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In this blog post, we explore one of those said challenges: Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). HABs, characterized by rapid overgrowths of cyanobacteria, have increasingly drawn attention due to their detrimental effects on water quality and aquatic ecosystems. With the onset of spring, rising temperatures create favorable conditions for cyanobacteria growth, setting the stage for potential bloom occurrences in the months ahead. Over recent summers, lakes and freshwater bodies across the nation have faced closures and health advisories due to HAB outbreaks, underscoring the urgent need to address this issue. Cyanobacteria, often referred to as blue-green algae, are naturally occurring microorganisms in aquatic environments. However, under specific conditions—such as warm temperatures and nutrient-rich waters—these organisms can proliferate rapidly, forming blooms that pose risks to the health of humans, wildlife and aquatic species, local economies and overall ecological balance. [gallery link="none" ids="11577,11570,11565"] The interplay between climate change and HABs is undeniable: Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns create favorable conditions for cyanobacteria growth, exacerbating bloom occurrences. The absence of snow cover and early ice melt further accelerates this process, allowing cyanobacteria to flourish earlier in the year. Over the past few summers, lakes and fresh-waterbodies across the nation experienced closures and health advisories as a result of HAB outbreaks, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this issue. In light of these challenges, proactive measures are crucial for mitigating the impacts of HABs. Early sampling efforts, initiated as early as March or April, enable the detection of cyanobacteria and akinetes, dormant spores that contribute to bloom formation. Additionally, reducing nutrient inputs, particularly phosphorus, into waterways is essential for preventing HABs. As we reflect on the significance of water resources on World Water Day, it’s imperative to recognize the importance of addressing threats such as HABs. By raising awareness, fostering collaboration, and implementing effective strategies, we can work towards safeguarding the health and sustainability of our freshwater ecosystems. In this spirit, we invite you to join the conversation at the Harmful Algal Bloom Summit 2024, hosted by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. This virtual seminar, taking place on March 27, is free to attend and offers a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, discuss best practices, and explore innovative solutions for managing HABs. This year's Summit, which is titled “Unlocking the Puzzle of Harmful Algal Blooms," includes a keynote address and three educational sessions - "Growth Through Reflection: Lessons Learned," "Innovative Tools and Applications," and "Beyond the Numbers" - each featuring a variety of expert presentations. Princeton Hydro Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow is presenting on "Quantifying Overwintering Cyanobacteria and How They May Impact the Monitoring and Management of HABs." Get more information and register here. As we commemorate World Water Day 2024, let us reflect on the interconnectedness of water and life. Small actions taken today can have a profound impact on preserving water quality for future generations. Join us in making a commitment to promote and do our part to support a sustainable future for our freshwater ecosystems. [post_title] => Harmful Algal Blooms and World Water Day Awareness [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => harmful-algal-blooms-and-world-water-day-awareness [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-03-22 13:09:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-03-22 13:09:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=14660 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => 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/XNlAAWp2T7M[/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. [post_title] => Introducing Marsh Master® 2MX-KC-FH: Our Latest Eco-Friendly Weapon Against Invasive Weeds [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => introducing-the-marsh-master [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-03-04 23:27:11 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-03-04 23:27:11 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=14504 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 14482 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2024-02-19 14:53:47 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-02-19 14:53:47 [post_content] => In Warrington Township, Pennsylvania, an innovative ecological uplift initiative is underway at Lion's Pride Park. This project aims to transform a stagnant pond, overrun with invasive species and plagued by water quality issues, into a thriving wetland mosaic. This endeavor, a collaborative effort between Warrington Township, Princeton Hydro, and other stakeholders, promises to not only revitalize the natural environment but also enhance community access and education within the park. [caption id="attachment_14494" align="aligncenter" width="802"] Historical photo of Lion's Pride Park pond in Warrington Township, PA.[/caption] Restoration Overview and Community Impact Spanning 47 acres, Lion's Pride Park serves as a green oasis within the Township, offering a range of recreational and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities. The pond within the park was in urgent need of restoration - heavy storm events caused the pond to overflow, which created flooding conditions in the park. The local native biodiversity was being threatened by nusiance and invasive species like water chestnut (Trapa natans). The photos below were taken in April 2020. [gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="14485,14486"] Princeton Hydro began in 2020 with site investigation and field surveys, including: Bathymetric assessment to map water depth and accumulated unconsolidated sediment in the pond Sediment sampling to facilitate options for the potential reuse of the sediment on site and the selection of native vegetation for the various habitats being created Wetland delineation to identify existing wetland boundaries within and adjacent to the project site and discern the extent of jurisdictional impacts related to the proposed activities. The most substantial component for the restoration project was the conversion of the existing pond to an emergent wetland complex to provide habitat for a wide variety of native species. Using the completed existing conditions reports and surveys, Princeton Hydro prepared the conceptual design plan that informed the entire restoration process. Princeton Hydro Regulatory Compliance & Wildlife Surveys Project Manager Emily Bjorhus, PWS spearheaded the regulatory program for the project, navigating approvals from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the Bucks County Conservation District. The permitting process laid the groundwork for the smooth implementation of this design-build restoration project. [gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="14253,14244"] [caption id="attachment_14493" align="aligncenter" width="1227"] October 2023[/caption] The restoration work encompassed various stages, from earthwork and vegetation planting to the installation of ADA-compliant pathways and informational signage. Some of the key project elements, include: Channel stabilization: Stabilizing the channels within the park, addressing erosion issues, enhancing water flow dynamics, and promoting the establishment of diverse aquatic habitats. Berm construction: Installing berms to enhance wetland habitat and promote natural floodplain connectivity, contributing to the resilience of the ecosystem to flooding events. Native vegetation planting: Reintroducing native wetland and riparian plant species to enhance biodiversity and create habitat corridors for wildlife within the park. Planting is expected to take place in the Spring. Interpretive signage installation: Placing educational signage throughout the park to inform visitors about the ecological significance of the restoration project and the importance of wetland conservation. Boardwalk installation: Constructing a 6-foot-wide ADA-compliant boardwalk that spanned approximately 230 linear feet, providing visitors with accessible pathways to explore the restored wetland areas. [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="14491,14490,14492,14487"] Through these strategic interventions, the Lion's Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project aims to not only rejuvenate the ecological integrity of landscape but also enrich the recreational and educational experiences of the community. The project, which is slated for 100% completion this Spring, will totally transform the landscape into a diverse wetland complex that fosters native wildlife habitat, mitigates water quality concerns, reduces nonpoint source pollutants discharged to downstream waters, and provides accessible pathways and observation platforms so all community members may enjoy and learn from this restored aquatic setting. The reclaimed wetland provides additional bird and pollinator habitat and offer visitors a diverse ecosystem to learn from within the park. By fostering a deeper connection to nature and promoting environmental stewardship, this project exemplifies the transformative power of ecological restoration in creating vibrant, sustainable communities. Upcoming Presentation [caption id="attachment_13487" align="alignleft" width="247"] Emily out field performing a wetland delineation.