Atlantic Ocean, Barnegat Bay is a unique estuary stretching approximately 42 miles from Bay Head to Long Beach Island and the Little Egg Harbor inlet. Barnegat Bay is the largest body of water in New Jersey and one of the region’s most valuable natural resources.

Save Barnegat Bay, founded in 1971 by neighbors concerned about the future of their local waterways, has grown into a highly respected, effective, and influential voice for environmental protection throughout the state. Through advocacy, education, restoration, and community engagement, the organization is leading the charge to preserve the Barnegat Bay ecosystem and the wildlife and communities that call it home.

For this Partner Spotlight, we spoke with Britta Forsberg, Executive Director of Save Barnegat Bay, who brings decades of personal and professional commitment to protecting this vital resource.

Let’s jump in!

Q: What makes Save Barnegat Bay unique, and how does the organization’s vision guide its work?

A:

“What truly sets Save Barnegat Bay apart is our hyper-local approach. We’re not a Washington, D.C.-based environmental group, we’re right here in the Barnegat Bay Watershed, working directly with the communities we serve. For 54 years, we’ve remained a steady and effective environmental voice, and we’ve achieved meaningful, lasting impacts through persistence, collaboration, and grassroots engagement.”

In the video below, Britta shares more about the guiding vision behind Save Barnegat Bay’s work and what continues to fuel the organization’s success:

[embed]https://youtu.be/PG6s6VMnMGg[/embed]

Q: What are some of Save Barnegat Bay’s core areas of focus?

A:

[embed]https://youtu.be/87ibiGzHeI0[/embed]

Q: Can you share a few key initiatives that represent Save Barnegat Bay’s mission and impact?

A:

“Save Barnegat Bay’s work spans decades and addresses a wide range of threats to the watershed, from nutrient pollution to legacy contamination. One of our most impactful successes is the passage of the New Jersey Fertilizer Law, which we wrote and lobbied for. It remains the strictest fertilizer content law in the country. This effort began with local ordinances, but we quickly realized a patchwork of municipal laws wasn’t effective. So, we pursued statewide legislation to reduce nitrogen pollution, a major stressor for Barnegat Bay’s ecological health. This law has helped prevent millions of tons of nitrogen from entering New Jersey’s waterways.

Another critical focus for us is environmental justice and accountability. We’re currently challenging a controversial settlement related to the Ciba-Geigy Superfund Site in Toms River. This site has a painful history: decades ago, a chemical plant discharged toxic waste into rivers, groundwater, and even the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in significant health impacts, including a well-documented childhood cancer cluster. While criminal charges and civil suits were eventually brought, we’re now fighting for appropriate restitution. We believe the NJDEP’s current settlement with the site’s owner, BASF, the world’s largest chemical company, lacks transparency and fails to account for the full environmental damage. We’ve filed an appeal and are advocating for a more just and science-based resolution that considers the lasting damage to 1,200 acres of land, the groundwater, wetlands, river, bay, and ocean.

We’re also proud to have played a leading role in the closure of the Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station, once the oldest operating nuclear plant in the country. The plant’s design used Barnegat Bay water to cool its reactors, then discharged superheated water back into the estuary, devastating marine life daily. We believe Save Barnegat Bay is the only grassroots environmental organization in the U.S. to successfully close a nuclear plant not on the basis of nuclear energy itself, but on its local ecological impacts.

These are just a few examples of the many efforts Save Barnegat Bay has led or supported over the years. From legislative advocacy to grassroots mobilization, our work is broad and ongoing. What unites it all is our deep commitment to protecting the Bay and ensuring its health for generations to come.”

Q: While Save Barnegat Bay is widely known for its work protecting the coastal and estuarine areas of the watershed, can you tell us more about your “Rivers, Creeks, and Streams” initiative and how it broadens that focus?

A:

“Barnegat Bay relies on a delicate and often overlooked network of 58 named rivers, creeks, and streams. Many of these freshwater sources originate in the Pine Barrens, winding through Ocean County and parts of Monmouth County before reaching the Bay. They are the lifeblood of the estuary, delivering freshwater that supports the Bay’s health, biodiversity, and overall ecological function.

