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This summer, Princeton Hydro aquatic scientists joined forces with Billion Oyster Project and AKRF on an exciting effort to better understand how restored oyster reefs are supporting life in New York City’s waterways. The project, “Monitoring of Mobile Estuarine Organisms at Restored Oyster Reefs,” focuses on tracking fish, crabs, snails, and other aquatic species that call these reefs home, as well as using cutting-edge environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques to detect organisms that might otherwise go unnoticed.

As a consultant to AKRF, our team deployed collection gear across current and potential restoration sites, including Brooklyn Bridge Park, Bush Terminal Park, Flushing Bay, and Paedergat Basin. The sampling enclosures, left in the water for 48 hours, revealed a fascinating snapshot of estuarine life, from small schooling fish to a surprise dogfish, a small shark-like species that was one of the highlights of the summer survey sessions.

This collaborative initiative brings together multiple partners: Billion Oyster Project, the driving force behind large-scale oyster reef restoration in New York Harbor, is leading the project. AKRF, headquartered in New York City, is serving as the primary consultant; Princeton Hydro is leading the mobile estuarine sampling efforts and eDNA sample collection; and Monmouth University is analyzing the eDNA samples to help identify species present at the restoration sites.

Oyster reefs are living structures that provide essential habitat for a wide array of species, improve water quality through natural filtration capabilities, and enhance the resilience of New York Harbor against coastal storms and erosion. Monitoring oyster reefs ensures that restoration efforts are successful and helps scientists refine approaches for scaling up oyster reef projects in urban estuaries locally and throughout the world.

As the field sampling lead, Princeton Hydro completed two monitoring and sampling collection events, one this Spring and one this Summer, at the various oyster reef restoration sites. Using sea bass and minnow collection gear, our team - Jesse Smith, Aquatic Ecologist; Jackson Tilves, Staff Scientist; and Kaitlyn Jones, Staff Scientist - identified, measured, and documented each of the found species before safely returning them to the water. In addition, we collected in-situ water quality data at each site to help interpret how environmental conditions influence reef communities.

[caption id="attachment_18273" align="aligncenter" width="1227"] Jackson and Jesse preparing to deploy sampling collection gear in Brooklyn Bridge Park.[/caption] [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="18274,18267"]  

Our team brings deep experience and specialized equipment to this project. Princeton Hydro’s biologists have conducted estuarine surveys throughout the Hudson River and New York Harbor, led nekton and benthic sampling along New Jersey’s coastline, and carried out numerous studies that inform restoration and resilience efforts across the region.

Alongside traditional monitoring, the “Monitoring of Mobile Estuarine Organisms at Restored Oyster Reefs” project uniquely incorporates eDNA sampling. eDNA is genetic material that organisms shed into their surrounding environment, through skin cells, mucus, or waste, that can be detected in water samples. By collecting and analyzing eDNA, scientists can identify the presence of species that may not appear in sampling enclosures. The analysis provided by the team at Monmouth University helps paint a fuller picture of biodiversity at the restored oyster reef sampling locations.


More Scenes from the Field

The photos below capture moments from the field and the diverse aquatic life our team encountered, offering a glimpse into the many species that oyster reefs help support in the New York Harbor:

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18276,18271,18277,18272,18269,18284"] *The Asian Shore Crab pictured above is an invasive species encountered fairly often during the Summer sampling events.   [caption id="attachment_18266" align="aligncenter" width="1227"] Dogfish (Squalus acanthias)[/caption]  

Founded in 2014, Billion Oyster Project is working to restore one billion oysters to New York Harbor while engaging New Yorkers directly in the process. Oyster reefs once covered hundreds of miles of shoreline, filtering water, creating habitat, and buffering against storm surge. Today, Billion Oyster Project’s mission is not only to restore these vital ecosystems but also to inspire lasting stewardship of them through educational programming and free STEM curricula for NYC schools and educators . To learn more about Billion Oyster Project and how to participate, click here.

Princeton Hydro is proud to partner with Billion Oyster Project, AKRF, and Monmouth University on this project and in the advancement of urban reef restoration. Together, we’re building knowledge that informs the future of oyster reefs in New York Harbor while strengthening ecological health and resilience of the city’s waterways for generations to come.

To learn more about our work to restore New York’s waterways, we invite you to read our Client Spotlight blog featuring Riverkeeper, a 501(c)3 nonprofit membership organization committed to protecting and restoring the Hudson River from source to sea and safeguarding drinking water supplies through advocacy rooted in community partnerships, science, and law.

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When most people think of engineering, they picture bridges, buildings, and dams rising above the landscape. Yet the performance and longevity of these structures depend just as much on the subsurface conditions beneath them. Geotechnical engineering is the discipline dedicated to investigating, analyzing, and characterizing soil, rock, landscape, and groundwater conditions, and applying that data to the design and construction of safe, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure and restoration projects.

At Princeton Hydro, our geotechnical and soils engineers design and execute customized, cost-effective investigations that provide the parameters needed for successful design. Because geotechnical services touch every stage of a project, our integrated approach of investigation, including soils laboratory testing, analysis, and design, all done in-house, ensures streamlined communication, efficiency, and technical excellence.

This blog offers a closer look at what geotechnical engineering entails, the specialized capabilities Princeton Hydro provides, and real-world examples of how our work supports resilient, sustainable design.


Princeton Hydro’s Geotechnical Capabilities

Geotechnical Investigations: Our engineers can perform subsurface investigation, identification, and assessment of accumulated sediment, subsurface soils, and rock, as well as slope stability and stabilization modeling. Our work ranges from foundation type and bearing capacity assessments to mitigation strategies for unsuitable materials. We also regularly conduct forensic geotechnical investigations, which focus on investigating soil-interaction-related failures of engineered infrastructure.

Laboratory Testing: We operate an American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Accredited laboratory in Sicklerville, NJ. This allows us to complete 100% of geotechnical investigation planning and oversight, laboratory testing, analysis, design, and reporting in-house. Our geotechnical laboratory performs a full suite of soils and materials testing, including grain size analysis, plasticity index, organic content, moisture content, compaction characteristics of soil (Standard and Modified Proctor), California bearing ratio (CBR), one dimensional consolidation, and flexible and rigid wall permeability testing under constant or falling head conditions. With this capability, we can rapidly deliver high-quality data to inform project design and construction. Our laboratory is also a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Validated Laboratory. Click here to view Princeton Hydro’s complete accreditation listing and certificate. And, click here to learn more about the USACE Materials Testing Laboratories and Validation.

Field & Construction Services: Our engineers are experienced in construction requirements, design, and methodology for various structures, as well as field inspections and special testing. We have a Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) on staff and ACI-certified concrete field-testing technicians. Our team performs compaction testing of soil and asphalt using a nuclear density gauge, reinforcing steel inspections, and 2006 International Building Code (IBC) special inspections. We help determine foundation type, site improvements, and optimal construction techniques.

Dredging & Sediment Investigations: Over our 25-year history, we’ve managed more than 100 dredging projects across freshwater and estuarine systems. We specialize in beneficial reuse of dredged material for ecological restoration, including wetland creation, thin-layer placement, and living shorelines. Our team provides sediment characterization, slope stability modeling, and contaminant analysis in complex, developed watersheds.


Princeton Hydro’s Geotechnical Work in Action

To bring this work to life, we’ve chosen a few Princeton Hydro projects that showcase where our geotechnical expertise helped solve unique challenges:

Geotechnical Design & Subsurface Investigations for Coastal Wetland Restoration – New York

At Spring Creek Park North in Jamaica Bay, New York, decades of urbanization and dredged material placement had degraded more than 40 acres of tidal marsh and uplands. To address this, Princeton Hydro provided subsurface investigations and design services for a large-scale ecosystem restoration led by the USACE New York District, in partnership with NYC Parks.

A key design assumption was the reuse of excavated material: soils removed from wetland areas were repurposed to construct upland hills, supporting both ecological function and cost-effective implementation. Our work included geotechnical borings, slope stability analyses, and hydraulic modeling, as well as the collection of topographic and bathymetric survey data, wetland delineations, vegetation assessments, and hydrodynamic measurements. This data informed the development of slope stability and hydraulic models and guided the restoration design.

The project advanced through a structured engineering design process — with 30%, 60%, 90%, and 100% design submissions — along with preparation of technical specifications, permit applications, and a detailed construction cost estimate. When complete, the project will restore more than 43 acres of marsh and upland habitat, improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity, and strengthening climate resilience in one of New York City’s most ecologically significant coastal systems.