[/caption] On March 23, at the 2024 Watershed Congress hosted by the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, Emily will be presenting about the Lion's Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project. Her presentation will offer insights into the regulatory approval and permitting process, takes a deeper dive into the restoration strategies, and showcases the ecological significance of the project. Click here to learn more about the 2024 Watershed Congress. Emily, a certified Professional Wetland Scientist, 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. The Lion's Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project exemplifies a holistic approach to environmental conservation, community engagement, and public recreation. By repurposing a neglected pond into a vibrant wetland mosaic, this initiative embodies the principles of ecological resilience and inclusive urban planning, and celebrates the transformative potential of ecological uplift projects in fostering healthier, more vibrant communities. Please stay tuned to our blog for more project updates once planting is completed this Spring. Click here to read more about Princeton Hydro’s robust natural resource management and restoration services. [post_title] => Restoring Balance: Converting a Pond into a Wetland Mosaic at Lion’s Pride Park [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => restoring-balance-converting-a-pond-into-a-wetland-mosaic-at-lions-pride-park [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-02-20 12:32:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-02-20 12:32:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=14482 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 14044 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2023-12-04 01:07:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-12-04 01:07:37 [post_content] => Mark Gallagher, Vice President of Princeton Hydro, has been appointed to the Friends of Abbott Marshland Advisory Board. About the Friends of Abbott Marshland The Abbott Marshlands is composed of 3,000 acres of wetlands and uplands located on the western edge of central New Jersey in Mercer County. It is the northernmost freshwater tidal marsh on the Delaware River and contains valuable habitat for many rare species like River Otter, American Eel, Bald Eagle, and various species of wading birds. [caption id="attachment_14051" align="aligncenter" width="743"] Aerial drone imagery taken in late summer of 2019 above Roebling Park in Abbott Marshlands.[/caption] Unfortunately, this ecosystem has faced challenges partially due to the invasion of the aggressive Common Reed (Phragmites australis), causing substantial habitat loss and degradation. In response to these challenges, the Friends for the Abbott Marshlands have dedicated themselves to enhancing appreciation and protection of this precious ecosystem. Their mission focuses on engaging and inspiring a diverse community to experience the unique nature and history of the Abbott Marshlands. Their priorities involve expanding community involvement, advancing educational programs through the Tulpehaking Nature Center, enhancing organizational capacity, and working in cooperative stewardship efforts. Since its inception, the Friends for the Abbott Marshlands have played a pivotal role in advocating for the preservation and stewardship of the marshlands. They've organized various educational programs, symposia, nature walks, and juried photography shows to raise awareness and encourage stewardship of this unique ecosystem. The Friends for the Abbott Marshlands Advisory Board meets periodically to advise on program design and execution, fundraising, and engagement in any and all activities related to the preservation of the Abbott Marshlands. The area is named "Abbott Marshlands" in recognition of the important archaeological legacy of the marsh and of Charles Conrad Abbott, a 19th and early 20th century archaeologist and naturalist, who lived on the bluffs near the marsh and who wrote extensively about it. Princeton Hydro's Work at Abbott Marshlands Recognizing the urgent need to restore the Abbott Marshlands, Mercer County contracted Princeton Hydro to spearhead a multi-year, multi-phased restoration initiative. The project aimed at reducing and controlling the invasive Phragmites australis while increasing the presence of native marsh vegetation. Princeton Hydro conducted a Floristic Quality Assessment to identify invasive areas and to establish a baseline for the restoration efforts. The team also performed hydrologic monitoring to understand tidal stage elevations. From 2018-2019, herbicide treatments were consistently conducted to combat the invasive phragmites. In the winter of 2019-2020, 46 acres of phragmites was cut and rolled with our Marsh Master using a modified steel roller attachment. The phragmites was then removed by raking, which in turn exposed the marsh plain’s substrate and seedbank to promote germination of the native marsh vegetation. Extensive areas of wild rice, mud plantain, broad leaved cattail, water purslane, pickerelweed, and arrow arum colonized the areas formerly overtaken by phragmites within the first growing season after the marsh plain was exposed. The project also includes the creation of 500 linear feet of living shoreline, a freshwater mussel bed, and a sustainable boat launch. [gallery link="none" columns="4" ids="14049,7137,14058,14055"] [caption id="attachment_14053" align="aligncenter" width="749"] Drone imagery from Winter 2020 after herbicide treatment and rolling and cutting of Phragmites at Roebling Park.[/caption] This comprehensive and collaborative restoration effort not only targets invasive species but also focused on enhancing biodiversity; improving recreational opportunities such as kayaking and bird watching; enhancing the overall visitor experience at John A. Roebling Memorial Park, which is part of Abbott Marshlands; and creating opportunities for community engagement and appreciation of this natural treasure. Learn More Click here to learn how you can get involved with supporting and participating in initiatives aimed at protecting and cherishing the Marshlands for generations to come. To take a deeper dive into Princeton Hydro's work at Abbott Marshlands, click here. A founding partner of Princeton Hydro, Mark is a pioneer in the field of restoration ecology, and helped get the conservation science movement off the ground in the 1980s. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Moravian College and Master of Science in Plant Ecology from Rutgers University. For more than two decades, Mark has overseen wetland and terrestrial ecology projects at Princeton Hydro, including many complex restoration projects that require unique solutions. Mark, along with Princeton Hydro team members Dana Patterson and Michael Rehman, CERP, PWS and representatives from Mercer County and Friends of the Abbott Marshlands, led a educational course and field exploration of the Abbott Marshlands as part of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) annual Youth Inclusion Initiative. Learn more here. [post_title] => Mark Gallagher Appointed to Friends of Abbott Marshland Advisory Board [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => mark-gallagher-appointed-to-friends-of-abbott-marshland-advisory-board [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-01-18 03:26:50 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-01-18 03:26:50 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=14044 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 13535 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2023-08-25 15:21:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-08-25 15:21:48 [post_content] => The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has launched its third 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 youth consists of 47 participants from ages 16-20 that hail from five different community-based organizations. These partners include Neighborhood Improvement Association (Trenton), Rutgers-Camden, Groundwork Elizabeth, Ironbound Community Corporation (Newark), and The Work Group (Camden). [caption id="attachment_13546" align="aligncenter" width="1230"] The youth program participants gather together with their certificates for a final group photo.[/caption] Over the course of this six week program, the youth participated in a curriculum that showcased career pathways in the water resources and natural resources management fields. Participants learned through classroom instruction and by receiving some in-field experience across sectors regulated by NJDEP such as touring an air monitoring station, visiting a trout hatchery, conducting stream assessments, and practicing proper tool and equipment recognition at a state park. After their time with the initiative is through, they will have nurtured the skills to pursue these job opportunities and develop a deeper appreciation for our environment. Princeton Hydro representatives Mark Gallagher, Dana Patterson, and Michael Rehman, CERP, PWS led one of the mentorships. This is the second year NJDEP’s Division of Land Resource Protection Mitigation Unit invited Princeton Hydro to teach a portion of the program. The goal in participating was to educate the youth about the importance of restoring native landscapes and explore the job responsibilities of environmental scientists, water resource engineers, geologists, ecologists, pesticide applicators, and regulatory compliance specialists, while building upon and cultivating fascination with nature. The Abbott Marshlands in Trenton, New Jersey The program kicked off with a presentation in Mercer County Park Commission’s Tulpehaking Nature Center located in John A. Roebling Park. After learning about the history of the site from representatives from Mercer County and Friends of the Abbott Marshlands, Princeton Hydro discussed opportunities for careers in conservation and gave a brief overview of the restoration efforts in the park to eradicate the invasive Common Reed (Phragmites australis). Prior to heading out to explore the Abbott Marshlands, the northernmost freshwater tidal wetlands on the Delaware River, the Princeton Hydro team went through a health and safety briefing, a very important part of our job, to make sure everyone was aware of the potential risks and exposures. [gallery link="none" ids="13543,13540,13552"] Princeton Hydro team members and NJDEP’s Environmental Specialist Jessica Klein led the participants through the park. Right away, the first group witnessed one of nature’s marvels when they spotted a Northern Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys rubriventris) laying her eggs along the side of the main road. Participants learned of the marshland and surrounding upland’s rich cultural significance. On their trek through this natural oasis, they followed in the footsteps of the Lenape, a tribe of Native Americans who regularly visited and eventually settled in the area at least 13,000 years ago. These early nomadic people relied on the land for food, fuel, and other readily available resources until they were displaced due to European settlement along the Delaware River. Learn more about the Abbott Marshland cultural history here. Eventually, the group made it to the area of the restoration site. Here, the students gained a better understanding of the harsh effects that invasive species have on an ecosystem. The 3000-acre freshwater tidal marsh provides habitat to many rare and endangered species, but it has experienced a significant amount of degradation due to monoculture of the invasive Common Reed. In order to improve the area’s biodiversity and elevate visitors’ recreational experience, Princeton Hydro implemented a restoration plan that aimed to eradicate the aggressive non-native plants within a 40-acre stretch of the marsh and enable native plants like Wild Rice (Zizania aquatica) to flourish. Learn more about this project. NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette surprised the Rutgers-Camden group with his joyful presence. After giving a zealous speech to the class, he accompanied them on their journey to the marshland. [caption id="attachment_11299" align="aligncenter" width="1230"] NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette joins the class.