Our “Rivers, Creeks, and Streams” campaign was created to inspire and connect people with their local waterways and take part in their protection. Whether it's through cleanup activities, water sampling, or making simple, eco-friendly changes at home, we believe small actions can collectively have a big impact.

Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, we've been able to acquire a fleet of canoes and kayaks to get people, including elected officials and community leaders, directly out on the water. This hands-on approach helps participants build a personal relationship with their local water resources, see firsthand the challenges and opportunities for improvement, and feel empowered to help. It’s one thing to talk about water quality in a meeting room, it’s another to experience it on the water, paddle in hand.”

In the video clip below, Britta shares more about this unique initiative:

[embed]https://youtu.be/Ij6s8lKokfo[/embed]

Q: Can you share some insights about the collaborative history between Save Barnegat Bay and Princeton Hydro?

A:

[embed]https://youtu.be/WF8E6P2BaW8[/embed]

Q: Can you talk more about initiatives that Save Barnegat Bay and Princeton Hydro have partnered on?

A:

“Over the years, we’ve collaborated with Princeton Hydro on a wide range of impactful projects. We've worked with many members of their team, including Dr. Steve Souza; Dr. Fred Lubnow; Geoffrey Goll, P.E.; and Mark Gallagher, just to name a few. Our work together has spanned everything from technical restoration projects to public education initiatives. In fact, we’ve probably partnered with a good portion of their staff at some point on various critical initiatives across the watershed.”

In the video clip below, Britta highlights two collaborative projects that stand out as major wins, successfully protecting sensitive habitats while navigating the priorities of various stakeholders:

[embed]https://youtu.be/WB-5iM72nVA[/embed]

Britta continues: “We’re also partnering with Princeton Hydro to take a proactive approach to water quality management in coastal towns throughout the Barnegat Bay Watershed. Specifically, we’ve been supporting Point Pleasant Beach and Bay Head in developing comprehensive lake and watershed management plans. There are three coastal lakes in Point Pleasant and one in Bay Head, and these proactive planning efforts have been incredibly valuable for those communities.

Honestly, I could go on and on. We’ve worked with Princeton Hydro on so many important projects together; it’s a true partnership.”

Q: How can people get involved and support the important work Save Barnegat Bay is doing?

A:

“There are so many ways to get involved. At Save Barnegat Bay, we encourage people to contribute and participate in whatever way works best for them—time, treasure, or talent. Nearly everything we offer is free and open to the public, from hands-on workshops like rain barrel construction to science-based programs like eelgrass planting and clinging jellyfish monitoring to volunteer initiatives like shoreline clean-ups. We’re not a membership-based organization, which means there’s no barrier to participation. You can simply show up and engage in whatever way feels right to you.

Some people contribute by donating, others by volunteering their skills, or even some folks bring their truck and trailer to help haul materials. Every contribution matters, and every skillset can find a meaningful place here. We keep things informal and welcoming. We want people to get involved in whatever way makes them feel comfortable, happy, and fulfilled, at a pace and in a place that works for them. It’s all about finding the role that fits you best.” Click here to learn more about upcoming volunteer opportunities.

Q: Are there any final thoughts you’d like to share with our readers?

A:

Britta leaves us with a few inspiring words about the power of big ideas, and a reminder to look beyond the everyday and believe in what’s possible:

[embed]https://youtu.be/rmtP5qfh7gM[/embed]

A heartfelt thank you to Britta Forsberg for her time, passion, and leadership, and for sharing the inspiring story of Save Barnegat Bay. Her dedication to community-driven stewardship and environmental advocacy reflects the profound impact that local action can have on protecting vital natural resources on a wide-reaching scale.

Click here to learn more about Save Barnegat Bay’s work, sign up for the volunteer email newsletter, check out the events calendar, and explore all the ways you can get involved. To learn more about some of Princeton Hydro's work to protect and restore Barnegat Bay, click here.

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The Steven R. Rothman Overlook and Preserve, a new five-acre public open space in the heart of the Meadowlands, is now open to the public.