[gallery size="medium" link="none" columns="2" ids="18187,18188"]

Offshore Subsurface Investigation for Jetty Reconstruction – Delaware

Princeton Hydro was contracted by USACE Philadelphia District to perform offshore subsurface geotechnical investigations in support of reconstructing the Indian River Inlet jetty at Delaware Seashore State Park. Working under challenging marine conditions, our team successfully advanced deep geotechnical borings (to depths of 100 feet) from a lift boat platform, collected soil samples, performed laboratory testing including triaxial strength, consolidation, and direct shear tests; and delivered detailed soil data. Despite difficult sea states, we maintained close communication with USACE to ensure safety and project continuity.

The resulting data provided USACE with critical insight into subsurface conditions, helping inform design alternatives for the new jetty structure.

[gallery size="medium" columns="2" link="none" ids="18185,18184"]

Subsurface Investigations for Dike Raising – New Jersey

At the Killcohook Confined Disposal Facility (CDF), Princeton Hydro carried out a large-scale subsurface investigation to support USACE Philadelphia District’s plans for raising the site’s perimeter dikes.  The project site, formerly a National Wildlife Refuge, is located in Pennsville, New Jersey, on the eastern bank of the Delaware River, to the north of Fort Mott State Park and adjacent to the Supawna Meadows Wildlife Refuge. Each cell of the CDF receives dredge material from the Delaware River. The subsurface explorations performed by Princeton Hydro were conducted along the existing dike comprising the border of Cell 1 of the CDF. Cell 1 consists of an area of approximately 710 acres with the entire CDF covering 1,200 acres.

For this exploration project, Princeton Hydro was tasked with the performance of thirty-one (31) geotechnical borings as well as sixty-five (65) cone penetrometer tests with porewater measurements (CPTu) soundings. Princeton Hydro also provided site safety oversight in accordance with USACE standards. Soil samples were logged and collected by Princeton Hydro and tested at their Sicklerville, New Jersey geotechnical laboratory, which is accredited under the AASHTO Accreditation Program and validated by USACE for soils testing.

The data collected is now being used by USACE to design the upgraded dike system, ensuring safe, resilient operation of the facility for future dredged material management.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="18181,18183"]

Comprehensive Geotechnical Investigation and Reporting – New Jersey

At the 545-acre Pedricktown North Confined Disposal Facility in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, located on the Delaware River west of Route 130 between Porcupine Road and Pennsgrove-Pedricktown Road, Princeton Hydro conducted a comprehensive subsurface investigation in support of a dike raising project led by the USACE Philadelphia District.

As part of this field exploration, our team performed eight geotechnical borings, thirty-eight cone penetrometer tests with porewater measurement (CPTu) soundings, and collected five grab samples. These efforts provided critical soil strength and settlement data to inform USACE’s design of the upgraded dike system.

In addition to managing subcontractors and ensuring compliance with USACE safety protocols, Princeton Hydro oversaw the field program, coordinated directly with the Project Manager, and delivered the final geotechnical report. This investigation is supplying USACE with essential geotechnical data to guide the design and construction of the improved dike infrastructure.

  [gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18190,18193,18192"]  
This blog only scratches the surface of what geotechnical engineering entails. To dive deeper, we invite you to read “A Day in the Life: Princeton Hydro’s Geotechnical Laboratory,” where you’ll step into our laboratory and shadow Marissa Ciocco, P.E. as she turns soil samples into the data that drives resilient design. [post_title] => Beneath the Surface: Exploring the World of Geotechnical Engineering [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => beneath-the-surface-exploring-the-world-of-geotechnical-engineering [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-10-15 17:39:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-10-15 17:39:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18379 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18294 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-10-13 18:11:03 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-10-13 18:11:03 [post_content] =>

Coastal communities are on the frontlines of climate change, facing rising seas, stronger storms, and eroding shorelines. At the same time, these landscapes provide critical habitat and natural defenses that protect people, ecosystems and myriad wildlife. Coastal ecological restoration restores natural systems and strengthens future resilience to climate impacts.

Earlier this month, our team joined the New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative (NJCRC) for its Coastal Ecological Restoration Technical Workshop, a full-day, in-person event held at the Rutgers EcoComplex in Bordentown, NJ. The workshop convened coastal stakeholders, researchers, practitioners, and managers to share knowledge and explore the latest science advancing coastal ecological restoration.


Inside the Workshop

The day began with a work group session, “Advancing Science-Based Ecological Restoration Across New Jersey’s Coast,” led by a panel of experts and followed by an interactive Q&A. Click here to view the presentation. Participants then chose from a variety of technical sessions covering topics such as, eDNA and Water Quality as Indicators of Coastal Ecological Health; Smart Permitting for Restoration; and Diatoms as Ecological Indicators in Living Shoreline Applications.

Dana Patterson Grear, Princeton Hydro's Director of Marketing & Communications, delivered an engaging presentation titled, "How to Build a Digital Communications Toolkit for Climate Action." She provided practical guidance for turning communication into a powerful tool for advancing ecological restoration and climate resilience, including how to develop tailored climate messaging, understand the values of your audience and remove personal bias, and determine your level of engagement and capacity. Dana's presentation broke down complex communication strategies into actional steps that attendees can apply directly to their work. Click here to view her presentation slides.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="18298,18297" orderby="rand"]

Beyond the educational workshops, networking breaks, shared meals, and a post-workshop reception created opportunities to connect and collaborate. And, as a fun and fitting bonus, each participant went home with a complimentary native plant courtesy of Pinelands Nursery.


Coastline being restoredMore About Coastal Restoration

Coastal ecological restoration involves the rehabilitation and creation of coastal ecosystems, like wetlands, reefs, and shorelines, with the goal of restoring the natural processes and functions. These efforts provide long-term protection from erosion, create habitat for fish and wildlife, and build community resilience against flooding and storm surge.

At Princeton Hydro, we understand the impacts of climate change, including sea level rise, and use tools such as vulnerability assessments to inform our restoration designs. Our team specializes in designing and implementing living shorelines and habitat restoration projects. We combine field data, empirical approaches, ecological and geomorphic understanding, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and state-of-the-art computer programming technology to develop our designs. Our nature-based solutions deliver lasting ecological and community benefits.

A prime example of this work is the Spring Creek North Ecosystem Restoration project, located in Brooklyn and Queens, NY. Once part of the expansive Jamaica Bay wetland system, Spring Creek's salt marshes were heavily degraded over the last century. Princeton Hydro was contracted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District to lead the design and engineering for this restoration effort. Construction efforts began in early October 2025. Once completed, the project will restore approximately 43 acres of habitat within a 67-acre footprint, including low and high marsh, scrub shrub wetland, and maritime upland. Efforts also aim to improve water quality, increase biodiversity, and strengthen the overall Jamaica Bay ecosystem.

Key restoration activities include:
  • Excavating and re-contouring uplands to intertidal elevations
  • Thin layer placement of sand on the marsh platform to restore areas of degraded tidal wetland
  • Removing invasive plants and replanting with native species

The following photos depict the degraded habitat and pre-construction conditions of the site. Stay tuned to our blog for more photos from each of the project phases.

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18419,18418,18420"]
Workshops like the NJCRC's play a vital role in advancing collaborative, science-based strategies for restoring and protecting our coasts. Princeton Hydro is proud to participate in and contribute to these efforts. Click here to view the full conference agenda and download more presentations. And, click here to learn about more about Princeton Hydro's coastal restoration work. [post_title] => Advancing Coastal Resilience: Highlights from the NJCRC Coastal Ecological Restoration Technical Workshop [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => advancing-coastal-resilience-highlights-from-the-njcrc-coastal-ecological-restoration-technical-workshop [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-10-15 18:11:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-10-15 18:11:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18294 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18009 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-08-07 19:26:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-08-07 19:26:22 [post_content] =>

We're pleased to announce the release of the "New Jersey Nature-Based Solutions: Planning, Implementation, and Monitoring Reference Guide," a free resource that provides a comprehensive roadmap to incorporating nature-based solutions (NBS) into infrastructure, construction, restoration, and resilience projects across the state.

Created by the Rutgers University New Jersey Climate Change Resource Center with support from The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey, the guide compiles current research, case studies, best practices, practical tools, science-based strategies, and funding resources to "inform and empower readers to implement and seek funding for NBS."

Click here to view and download the guide now.