[/caption] Overall, participants had fun learning how to use a field guide to identify invasive species found within the area. They were taught how to differentiate them with native flora like sensitive fern, poison ivy, and wild rice. With a wide survey of the marshland, the youth were taught about wetland delineation and got a peek into the process of using a hand auger and a Munsell Soil Color Book to identify wetland soils. Utilizing binoculars, the last group was lucky to spot a Northern Harrier, an uncommon visitor for the marshland, soaring circles in the sky in search of prey. The rare sighting led to the successful end of the final tour. [gallery link="none" ids="13538,13541,13545,13590,13592,13595,13596,13597,13594"] The NJDEP Youth Inclusion Initiative began on July 6 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] => Another Successful Year Mentoring Participants from NJDEP's Youth Inclusion Initiative [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => njdep-youth-inclusion-initiative-2023 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-08-28 19:50:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-08-28 19:50:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=13535 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12884 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2023-06-27 17:04:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-06-27 17:04:58 [post_content] => Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) represent the rapid proliferation of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae. While cyanobacteria are not technically algae but rather single-celled aquatic organisms related to bacteria, they possess the ability to photosynthesize like algae. These tiny microorganisms naturally inhabit aquatic ecosystems. However, under specific circumstances, such as heavy rainfall followed by scorching sunshine, they can rapidly multiply, resulting in the formation of cyanobacteria blooms, commonly known as HABs. [gallery link="none" ids="4574,1337,1736"] Environmental and Economic Impact of HABs HABs can wreak havoc on waterbodies, leading to significant water quality issues and the unsightly appearance of surface scum, sometimes accompanied by unpleasant odors. The consequences extend beyond aesthetics and pose economic challenges for communities reliant on local lakes and waterways for jobs and tourism. Furthermore, HABs can produce highly toxic substances that pose serious risks to humans, aquatic life, and animals, including our beloved pets, wildlife, and livestock. HAB Impacts on Wildlife and Pets The effects of HABs on animals vary depending on factors such as the animal's size, exposure to cyanobacteria, duration of exposure, specific toxin types, and concentrations. Animals are often the first victims, drawn to bodies of water containing cyanobacteria due to their natural instincts. Dogs, in particular, are vulnerable as they may unwittingly ingest contaminated water during play. Livestock and wildlife are also at risk when drinking from contaminated water sources. In 2021, researchers published a groundbreaking study linking cyanobacteria-generated neurotoxins to the deaths of eagles and waterbirds. After extensive research spanning three decades, scientists determined that cyanotoxins are responsible for a fatal neurological disease called vacuolar myelinopathy, commonly affecting waterbirds, raptors, and bald eagles. Recognizing the Symptoms Cyanobacterial poisoning symptoms can manifest within minutes to a few hours, depending on the severity of exposure. Dogs, in particular, may exhibit symptoms rapidly. Common signs include an accelerated heart rate, breathing difficulties, excessive salivation, disorientation or depression, vomiting or diarrhea, skin irritations, and neurological symptoms such as muscle weakness, dizziness, seizures, or paralysis. It is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care or contact the Poison Control Center if you suspect your pet or livestock may be experiencing symptoms caused by harmful algae, cyanobacteria, or their toxins. The following 24-hour pet poison hotlines are available for assistance:
In recognition of World Water Day on March 22, it's important to acknowledge and explore the challenges affecting our freshwater ecosystems. In this blog post, we explore one of those said challenges: Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs).
HABs, characterized by rapid overgrowths of cyanobacteria, have increasingly drawn attention due to their detrimental effects on water quality and aquatic ecosystems. With the onset of spring, rising temperatures create favorable conditions for cyanobacteria growth, setting the stage for potential bloom occurrences in the months ahead. Over recent summers, lakes and freshwater bodies across the nation have faced closures and health advisories due to HAB outbreaks, underscoring the urgent need to address this issue.
Cyanobacteria, often referred to as blue-green algae, are naturally occurring microorganisms in aquatic environments. However, under specific conditions—such as warm temperatures and nutrient-rich waters—these organisms can proliferate rapidly, forming blooms that pose risks to the health of humans, wildlife and aquatic species, local economies and overall ecological balance.
The interplay between climate change and HABs is undeniable: Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns create favorable conditions for cyanobacteria growth, exacerbating bloom occurrences. The absence of snow cover and early ice melt further accelerates this process, allowing cyanobacteria to flourish earlier in the year. Over the past few summers, lakes and fresh-waterbodies across the nation experienced closures and health advisories as a result of HAB outbreaks, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this issue.
In light of these challenges, proactive measures are crucial for mitigating the impacts of HABs. Early sampling efforts, initiated as early as March or April, enable the detection of cyanobacteria and akinetes, dormant spores that contribute to bloom formation. Additionally, reducing nutrient inputs, particularly phosphorus, into waterways is essential for preventing HABs.
As we reflect on the significance of water resources on World Water Day, it’s imperative to recognize the importance of addressing threats such as HABs. By raising awareness, fostering collaboration, and implementing effective strategies, we can work towards safeguarding the health and sustainability of our freshwater ecosystems.
In this spirit, we invite you to join the conversation at the Harmful Algal Bloom Summit 2024, hosted by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. This virtual seminar, taking place on March 27, is free to attend and offers a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, discuss best practices, and explore innovative solutions for managing HABs.
This year's Summit, which is titled “Unlocking the Puzzle of Harmful Algal Blooms," includes a keynote address and three educational sessions - "Growth Through Reflection: Lessons Learned," "Innovative Tools and Applications," and "Beyond the Numbers" - each featuring a variety of expert presentations. Princeton Hydro Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow is presenting on "Quantifying Overwintering Cyanobacteria and How They May Impact the Monitoring and Management of HABs."
Get more information and register here.
As we commemorate World Water Day 2024, let us reflect on the interconnectedness of water and life. Small actions taken today can have a profound impact on preserving water quality for future generations. Join us in making a commitment to promote and do our part to support a sustainable future for our freshwater ecosystems.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In Warrington Township, Pennsylvania, an innovative ecological uplift initiative is underway at Lion's Pride Park. This project aims to transform a stagnant pond, overrun with invasive species and plagued by water quality issues, into a thriving wetland mosaic. This endeavor, a collaborative effort between Warrington Township, Princeton Hydro, and other stakeholders, promises to not only revitalize the natural environment but also enhance community access and education within the park.
Spanning 47 acres, Lion's Pride Park serves as a green oasis within the Township, offering a range of recreational and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities.
The pond within the park was in urgent need of restoration - heavy storm events caused the pond to overflow, which created flooding conditions in the park. The local native biodiversity was being threatened by nusiance and invasive species like water chestnut (Trapa natans). The photos below were taken in April 2020.