Situated within the 587-acre Richard P. Kane Natural Area, the preserve offers an ADA-accessible gateway into one of New Jersey's most ecologically significant landscapes. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Meadowlands and the New York City skyline while immersing themselves in a protected wetland ecosystem that lies along the Atlantic Flyway, a vital route for migratory birds. Owned by the Meadowlands Conservation Trust (MCT) and managed by the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA), the site supports a wide range of native and rare wildlife and plant species.

On July 10, local and state leaders gathered to officially dedicate the new preserve and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of former U.S. Congressman Steven R. Rothman, whose leadership was instrumental in preserving the region's critical wetlands. The ceremony brought together Governor Phil Murphy, Congressman Rothman, officials from Bergen County, NY/NJ Baykeeper, Hackensack Riverkeeper, MCT, NJSEA, project partners and community members. The event featured remarks, reflections and a ceremonial tree planting.

[gallery link="none" ids="17871,17868,17870"]

Addressing Congressman Rothman, "We are so proud and happy that this is named after you. You stood up when a lot of others would not. You took a bold stance. You believed in preserving the Meadowlands. We thank you and congratulate you," expressed Greg Remaud, CEO of NY/NJ Baykeeper, at the event.

A century ago, the New Jersey Meadowlands spanned over 21,000 acres of open space. Today, only 8,400 acres remain largely undeveloped. Speakers at the event reflected on the decades-long fight to protect this land, which was once targeted for commercial development, including plans for what would become the American Dream Mall. That 15-year preservation effort ultimately secured the future of this critical habitat.

Governor Murphy emphasized Rothman's role in that success: "Congressman Steven R. Rothman played an oversized role in protecting this incredible expanse of treasured, public open space, and he has been an ardent supporter of the Meadowlands in Congress and as a private citizen. I commend Congressman Rothman’s steadfast determination and that of the Meadowlands Conservation Trust in saving our natural resources."

Congressman Rothman also addressed the crowd, sharing his hope for the future of the site: "This overlook and preserve will now help assure that future generations of New Jerseyans and others will learn about this area's rich natural life and a history of how this space was saved from development.”

About Congressman Rothman

Congressman Rothman represented New Jersey’s 9th Congressional District from 1997 to 2013, serving in the U.S. House of Representatives for 16 years.

For nearly a decade, Congressman Rothman played a pivotal role in the fight to protect what remained of the Hackensack Meadowlands' undeveloped wetlands. At a time when large-scale development threatened the ecological integrity of the region, he brought national attention to the cause, becoming the first U.S. congressional candidate, and later Congressman, to publicly oppose projects like the proposed American Dream Mall. His advocacy helped relocate the development to a more suitable location and catalyzed a broader conservation movement.

Recognizing the ecological significance of the Meadowlands, Congressman Rothman secured $10 million in federal funding, along with additional state and local contributions, to support land acquisition, environmental remediation, and permanent protection of the remaining open space. He brought together key stakeholders, took a firm public stance on what must be preserved, and was instrumental in the formal rezoning of 8,400 acres as undevelopable. Widely acknowledged as the catalyst behind one of New Jersey’s most consequential land preservation efforts, Rothman received multiple regional and national honors for his leadership. The dedication of this new preserve in his name serves as a lasting tribute to his legacy.

Designing a Sustainable, Inclusive Public Space

The project was a design-build collaboration led by SumCo Eco-Contracting, with design services provided by Princeton Hydro, including environmental, civil, and geotechnical engineering; landscape architecture; and construction oversight.

The team approached the project with a deep sense of care and responsibility. “It’s been a privilege to support the vision for this park,” said Cory Speroff, PLA, ASLA, CBLP, Landscape Architect and Project Manager at Princeton Hydro. “From the beginning, we approached the design with a sense of responsibility and sensitivity, knowing how many people have worked tirelessly over the years to protect and preserve the surrounding wetlands. Our goal was to create a space that honors that legacy — a place where people can come to connect with the Meadowlands.”

