We’re committed to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better.
Our passion and commitment to the integration of innovative science and engineering drive us to exceed on behalf of every client.
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Designed as a real‑world, community‑based challenge, the experience invited students to reimagine a section of Trenton currently under study as part of the proposed Route 29 relocation project, which aims to reconnect the community to the Delaware River. The goal was simple but powerful: give students a firsthand look at how planning, engineering, and community engagement shape the places they live, and let them experience those processes in action. Learning by Doing: A Real‑World Design Challenge To start the workshop, students explored the basics of land use, Trenton’s development history, and the many steps that go into shaping an engineering project. They learned how planning, engineering design, permitting, construction, funding, and community engagement all work together to influence what gets built and why. With support from the "experts," they analyzed printed maps and photos of the selected site, identifying existing conditions and imagining what could be improved. [gallery columns="2" size="medium" ids="19697,19696"] Once the activity began, the room quickly transformed into a bustling design studio. Each group received a large map of the site and a spread of crafting materials like blocks, clay, paper, and markers. From there, they built their vision for a future Trenton. Some groups focused on green space and walkability. Others imagined mixed‑use corridors, safer crossings, or new community gathering areas. A few even experimented with stormwater‑friendly designs, weaving in concepts they had learned earlier in the session. [gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="19682,19681,19680,19692,19688,19694"] Guided by Experts, Led by Students Throughout the activity, the "experts" from Princeton Hydro including an Engineer, Environmental Scientist, Grant Writer, Communications Specialist, Landscape Architect, and Wildlife Biologist, moved between tables, answering questions, offering technical insight, and encouraging students to think about how different stakeholders might view the same space. Residents, businesses, commuters, environmental groups, and city officials all bring different priorities to the table, and the students quickly discovered how complex those perspectives can be. The students were challenged with questions like "How are you going to fund this project?" "What's your engagement strategy to sell this to your peers?" and "How are you going to manage potential flooding from the river or stormwater in the park?" [gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="19689,19690,19706,19686"] Becky Taylor, a longtime Trenton advocate, co‑chair of the Cadwalader Park Alliance, and leader of Trenton Walks! also joined the teaching team for the day. Her work supporting Cadwalader Park’s restoration and experience leading dozens of walks throughout the City has connected her deeply with residents across the city. She is a strategic public affairs executive and small business owner, so as she engaged with students, she encouraged them to think about how public spaces carry history, identity, and community memory, and how thoughtful design can help strengthen those connections. The students also learned something planners and engineers know well: There is rarely a single right answer. Every design choice involves tradeoffs, and every community space should reflect the values of the people who help shape it. Presenting Their Vision for Trenton After building their models, each group presented their development plan to the room as if they were selling their vision to their local community in a public meeting. They explained their design choices, highlighted community needs, and described how their ideas could improve quality of life for residents. The presentations were thoughtful, creative, and deeply rooted in the students’ lived experience. Many spoke about wanting safer streets, more places to gather, and greener, more welcoming public spaces. Others emphasized the importance of honoring Trenton’s history while planning for its future. They designed features such as a flower garden, a pier for fishing, a stormwater park, wildlife habitat, sports fields, and a kid's playground. One group proposed to elevate the new Route 29 so that the community could walk directly from downtown to their new riverfront park without safety issues of crossing a road. Another group deemed the waterfront development "Trenton 2.0" with trees lining the riverfront, renewable wind energy, and raised housing. For our team, this workshop reinforced what we already know to be true: youth engagement in STEAM education matters. Young people notice how a place feels to move through, where it feels safe or unsafe, and what kinds of spaces are missing in their daily lives. When given the tools, they articulate those needs with confidence. They also tend to think collaboratively, naturally considering community needs alongside their own. By learning how land use works and seeing the steps behind planning and development, students begin to understand how decisions are made and how those decisions affect the character of their neighborhoods. Most importantly, they start to see themselves as active participants in shaping their city rather than passive observers. Their insights help ground planning conversations in lived experience, and their voices strengthen the long‑term vision for any community project. [gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="19693,19691,19678,19695"] Looking Ahead We are grateful to Foundation Academies for spending Earth Day with us and for bringing their energy and insight to this design challenge. As the Route 29 relocation/waterfront study continues, we remain committed to creating opportunities for meaningful participation, especially from young people who will inherit the outcomes of today’s planning decisions. [post_title] => Reimagining Trenton: Foundation Academies Students Explore Placemaking with Princeton Hydro [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => reimagining-trenton-foundation-academies-students-explore-placemaking-with-princeton-hydro [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-04-24 16:17:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-04-24 16:17:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19669 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 19656 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2026-04-22 21:11:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-04-22 21:11:51 [post_content] => Earth Day is more than a date on the calendar! It’s a gentle nudge to reconnect with the natural world around us, and a reminder that everyday actions can shape a more sustainable future. Whether you’re tending a garden, removing invasive plants, or picking up litter while out on a walk, these small steps add up to a healthier, more resilient planet. This year, our team found a few fun and meaningful ways to mark the occasion, and we hope this inspires you to get outside and get growing, too. Get Your Garden Spring-Ready: 5 Simple Tips [gallery link="none" ids="1163,17443,2043"] Spring is the perfect season to take action in your yard or community green space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, here are a few tips from our team to help your garden thrive: Prep Your Soil: Loosen the ground and give it a good soak before planting. This helps roots settle in and access nutrients more easily. Choose Natives: Native plants are adapted to local conditions, support pollinators, and often require less maintenance and water. Tame the Invasives: Remove or reduce invasive species early in the season before they take hold. It’s a simple way to give native plants room to grow. Tickle Those Roots: When transplanting plugs or potted plants, gently loosen the roots. It helps the plant establish itself faster. Water Deeply: Give new plantings a thorough watering to help them recover from transplant shock and get settled in their new home. Looking for more tips? Princeton Hydro landscape architects Jamie Feinstein, RLA and Cory Speroff, PLA, ASLA, CBLP shared their top spring gardening tips in an "Ask Me Anything" Facebook live Q&A session, including:
This Earth Day, students from Foundation Academy Collegiate in Trenton, NJ took their learning beyond the classroom through an immersive placemaking workshop hosted by Princeton Hydro. Designed as a real‑world, community‑based challenge, the experience invited students to reimagine a section of Trenton currently under study as part of the proposed Route 29 relocation project, which aims to reconnect the community to the Delaware River.