Princeton Hydro began in 2020 with site investigation and field surveys, including:
The most substantial component for the restoration project was the conversion of the existing pond to an emergent wetland complex to provide habitat for a wide variety of native species. Using the completed existing conditions reports and surveys, Princeton Hydro prepared the conceptual design plan that informed the entire restoration process.
Princeton Hydro Regulatory Compliance & Wildlife Surveys Project Manager Emily Bjorhus, PWS spearheaded the regulatory program for the project, navigating approvals from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the Bucks County Conservation District. The permitting process laid the groundwork for the smooth implementation of this design-build restoration project.
The restoration work encompassed various stages, from earthwork and vegetation planting to the installation of ADA-compliant pathways and informational signage. Some of the key project elements, include:
Channel stabilization: Stabilizing the channels within the park, addressing erosion issues, enhancing water flow dynamics, and promoting the establishment of diverse aquatic habitats.
Berm construction: Installing berms to enhance wetland habitat and promote natural floodplain connectivity, contributing to the resilience of the ecosystem to flooding events.
Native vegetation planting: Reintroducing native wetland and riparian plant species to enhance biodiversity and create habitat corridors for wildlife within the park. Planting is expected to take place in the Spring.
Boardwalk installation: Constructing a 6-foot-wide ADA-compliant boardwalk that spanned approximately 230 linear feet, providing visitors with accessible pathways to explore the restored wetland areas.
Through these strategic interventions, the Lion's Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project aims to not only rejuvenate the ecological integrity of landscape but also enrich the recreational and educational experiences of the community. The project, which is slated for 100% completion this Spring, will totally transform the landscape into a diverse wetland complex that fosters native wildlife habitat, mitigates water quality concerns, reduces nonpoint source pollutants discharged to downstream waters, and provides accessible pathways and observation platforms so all community members may enjoy and learn from this restored aquatic setting.
The reclaimed wetland provides additional bird and pollinator habitat and offer visitors a diverse ecosystem to learn from within the park. By fostering a deeper connection to nature and promoting environmental stewardship, this project exemplifies the transformative power of ecological restoration in creating vibrant, sustainable communities.
On March 23, at the 2024 Watershed Congress hosted by the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, Emily will be presenting about the Lion's Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project. Her presentation will offer insights into the regulatory approval and permitting process, takes a deeper dive into the restoration strategies, and showcases the ecological significance of the project. Click here to learn more about the 2024 Watershed Congress.
Emily, a certified Professional Wetland Scientist, 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.
The Lion's Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project exemplifies a holistic approach to environmental conservation, community engagement, and public recreation. By repurposing a neglected pond into a vibrant wetland mosaic, this initiative embodies the principles of ecological resilience and inclusive urban planning, and celebrates the transformative potential of ecological uplift projects in fostering healthier, more vibrant communities.
Please stay tuned to our blog for more project updates once planting is completed this Spring. Click here to read more about Princeton Hydro’s robust natural resource management and restoration services.
Mark Gallagher, Vice President of Princeton Hydro, has been appointed to the Friends of Abbott Marshland Advisory Board.
The Abbott Marshlands is composed of 3,000 acres of wetlands and uplands located on the western edge of central New Jersey in Mercer County. It is the northernmost freshwater tidal marsh on the Delaware River and contains valuable habitat for many rare species like River Otter, American Eel, Bald Eagle, and various species of wading birds.
Unfortunately, this ecosystem has faced challenges partially due to the invasion of the aggressive Common Reed (Phragmites australis), causing substantial habitat loss and degradation. In response to these challenges, the Friends for the Abbott Marshlands have dedicated themselves to enhancing appreciation and protection of this precious ecosystem. Their mission focuses on engaging and inspiring a diverse community to experience the unique nature and history of the Abbott Marshlands. Their priorities involve expanding community involvement, advancing educational programs through the Tulpehaking Nature Center, enhancing organizational capacity, and working in cooperative stewardship efforts.
Since its inception, the Friends for the Abbott Marshlands have played a pivotal role in advocating for the preservation and stewardship of the marshlands. They've organized various educational programs, symposia, nature walks, and juried photography shows to raise awareness and encourage stewardship of this unique ecosystem. The Friends for the Abbott Marshlands Advisory Board meets periodically to advise on program design and execution, fundraising, and engagement in any and all activities related to the preservation of the Abbott Marshlands.
The area is named "Abbott Marshlands" in recognition of the important archaeological legacy of the marsh and of Charles Conrad Abbott, a 19th and early 20th century archaeologist and naturalist, who lived on the bluffs near the marsh and who wrote extensively about it.
Recognizing the urgent need to restore the Abbott Marshlands, Mercer County contracted Princeton Hydro to spearhead a multi-year, multi-phased restoration initiative. The project aimed at reducing and controlling the invasive Phragmites australis while increasing the presence of native marsh vegetation.
Princeton Hydro conducted a Floristic Quality Assessment to identify invasive areas and to establish a baseline for the restoration efforts. The team also performed hydrologic monitoring to understand tidal stage elevations. From 2018-2019, herbicide treatments were consistently conducted to combat the invasive phragmites. In the winter of 2019-2020, 46 acres of phragmites was cut and rolled with our Marsh Master using a modified steel roller attachment. The phragmites was then removed by raking, which in turn exposed the marsh plain’s substrate and seedbank to promote germination of the native marsh vegetation. Extensive areas of wild rice, mud plantain, broad leaved cattail, water purslane, pickerelweed, and arrow arum colonized the areas formerly overtaken by phragmites within the first growing season after the marsh plain was exposed. The project also includes the creation of 500 linear feet of living shoreline, a freshwater mussel bed, and a sustainable boat launch.
This comprehensive and collaborative restoration effort not only targets invasive species but also focused on enhancing biodiversity; improving recreational opportunities such as kayaking and bird watching; enhancing the overall visitor experience at John A. Roebling Memorial Park, which is part of Abbott Marshlands; and creating opportunities for community engagement and appreciation of this natural treasure.
Click here to learn how you can get involved with supporting and participating in initiatives aimed at protecting and cherishing the Marshlands for generations to come. To take a deeper dive into Princeton Hydro's work at Abbott Marshlands, click here.
A founding partner of Princeton Hydro, Mark is a pioneer in the field of restoration ecology, and helped get the conservation science movement off the ground in the 1980s. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Moravian College and Master of Science in Plant Ecology from Rutgers University. For more than two decades, Mark has overseen wetland and terrestrial ecology projects at Princeton Hydro, including many complex restoration projects that require unique solutions.
Mark, along with Princeton Hydro team members Dana Patterson and Michael Rehman, CERP, PWS and representatives from Mercer County and Friends of the Abbott Marshlands, led a educational course and field exploration of the Abbott Marshlands as part of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) annual Youth Inclusion Initiative. Learn more here.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has launched its third 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 youth consists of 47 participants from ages 16-20 that hail from five different community-based organizations. These partners include Neighborhood Improvement Association (Trenton), Rutgers-Camden, Groundwork Elizabeth, Ironbound Community Corporation (Newark), and The Work Group (Camden).
Over the course of this six week program, the youth participated in a curriculum that showcased career pathways in the water resources and natural resources management fields. Participants learned through classroom instruction and by receiving some in-field experience across sectors regulated by NJDEP such as touring an air monitoring station, visiting a trout hatchery, conducting stream assessments, and practicing proper tool and equipment recognition at a state park. After their time with the initiative is through, they will have nurtured the skills to pursue these job opportunities and develop a deeper appreciation for our environment.
Princeton Hydro representatives Mark Gallagher, Dana Patterson, and Michael Rehman, CERP, PWS led one of the mentorships. This is the second year NJDEP’s Division of Land Resource Protection Mitigation Unit invited Princeton Hydro to teach a portion of the program. The goal in participating was to educate the youth about the importance of restoring native landscapes and explore the job responsibilities of environmental scientists, water resource engineers, geologists, ecologists, pesticide applicators, and regulatory compliance specialists, while building upon and cultivating fascination with nature.