The newly constructed preserve includes a range of low-impact park features that balance ecological protection with meaningful public access:

Permeable parking lot with 10 spaces, including one van-accessible ADA parking spot
10-foot-wide recreational trail that connects key features throughout the site
A small gathering space along the trail
2500-square-foot elevated stone overlook, with seating

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All elements were designed to be fully ADA-compliant, ensuring inclusive access for visitors of all abilities. The trail and parking surfaces were constructed using a geocellular confinement system, which promotes stormwater infiltration and supports long-term structural integrity. A timber guardrail was added along the drive and parking area to enhance safety and define boundaries.

The photos below show the geoweb material being installed along the trail: [gallery link="none" ids="17958,17957,17956"]

In consideration of the site’s role as critical habitat, particularly for nocturnal and migratory species, artificial lighting was not included in the design.

Ecological restoration was a central focus of the project. The team planted 40 native trees and shrubs, installed a pollinator garden, and seeded the site with native, drought-tolerant grasses to improve habitat value and resilience. These nature-based enhancements not only support biodiversity but also help filter stormwater, stabilize soils, and prepare the landscape for a changing climate.

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Plan Your Visit

The preserve, located at the end of Jomike Court in Carlstadt, NJ, is now open daily from dawn to dusk. Visitors are encouraged to explore the trail, take in the sweeping New York City skyline views from the overlook, and appreciate the beauty and ecological richness of the Meadowlands.

Looking for more examples of how design and ecology can come together to benefit both people and nature? Check out our work at South Cape May Meadows Preserve in partnership with The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey. This beloved 200-acre coastal habitat, an international hotspot for birdwatching, draws more than 90,000 visitors annually. Princeton Hydro is helping to restore the preserve’s ecological integrity while improving public access, including recent efforts to remove invasive Phragmites and promote the return of native vegetation. Read more about the project here.

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Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, Princeton Hydro President, has been honored with a "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the New Jersey Highlands Coalition. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have dedicated their careers to protecting and enhancing New Jersey’s environmental, cultural, and natural resources, with a particular focus on the Highlands region.

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"It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by the Highlands Coalition," said Geoffrey. "Protecting water resources and restoring critical habitats has always been at the core of what drives me, so it is deeply meaningful to be awarded by an organization that shares that same commitment."

A licensed Professional Engineer in nine states, Geoffrey has over 30 years of experience designing and implementing complex engineering projects that blend ecological restoration with innovative water resource solutions. He has led 50+ dam removals and hundreds of environmental restoration efforts across the Northeast—many of which have directly improved water quality, habitat connectivity, and ecological health within the Highlands region.

Geoffrey was recognized alongside fellow honoree Stuart Lieberman, Esq., founding partner of Lieberman Blecher & Sinkevich, a law firm widely respected for its work in environmental and land use law. Stuart’s legal advocacy has advanced the protection of New Jersey’s natural landscapes, making him a well-deserving co-recipient of this year’s "Lifetime Achievement Award."

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The awards were presented during the Highlands Coalition’s 10th Annual Golf Outing at Hawk Pointe Golf Club in Warren County. Known for its eco-conscious design and innovative water management technologies, Hawk Pointe provides a fitting backdrop for a day focused on conservation. The outing featured 18 holes of golf, the Coalition’s signature “Empanadas on the Green,” a silent auction, and the celebratory luncheon awards ceremony. Several members of the Princeton Hydro team, a proud event sponsor, participated in the golf outing and the day's festivities.

The Highlands Coalition works to protect and conserve New Jersey's Highlands region to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come, and Princeton Hydro is honored to support their mission. For over a decade, the two organizations have partnered on regulatory compliance reviews, environmental impact analyses, stormwater management projects, and community-focused stewardship initiatives.

To learn more about the Highlands Coalition, click here. To learn more about Princeton Hydro's environmental restoration work in New Jersey, click here.

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Each July, we take time to reflect on the beauty, value, and importance of lakes during Lakes Appreciation Month. Since 1998, this national initiative founded by the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) has encouraged communities to get outside, engage with their local waterbodies, and take action to protect them.

This year, we’re sharing four simple and meaningful ways to celebrate. If you're a lake regular or you're just starting to dip your toes into lake stewardship, you'll find something valuable here!