The goal was simple but powerful: give students a firsthand look at how planning, engineering, and community engagement shape the places they live, and let them experience those processes in action.
To start the workshop, students explored the basics of land use, Trenton’s development history, and the many steps that go into shaping an engineering project. They learned how planning, engineering design, permitting, construction, funding, and community engagement all work together to influence what gets built and why. With support from the "experts," they analyzed printed maps and photos of the selected site, identifying existing conditions and imagining what could be improved.
Once the activity began, the room quickly transformed into a bustling design studio. Each group received a large map of the site and a spread of crafting materials like blocks, clay, paper, and markers. From there, they built their vision for a future Trenton.
Some groups focused on green space and walkability. Others imagined mixed‑use corridors, safer crossings, or new community gathering areas. A few even experimented with stormwater‑friendly designs, weaving in concepts they had learned earlier in the session.
Throughout the activity, the "experts" from Princeton Hydro including an Engineer, Environmental Scientist, Grant Writer, Communications Specialist, Landscape Architect, and Wildlife Biologist, moved between tables, answering questions, offering technical insight, and encouraging students to think about how different stakeholders might view the same space. Residents, businesses, commuters, environmental groups, and city officials all bring different priorities to the table, and the students quickly discovered how complex those perspectives can be. The students were challenged with questions like "How are you going to fund this project?" "What's your engagement strategy to sell this to your peers?" and "How are you going to manage potential flooding from the river or stormwater in the park?"
Becky Taylor, a longtime Trenton advocate, co‑chair of the Cadwalader Park Alliance, and leader of Trenton Walks! also joined the teaching team for the day. Her work supporting Cadwalader Park’s restoration and experience leading dozens of walks throughout the City has connected her deeply with residents across the city. She is a strategic public affairs executive and small business owner, so as she engaged with students, she encouraged them to think about how public spaces carry history, identity, and community memory, and how thoughtful design can help strengthen those connections.
The students also learned something planners and engineers know well: There is rarely a single right answer. Every design choice involves tradeoffs, and every community space should reflect the values of the people who help shape it.
After building their models, each group presented their development plan to the room as if they were selling their vision to their local community in a public meeting. They explained their design choices, highlighted community needs, and described how their ideas could improve quality of life for residents.
The presentations were thoughtful, creative, and deeply rooted in the students’ lived experience. Many spoke about wanting safer streets, more places to gather, and greener, more welcoming public spaces. Others emphasized the importance of honoring Trenton’s history while planning for its future. They designed features such as a flower garden, a pier for fishing, a stormwater park, wildlife habitat, sports fields, and a kid's playground. One group proposed to elevate the new Route 29 so that the community could walk directly from downtown to their new riverfront park without safety issues of crossing a road. Another group deemed the waterfront development "Trenton 2.0" with trees lining the riverfront, renewable wind energy, and raised housing.
For our team, this workshop reinforced what we already know to be true: youth engagement in STEAM education matters. Young people notice how a place feels to move through, where it feels safe or unsafe, and what kinds of spaces are missing in their daily lives. When given the tools, they articulate those needs with confidence. They also tend to think collaboratively, naturally considering community needs alongside their own.
By learning how land use works and seeing the steps behind planning and development, students begin to understand how decisions are made and how those decisions affect the character of their neighborhoods. Most importantly, they start to see themselves as active participants in shaping their city rather than passive observers. Their insights help ground planning conversations in lived experience, and their voices strengthen the long‑term vision for any community project.
We are grateful to Foundation Academies for spending Earth Day with us and for bringing their energy and insight to this design challenge. As the Route 29 relocation/waterfront study continues, we remain committed to creating opportunities for meaningful participation, especially from young people who will inherit the outcomes of today’s planning decisions.