The program kicked off with a presentation in Mercer County Park Commission’s Tulpehaking Nature Center located in John A. Roebling Park. After learning about the history of the site from representatives from Mercer County and Friends of the Abbott Marshlands, Princeton Hydro discussed opportunities for careers in conservation and gave a brief overview of the restoration efforts in the park to eradicate the invasive Common Reed (Phragmites australis). Prior to heading out to explore the Abbott Marshlands, the northernmost freshwater tidal wetlands on the Delaware River, the Princeton Hydro team went through a health and safety briefing, a very important part of our job, to make sure everyone was aware of the potential risks and exposures.
Princeton Hydro team members and NJDEP’s Environmental Specialist Jessica Klein led the participants through the park. Right away, the first group witnessed one of nature’s marvels when they spotted a Northern Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys rubriventris) laying her eggs along the side of the main road. Participants learned of the marshland and surrounding upland’s rich cultural significance. On their trek through this natural oasis, they followed in the footsteps of the Lenape, a tribe of Native Americans who regularly visited and eventually settled in the area at least 13,000 years ago. These early nomadic people relied on the land for food, fuel, and other readily available resources until they were displaced due to European settlement along the Delaware River. Learn more about the Abbott Marshland cultural history here.
Eventually, the group made it to the area of the restoration site. Here, the students gained a better understanding of the harsh effects that invasive species have on an ecosystem. The 3000-acre freshwater tidal marsh provides habitat to many rare and endangered species, but it has experienced a significant amount of degradation due to monoculture of the invasive Common Reed. In order to improve the area’s biodiversity and elevate visitors’ recreational experience, Princeton Hydro implemented a restoration plan that aimed to eradicate the aggressive non-native plants within a 40-acre stretch of the marsh and enable native plants like Wild Rice (Zizania aquatica) to flourish. Learn more about this project.
NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette surprised the Rutgers-Camden group with his joyful presence. After giving a zealous speech to the class, he accompanied them on their journey to the marshland.
Overall, participants had fun learning how to use a field guide to identify invasive species found within the area. They were taught how to differentiate them with native flora like sensitive fern, poison ivy, and wild rice. With a wide survey of the marshland, the youth were taught about wetland delineation and got a peek into the process of using a hand auger and a Munsell Soil Color Book to identify wetland soils. Utilizing binoculars, the last group was lucky to spot a Northern Harrier, an uncommon visitor for the marshland, soaring circles in the sky in search of prey. The rare sighting led to the successful end of the final tour.
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) represent the rapid proliferation of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae. While cyanobacteria are not technically algae but rather single-celled aquatic organisms related to bacteria, they possess the ability to photosynthesize like algae. These tiny microorganisms naturally inhabit aquatic ecosystems. However, under specific circumstances, such as heavy rainfall followed by scorching sunshine, they can rapidly multiply, resulting in the formation of cyanobacteria blooms, commonly known as HABs.
HABs can wreak havoc on waterbodies, leading to significant water quality issues and the unsightly appearance of surface scum, sometimes accompanied by unpleasant odors. The consequences extend beyond aesthetics and pose economic challenges for communities reliant on local lakes and waterways for jobs and tourism. Furthermore, HABs can produce highly toxic substances that pose serious risks to humans, aquatic life, and animals, including our beloved pets, wildlife, and livestock.
The effects of HABs on animals vary depending on factors such as the animal's size, exposure to cyanobacteria, duration of exposure, specific toxin types, and concentrations. Animals are often the first victims, drawn to bodies of water containing cyanobacteria due to their natural instincts. Dogs, in particular, are vulnerable as they may unwittingly ingest contaminated water during play. Livestock and wildlife are also at risk when drinking from contaminated water sources.
In 2021, researchers published a groundbreaking study linking cyanobacteria-generated neurotoxins to the deaths of eagles and waterbirds. After extensive research spanning three decades, scientists determined that cyanotoxins are responsible for a fatal neurological disease called vacuolar myelinopathy, commonly affecting waterbirds, raptors, and bald eagles.
Cyanobacterial poisoning symptoms can manifest within minutes to a few hours, depending on the severity of exposure. Dogs, in particular, may exhibit symptoms rapidly. Common signs include an accelerated heart rate, breathing difficulties, excessive salivation, disorientation or depression, vomiting or diarrhea, skin irritations, and neurological symptoms such as muscle weakness, dizziness, seizures, or paralysis.
It is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care or contact the Poison Control Center if you suspect your pet or livestock may be experiencing symptoms caused by harmful algae, cyanobacteria, or their toxins. The following 24-hour pet poison hotlines are available for assistance:
To protect your pets and livestock, avoid letting them come into contact with surface scums or heavily discolored water. In case of exposure, rinse them with clean water as soon as possible, as HABs can cling to their fur and pose health risks when they groom themselves. This is particularly important because certain HABs release fast-acting nerve toxins that can be especially dangerous for dogs swimming in affected areas.
Here are some additional steps you can take to safeguard yourself and your pets from the harmful effects of algae and cyanobacteria:
By staying informed and implementing necessary precautions, we can protect ourselves, our pets, and the environment from the risks associated with HABs. For further HABs related information and guidance, click here to watch a Facebook Live presentation with Princeton Hydro HABs experts. To get involved with monitoring and tracking harmful algal blooms, check out the bloomWatch App, a valuable tool for identifying and reporting potential HAB sightings to local authorities.
In the late 1920s, the U.S. government began allocating funds for road construction in U.S. national forests. This led to hundreds of thousands of culverts being built and installed across the country for the purpose of moving water quickly and efficiently underneath the roadways to prevent flooding, minimize erosion, and provide pathways for stormwater.
However, culverts have had an unintended and significant consequence: they block the migration routes of some fish and aquatic organisms.
Culverts that are undersized, improperly placed, or designed with smooth featureless surfaces can impede or totally block fish and aquatic species from passing. Culverts with extremely high velocity flows make it incredibly difficult for aquatic organisms to navigate upstream, and extremely low velocity flows make it hard for fish to pass in either direction. The high-velocity flows can erode the stream channel immediately downstream of the culvert, which can leave the culvert pipe perched. This elevation above the water channel makes it impossible for organisms to pass through. Debris can also collect in the culvert, not only blocking fish passage, but water as well.
In addition to blocking the upstream passage of fish and other aquatic species, some culverts disrupt the normal stream movements of some macroinvertebrates, which are key components of these stream ecosystems, an important food source to countless species, and play a critical role in the cycling of energy and nutrients throughout stream ecosystems. Disruptions to the movement and dispersal of stream macroinvertebrates can reduce available habitat, lead to genetic isolation of some populations, and cause extirpation of critical species. When populations splinter, it causes a reduction in genetic diversity, which can lead to the spread of more invasive species and many other ecological issues.
While culverts serve an important function in road construction and flood prevention, their impact on aquatic organisms must be taken into consideration. Finding solutions that both allow for efficient water flow and enable safe aquatic migration is crucial in preserving the health of our waterways and their ecosystems.
A shift in the 1980s recognized the importance of redesigning road-stream crossings for several reasons, including restoring aquatic organism passage and maintaining flood resilience. Between 2008 and 2015, U.S. Forest Service (USFS) partnered with more than 200 organizations in the Legacy Roads and Trails Program to replace 1,000+ culverts across the country. The aim of the program was to upgrade culverts to emulate natural streams and to allow fish and wildlife to pass more naturally both upstream and downstream.
Replacing culverts with structures that better facilitate the movement of both water and aquatic organisms has benefits beyond restoring critical ecosystems and improving biodiversity. Ecological restoration creates jobs, stimulates outdoor recreation and local economic activity, and generates long-term economic value.