1. Get to Know Your Lake

There’s no better way to appreciate your local lake than by exploring it up close. Take a morning paddle, enjoy a peaceful shoreline walk, or head out with a fishing rod and a friend. Lakes offer the perfect setting for adventure, reflection, and connection with nature. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, there’s always something new to discover and appreciate at your local lake.

And thanks to digital tools, exploration doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. For example, in Pennsylvania, the Bucks County Conservation District, in collaboration with Bucks County Planning Commission and Princeton Hydro, recently launched an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap showcasing the Lake Luxembourg watershed and Conservation Pool Restoration Project. This interactive tool lets you experience the lake’s ecology in a whole new way. Take a deeper dive—without getting your feet wet—and check out the StoryMap here.

2. Join the Secchi Dip-In

Join lake lovers across North America for the annual Secchi Dip-In, a citizen science event where volunteers collect water clarity data using a simple Secchi disk. This collective initiative helps monitor lake health over time and contributes valuable data to local lake managers and the broader scientific community.

Getting involved is simple—grab a Secchi disk, take a turbidity reading, and submit your data online using the Secchi Dip-in database. Need guidance on how to use a Secchi disk? Check out our instructional video for a step-by-step walkthrough:

[embed]https://youtu.be/cj7YEctvqRQ?si=jgI-d4SjNXillUr_[/embed] While you're on the water, keep an eye out for harmful algal blooms (HABs). You can report potential blooms using the bloomWatch app, a helpful tool that connects citizen scientists with local environmental officials. Click here to learn more about identifying, monitoring and reporting HABs.

3. Create and Share Lake-Inspired Content

Get creative and let your appreciation for lakes shine. Try your hand at Lakes Appreciation Month Bingo, make a short video, write a lakeside haiku, or paint a scene from your favorite shoreline. When you express your love for lakes through art, you can also inspire others to connect with and care for their local lakes.

You can also participate in the NALMS “Show Your Lakes Appreciation” Challenge. While you’re out enjoying your favorite lake, snap a #lakeselfie, capture a scenic sunset, or photograph your pet mid-paddle. Post your photo on your favorite social media platform with the hashtag #LakesAppreciation and include the name of the lake in your caption for a chance to win prizes and be featured online. The contest runs all month long!

Here's a winning entry from last year—a joyful shot of “Jo Jo the dog kayaking on Lake Michigan.”

4. Take Action and Give Back

Looking to make a tangible impact? Volunteer for a local lake cleanup, support your watershed association, or become a lake steward helping to monitor your lake's water quality, remove invasive species, and more! Even taking small actions in your own backyard, like reducing fertilizer use or installing a rain garden, can make a big difference for water quality.

Princeton Hydro has had the privilege of partnering with lake associations, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations across the country on a wide range of lake restoration and stewardship efforts. These partnerships show what’s possible when communities come together to invest in their lakes. Read about our recent collaboration with Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia.

Whether you’re picking up trash, attending a public meeting, or just learning more about lake science, your involvement matters.

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Lakes are vital ecosystems and treasured community assets. Let’s use this month to celebrate them, protect them, and remind others just how important they are! To explore more ways to get involved this Lakes Appreciation Month, visit NALMS.org. To learn more about how Princeton Hydro manages and monitors lakes, click here. [post_title] => Celebrate Lakes Appreciation Month: 4 Ways to Show Your Love for Lakes [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => celebrate-lakes-appreciation-month-4-ways-to-show-your-love-for-lakes [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-11-07 19:41:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-11-07 19:41:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=17700 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 11 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18979 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-12-22 20:49:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-12-22 20:49:13 [post_content] =>

1. Completed the Full Removal of 2 Dams:

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18228,18220,18224"]

2. Secured $3.2 Million in Grant Funding for our Clients:

3. Launched an Innovative Initiative to Study HABs in the Delaware River Watershed:

4. Earned 7 Prestigious Awards:

5. Constructed 2 Transformative Ecosystem Restoration Projects:

6. Celebrated Numerous Staff Achievements:

7. Partnered with Billion Oyster Project to Study Urban Reef Ecosystems:

[gallery link="none" ids="18263,18265,18268"]