Inside the Guide

As the guide states, "nature-based solutions (NBS) are defined as actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural and modified ecosystems that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously benefiting people and nature." (IUCN 2024)

Whether you're a municipal planner, community leader, contractor, public- or private-sector professional, or an academic, new to NBS or experienced in large-scale restoration projects, the guide offers value at every level with practical instruction that spans the full project lifecycle, from planning and permitting to funding and long-term monitoring. While the content is tailored to New Jersey's diverse landscapes, the guide's insights and approaches are broadly applicable to regions with similar ecosystems, from Massachusetts to Virginia.

The guide equips readers with:
  • A foundational understanding of how to plan and apply NBS in a variety of settings, from urban spaces to coastal habitats to inland farmland.
  • An introduction to cost-benefit analysis, including the basics of benefit transfer methodology and its role in justifying funding proposals.
  • A comprehensive toolbox, including policy and permitting guidance, project examples, datasets, and funding and monitoring resources.
  • In-depth profiles of five NBS categories: Bioretention Systems, Coastal Habitats, Regenerative Land Management, Stream Restoration, and Urban Forestry. Each category includes specific techniques like dam removal, living shorelines, and rain gardens.
 

The guide also includes insights on how to address equity considerations and foster meaningful community engagement, helping users implement NBS that are both impactful and inclusive.

Princeton Hydro was proud to contribute technical expertise to this important effort. Our Director of Restoration & Resilience, Christiana L. Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP, participated on the guide's steering committee, and our team provided informational resources, including content and case studies on invasive species management, wetland and floodplain enhancement, and dam and culvert removal to restore rivers and improve fish passage. These contributions along with those from many other participants, reflect the collaborative nature of the guide and the collective commitment to advancing NBS across the state.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="large" ids="18015,18014"]

Sections at a Glance

The guide's easy-to-follow format includes four key sections:

  • Section 1: Setting the Stage - Introduces the purpose of the guide, its intended users, and how to easily navigate its contents.
  • Section 2: Planning for Nature-Based Solutions - Covers essential planning considerations, including selecting a planning horizon, aligning with local land use plans, permitting, funding, community engagement, equity, adaptive management, benefit-cost analysis, and climate change resilience.
  • Section 3: Nature-Based Solutions Profiles - Provides a detailed look at NBS strategies, including their intended uses, implementation techniques, primary benefits and co-benefits, and the specific environmental hazards they help address (i.e., sea level rise, wildfire, inland flooding, etc.)
  • Section 4: Appendix - Includes a project planning checklist, case studies, a glossary, references, and links to helpful resources, tools, and data.

Whether you're just beginning to conceptualize a project or deep into project implementation, this guide is an invaluable addition to your toolbox. We encourage you to explore, download, and share it widely! Click here to access the guide now.

Webinars and outreach events are currently being planned as part of a broader effort to build awareness and support the guide's use. Stay tuned for future announcements. To learn more about the Rutgers University New Jersey Climate Change Resource Center, click here. [post_title] => New Resource: A Comprehensive Guide to Nature-Based Solutions in New Jersey [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => guide-to-nature-based-solutions-in-new-jersey [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-08-07 19:28:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-08-07 19:28:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18009 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 17677 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-06-18 12:59:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-06-18 12:59:00 [post_content] =>

The Borough of Harveys Lake, in partnership with Princeton Hydro, launched a new interactive ArcGIS StoryMap that chronicles the community’s long-standing commitment to water quality and showcases a recently completed pilot project aimed at reducing stormwater nutrient pollution.

This engaging digital resource combines maps, multimedia, charts, diagrams, and narrative storytelling to bring the science and history of Harveys Lake’s multi-year environmental restoration efforts to life. It explores both the local impact and the broader significance of these initiatives, drawing connections to similar water quality challenges throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.

Designed with accessibility in mind, the StoryMap invites users to explore project sites, restoration progress, and technical details without the need for specialized GIS training or software. Interactive features, such as zoomable maps, clickable pins, and site-specific details, offer an intuitive, user-friendly experience.

More than just a visualization tool, the StoryMap serves as a community-education and engagement platform. It highlights how local stormwater management strategies, like those implemented at Harveys Lake, can drive positive, region-wide change, underscoring the vital role of place-based solutions in improving watershed health across the Chesapeake Bay region.


 

What You’ll Discover Inside the StoryMap

The StoryMap begins with an exploration of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed—one of the most ecologically and economically significant estuaries in the United States. This region faces complex environmental challenges, including nutrient pollution, habitat loss, and climate change impacts. Over the past several decades, a wide range of stakeholders have engaged in coordinated restoration efforts to protect and improve water quality across the watershed.

Using interactive maps, expandable sections, and rich visuals, this introductory portion of the StoryMap places Harveys Lake in a broader regional context. It sets the stage for understanding how local action, such as nutrient reduction at Harveys Lake, plays a critical role in supporting the health of the entire Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.

The next section, “Harveys Lake: A Case Study,” highlights the Borough's ongoing dedication to protecting the lake and improving water quality through science-based solutions and collaborative efforts. The StoryMap provides:

  • A pictorial, historical timeline of water quality management at Harveys Lake;
  • An interactive Restoration Progress Map with clickable project sites;
  • Notable milestones in reducing nutrient pollution and managing stormwater; and
  • Restoration project highlights, complete with historical maps, illustrations, and photos

The final section of the StoryMap dives into a 2025 pilot initiative that used biochar and EutroSORB® filter media to reduce dissolved phosphorus and total nitrogen from stormwater runoff. Organized into subsections—Project Information, Methodology, Results and Discussion, Pollinator Garden, and Future Implications—the StoryMap offers a detailed look at this innovative nutrient-reduction strategy and its potential for replication across the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

In addition to detailing the pilot project, this section also spotlights the creation of a native pollinator garden, planted using the spent biochar as fertilizer. This closed-loop approach not only reinforces the project’s long-term ecological value but also demonstrates how thoughtful design can deliver multiple environmental benefits while cultivating a vibrant community-oriented space that supports local biodiversity.

To extend the impact of this initiative, the StoryMap was provided to the Harveys Lake Borough Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) and is publicly accessible via the Borough’s website. A QR code linking to the StoryMap is also featured on the new pollinator garden sign at the project site, allowing visitors to engage with the digital experience in real time.

Click here to explore the StoryMap now!

By blending maps, visuals, and interactive storytelling, this StoryMap serves as both an educational tool and a digital archive of the latest Harveys Lake water quality project and its long history of stewardship. We invite you to explore this engaging platform and see firsthand how thoughtful, science-based restoration is shaping a healthier future for Harveys Lake, and the entire Chesapeake Bay watershed.


This material is based on work supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Assistance Agreement No. CB96358101) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Chesapeake Bay Stewardship Fund, which supports community-based strategies to conserve and restore the Chesapeake Bay’s natural resources. Click here to learn more information about the grant program.

Click here to learn more about Harveys Lake or how to get involved in a Harveys Lake Borough Environmental Advisory Council stewardship program.

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The Bucks County Conservation District, in collaboration with Bucks County Planning Commission and Princeton Hydro, has launched an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap showcasing the Lake Luxembourg Conservation Pool Restoration Project. This engaging web application weaves together interactive storytelling, multimedia, charts, diagrams, and dynamic web maps to provide an in-depth look at the decade-long journey to restore Lake Luxembourg's Conservation Pool.

Designed as a publicly accessible resource, the StoryMap allows users to explore project details in an intuitive, interactive format—zooming and panning through specific project areas, viewing site attributes, and navigating restoration initiatives without the need for specialized GIS software or training. Its goal is to connect the community with its watershed, showcase the significance of restoration efforts, and inspire environmental stewardship.

Let’s take a closer look at the restoration project and how the StoryMap brings it to life.


The Lake Luxembourg Conservation Pool Restoration Project

In the summer of 2024, the Bucks County Conservation District in collaboration with Bucks County government completed the Conservation Pool Restoration Project, the culmination of a decade-long effort to improve water quality in the Core Creek watershed.

[caption id="attachment_17211" align="alignnone" width="1631"] Overview of the Core Creek watershed. The Lake Luxembourg reservoir sits at the southern, downstream end of the watershed.[/caption]  

The Conservation Pool is an upstream section of Lake Luxembourg, a 174-acre reservoir that serves as the final major stop for Core Creek before it flows into Neshaminy Creek. Located northeast of the Woodbourne Road bridge, the Pool accounts for one-tenth of the lake’s total area. Surrounded by wetlands, forests, and agricultural fields, it also receives water from two smaller tributaries in addition to Core Creek.