Princeton Hydro has a strong history in designing connectivity-friendly road-stream crossings and restoring/replacing outdated culverts. Our team of engineers and scientists has been directly involved with hundreds of stream and ecosystem restoration projects throughout the Northeast.
For several years, Princeton Hydro has partnered with NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program (HEP) to plan and design for aquatic connectivity through climate-ready infrastructure. Created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) at the request of the governors of New York and New Jersey, HEP develops and implements plans that protect, conserve and restore the estuary, and aquatic connectivity is a key focus area for HEP and its partners.
Most recently, HEP partnered with Princeton Hydro to address hydraulic capacity issues at priority road-stream crossings in New Jersey’s South River and Lower Raritan River watersheds. The Princeton Hydro team developed a 30% engineering plan for a priority road-stream crossing – the Birch Street crossing over the Iresick Brook in Old Bridge, NJ.
Iresick Brook is upstream from Duhernal Lake, located at the end of the free-flowing South River, which feeds into the Raritan River, and ultimately flows into Raritan Bay. Duhernal Lake is dammed at the outlet so there is little to no connectivity downstream from the Iresick Brook sub-watershed. The watershed is highly dendritic (meaning the drainage pattern follows a tree-like shape) with many small streams running through it, some of them ephemeral.
The Iresick Brook 5 (IB5) culvert, located in Old Bridge Township, New Jersey, is an undersized double culvert in poor condition with an eroding streambank. This culvert was chosen as a restoration priority primarily due its inadequate sizing (both pipes are only 3-feet in diameter). The outdated infrastructure blocks the passage of fish and other aquatic organisms, and it can only accommodate a 50-year storm event.
Once the IB5 culvert was identified as the priority site, Princeton Hydro completed a site investigation, which included a geomorphic assessment, site observations, and simplified site survey of the channel alignment, profile, and cross sections both upstream and downstream of the culvert.
At the time of the survey, flow was only a couple inches deep in the channel and incredibly slow-moving, especially in the upstream reach. Despite the low flow at the time of the survey, during storm events, the stream experiences extremely high velocities. The undersized culvert creates hydraulic constriction and subsequently a velocity barrier that prevents passage. Additionally, when the high-flow stream water is forced through the small pipes, it creates a firehose effect, which has led to the formation of a 60-foot-long scour hole at the culvert outlet. Substrate from the scour hole has been washed downstream, forming an island of large sand and small gravel.
Approximately 155 feet upstream of the culvert is a channel-spanning v-notch weir comprised of a combination of sheet pile and timber. The weir appears to be a historical stream gauge that is highly degraded and creates an artificially perched channel. The upstream channel also contains woody debris, which gets caught at the culvert, blocking water flow and organism passage.
For the design process, Princeton Hydro used the USFS Stream Simulation Design, an gold-standard ecosystem-based approach for designing and constructing road-stream crossings that provide unimpeded fish and other aquatic organism passage through the structure. The Stream Simulation, a required standard on USFS road projects, integrates fluvial geomorphology concepts and methods with engineering principles to design a road-stream crossing that contains a natural and dynamic channel through the structure so that fish and other aquatic organisms will experience no greater difficulty moving through the structure than if the crossing did not exist.
The design also incorporated utility constraints (gas line, sewer line, drinking water main, and stormwater outlet), a longitudinal profile assessment, channel capacity and slope analysis, and a simplified hydrologic & hydraulic assessment.
Ultimately, Princeton Hydro recommended that HEP replace the existing culvert with a Contech Precast O-321 culvert, or similar alternative. The proposed design increases the culvert opening area and allows for significant increases in flow capacity. This culvert replacement project has the potential to reduce local flood risk and restore aquatic organism passage to the reach of Iresick Brook.
Aquatic connectivity is crucial for improving healthy aquatic ecosystems and managing severe storms and flooding. Increases in rainfall due to climate change makes investing in these improvements even more of a growing priority. With so many culverts in place, it can be difficult to know which culvert restoration projects to prioritize.
We worked with HEP to create a toolkit for addressing problematic road-stream crossings. The easy-to-use matrix helps to prioritize potential projects and identify solutions for problem culverts and relative cost solutions.
The toolkit was just recently released to the public with the hope that it will be used as a template to promote the development of more resilient and environmentally-friendly infrastructure.
Click here to get more info and download.
Our lakes in New Jersey are an invaluable resource for clean drinking water, outdoor recreation, and agriculture and provide habitat for aquatic flora and fauna. Home to about 1,700 lakes, the “Garden State” is also the most densely populated state. Excess nutrients from fertilizers, roadway pollutants, overdevelopment, and failing septic systems can end up in our lakes and impair water quality. Larger rain events can also cause erosion and instability of streams, adding to the influx of more excess nutrients to our lakes and ponds. Changes in hydrology, water chemistry, biology, and/or physical properties in these complex ecosystems can have cascading consequences that can alter water quality and the surrounding ecosystem. For example, excess nutrients can fuel algal and plant growth in lakes and lead to issues like harmful algal blooms (HABs) or fish kills.
In order to ensure that we protect the overall health of our local waterbodies, it’s important that we look beyond just the lake itself. Implementing holistic watershed-based planning is a critical step in managing stormwater runoff, preventing the spread of HABs, and maintaining water quality. A watershed management plan defines and addresses existing or future water quality problems from both point sources and nonpoint sources of pollutants*. This approach addresses all the beneficial uses of a waterbody, the criteria needed to protect the use, and the strategies required to restore water quality or prevent degradation. When developing a watershed plan, we review all the tools in the toolbox and recommend a variety of best management practices to prevent nutrients from entering lakes or streams. Options include short- and long-term solutions such as green stormwater infrastructure, stream bank stabilization, and stormwater basin retrofits.
To reduce nutrient availability in lakes, one innovative tool in our toolbox is floating wetland islands (FWIs). FWIs are a low-cost, effective green infrastructure solution that are designed to mimic natural wetlands in a sustainable, efficient, and powerful way. They improve water quality by assimilating and removing excess nutrients; provide valuable ecological habitat for a variety of beneficial species; help mitigate wave and wind erosion impacts; provide an aesthetic element; and add significant biodiversity enhancement within open freshwater environments. FWIs are also highly effective in a range of waterbodies from big to small, from deep to shallow.
Typically, FWIs consist of a constructed floating mat, usually composed of woven, recycled plastic material, with vegetation planted directly into the material. The islands are then launched into the lake and anchored in place, and, once established, require very little maintenance.
It estimated that one 250-square-foot FWI has a surface area equal to approximately one acre of natural wetland. These floating ecosystems can remove approximately 10 pounds of phosphorus each year. To put that into perspective, one pound of phosphorus can produce 1,100 pounds of algae each year, so each 250-square-feet of FWI can potentially mitigate up to 11,000 pounds of algae.
In addition to removing phosphorus that can feed nuisance aquatic plant growth and algae, FWIs also provide excellent refuge habitat for beneficial forage fish and can provide protection from shoreline erosion.
Princeton Hydro has been working with Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey’s largest Lake, for 30+ years, restoring the lake, managing the watershed, reducing pollutant loading, and addressing invasive aquatic plants and nuisance algal blooms. Back in 2012, Lake Hopatcong became the first public lake in New Jersey to install FWIs. In the summer of 2022, nine more FWIs were installed in the lake with help from staff and volunteers from the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, Lake Hopatcong Commission, and Princeton Hydro. The lake’s Landing Channel and Ashley Cove were chosen for the installations because they are both fairly shallow and prone to weed growth. The installation of these floating wetland islands is part of a series of water quality initiatives on Lake Hopatcong funded by a NJDEP Harmful Algal Bloom Grant and 319(h) Grant awarded to Lake Hopatcong Commission and Lake Hopatcong Foundation.