Earth Day is more than a date on the calendar! It’s a gentle nudge to reconnect with the natural world around us, and a reminder that everyday actions can shape a more sustainable future. Whether you’re tending a garden, removing invasive plants, or picking up litter while out on a walk, these small steps add up to a healthier, more resilient planet. This year, our team found a few fun and meaningful ways to mark the occasion, and we hope this inspires you to get outside and get growing, too.
Spring is the perfect season to take action in your yard or community green space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, here are a few tips from our team to help your garden thrive:
Looking for more tips? Princeton Hydro landscape architects Jamie Feinstein, RLA and Cory Speroff, PLA, ASLA, CBLP shared their top spring gardening tips in an "Ask Me Anything" Facebook live Q&A session, including:
To welcome spring and celebrate Earth Day, members of the Princeton Hydro team spent an afternoon outside tending the native garden bed at the Trenton headquarters. Located at the front of the building, the perennial planting area features climate-adapted, drought-resistant native species chosen for their ecological benefits and aesthetic appeal.
Although perennials return year after year, they still benefit from seasonal care. Tasks like weeding, pruning, and loosening the soil support strong root systems, encourage healthy growth, and help maintain a thriving, sustainable garden ecosystem. Recognizing the garden's significance and the value of collaboration, our team united to accommodate and nurture this year's growth.
Feeling inspired? Organizing a gardening day is a fun, low-cost way to give back to your environment and bring people together. Celebrate Earth Day 2025 by starting a garden, volunteering with a local environmental group, or organizing your own mini planting day with friends, family or coworkers.
Rain gardens are a beautiful, low-maintenance green infrastructure solution for managing stormwater, reducing erosion, and improving water quality by filtering pollutants before they reach local waterways. They also provide valuable habitat for pollinators and other beneficial wildlife.
Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, P.E. led a free public workshop on how to build a rain garden of your own. Hosted in Yardley, PA by the Lower Makefield Township Environmental Advisory Council as part of their Environmental Lecture Series, the session offered practical, approachable guidance for managing stormwater at home.
Using photos from his own yard, Geoffrey walked attendees through how he designed and installed a rain garden to reduce runoff and eliminate pooling water. He shared ten easy-to-follow tips and answered questions on plant selection, drainage strategies, long-term maintenance, and when and why to amend soil before planting.
Want to learn more? Watch Geoffrey’s full presentation and get inspired to create your own eco-friendly solution to stormwater management:
The real spirit of Earth Day lies in our ongoing commitment to care for the natural world, not just once a year, but in everyday choices and community actions. As Geoffrey quoted in his rain garden presentation, "Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world." – Howard Zinn.
Charlie is a licensed Professional Engineer and a Certified Floodplain Manager with over five years of experience in water resources engineering. His expertise includes hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, green stormwater infrastructure, civil site design, ecological restoration, and flood resilience. Charlie holds a M.S. in Biological Systems Engineering and B.S. Environmental Science/B.A. Geography from Virginia Tech.
Prior to joining Princeton Hydro, Charlie worked as a Water Resources Engineer for Meliora Design, where he designed green stormwater infrastructure projects such as rain gardens and underground infiltration beds, created master plans for state and local parks, and modeled conceptual floodplain restoration studies for the Brandywine Creek Flood Study. Before Meliora, he worked at Kleinschmidt Associates where he worked on hydrologic and hydraulic projects such as dam breaches, dam removals, nature-like fishways, and FEMA LOMRs.
Outside of work, he likes to play ultimate frisbee and lead his local Environmental Advisory Council where he plans park invasive removals and tree giveaways.
Mike serves as the Business Administration and Compliance Manager at Princeton Hydro. He brings a unique perspective to the team, built over a 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force as a KC-10 Extender Boom Operator. During his time in the service, Mike did more than just fly; he managed global logistics missions and was responsible for the essential training, certification, and compliance of aircrew members.
After retiring from the military, Mike spent four years as a Senior Manager at Verizon, where he focused on business transformation and strategy. Today, he uses that background to lead our efforts in regulatory compliance, policy development, and keeping our administrative processes running smoothly.
Mike holds an MBA from Temple University and a B.S. in Business from Penn State. When he’s not in the office, you’ll likely find him cooking, traveling with his family, or tending to his woodworking projects, garden, and chickens.
Tyler graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 2024 with a B.S. in Environmental Science and Management. At URI, he began as a research assistant studying the rapid spread of aquatic invasive species throughout Rhode Island’s wetlands. Tyler later transitioned to marine systems, assisting a project at URI’s Graduate School of Oceanography investigating phytoplankton dynamics in the Gulf of Mexico. While studying abroad at the Universidad Católica de Valencia in Spain, Tyler researched the Mediterranean fan mussel and became Scuba certified.
Following his graduation, Tyler stayed with the Graduate School of Oceanography to complete a project aboard the RV/IB Nathaniel B. Palmer. Here, he researched phytoplankton blooms along Antarctica’s coast and across the Southern Ocean while also achieving his dream of setting foot on all seven continents.