The project, with engineering and design beginning in 2016, focused on enhancing the Conservation Pool’s ability to filter pollutants by reducing sediment and nutrient buildup. To achieve this, the project team created a sediment forebay—an upstream settling basin designed to capture sediment before it enters the main lake—by dredging 15,000 cubic yards of phosphorus-rich sediment from the Pool’s upstream section. Native vegetation was planted along the shallow banks to stabilize the shoreline, filter excess phosphorus, and establish an emergent wetland system that supports native wildlife.

Over the course of a month, approximately 36,000 live plugs were planted at the Lake Luxembourg Conservation Pool. Wooden stakes, construction fencing, and twine was installed around planting areas to deter geese from eating the young plants:

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="17214,17213"]   Then, on September 6, 2024, the project team worked with volunteers to install more native plants:  

This long-term management approach enhances pollution control in the watershed while ensuring future maintenance and sediment removal can be carried out efficiently. Princeton Hydro continues to work with watershed stakeholders to improve Lake Luxembourg’s water quality, including partnering with BCCD to reassess and update stabilization practices in areas affected by the changing climate and invasive species.

Now, thanks to the ArcGIS StoryMap, the entire restoration process can be explored in an interactive and engaging way!


The StoryMap at a Glance: A Comprehensive Interactive Experience

Restoring a watershed is a complex, multi-year, multi-pronged effort. While project reports and technical documents provide valuable data, they don’t always capture the full scope of the work in an accessible way. That’s where the Lake Luxembourg Conservation Pool Restoration Project StoryMap comes in. This interactive digital experience transforms years of planning, permitting, construction, and ecological restoration into a visually rich, user-friendly platform.

The journey begins with “A Watershed Story: Understanding the Core Creek Watershed,” which introduces users to the region’s significance and challenges. Engaging visuals, clickable maps, and educational diagrams help explain watershed dynamics, land use changes, and the importance of water quality management.

Next, “Past Restoration Projects in the Core Creek Watershed” highlights nine municipal and private projects designed to reduce sediment and nutrient loads, featuring an interactive map of efforts like the Lake Luxembourg Southeast Shoreline Stabilization and Pocket Wetland Creation.

The StoryMap then shifts focus to the Conservation Pool Restoration Project, exploring key project components with interactive site maps and detailed insights, including:

  • Project history & funding sources – tracing the multi-year planning and permitting process
  • Construction milestones – including drone flyovers, time-lapse photography, and before-and-after galleries
  • Ecological impact – showcasing shoreline stabilization, wetland restoration, and wildlife support

A highlight of the StoryMap is the “Construction at a Glance” section, featuring a compelling YouTube video that captures the restoration effort from start to finish. Click below to watch the video now:

[embed]https://youtu.be/QS3q8S440H4?si=xrZ1vqKH0cUHm1uA[/embed]

The final section, “Future of the Core Creek Watershed,” looks ahead at upcoming restoration efforts, the ongoing impact of climate change, and strategies for long-term ecosystem resilience. Topics include climate projections for Bucks County, extreme weather impacts, and collaborative conservation efforts.


By blending maps, visuals, and interactive storytelling, this StoryMap serves as both an educational tool and a digital archive of the Lake Luxembourg Conservation Pool Restoration Project. Explore the StoryMap now and see for yourself how this vital environmental restoration initiative is shaping the future of the watershed.

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Welcome to our latest installment of the “A Day in the Life” blog series. Today, we delve into the fascinating world of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis through the eyes of Tara Srinivasan. Tara, an environmental staff scientist for the Restoration & Resilience team and a GIS analyst, combines her passion for environmental research with the power of geospatial data to support sustainable projects that enhance ecosystems and communities alike.

GIS is a powerful technology used to study, analyze and visualize geospatial data. In Tara’s role at Princeton Hydro, GIS serves as both a creative and analytical tool, enabling her to generate and explore detailed maps of environmental conditions at project sites, such as vegetation, soils, topography, and water bodies. This process aids in identifying restoration needs, addressing challenges, and developing innovative solutions.

Let’s embark on a journey through a typical day in Tara’s role and uncover how her expertise helps shape Princeton Hydro’s environmental restoration projects.


Diving Into Data

Tara usually starts her day in the office, preparing to analyze data for a particular project. Using GIS software like ArcGIS, she examines historical and current imagery of the site, overlays habitat features, and maps property boundaries. These analyses help Tara and the project team understand the site’s existing conditions, such as watershed boundaries and the presence of threatened or endangered species.

“GIS allows us to study locations remotely, uncover patterns and features that might not be obvious on the ground, and understand how a place interacts with its surrounding environment,” Tara explains. “By incorporating extensive environmental data from local, state, and national resources, collected by both public and private organizations, I can gain a comprehensive view of a project site before we even set foot in the field.”

From calculating the impacts of a proposed restoration project to mapping flood conditions under various climate scenarios, Tara’s work ensures that Princeton Hydro’s environmental solutions are informed by robust spatial data and cutting-edge technology.

One project Tara is especially proud of is Princeton Hydro’s contribution to the Trenton Vulnerability Assessment, part of the Resilient NJ initiative administered by the NJDEP Bureau of Climate Resilience Planning. “We modeled flooding and urban heat islands based on current data and future projections of climate change, and created a mapping tool that overlaid hazard areas with Trenton’s critical facilities, community assets, cultural and ecological resources, and vulnerable populations,” she shares. Tara had the opportunity to present this data to Trenton residents, who shared their questions and ideas for solutions that the City incorporated into its climate planning efforts. “It was a great way to engage with our local Trenton community, get in-person feedback on our maps, and see the potential that GIS and environmental data have in informing social conversations,” Tara adds.


Delineating a Watershed

Today, Tara is focused on defining the boundaries of a watershed surrounding a small lake. In this video, she walks us through her step-by-step process for watershed delineation:

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

Collaborating Across Teams

Collaboration is a key part of Tara’s role. On a typical day, she meets with Princeton Hydro’s regulatory team to discuss GIS findings that inform project permitting and compliance. These partnerships enhance her work, ensuring that data analyses align with project goals and regulatory standards.

Tara also communicates her findings to clients and stakeholders who may not have technical GIS backgrounds. She uses intuitive maps, symbols, and colors, like blue for water and green for forests, to help stakeholders understand complex concepts at a glance. “Maps are a powerful thing,” Tara says. “They can bring people up to speed quickly and convey information in a way that words alone cannot.”

When maps become more intricate, Tara incorporates supplementary visuals, such as tables and graphs, to provide additional clarity. Her ability to bridge technical expertise with accessible communication is crucial for guiding clients through project decisions.


Fieldwork and Fresh Air

Although much of her work is office-based, Tara occasionally heads out into the field to collect data or monitor project sites. Equipped with GPS tools and field notebooks, she assesses topography, vegetation, and other site-specific details that feed back into her GIS analyses.

“Fieldwork provides a fresh perspective,” Tara notes. “It’s a great opportunity to see how projects are implemented and to observe how the environment evolves over time.”

Whether delineating watersheds or monitoring post-construction conditions, these outings connect Tara’s technical work to the tangible landscapes she aims to restore.


Overcoming Challenges with Innovation and Care

Tara thrives on finding innovative solutions to challenges in her work, such as optimizing software processes and addressing gaps in available data. Her meticulous organization of databases, attention to detail, and commitment to accuracy ensure that her outputs are both reliable and impactful. When data is limited, Tara ensures transparency by clearly communicating any uncertainties, fostering trust and confidence in her analyses.

Tara also approaches her work with a strong ethical lens, carefully considering the implications of GIS analyses on communities and ecosystems. “When you look at a map of a stream, lake, wetland, or forest in an urban area, it’s important to notice the houses, schools, businesses, parks, and other features that surround them,” Tara explains. “Our projects impact both the environment and people. GIS helps us examine a large area and assess our impact so we can minimize any temporary or permanent effects, both legally and ethically.” She notes that GIS can even identify already disturbed areas for construction access, helping preserve healthier habitats.


Continued Inspiration

Tara’s love for maps dates back to her childhood, when she was captivated by the intricate, hand-drawn maps in fantasy novels. Her fascination grew through exploring Google Earth, imagining future travels, and observing how geography shapes civilizations. This passion now drives her professional journey, where she uses GIS to merge her analytical skills with creativity. “I’ve always been a visual learner, so I find something grounding about orienting yourself on a map,” Tara shares.

When she’s not working, Tara enjoys wildlife photography hikes, baking experiments, and writing music for her ukulele—a testament to her creativity both inside and outside the office.