Princeton Hydro partnered with the Greenwood Lake Commission (GWLC) on a FWI installation in Belcher's Creek, the main tributary of Greenwood Lake. The lake, a 1,920-acre waterbody located in both New Jersey and New York, is a highly valued ecological, economical, and recreational resource. The lake also serves as a headwater supply of potable water that flows to the Monksville Reservoir and eventually into the Wanaque Reservoir, where it supplies over 3 million people with drinking water.
The goal of the FWI Installation was to help decrease total phosphorus loading, improve water quality, and create important habitat for beneficial aquatic, insect, bird, and wildlife species. The project was partially funded by the NJDEP Water Quality Restoration Grants for Nonpoint Source Pollution Program under Section 319(h) of the federal Clean Water Act. GWLC was awarded one of NJDEP’s matching grants, which provided $2 in funding for every $1 invested by the grant applicant.
Measuring 630+ acres, Harveys Lake is the largest natural lake (by volume) in Pennsylvania and is one of the most heavily used lakes in the area. It is classified as a high quality - cold water fishery habitat (HQ-CWF) and is designated for protection under the classification. Since 2002, The Borough of Harveys Lake and Harveys Lake Environmental Advisory Council has worked with Princeton Hydro on a variety of lake management efforts focused around maintaining high water quality conditions, strengthening stream banks and shorelines, and managing stormwater runoff. Five floating wetland islands were installed in Harveys Lake to assimilate and reduce nutrients already in the lake. The islands were placed in areas with high concentrations of nutrients, placed 50 feet from the shoreline and tethered in place with steel cables and anchored. The FWIs were funded by PADEP.
Working with the Deal Lake Commission (DLC), Princeton Hydro designed and installed 12 floating wetland islands at two lakes in Asbury Park, NJ. In order to complete the installation of the floating wetland islands, our team worked with the DLC to train and assist over 30 volunteers to plant plugs in the islands and launch them into the two lakes. Our experts helped disseminate knowledge to the volunteers, not only about how to install the floating wetland islands, but how they scientifically worked to remove excess nutrients from the water. With assistance from Princeton Hydro, DLC acquired the 12 floating islands – six for Wesley Lake and six for Sunset Lake – through a Clean Water Act Section 319(h) grant awarded by NJDEP.
In addition to the direct environmental benefits of FWIs, the planting events themselves, which usually involve individuals from the local lake communities, have long-lasting positive impacts. When community members come together to help plant FWIs, it gives them a deepened sense of ownership and strengthens their connection to the lake. This, in turn, encourages continued stewardship of the watershed and creates a broader awareness of how human behaviors impact the lake and its water quality. And, real water quality improvements begin at the watershed level with how people treat their land.
For more information on watershed planning or installing FWI in your community, click here to contact us. To learn more about ANJEC, go here.
The Lake Champlain Basin encompasses 8,000 square miles of mountains, forests, farmlands, and communities with 11 major tributaries that drain into Lake Champlain, ranging from 20 miles to 102 miles in stream length. The Vermont and New York portions of the Lake Champlain basin are home to about 500,000 people, with another 100,000 people in the Canadian portions of the watershed. At least 35% of the population relies on Lake Champlain for drinking water.
The Lake Champlain basin is threatened by a large number of non-native aquatic invasive plant and animal species and pathogens. The Champlain Canal, a 60-mile canal in New York that connects the Hudson River to the south end of Lake Champlain has been identified by natural resources scientists and managers as a major pathway by which non-native and invasive species can invade Lake Champlain.
Aquatic invasive species that are present in the surrounding Great Lakes, Erie Canal, and Hudson River (e.g. hydrilla, round goby, Asian clam, quagga mussel, Asian carp, and snakehead) are a threat to Lake Champlain.
Once these harmful aquatic invasive species enter the lake and become established, they compete with and displace native species, severely impacting water quality, the lake ecosystem and the local economy. Infestations of these non-native invasive organisms cost citizens and governments in New York, Vermont, and Quebec millions of dollars each year to control and manage.
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) infestations reduce the recreational and economic health of communities in the Basin by choking waterways, blocking water intake pipes, outcompeting native species, lowering property values, encrusting historic shipwrecks, and ruining beaches. Additionally, they are known to decrease biodiversity and change the structure and function of ecosystems by displacing native species, transporting pathogens, and threatening fisheries, public health, and local or even regional economies.
A study of the Champlain Canal was completed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District, in partnership with the Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP), New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), and New York State Canal Corporation (NYSCC), the non-Federal sponsor, New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC), HDR Inc, and Princeton Hydro. The main purpose of the "Champlain Canal Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Barrier Phase 1 Study" was to compare the costs, benefits, and effectiveness of different management alternatives that could best prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species between the Hudson and Champlain drainages via the Champlain Canal.
The primary focus of this study was located at the summit canal between locks C-8 and C-9, as this location is the natural point of separation for the watersheds. This is where (the summit) the Glens Falls Feeder Canal supplies Hudson River water to the height of the Champlain Canal to maintain water levels for navigability that flows south back to the Hudson, but also north and into the Champlain drainage.
The scope of the study included analyzing alternatives for a dispersal barrier on the Champlain Canal and evaluating options to prevent the spread of AIS, including fish, plants, plankton, invertebrates, and pathogens. The study examined potential physical and mechanical modifications to separate the two basins to prevent movement of aquatic nonnative and invasive species between the Hudson River and Lake Champlain. Physically and mechanically modifying the canal was evaluated to be the most effective at reducing the inter-basin transfer of invasives that might swim, float, or be entrained through the system, and it was found to be the most effective protection against all taxa of aquatic nonnative and invasive species.
Princeton Hydro’s main role was the initial administration of the project and development of a species inventory. This species inventory of the Champlain Canal included native and non-native aquatic species and potential aquatic invasive species that are threatening to become invasive to the Canal. Dispersal methods of the species were also evaluated to inform an Alternative Analysis. The overall study includes a Cost Benefit Analysis and Final Recommendations report of the Alternatives.
The project team utilized a standard, three-step approach for developing alternatives: 1) gather general information about measures that may contribute to a solution to the problem, 2) narrow the list of measures through application of project-specific constraints, and 3) develop alternatives by combining measures that reduce or eliminate the cross-basin transfer of invasive species.
The alternative to construct a physical barrier across the canal was identified as the most effective approach to limiting the transfer of non-native AIS, and would address all taxa – plants, animals, plankton, viruses and pathogens. This alternative would include the installation and management of a large boat lift, a boat access ramp, a boat cleaning station, and repairs to the existing lock seals.
At the Glens Falls Feeder Canal cleaning station and boat lift area, small and large boats would be cleaned prior to being placed back in the water on the other side, and the wash water would be captured and stored to be sent to a treatment plant. This alternative provides the most effective protection from AIS crossing between the Hudson River and Lake Champlain Watersheds, but it does remove the possibility of large commercial barges traveling the full length of the canal. A larger loading/offloading and cleaning facility would be required for commercial shipping vessels to be granted continued access along the canal.
In a press release from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announcing the completion of the Phase I Study, Colonel Matthew Luzzatto, Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District was quoted as saying, “This is an important milestone in moving forward towards a more healthy ecosystem for the Lake Champlain and Hudson River Watersheds. These two watersheds are vital to the lives and wellbeing of millions of residents of New York and Vermont. This study will have a positive impact on the overall economic and ecological health of the Lake Champlain Region, this is a win-win-win for all interested parties."