During his free time, Tyler enjoys surfing, reading, playing music, and exploring Philadelphia, where he now lives.
Our newest team members are already making valuable contributions, and we’re excited to see their impact continue to grow. We’re so glad to have them as part of the team!
When it comes to restoring lakes and safeguarding watershed health, effective and sustainable solutions depend on science, partnerships, and sustained investment. Princeton Hydro Senior Manager of Aquatics Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM was invited as one of the select experts chosen to represent the North American Lake Management Society’s (NALMS) 314 Working Group in Washington, DC to contribute technical insight and real world expertise during discussions with congressional staff and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) leadership about the policies and funding resources that help communities across the country address nonpoint source pollution.
There are several federal funding programs that states, tribes, local governments, and nonprofits rely on to support critical water-quality improvement initiatives. Among them, Clean Water Act Section 319(h) is a cornerstone program that supports nonpoint source management projects like watershed-based planning, stormwater retrofits, riparian restoration, and targeted education programs. It is administered by USEPA and delivered through states and qualified tribes, and funding typically requires a nonfederal cost share to leverage local investment. In recent federal budget cycles, elements of this funding landscape have faced proposed reductions or complete eliminations by the current administration, including sharp reductions to the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds.
Against that backdrop, the NALMS 314 Working Group organized a bipartisan “fly in” to share data, case studies, and practical policy options with Senate offices and USEPA’s Office of Water, emphasizing how programs like Section 319 translate into measurable, local water quality gains. The group, which included Committee Member Mark Heilman; NALMS Board Member Ben Rhoades; government strategist Drue Winters; and NALMS Past-President Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM, held meetings with the offices of Senators Wicker (R-MS), Markey (D-MA), Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Sanders (D-VT); both majority and minority staff of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works; and the EPA Office of Water leadership.
Another focal point of the DC conversations was the National Lakes Assessment (NLA), a statistically rigorous survey of lake conditions conducted every five years by USEPA and its state and tribal partners. The most recent NLA, fielded in 2022, provides nationally consistent insight into ecosystem health, key stressors, and recreational indicators, and it helps policymakers understand where water quality is improving or declining and how to target investments.
Created under the Clean Water Act, Section 319(h) is one of the nation’s primary funding tools for tackling runoff driven water quality issues. Through this program, states and tribes can invest in incentive-based, nonpoint source pollution reduction projects. Examples of activities eligible for 319(h) funding include watershed-based planning, BMP implementation, education and outreach, and water quality assessment and monitoring.
Because 319(h) is administered through state programs, it supports local priorities while aligning with national goals. Over time, this approach has enabled communities to design watershed specific strategies, from agricultural and urban stormwater controls to nature-based green infrastructure, and to document water quality improvements with consistent methods. In most cases, a 40% non-federal funding match is required.
At Princeton Hydro, we’ve seen firsthand how Section 319(h) translates into action through state run grant programs. In New Jersey, the NJDEP Water Quality Restoration Grants support projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution, mitigate harmful algal blooms, restore riparian areas, enhance watershed and climate resilience, and restore water quality in New Jersey. The grants are funded through Section 319(h) and administered by NJDEP’s Watershed & Land Management Program.
Princeton Hydro is proud to be a partner on five of the 17 projects most recently awarded funding (2025) through NJDEP’s Water Quality Restoration grants. Our contributions vary by project and encompass activities such as engineering design, water quality assessment, watershed-based planning, and technical support for implementing stormwater and habitat restoration measures. We also supported several partners in developing successful NJDEP Section 319(h) applications, including technical documentation, cost estimates, conceptual designs, and pollutant load reduction estimates.
To take a deeper dive into our most recent collaborations, click here to read our blog: NJDEP Awards $8M for Water Quality Restoration Projects
Princeton Hydro is grateful to NALMS and our fellow 314 Working Group members for convening this effort, and to the Senate offices and USEPA leaders who engaged in thoughtful, solutions-oriented conversations. These conversations are already translating into tangible results.
Following these coordinated advocacy efforts Clean Water Act Section 319(h) funding was restored in the federal budget with an increase of $750,000. More broadly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ultimately fared better than many federal agencies during the most recent budget cycle, with several programs initially proposed for reduction or elimination reinstated through congressional negotiations.
Chris Mikolajczyk is a Certified Lake Manager and aquatic ecologist with over 35 years of experience in conducting the management, oversight, and coordination of water resource projects in three main areas: aquatic resource restoration and management; aquatic ecosystem sampling and investigations; and stormwater quality modeling and management. Chris also manages the design and implementation of watershed restoration projects, many funded by EPA 319(h), such as structural BMPs; bio-engineering techniques for nutrient reduction; development of TMDL pollutant budgets; and watershed-based monitoring programs. To date, Chris has managed projects involving over 100 lakes and reservoirs. Chris has been a member of the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) for over 20 years. In that time, he has served on the Board of Directors, chaired the Professional Certification Committee, and served as president from November 2021- November 2022. He currently serves as Board President for the Colorado Lake and Reservoir Management Association.