For Tara, GIS is more than a tool; it’s a gateway to understanding and addressing environmental challenges. Her work at Princeton Hydro highlights the versatility of GIS in projects ranging from wetland restoration to climate change resilience. Reflecting on her role, Tara says, “What I love most about GIS is its ability to bring environmental stories to life, helping people connect with the places they care about in a meaningful way.”

[gallery link="none" ids="16713,16712,16711"]

Through her dedication and expertise, Tara embodies the spirit of innovation and environmental stewardship that defines Princeton Hydro’s mission.


Princeton Hydro’s multidisciplinary team combines unparalleled expertise with innovative geospatial technology to deliver integrated ecological and engineering solutions. From comprehensive assessments and sustainable design to implementation and community engagement, we are committed to addressing complex environmental challenges. Our team’s proven capabilities in natural resource management, water resources engineering, and geotechnical design, enhanced by in-house GIS expertise, enable us to provide tailored solutions that achieve measurable results. Whether conducting regional-scale analyses, developing coastal resiliency plans, or advancing ecological restoration efforts, we are proud to contribute to a sustainable future throughout the Northeast and beyond.

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The South Cape May Meadows Preserve, owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), is a jewel among New Jersey's protected landscapes. Spanning over 200 acres adjacent to Cape May State Park, the preserve is celebrated for its diverse habitats, including beaches, dunes, freshwater wetlands, and fields. As a crucial stopover along the Atlantic Flyway, it offers refuge to rare and endangered shorebirds as well as native and migratory birds, making it a globally renowned paradise for birders. It also supports a wide variety of terrestrial species year-round.

The Preserve also has a variety of features aimed at enhancing visitor experience, promoting sustainability, and supporting its diverse wildlife. These features include a welcome shed with a green roof, a rain garden, purple martin houses, a raised wildlife viewing platform, an osprey platform with a streaming camera, benches, interpretive signs, and an 80-foot bird blind.

[gallery link="none" columns="4" ids="15545,15582,15554,15566"]  

With its rich biodiversity, scenic beauty and unique features, the South Cape May Meadows Preserve is a site of high public interest and use, attracting approximately 90,000 visitors each year. To accommodate the high level of public interest and improve accessibility, TNC contracted Princeton Hydro to upgrade the existing path network to make it more physically accessible and to create new pathways that open up previously unreachable areas of the Preserve.

Given that much of the site is composed of freshwater wetlands, creating accessible pathways without disturbing these sensitive areas presented a unique challenge that required innovative solutions. To address this, the centerpiece of the project was the construction of an elevated boardwalk trail in the western area of the preserve. Slated for completion in September 2024, the new boardwalk will add 2,675 linear feet of elevated walking paths throughout the preserve, along with a 480-square-foot elevated viewing platform. The boardwalk will wind through previously inaccessible wetland areas and is designed to comply with ADA standards, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can explore and enjoy the preserve's unique maritime landscape.

Led by TNC, the Princeton Hydro team was responsible for designing, permitting, and overseeing construction for the project, with Renova serving as the primary construction partner. The images below are renderings and a mapped layout of the project site created by Landscape Architect Cory Speroff, PLA, ASLA, CBLP of Princeton Hydro, the lead project designer and project manager:

[gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="15568,15569"]

Sustainable Construction Practices & Accessibility Enhancements

To minimize environmental impact during construction, the boardwalk is being installed using a top-down construction method. This approach required finding a product that could meet all design requirements while supporting the necessary equipment for construction from above. The project team selected GreenWalk™, a proprietary structure system manufactured by IDEAL Foundation Systems. GreenWalk™ is a highly engineered, modular, zero-maintenance boardwalk system that meets all of the project criteria while ensuring minimal disturbance to the wetland.

This video provides a behind-the-scenes look at the boardwalk installation process and the intricate work involved in bringing this accessible pathway to life. Watch now to see how we're making nature more accessible for everyone:

https://youtu.be/wSJeYM8ajPE

In addition to the boardwalk, the Princeton Hydro team designed and permitted several site improvements to enhance accessibility and visitor experience:

Existing trail surface types were assessed for sturdiness, and cost-effective measures were implemented to enhance accessibility. This included leveling the existing gravel and sandy portions of the Main and East trails and replacing them with a firmer, more stable surface.

[gallery link="none" ids="15581,15578,15580"]

Equipped with safety railing, handrails, seated observation areas, and educational signs in both braille and English print, the boardwalk is designed to provide support for people with accessibility considerations.

[gallery link="none" ids="15542,15535,15579"]

The existing parking lot was upgraded to include formal ADA spaces. One-third of the original stone parking lot was converted to concrete to improve accessibility.

These efforts ensure that the South Cape May Meadows Preserve remains an inclusive and ecologically sensitive destination, allowing all visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty and biodiversity of this unique maritime landscape.

[gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="15567,15526"]

Speroff emphasized that the boardwalk is more than just a pathway through nature; it symbolizes a collective commitment to protecting and celebrating the environment: “It stands as a reminder that we can create spaces that are both beautiful and functional, without compromising the health of our planet. By choosing sustainable materials and practices, we have set a standard for future projects in our community and beyond. Moreover, this boardwalk represents our pledge to inclusivity, going above and beyond the minimum standards for ADA compliance. We created a space where everyone, regardless of physical abilities, can enjoy the beauty of our natural surroundings—a place where families can come together, individuals can find solitude, and nature can be experienced by all.”


Celebrating a New Chapter in Visitor Experience

On Sunday, August 4, TNC hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the South Cape May Meadows Preserve to unveil the new boardwalk trail and site enhancements. The event highlighted the significant strides made in increasing the preserve’s accessibility and offered attendees a preview of the new features, including four metal plaques with tactile elements and braille, showcasing nature themes like the life cycle of a butterfly and frog, turtle shells, and dragonflies.

[gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="15576,15546"]

Speeches were given by Barbara Brummer, State Director of The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey; Paulo Rodriguez Heyman, President of Renova; Mark Gallagher, Vice President of Princeton Hydro; and both the father and grandmother of Julian Tao Knipper. The Knipper family generously donated to the project in memory of Julian, who dearly loved Cape May and tragically passed away at the age of three. The project also honored Pat and Clay Sutton, esteemed educators, authors, naturalists, photographers, lecturers, nature tour leaders, and long-time champions for the protection of Cape May’s rich biodiversity. The new trail was officially dedicated to Julian, Pat and Clay.

[gallery columns="4" link="none" ids="15551,15559,15541,15536"]

Speroff expressed deep appreciation for the donors, stating, “The belief in this project and the willingness to invest in this vision made it possible to create a space that is accessible to all and harmonious with our natural surroundings. These contributions are not just financial; they are investments in the future of the Cape May community and our planet.”

It is essential to also acknowledge the invaluable contributions of those who made this project possible, creating a space where people of all abilities can enjoy nature, reflect, and find peace. Special thanks go to The Nature Conservancy, particularly Barbara Brummer, Eric Olsen, Damon Noe, Elliot Nagele, and the TNC project staff. The Renova Team's hard work and dedication were instrumental in bringing the one-of-a-kind boardwalk to life. Additionally, the design team, including IDEAL Foundation Systems, Bedford, L2A, and JBCI, played a crucial role in the project’s success. And, members of the Princeton Hydro team, especially Cory Speroff, PLA, ASLA, CBLP; Geoffrey M. Goll, P.E.; Ryan Eno, EIT; Ivy Babson; and Casey Pantaleo, P.E.

[gallery link="none" ids="15563,15544,15560,15547,15549,15552,15548,15562,15550"]

A Legacy of Collaboration

The Nature Conservancy and Princeton Hydro have a storied history of working on impactful projects together, from removing obsolete dams and opening up miles of river for fish passage to eradicating invasive species right here on this property. A few years ago, we designed the removal of Columbia Lake Dam, which reconnected 20 miles of stream, with American Shad returning to their native spawning grounds upstream just months after it was removed. And now, as this South Cape May Meadows Preserve project nears completion, we celebrate a project that offers everyone the chance to experience its natural beauty and biodiversity. This collaboration between Princeton Hydro and TNC underscores the importance of creating inclusive spaces that honor and protect our natural world.

Within the next few weeks, stay tuned for more updates and photos as we near completion on this exciting project, ensuring that the South Cape May Meadows Preserve remains a cherished destination for all who visit.

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By Mikhail Velez, Communications Coordinator

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) launched its fourth annual Youth Inclusion Initiative. The program hopes to enrich young participants, who may not have the opportunity to explore open spaces in their community, with hands-on environmental field experience under the tutelage of NJDEP professionals and mentors.