8. Advanced International Collaboration in Aquatic Science and River Restoration:

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="17275,17279,18151"]

9. Unveiled 4 New Public Resources:

10. Participated in 50+ Conferences, Workshops, Community Gatherings and Sponsored 30+ Events:

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Posted on December 22, 2025 by Princeton Hydro

1. Completed the Full Removal of 2 Dams:

2. Secured $3.2 Million in Grant Funding for our Clients:

3. Launched an Innovative Initiative to Study HABs in the Delaware River Watershed:

4. Earned 7 Prestigious Awards:

5. Constructed 2 Transformative Ecosystem Restoration Projects:

6. Celebrated Numerous Staff Achievements:

7. Partnered with Billion Oyster Project to Study Urban Reef Ecosystems:

8. Advanced International Collaboration in Aquatic Science and River Restoration:

9. Unveiled 4 New Public Resources:

10. Participated in 50+ Conferences, Workshops, Community Gatherings and Sponsored 30+ Events:

By Mikhail Velez, Communications Coordinator

Strength in Collaboration: Building the Imphumelelo Footbridge

Life with the Community

How You Can Help Support Engineers in Action Chapter at Rutgers

December 4: Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber - Awards Dinner

December 11: The Jersey Water Works Annual Conference

December 16: SAME New Jersey Post

January 6 - 8: Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society (NEAPMS) Annual Meeting

January 21: “Roots So Deep” Film Screening and Panel Discussion

January 26 - 27: Lake Champlain Research Conference 2026

January 27 - 28: Delaware Wetlands Conference

Jan 28: Dam Removal in New Jersey Webinar

February 25 - 26: Pennsylvania Lake Management Society (PALMS) Annual Conference

February 26 - 27: New Jersey Watershed Conference

March 28: 2026 Watershed Congress

1. The Watershed Institute – Watershed-Based Planning for Assunpink Creek

2. Lake Hopatcong Commission – Watershed-Based Stormwater BMPs

3. Cozy Lake, Jefferson Township – Addressing Emerging Contaminants

4. Rockaway Township – Watershed-Based Green Infrastructure

5. Green Trust Alliance – Green Infrastructure and Community Engagement

Q: What makes Save Barnegat Bay unique, and how does the organization’s vision guide its work?

A:

Q: What are some of Save Barnegat Bay’s core areas of focus?

A:

Q: Can you share a few key initiatives that represent Save Barnegat Bay’s mission and impact?

A:

Q: While Save Barnegat Bay is widely known for its work protecting the coastal and estuarine areas of the watershed, can you tell us more about your “Rivers, Creeks, and Streams” initiative and how it broadens that focus?

A:

Q: Can you share some insights about the collaborative history between Save Barnegat Bay and Princeton Hydro?

A:

Q: Can you talk more about initiatives that Save Barnegat Bay and Princeton Hydro have partnered on?

A:

Q: How can people get involved and support the important work Save Barnegat Bay is doing?

A:

Q: Are there any final thoughts you’d like to share with our readers?

A:

About Congressman Rothman

Designing a Sustainable, Inclusive Public Space

Plan Your Visit

1. Get to Know Your Lake

2. Join the Secchi Dip-In

3. Create and Share Lake-Inspired Content

4. Take Action and Give Back

1. Completed the Full Removal of 2 Dams:

2. Secured $3.2 Million in Grant Funding for our Clients:

3. Launched an Innovative Initiative to Study HABs in the Delaware River Watershed:

4. Earned 7 Prestigious Awards:

5. Constructed 2 Transformative Ecosystem Restoration Projects:

6. Celebrated Numerous Staff Achievements:

7. Partnered with Billion Oyster Project to Study Urban Reef Ecosystems:

8. Advanced International Collaboration in Aquatic Science and River Restoration:

9. Unveiled 4 New Public Resources:

10. Participated in 50+ Conferences, Workshops, Community Gatherings and Sponsored 30+ Events:

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