Princeton Hydro recently joined coastal and climate resilience practitioners from across the region at the 2026 New Jersey Coastal & Climate Resilience Conference, hosted by the New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative (NJCRC) and the New Jersey Department of Environment Projection (NJDEP). With this year’s theme, “Navigating Changing Tides,” the three-day conference brought together hundreds of professionals to share ideas, explore solutions, and strengthen the partnerships essential to advancing coastal resilience.
As part of the conference program, Princeton Hydro's Director of Marketing & Communications Dana Patterson Grear organized a Sunrise Bird Walk at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, led by Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE, Senior Wildlife Biologist at Princeton Hydro, alongside Drew McQuade and Aleshanee Mooney of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA).
A group of 25+ participants traveled the eight‑mile loop along Wildlife Drive, collectively observing 62 bird species along the way. Highlights included two White Ibis, an Osprey perched on a nesting platform, and hundreds of Snow Geese. As the group approached the end of the loop, a Peregrine Falcon provided the perfect send-off, holding its perch on a refuge sign while the caravan rolled by.
Dr. Clay Emerson, PE, CFM, Senior Technical Director of Engineering Services, shared his perspective on New Jersey’s changing coastal environment and the role bay island restoration can play in protecting vulnerable shorelines.
Clay’s presentation explored how coastal dynamics, restoration design, and resilience planning intersect, offering practical insight into nature‑based strategies that support shoreline stability and long‑term adaptability. His ability to translate complex processes into clear, engaging concepts resonated strongly with the conference audience. Moderated by Tom Herrington of the Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute, Clay participated in a Q&A panel discussion with NOAA Coastal Resilience Fellow Heather Korzun and Research Scientist Dr. John Swartz of The Water Institute to conclude the "Building Community Resilience" breakout session.
Dr. Fred Lubnow, Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, gave a poster presentation focused on Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in coastal environments.
Fred’s work examined how HABs behave in dynamic coastal systems, how to identify HABs, and restoration strategies. In the context of the conference theme, his presentation reinforced that HABs are not just seasonal nuisances, but long‑term resilience challenges that require integrated science, monitoring, and restoration approaches.
As part of the conference's Tools Café, Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing & Communications, led a digital storytelling demonstration, titled “Launching an Interactive ArcGIS StoryMap for Public Outreach.” The session demonstrated how digital tools like StoryMaps can be used to translate complex data into accessible narratives that support community engagement, education, and informed decision‑making. Dana guided participants through several ArcGIS StoryMaps created by Princeton Hydro for clients and project partners, showcasing applications ranging from restoration projects and environmental resource inventories to water quality assessments and community science initiatives.
Princeton Hydro was proud to host a conference networking event alongside co‑sponsors Stantec, Baird, and Barnegat Oyster Collective. The gathering created space for conversation, collaboration, and relationship‑building, an essential part of advancing coastal resiliency initiatives and cross‑disciplinary problem‑solving. Attendees enjoyed brief remarks from each of the event sponsors, along with happy‑hour refreshments, and a complimentary oyster bar provided by the Barnegat Oyster Collective. Our team had a great time connecting with colleagues and celebrating the collaborative energy that defined the conference.
Another highlight of the conference for our team was a field trip to The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey’s South Cape May Meadows, where participants explored the newly completed boardwalk, a Princeton Hydro-designed project that creates a half‑mile, universally accessible route through one of the region’s most ecologically significant landscapes. Commissioned by The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey and installed by Renova Environmental Company, the project was designed to provide inclusive public access and opportunities for environmental education while carefully protecting a fragile ecosystem that serves as a vital stopover along the Atlantic Flyway.
Designing a public trail within such a dynamic wetland system required a careful balance between human experience and habitat preservation, with the goal of creating an inviting, educational, and fully accessible route without disturbing critical hydrology, soils, or wildlife. Walking the boardwalk alongside fellow NJCRC Conference participants was a meaningful, full-circle moment for our team, bringing the project’s vision to life.
Huge thanks to New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for pulling together another incredible conference. We headed home with new connections, new ideas, and a renewed sense of pride in the work we all do!
Dr. Fred Lubnow, Princeton Hydro's Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, and Jenn Rogers, Executive Director of Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space (FoHVOS), were recently featured on the Native Plants, Healthy Planet podcast to discuss the collaborative, first‑of‑its‑kind initiative to monitor Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the Delaware River Watershed using drones, spatial analysis, and community science.
The Delaware River is a lifeline for more than 14 million people, a refuge for wildlife, and a defining natural feature of the region. In recent years, HABs, once confined mostly to lakes and ponds, have expanded into streams and rivers and appearing in colder months. Understanding why this shift is happening, and how to predict it, is essential for protecting water quality, public health, and ecological resilience within the Delaware River watershed and watersheds nationwide.