This year’s participants consisted of youths from several different community-based organizations. These partners include Neighborhood Improvement Association (Trenton), Rutgers-Camden, The Work Group (Camden), Ranch Hope (Salem), Boys and Girls Club of Garfield, Groundwork Elizabeth, Ironbound Community Corporation (Newark), and United Community Corporation (Newark).

Over six weeks, eight community organizations guided participants as they engaged with professionals to explore careers in water and air monitoring, natural resource management, wildlife conservation, and other related fields. Additionally, a new component of the program introduces "community project days," where participants actively contribute to environmental projects within their neighborhoods. These projects enable participants to make a positive impact on their communities, fostering a sense of civic pride and environmental stewardship. Activities may include park cleanups, installing educational exhibits, and establishing community gardens.

[caption id="attachment_13546" align="aligncenter" width="1230"] The youth program participants gather together with their certificates for a final group photo at NJDEP.[/caption]  

The program has been expanded to include a full day of rehearsal, with a focus on public speaking abilities and mock interviews, regarded as integral components of professional development. Throughout the summer, participants will engage in resume and cover letter writing sessions and attend presentations led by guest speakers.

In addition to fostering personal and professional growth, participants devoted a substantial amount of their time to honing technical skills through hands-on activities. These activities included simulating environmental impact investigations, collecting macroinvertebrates from a stream to gauge water quality, interacting with fish at a state trout hatchery, and designing a park in collaboration with Green Acres staff. To further enrich their understanding, the program also incorporates a visit to the regional headquarters of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

As part of this initiative for the third year in a row, the NJDEP's Division of Land Resource Protection Mitigation Unit invited Princeton Hydro and Mercer County Park Commission to host three sessions at John A. Roebling Park. Under the guidance of Princeton Hydro mentors Mark Gallagher, Dana Patterson Grear, and Mike McGraw,  the team educated young participants about invasive species and the importance of restoring native landscapes. The initiative exposed attendees to the varied roles of environmental scientists, water resource engineers, geologists, restoration ecologists, wildlife biologist, pesticide applicators, regulatory compliance specialists, and communications professionals, thereby enhancing their understanding of these professions and sparking a fascination for the natural world.


The Abbott Marshlands in Trenton, New Jersey

The program began at Tulpehaking Nature Center like in previous years. After representatives from Mercer County Park Commission and Friends of the Abbott Marshlands introduced the site's history, Princeton Hydro discussed career opportunities in conservation and gave a brief overview of ongoing restoration efforts in the park to eliminate the invasive Common Reed (Phragmites australis), and NJDEP representative, Jessica Klein, gave a presentation about her work in wetland mitigation.

Before venturing into the Abbott Marshlands, the northernmost freshwater tidal wetlands along the Delaware River, the Princeton Hydro team conducted a health and safety briefing. They highlighted potential risks and exposures to ensure everyone's awareness. This briefing is a crucial part of prioritizing the safety of all participants in our work.

[gallery link="none" ids="15638,15639,15629,15633,15634,15630,15632,15631,15637"]

Shortly after setting out on the road to the site, the students received  an additional lesson. Mark directed their attention to a nearby tree where poison ivy - a native plant - had stealthily climbed up the trunk. To their surprise, the young participants had mistaken the trailing vines for branches of the tree. This observation highlighted the remarkable ability of poison ivy to adapt to its surroundings, finding innovative ways to persist and thrive in its environment.

As the second group continued their journey down the path, they encountered a Fowler’s toad. Initially, its slippery texture startled them, but they quickly realized the frog's harmless nature. Through gentle pats on its head, they gained a newfound appreciation for these fascinating creatures, transforming their initial fear into a sense of wonder and respect.

Venturing through the marshland, the young explorers gained insights into wetland delineation. They witnessed the fascinating process of using a hand auger and a Munsell Soil Color Book to identify and understand the unique characteristics of wetland soils. In a delightful exploration of local flora, participants delved into the art of species identification using a specialized field guide. They learned to distinguish invasive plant species from their native counterparts, such as sensitive fern, which they were able to see during a short nature walk on a trail back to the nature center.

In a seemingly unremarkable area of the riverbank, the third group stumbled upon a startling discovery. Amidst the lush vegetation, a highly toxic plant known as poison hemlock flourished. The students were taken aback by its presence in an otherwise ordinary location. They had never encountered such a hazardous plant in their previous studies. The poison hemlock, with its delicate white flowers and feathery leaves, belied its deadly nature. The students were captivated by its beauty, but the instructors cautioned them against touching.

The encounter with poison hemlock and poison ivy served as a valuable lesson for the students. They realized that even in seemingly ordinary places, hidden dangers could lurk. They developed a newfound respect for the power of nature and the importance of exercising caution when exploring unfamiliar environments.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="15640,15641"]

Ending the day, participants from the first group had the privilege of attending a lesson conducted by Wildlife Biologist Mike McGraw. With the assistance of the Nature Center's resident corn snake, Mike introduced the students to the fascinating world of reptiles. Overcoming their initial apprehension towards these slithery creatures, the students discovered that there was much more to snakes than they had previously imagined. Mike dispelled common misconceptions and fears, explaining that snakes are not inherently dangerous creatures but rather play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.


The NJDEP Youth Inclusion Initiative began on July 8 and culminated on August 16 with a graduation and NJDEP Career Day where students had the opportunity to meet and discuss career options with various organizations who tabled at the event, including Princeton Hydro.

To learn more about the NJDEP education program, click here. If you’re interested in learning more about Princeton Hydro’s ecological restoration services, click here.

[post_title] => Empowering Youth Through Environmental Stewardship: NJDEP Youth Inclusion Initiative 2024 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => empowering-youth-through-environmental-stewardship-njdep-youth-inclusion-initiative-2024 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-28 13:48:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-28 13:48:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=15622 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 14504 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2024-02-28 20:08:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-02-28 20:08:35 [post_content] =>

We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to our fleet: The Marsh Master® 2MX-KC-FH! This multi-functional, eco-friendly, and fully amphibious machine is specifically designed to work in wetland environments with minimal disruption to the delicate ecosystem.

[embed]https://youtu.be/lMkkD-WFz3E?si=FmPdjeq4rmB9jSCB[/embed]

One of the Marsh Master®'s primary roles is combating invasive and nuisance plant species, including the notorious non-native Phragmites australis, also known as Common Reed. Utilizing its innovative leveling and cutting mechanisms, this powerhouse of a machine efficiently knocks down and chops up sprayed or winter-weakened vegetation. Equipped with two powerful rotary blades, it effortlessly cuts through dense underbrush and tall marsh grasses, effectively controlling invasive weeds and problematic plant growth.

"We are committed to offering more non-chemical alternatives for aquatic invasive species control. The Marsh Master® 2MX-KC-FH is the second marsh buggy in our fleet," said Geoffrey M. Goll, President of Princeton Hydro. "This model is larger and more powerful, allowing us to cover more ground in a shorter period of time. Adding this machine to our fleet is an important investment in achieving our firm's environmental stewardship goals."

What sets the Marsh Master® apart is its versatility and low environmental impact. With its lightweight construction and advanced weight distribution system, it exerts low ground pressure and boasts high floating capacity. This allows the Marsh Master® to operate seamlessly on water, in deep or shallow depths, and on dry land without disturbing sensitive environments like nature preserves, wetlands, and canal banks. Its highly maneuverable design ensures easy passage through narrow channels and around hazards, making it the ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

[gallery columns="2" size="medium" ids="14525,14523"]

But the Marsh Master® is not just a one-trick pony. With a wide array of tools and accessories, it can perform a variety of functions, from weed cutting and harvesting to debris removal to excavation to soil sampling.

During a recent project in Middlesex County, we put the Marsh Master® to the test to clear an area overrun with Phragmites australis. These invasive weeds not only create dense thickets unsuitable for native fauna but also outcompete local vegetation, leading to a decrease in plant diversity. Thanks to the Marsh Master®'s efficient cutting and rolling capabilities, we were able to expose the marsh plain and get it ready for planting of native vegetation in the Spring. This is just one example of how the Marsh Master is making a tangible difference in restoring delicate ecosystems.

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="14501,14471,14499"]

Through a combination of prevention, early detection, eradication, restoration, research and outreach, we can protect our native landscapes and reduce the spread of invasive species. Learn more about our invasive species removal and restoration services.