Following the completion of the Phase I portion of the study, the Phase II portion of the study will consist of detailed analyses of alternatives including engineering studies such as hydrologic evaluation for stream capacities / canal makeup water, geotechnical investigations at the location of the proposed concrete berm, topographic / utility survey as well as boundary / easement survey, vessel traffic studies through the canal, detailed cost estimates, and NEPA compliance. Once Phase II is complete and funding is appropriated, the Canal Barrier Project will be closer to construction.
Ecological restoration work is underway in the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which is celebrated as America's First Urban Refuge. Friends of Heinz Refuge hired Princeton Hydro and teammates Enviroscapes and Merestone Consultants to provide engineering design, environmental compliance, engineering oversight, and construction implementation to enhance and restore aquatic, wetland, and riparian habitats and adjacent uplands within the Turkey Foot area of the Refuge.
The Turkey Foot project area is an approximately 7.5-acre site within the greater 1,200-acre John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, which is located within the City of Philadelphia and neighboring Tinicum Township in Philadelphia and Delaware Counties, about one-half mile north of Philadelphia International Airport.
The Refuge protects approximately 200 acres of the last remaining freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania and represents an important migratory stopover along the Atlantic Flyway, a major north-south flyway for migratory birds in North America. It also provides protected breeding habitat for State-listed threatened and endangered species, as well as many neotropical migrants, such as the American Bittern, Least Bittern, Black-crowned Night-heron, King Rail, Great Egret, Yellow-crowned Night-heron, and Sedge Wren.
The Refuge was established for the purposes of preserving, restoring, and developing the natural area known as Tinicum Marsh, as well as to provide an environmental education center for its visitors. The Refuge contains a variety of ecosystems unique in Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia metropolitan area, including tidal and non-tidal freshwater marshes, freshwater tidal creeks, open impoundment waters, coastal plain forests, and early successional grasslands. Although many of the Refuge’s ecosystems have been degraded, damaged, or, in some cases, destroyed as a result of numerous historic impacts dating back to the mid-17th century, many of these impacted ecosystems have the potential to be restored or enhanced through various management and restoration efforts.
The Turkey Foot project area is an example of one of the historically impacted ecosystems at the Refuge with tremendous opportunity for ecological restoration. The Friends of Heinz Refuge and the project team are working to restore and enhance the aquatic habitats, wetlands, riparian buffers, and adjacent uplands within the project area.
The approach for the restoration project focuses on creating approximately four acres of contiguous wetland habitat bordered by a functional riparian buffer. The design includes the creation of three habitat zones: intertidal marsh, high marsh, and upland grassland.
Incorporating the three elements into the landscape will help to establish foraging, breeding, and nesting habitat for critical wildlife species, including Eastern Black Rail, a threatened species listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
The project work also includes a robust invasive species management plan, aimed at removing close to 100% of the invasive species, supported by an adaptive management monitoring program that will guide the development of the restored site towards the ultimate goal of establishing a diverse and productive coastal ecosystem within the Turkey Foot project area.
The team also completed site grading to increase tidal flushing within the Turkey Foot’s two ponds, create intertidal and high marsh wetlands, prevent stagnant water and nutrient accumulation in bottom sediments, and reduce the reestablishment of invasive species. The bottom of the existing ponds were raised to elevations that support the establishment of intertidal marsh. The pond banks were then regraded to create the appropriate elevations for freshwater intertidal marsh and high marsh. Additionally, the tidally influenced connection points between the two ponds and the linear channel were enlarged.
Refuge Manager Lamar Gore recently visited the Turkey Foot project site and interviewed Deputy Refuge Manager, Mariana Bergerson, and Princeton Hydro Director of Restoration and Resilience, Christiana Pollack, about the progress made thus far and what's to come. Watch now:
In Spring of 2023, the team will install a wide variety of native wetland plant species plugs and continue its work to restore the riparian buffer habitats within the Turkey Foot project area. The high marsh will be planted with a mix of native coastal plain wetland species, including fine-stemmed emergent plants, primarily rushes and grasses, with high stem densities and dense canopy cover, using species such as chairmaker's bulrush, river bulrush, blue flag, and rice cutgrass. The installation of river bulrush, a Pennsylvania-listed rare species, will provide beneficial wildlife habitat and serve to expand the range of this species in Pennsylvania. Additionally, restoring the high marsh will create the foundation for establishing Black Rail habitat and giving the threatened species protection from predators and opportunities to glean insects and other invertebrates from the ground and water.
The restoration and enhancement of riparian buffer habitats will reduce sedimentation and lower pond temperatures, improving water quality for native fish and invertebrates. Riparian buffers also filter nutrients in runoff and deter eutrophication of the ponds, and provide high quality food sources for native and migratory species, unlike the invasive species which provide low nutrient value foods.
Please stay tuned to our blog for more project updates once the plantings have been completed in the Spring, as well as before and after photos once the plants are established. To read more about Princeton Hydro's robust natural resource management and restoration services, click here.
The Lion’s Gate Park and Urban Wetland Floodplain Creation Project has been chosen as a winner of the New Jersey Future “Smart Growth Awards” for 2022. The project transformed a densely developed, flood-prone, industrial site into a thriving public active recreation park with 4.2 acres of wetlands.
As stated in the New Jersey Future award announcement, “The park is representative of smart growth values, with walkable trails in the middle of a residential area, a regenerated protected wetland which helps to mitigate flooding from storms like Hurricane Ida, and mixed-use opportunities for recreation. The dual roles of Lion Gate Park as both a source of resilience and recreation demonstrate a model of land use and planning that values the accessibility of public spaces while acknowledging and addressing the urgent need to adapt to the growing impacts of climate change in New Jersey.”
The restoration project site is located in Bloomfield Township and includes 1,360 feet along the east bank of the Third River and 3,040 feet along the banks of the Spring Brook. These waterways are freshwater tributaries of the Passaic River and share a history of flooding above the site’s 100-year floodplain. The Third River, like many urban streams, tends to be the victim of excessive volume and is subjected to erosion and chronic, uncontrolled flooding.
By removing a little over four acres of upland historic fill in this density developed area and restoring the natural floodplain connection, we significantly improved the land’s ecological value; enhanced the aquatic and wildlife habitat; increased flood storage capacity for urban stormwater runoff; replaced invasive plant species with thriving native wetland and riparian plant communities; and provided outdoor recreation accessibility to Bloomfield Township.
The Lion Gate Park project is the culmination of nearly two decades of collaborative work. The primary project team includes the Township of Bloomfield, NY/NJ Baykeeper, Bloomfield Third River Association, CME Associates, PPD Design, GK+A Architects, Enviroscapes, Strauss and Associates/Planners, and Princeton Hydro. The project recieved $1.76 million in funding from the New Jersey Freshwater Wetlands Mitigation Council and another several million dollars from NJDEP’s Office of Natural Resource Restoration.
Princeton Hydro served as the ecological engineer to Bloomfield Township. Our scientists and engineers assisted in obtaining grants, collected background ecological data through field sampling and surveying, created a water budget, completed all necessary permitting, designed both the conceptual and final restoration plans, and conducted construction oversight throughout the project. Enviroscapes and Princeton Hydro are currently monitoring the site on behalf of the Township.
“Local residents are already benefiting from this floodplain creation project. During Tropical Storm Ida, the area held significant flood waters,” said Mark Gallagher, Vice President of Princeton Hydro. “This restoration project really exemplifies how a diverse group of public and private entities can work together to prioritize urban and underserved areas to mitigate flooding and create new open space. We’re honored to be recognized by NJ Future and selected as a winner of this important award.”
Since 2002, New Jersey Future has honored smart planning and redevelopment in New Jersey through its "Smart Growth Awards." The projects and plans chosen each year represent some of the best examples of sustainable growth and redevelopment in the state. For a complete list of 2022 Award Winners, click here. For more info on New Jersey Future, click here.
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