The podcast, hosted by Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick of Pinelands Nursey, highlights the urgency of addressing HABs and the innovative, cross‑sector partnership driving this work forward. Listen now: Harmful Algal Blooms with Dr. Fred Lubnow and Jenn Rogers.
Jenn Rogers, Executive Director of FoHVOS, brings two decades of conservation leadership to the partnership. Her background spans naturalist education, ecological stewardship, and the development of large-scale restoration and public engagement programs. During her fourteen years with the Mercer County Park Commission, she helped establish both the Environmental Education and Stewardship Departments and oversaw the care of more than ten thousand acres of parkland.
Jenn has spent her career building programs that connect people to the landscapes around them. Her commitment to community-driven conservation make her a key partner in a project that relies on both scientific rigor and public participation. Her perspective highlights how land use, watershed health, and community stewardship are deeply interconnected.
Dr. Fred Lubnow serves as Princeton Hydro’s Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services and brings more than 30 years of experience in limnology, watershed restoration, and community and ecosystem ecology. His career has focused on understanding how freshwater systems respond to nutrient loading, hydrologic change, and long-term environmental pressures. He has designed and led numerous lake and watershed restoration projects, developed USEPA Nine-Element and TMDL-driven watershed plans, and created field-based cyanobacteria and cyanotoxin monitoring programs that are now used across the region.
Fred’s expertise in the taxonomy, ecology, and management of algae, particularly cyanobacteria, has made him a leading voice in the study of HABs. He currently serves on New Jersey’s HABs Advisory Team, where he helps interpret water quality data and advises on mitigation strategies. His scientific leadership guides the technical design and implementation of the Delaware River HAB monitoring initiative.
Now entering its second year, the Delaware River HAB monitoring initiative is expanding both its scientific scope and its community engagement efforts. Building on the foundation established in 2025, the project team is conducting multi‑season drone flights, enhanced satellite‑based surveys, and targeted on‑the‑water sampling along 73 miles of the Delaware River and 24 connected waterbodies. These efforts are designed to strengthen the project’s ability to detect and forecast HABs under a wide range of seasonal and environmental conditions.
Year two also introduces several tools and activities intended to support broader participation and more efficient data collection. This includes the launch of a new ArcSurvey123 mobile data platform to support real‑time volunteer water quality submissions, as well as expanded training opportunities for community members interested in assisting with field sampling. Data collected through these efforts will contribute to the development of advanced algorithms capable of forecasting HAB occurrence at multiple spatial scales.
Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation's (NFWF) Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund (DWCF), in partnership with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the project continues to be supported by a diverse network of partners across New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including The City University of New York's (CUNY) New York City College of Technology (City Tech), Trenton Water Works, Mercer County Park Commission, The College of New Jersey, Aqua-PA, Philadelphia Water Department, Bucks County Conservation District, Turner Designs, and US Army Corps of Engineers - Philadelphia District's Blue Marsh Lake. Together, these organizations contribute technical expertise, watershed knowledge, and crucial on‑the‑ground support. This collaborative approach remains central to the initiative’s success and long‑term objective: establishing a scalable HAB‑forecasting framework that can ultimately be applied to additional watersheds across the United States.
For a deeper look at the research, partnerships, and shared commitment behind this initiative, listen to the full Native Plants, Healthy Planet podcast presented by Pinelands Nursery. Click here to learn more about the Pinelands Nursery and explore the full library of Native Plants, Healthy Planet podcasts. If you're interested in getting involved in the Delaware River HAB research initiative, the program is currently seeking volunteers for water sampling along the Delaware and select waterbodies. Contact FoHVOS Conservation Biologist Kaitlin Muccio at: kmuccio@fohvos.org for more details.
Spring is stirring! As the season of renewal approaches, the Princeton Hydro team is gearing up for a fresh lineup of conferences, community programs, and environmental stewardship events. In this Spring Events Spotlight, we highlight what’s ahead and share how you can get involved.
New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative (NJCRC) and Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) are hosting the 2026 New Jersey Coastal & Climate Resilience Conference from Monday, March 9, through Wednesday, March 11, at the Seaview Hotel in Galloway, NJ. With a theme of “Navigating Changing Tides,” The three-day event, themed "Navigating Changing Tides," brings together hundreds of coastal and climate resilience professionals to gather, learn, collaborate and celebrate.
Princeton Hydro is a proud conference sponsor and leading a full line-up of conference events:
We are proud to sponsor and excited to attend the Farmington River Watershed Association's Wild & Scenic Film Festival on Friday, March 20 from 7-9 PM at Miss Porter's School Hacker Theater. This 8th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival is a celebration of our river that will include 11 visually stunning films focused on a variety of interesting, engaging and inspiring topics, including Flora, Fauna, and Funga from Southern Chile; the restoration of the Klamath River, the largest river restoration effort in history; and a feature on the Farmington River Coordinating Committee's River Stewards! Participants will also enjoy lots of delicious snacks and fun raffle prizes from Ski Sundown, Hartford Yard Goats, Haworth's Flower and Gifts, Thule, Dick's Sporting Goods, Brewery Legitimus, Pia Sjolin Design, CT River cruise, Yoga Lessons, Collinsville Canoe & Kayak. The purchase of your $25 ticket includes access to the full program as Video-on-Demand so you can watch from home between March 20-26.