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A wetland is a unique ecosystem that is permanently or seasonally saturated by water, including swamps, marshes, bogs, vernal pools, and similar areas. They provide water quality improvement, flood protection, shoreline erosion control, food for humans and animals, and critical habitat for thousands of species of aquatic and terrestrial plants, aquatic organisms, and wildlife.

[gallery link="none" ids="14309,13487,13472"]

Princeton Hydro is regionally recognized for its capabilities in the restoration of freshwater and saltwater wetland ecosystems. Our ecologists also regularly conduct wetland delineations. A wetland delineation, a requirement of most permitting efforts, is the field work conducted to determine the boundary between the upper limit of a wetland and the lower limit of an upland thus identifying the approximate extent and location of wetlands on a requested site.

For this edition of our “A Day in the Life” blog series, we join Environmental Scientist Ivy Babson and Regulatory Compliance & Wildlife Surveys Project Manager Emily Bjorhus, PWS out in the field for a wetland delineation.


To Delineate a Wetland We Must First Define It

Most commonly, wetlands are delineated based on the Routine Onsite Determination Method set forth in the Federal Manual Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands (FICWD 1989) with supplemental information provided by the applicable United States Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) regional supplement manual.

USACE’s “three-parameter” approach defines an area as a wetland if it exhibits, under normal circumstances, all the following characteristics:

  1. The land supports a dominance of hydrophytic vegetation;
  2. The substrate is hydric soil; and
  3. The soil/substrate is at least periodically saturated or inundated during a portion of the growing season.

Step 1: Prepare for Delineation Day

Ivy and Emily begin by coordinating with the client to ensure they’ve been granted site access approval.

They then perform a comprehensive desktop analysis of the project site, identifying existing features like wetlands, open waters (streams, lakes), and potential hydric soils. This involves utilizing resources like USFWS's National Wetland Inventory Mapper, the U.S. Geological Survey's SSURGO Soils Survey, and, for New Jersey-based delineations, NJDEP's GeoWeb. The desktop review also allows Ivy and Emily to assemble the proper safety gear and create a Model Health & Safety Plan (HASP). A HASP must always be prepared before the field work begins.

Then, the field-day packing begins; the following items are a requirement for any wetland delineation:
  1. Field notebook and writing utensils
  2. Soil auger (for examining soil profiles)
  3. Munsell soil color chart book (for assessing soil types)
  4. High-vis flagging and pin flags
  5. Hi-vis surveyors or wetland delineator’s vest
  6. Muck boots or waders (depending on the type of environment and existing features)
  7. Field map, usually an up-to-date aerial, showing the boundaries of the site
  8. Sunscreen and bug spray (ticks are a common occurrence)
  9. Plenty of water and food - wetland delineations can be quite strenuous, especially in the summer
  10. Appropriate clothing - wetland delineations can be conducted year-round
 

Step 2: Set the Game Plan & Review HASP

It's always important to make a plan for the project. If we are delineating a large property, it might take several days to traverse, and each day, the weather might be different. So planning ahead, but also being prepared for unexpected changes, will make the day go that much smoother. And, as part of the HASP, we must identify important points of contact and know where the closest hospital is in case of a serious emergency.  So, reviewing this information and planning ahead prior to heading into the field is a very important step in the process.


Step 3: Perform the Three-Parameter Wetland Delineation

While wetland delineations can be conducted any time of the year, they are best conducted during the “growing season” when soil temperatures are above the biologic zero and vegetation is easily identifiable by leaves, inflorescence, or other unique identifying characteristics that would otherwise be difficult to identify during the winter months.

Ivy and Emily begin by locating known (mapped) wetland or waterbody features and writing a list of all plants observed on-site. They maintain the plant list throughout the day.

If, during the desktop review, they find a mapped wetland or stream, they walk there first to determine if wetlands are actually present. Even if a wetland is mapped on a database, it may not actually exist for various reasons. On the flip side, even if a site is not mapped as containing wetlands, the site could very well contain them. As such, the wetland delineation determines exactly what is on-site and supplements the desktop review.

As mentioned above, a wetland delineation considers three determining factors: 1) vegetation, 2) soils, and 3) hydrology. While on site, Ivy and Emily must identify hydrophytic vegetation, take soil borings, and look for wetland hydrology to identify whether a wetland is present or not.

Parameter 1: Vegetation

Wetlands are dominated by hydrophytes which are plants that can grow in water or on a substrate that is at least periodically deficient in oxygen because of excessive water content and depleted soil oxygen levels.

The USACE and NJDEP definition of hydrophytes is based on the USFWS classification system. In general, any plant species that is found growing in wetlands more than 50% of the time is considered a hydrophyte. These plants include those classified by the USFWS as “facultative," “facultative wetland," or “obligate."

As a wetland delineator, it is important to possess strong plant identification skills and an eye for recognizing various ecological plant communities, which are groups of plants that share a common environment and environmental requirements. They are often defined by dominant plant species.

Once Ivy and Emily identify the hydrophytic plant community, they determine what type of ecological community they are in (e.g., freshwater forested wetland, estuarine scrub-shrub wetland, or freshwater tidal emergent marsh). Today, they are in a freshwater forested wetland, which means Ivy and Emily must now assess each stratum of the forested wetland by writing down the species and associated percent species cover.

[gallery link="none" ids="13448,13450,14314"]

To accurately describe the vegetation at each sampling point, we collect data on each horizontal strata or layer. Vegetative strata for which dominants are determined include (1) tree (> 5.0 inches diameter at breast height (DBH) and 20 feet or taller); (2) sapling (0.4 to <5.0 inches DBH and <20 feet tall); (3) shrub (usually 3 to 20 feet tall including multi-stemmed, bushy shrubs); (4) woody vine; and (5) herb (herbaceous plants including graminoids, forbs, ferns, fern allies, herbaceous vines, and tree seedlings). They repeat this process for each representative wetland.

Next, Ivy and Emily look for the upland plant community that is directly upslope of the wetland and make note of the proximity to the wetland, repeating the same vegetation documentation process.

Parameter 2: Soils

Ivy and Emily must determine whether the soils within the hydrophytic plant community are hydric. Hydric soils are defined as soils that are saturated, flooded, or ponded long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part. Hydric soil indicators are features in the soil that predominantly form by biogeochemical processes in a saturated and anaerobic environment and result in the accumulation of loss of iron, manganese, sulfur, or carbon compounds.

Emily uses a soil auger to collect a sample of the first 6 - 12 inches of soil where the most significant parts of a hydric soil would be occurring.

 

Once Ivy and Emily identify that the soil is indeed hydric, Ivy uses her Munsell soil color book to determine the value of the soil and each hydric soil indicator.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="13489,13485"]

They also document additional characteristics of each soil layer: Is it loam, silty loam, sand, sandy loam, silt, muck, clay, clayey loam, etc.? What is the percentage of rocks, plant roots, or other organic matter in each layer? What is the percentage of redoximorphic features of each layer and are they faint or prominent?

Each layer of the soil profile, which is typically documented to a depth of at least 18 inches, is sectioned out and thoroughly described.

Parameter 3: Hydrology

The identification of positive indicators of wetland hydrology includes direct observation of indicator groups, such as the observation of surface water or saturated soils, evidence of recent inundation, evidence of current or recent soil saturation, and evidence from other site conditions or data. Each group contains several indicators, which are classified into categories known as “primary” or “secondary” indicators.

To positively identify the area as being a wetland, at least one primary wetland indicator (from any group) or at least two secondary wetland indicators (from any group) must be present.

Additionally, for an area to be designated as a wetland, the area must have the presence of water for a week or more during the growing season. Areas with wetland hydrology characteristics are those where the presence of water has an overriding influence on characteristics of vegetation and soils due to anaerobic and reducing conditions, respectively.

[caption id="attachment_13488" align="aligncenter" width="483"] This red maple developed morphologic adaptations in the form of buttressed roots.[/caption]  

Today, Emily and Ivy observe a depression (secondary) along with a few inches of standing water (primary), water-stained leaves (primary), frogs hopping around (primary), and moss trim lines on the tree trunks (secondary). All signs point to a forested wetland; however, there is more to consider.

Ivy and Emily’s soil boring assessment showed that the soils within the top 12 inches of the soil surface were saturated (primary) and bright orange streaks were visible along the plant roots, which they documented as oxidized rhizospheres along living roots (primary). Because they identified more than one primary and two secondary wetland indicators, they can confidently delineate the wetland.


Step 4: Delineate Between the Wetland and Upland

Now that Ivy and Emily established that a wetland is present, they must find the boundary of the upland. They are now looking for the absence of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and positive indicators of wetland hydrology as well as the dominance of upland ecological plant communities. The same analysis and documentation process they completed for the wetland area is also required for the upland area.