We recently partnered with FRWA and Miss Porter's School for the removal of the Winchell-Smith Dam, which reconnects 30 miles of critical upstream habitat on the Farmington River. Click here to read more about that project.
Presented by the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, the 2026 Watershed Congress takes place in-person at Alvernia University in Reading, PA from 8:30am through 3:30pm. The Watershed Congress has evolved since 1998 to advance the best available information and techniques for protecting and restoring watersheds. The focus on networking across disciplines means that the Watershed Congress melds science, policy, and practical applications into one program. As a result, the annual Watershed Congress is a highly anticipated event for people interested in understanding, protecting, and restoring their local streams. Princeton Hydro, an event sponsor, is proud to share that our Director of Restoration & Resilience Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP, is giving the keynote address along with Lamar Gore, Refuge Manager of John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum and Kim Hachadoorian, Urban Conservation Project Manager for The Nature Conservancy. Their presentation is titled, "Resilience Rooted in Place: Partnering with Communities to Address Flooding Through Nature-Based Solutions, and Why “With Community” Needs to be Foundational."
Additionally, our team members are leading two educational sessions:
The Wayne Conservation District, in partnership with the Lake Alden Watershed Association is hosting a free seminar focused on aquatic invasive species. The program is funded through a PA Lake Management Society Mini Grant awarded to Lake Alden Watershed Association. This free, community event will take place Saturday, April 11 from 10am - Noon at the Park Street Complex located at 648 Park Street, Honesdale, PA 18431. Participants will hear from Pennsylvania Sea Grant and Princeton Hydro's Senior Director of Field Services Scott Churm who will discuss effective strategies for preventing the spread of invasive species and current treatment methodologies. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom (HABs) display. Whether you're a lake community resident, an outdoor recreation enthusiast, or simply interested in protecting local waterways, this event offers valuable insight you won't want to miss. The seminar is free, but registration is requested.
Presented by the Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space, the New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team Conference is considered the most comprehensive state-wide forum on invasive species. This year's conference, being hosted at the Boathouse at Mercer Lake, encompasses insights from both academic research and field experience, and features practical demonstrations by land stewards in addition to formal presentations. Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the conference and exhibiting. Our Director of Field Services Scott Churm along with Dr. Emile DeVito of NJ Conservation Foundation are presenting on efforts to eradicate the invasive silty pond mussel from New Jersey waterways. Over 200 people are expected to attend. We hope to see you there!
The Phoenixville Green Team invites you to participate in a special screening event of the award-winning documentary "The Little Things that Run the World" at the historic Colonial Theater in Phoenixville, PA. The documentary introduces viewers to a diverse group of scientists, nature lovers, gardeners, farmers, and general bug enthusiasts in exploring the importance of flying insects amid rapid declines in their numbers, what's causing the decline, and what can be done to reverse the trend. The special film screening will be immediately followed by a presentation and "talkback" session with Princeton Hydro's Aquatics Project Manager Tanya Dapkey, CE, a freshwater ecologist and entomologist with over 20 years of experience. Tanya has a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Pennsylvania where she used DNA barcoding and macroinvertebrate sampling to assess water quality in freshwater streams. The Colonial Theater is a non-profit arts organizations and an iconic landmark of downtown Phoenixville that attracts more than 60,000 patrons per year.
NJDEP is hosting the 7th Annual Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Summit, "From Plans to Progress: Taking Action for Healthy Waterways," a free virtual event from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM that brings together experts and stakeholders to discuss HAB drivers, impacts, current research, and management strategies. This Summit is part of a statewide effort launched in 2019 after widespread HAB outbreaks led to beach closures and health advisories across New Jersey, prompting a $13 million investment in local prevention and mitigation projects, the formation of a statewide HAB Expert Team, which includes Princeton Hydro’s Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow, and the creation of annual summits to support ongoing education and collaboration.
The Colorado Lake and Reservoir Management Association (CLRMA) is pleased to announce its 2026 Spring Conference, to be held at Pelican Bay Marina at Cherry Creek State Park. CLRMA brings together engaged citizens and water resource professionals who share a commitment to protecting, managing, and enjoying Colorado’s lakes and reservoirs. The 2026 Spring Conference will focus on this year’s theme, Resilient Reservoirs: Adapting Water Management to Climate and Drought, highlighting practical strategies, emerging research, and adaptive approaches to water management in the face of changing environmental conditions. Lunch will be provided for all registered attendees, and park admission is included with registration.
The Nature Conservancy and American Rivers are hosting "Understanding Sediment Management," a free virtual training on April 23, from 9:30AM – 12:00 PM EST. This webinar is designed for practitioners, regulators, and partners engaged in river restoration and dam removal projects. Presentations will cover the role of sediment in dam removal planning, evaluation methods, regulatory compliance, and applied case studies:
Each presentation will be immediately followed by a brief Q&A session, and the event concludes with a panel discussion and summary presentation by Beth Styler Berry of the Nature Conservancy and Serena McClain of American Rivers.