Once they locate the boundary, they flag the wetland line, labeling the flagging with the wetland nomenclature and either hanging it or pinning it into the ground.

While the description sounds relatively simple, finding the boundary between a wetland and upland can be tricky and time consuming. For example, there may be some hydrophytic vegetation growing within an upland and there may be one secondary positive indicator of wetland hydrology, but hydric soils are missing. To positively classify an area as a wetland, a slam dunk on all three parameters is required.

[caption id="attachment_13513" align="aligncenter" width="639"] Marked up image indicating the upland, wetland, and stream. The red line marks the boundary between a wetland and an upland. The blue line marks the boundary between a stream and the wetlands on either side of the stream’s banks.[/caption]

Step 5: Delineate Waterbodies

Ivy and Emily must also delineate waterbodies concurrent with wetlands. Waterbodies may include, but are not limited to, streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds. To delineate a waterbody, they hang labeled flagging along the waterbody’s top of bank or its ordinary high water mark. Throughout this process, they take pictures to document the existing waterbody conditions.

[gallery link="none" ids="13457,13460,13455"]

Step 6: Post-Delineation Wrap-up

Once the wetland delineation is complete, Ivy and Emily draw out a field sketch that depicts the approximate extent and location of the wetland and waterbody boundaries with their respective nomenclature.

Depending on the project scope, the field sketch is either submitted to a Professional Licensed Surveyor who will then visit the site to survey each wetland and waterbody flag, or Ivy and Emily will return to the site to survey each flag with a survey-grade GPS. Once the survey is complete, Ivy and Emily will conduct a final review of the plans to ensure accuracy.

If requested, they will also prepare a wetland delineation report, which outlines the delineation method, findings, results, and thorough description of each wetland and its soils, hydrology, and vegetation.

“Wetland delineations aren’t for the faint of heart,” said Ivy. “At the end of the day, you might emerge from a dense stand of Phragmites garnering strange looks from passersby with muck smeared on your face, sticks and leaves poking out of your hair, a belly full of mosquitos that you might have accidentally swallowed, and fingernails stuffed with dirt. However, there isn’t any other type of field that I would rather be in. As a wetland delineator, I can access environments that most people would steer clear of and, as a result, I get to see things that I wouldn’t get to see anywhere else. I get to improve my plant identification skills and expand my knowledge of how wetlands function as an ecosystem.”

[caption id="attachment_13478" align="aligncenter" width="566"] Ivy standing in a tidal marsh at Spring Creek North in Brooklyn and Queens, New York. "This wetland delineation is one of my favorite delineating experiences yet. And, I'm looking forward to many more to come!"[/caption]
A big thanks to Ivy and Emily for taking us out in the field for a wetland delineation!

Emily Bjorhus is a Project Manager that specializes in environmental regulatory compliance, ecological services and wildlife surveys. She leads federal, state and local environmental permitting processes, NEPA compliance and documentation, Endangered Species Act Section 7 consultations, and Clean Water Act Section 404(b)1 analyses. Mrs. Bjorhus is a certified Professional Wetland Scientist.

   

As an Environmental Scientist, Ivy Babson regularly conducts wetland delineations and monitoring, flora/fauna surveys, water quality sampling, fishery surveys, permitting, and regulatory compliance for a series of projects. She earned her Wetland Delineation Certification from Rutgers University. Ivy graduated from the University of Vermont in 2019 with a B.S. in Environmental Science with a concentration in Ecological Design, and minor in Geospatial Technologies.

  To read more about our wetland restoration work, go here: http://bit.ly/PHwetland. If you enjoyed this blog, check out another one from our “A Day in the Life” series, and stay tuned for more. [post_title] => A Day in the Life: Performing a Wetland Delineation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => a-day-in-the-life-performing-a-wetland-delineation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-11-07 15:11:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-11-07 15:11:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=13468 [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] => 18278 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-10-15 11:12:53 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-10-15 11:12:53 [post_content] =>

This summer, Princeton Hydro aquatic scientists joined forces with Billion Oyster Project and AKRF on an exciting effort to better understand how restored oyster reefs are supporting life in New York City’s waterways. The project, “Monitoring of Mobile Estuarine Organisms at Restored Oyster Reefs,” focuses on tracking fish, crabs, snails, and other aquatic species that call these reefs home, as well as using cutting-edge environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques to detect organisms that might otherwise go unnoticed.

As a consultant to AKRF, our team deployed collection gear across current and potential restoration sites, including Brooklyn Bridge Park, Bush Terminal Park, Flushing Bay, and Paedergat Basin. The sampling enclosures, left in the water for 48 hours, revealed a fascinating snapshot of estuarine life, from small schooling fish to a surprise dogfish, a small shark-like species that was one of the highlights of the summer survey sessions.

This collaborative initiative brings together multiple partners: Billion Oyster Project, the driving force behind large-scale oyster reef restoration in New York Harbor, is leading the project. AKRF, headquartered in New York City, is serving as the primary consultant; Princeton Hydro is leading the mobile estuarine sampling efforts and eDNA sample collection; and Monmouth University is analyzing the eDNA samples to help identify species present at the restoration sites.

Oyster reefs are living structures that provide essential habitat for a wide array of species, improve water quality through natural filtration capabilities, and enhance the resilience of New York Harbor against coastal storms and erosion. Monitoring oyster reefs ensures that restoration efforts are successful and helps scientists refine approaches for scaling up oyster reef projects in urban estuaries locally and throughout the world.

As the field sampling lead, Princeton Hydro completed two monitoring and sampling collection events, one this Spring and one this Summer, at the various oyster reef restoration sites. Using sea bass and minnow collection gear, our team - Jesse Smith, Aquatic Ecologist; Jackson Tilves, Staff Scientist; and Kaitlyn Jones, Staff Scientist - identified, measured, and documented each of the found species before safely returning them to the water. In addition, we collected in-situ water quality data at each site to help interpret how environmental conditions influence reef communities.

[caption id="attachment_18273" align="aligncenter" width="1227"] Jackson and Jesse preparing to deploy sampling collection gear in Brooklyn Bridge Park.[/caption] [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="18274,18267"]  

Our team brings deep experience and specialized equipment to this project. Princeton Hydro’s biologists have conducted estuarine surveys throughout the Hudson River and New York Harbor, led nekton and benthic sampling along New Jersey’s coastline, and carried out numerous studies that inform restoration and resilience efforts across the region.

Alongside traditional monitoring, the “Monitoring of Mobile Estuarine Organisms at Restored Oyster Reefs” project uniquely incorporates eDNA sampling. eDNA is genetic material that organisms shed into their surrounding environment, through skin cells, mucus, or waste, that can be detected in water samples. By collecting and analyzing eDNA, scientists can identify the presence of species that may not appear in sampling enclosures. The analysis provided by the team at Monmouth University helps paint a fuller picture of biodiversity at the restored oyster reef sampling locations.


More Scenes from the Field

The photos below capture moments from the field and the diverse aquatic life our team encountered, offering a glimpse into the many species that oyster reefs help support in the New York Harbor:

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18276,18271,18277,18272,18269,18284"] *The Asian Shore Crab pictured above is an invasive species encountered fairly often during the Summer sampling events.   [caption id="attachment_18266" align="aligncenter" width="1227"] Dogfish (Squalus acanthias)[/caption]  

Founded in 2014, Billion Oyster Project is working to restore one billion oysters to New York Harbor while engaging New Yorkers directly in the process. Oyster reefs once covered hundreds of miles of shoreline, filtering water, creating habitat, and buffering against storm surge. Today, Billion Oyster Project’s mission is not only to restore these vital ecosystems but also to inspire lasting stewardship of them through educational programming and free STEM curricula for NYC schools and educators . To learn more about Billion Oyster Project and how to participate, click here.

Princeton Hydro is proud to partner with Billion Oyster Project, AKRF, and Monmouth University on this project and in the advancement of urban reef restoration. Together, we’re building knowledge that informs the future of oyster reefs in New York Harbor while strengthening ecological health and resilience of the city’s waterways for generations to come.

To learn more about our work to restore New York’s waterways, we invite you to read our Client Spotlight blog featuring Riverkeeper, a 501(c)3 nonprofit membership organization committed to protecting and restoring the Hudson River from source to sea and safeguarding drinking water supplies through advocacy rooted in community partnerships, science, and law.

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Posted on October 15, 2025

Partnering with Billion Oyster Project to Study Urban Reef Ecosystems

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