Join SAME NJ Post for the sixth annual Coastal Resilience in NJ conference, a full-day program focused on innovative strategies, proactive planning, and implementation solutions for storm risk management and coastal restoration across New Jersey. This year’s program brings together leaders from government agencies, academia, nonprofits, and industry to explore real-world projects and collaborative approaches addressing increased storm intensity and coastal flooding. Featured speakers include representatives from NJDEP, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and regional universities. Attendees will gain insight into active restoration initiatives, barrier island planning efforts, and student-led research shaping the future of coastal resilience in the region. Continuing education credits are available. The day concludes with a networking happy hour featuring a complimentary oyster bar from the Barnegat Oyster Collective, along with wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Our team is looking forward to the 11th Annual George Stafford Highlands Golf Classic at the Hawk Pointe Golf Club, benefiting the New Jersey Highlands Coalition and honoring the legacy of longtime staff member George Stafford. Join us for a beautiful day on the green featuring 18 holes of golf, great food including our tradition of Empanadas on the Green, networking, and the presentation of the Highlands Lifetime Achievement Award, all in support of protecting the New Jersey Highlands. Princeton Hydro is proud to be a Hole Sponsor and excited to participate in the golf tournament! Princeton Hydro and the NJ Highlands Coalition have been working together for over a decade on regulatory compliance reviews, environmental impact analyses, and stormwater management projects throughout the region.
Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the Hackensack River Nation Summit 2026 hosted by Northern New Jersey Community Foundation. This one-day event, held at Fairleigh Dickson University from 8:30am to 3:30pm, has become one of North Jersey's largest gathering of river conservation experts. Join environmental experts, community leaders, public officials, and others working to protect the health of the Hackensack River Watershed and connect more people to the Hackensack River. Keynote speaker Captain Bill Sheehan of Hackensack Riverkeeper will kick off a day packed with workshops, networking events, and breakout sessions, including "Getting a Stormwater Utility in Your Community," which is moderated by Director of Marketing & Communications Dana Patterson Grear.
Lake advocates, environmental professionals, researchers, and community leaders will gather for the 44th Annual New York State Federation of Lake Associations (NYSFOLA) Conference at the Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center overlooking beautiful Lake George. Participants from across the region will explore longstanding lake and watershed challenges through the lens of innovation, collaboration, and science. This year’s theme, “Shared Lakes: Shared Responsibilities,” will guide conversations focused on strengthening stewardship and advancing collective solutions for New York’s lakes. The two-day program will feature a robust lineup of educational sessions, workshops, an exhibitor hall, and networking opportunities. Our team members are leading a variety of workshops:
Princeton Hydro is a conference sponsor, a long-time member of NYSFOLA, and looking forward to participating in this year's event!
Hosted by The Watershed Institute, this free, virtual webinar explores how restoration‑based approaches can deliver meaningful environmental benefits while helping municipalities reduce costs as they develop Watershed Improvement Plans across New Jersey. The "Benefits of Restoration: Impacts of Restoration Efforts and Successful Projects" webinar features a panel of experienced practitioners: Jon Kasitz and Hannah Kalk of RES), Mark Gallagher, Vice President of Princeton Hydro, and Michael Pisauro, Esq of The Watershed Institute, who will discuss how techniques such as wetland restoration, streambank and floodplain restoration, and riparian enhancement can outperform traditional stormwater BMPs like porous pavement and bioretention. The webinar takes place on Friday, May 8 at 12:00 p.m. via Zoom. The webinar is free and open to anyone who'd like to attend, but registration is required. Recordings will be shared with attendees for on-demand access.
Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor the 2026 New Jersey Land Trust Summit, taking place May 15 at the Johnson Education Center in Princeton, NJ. This gathering offers a dynamic forum for land trust staff, volunteers, board members, and conservation partners to explore emerging trends in land protection, strengthen practical skills, and collaborate on strategies that advance New Jersey’s conservation goals. Attendees will also have opportunities to visit exemplary restoration and land‑preservation projects that highlight the impact of coordinated stewardship across the state. Hosted by the Land Trust Alliance, an organization dedicated to empowering land trusts nationwide to protect the places people rely on and cherish, the Summit welcomes anyone engaged in land conservation in New Jersey. Registration opens March 16.
Pinelands Alliance will host its 4th Annual Pinelands Science Forum from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, in their newly-renovated, historic dairy barn. This year’s theme, “Water: The Lifeblood of the Pines,” will explore the hydrology of South Jersey, future climate impact projections, and the rich aquatic biodiversity supported by these systems, with a special focus on the Kirkwood‑Cohansey Aquifer. This abundant and distinctive aquifer supplies fresh drinking water to hundreds of thousands of New Jersey residents and supports the diverse, globally unique habitats of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor the event and looks forward to participating in this important conversation.
Princeton Hydro participated The Delaware Wetlands Conference at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington, which drew more than 425 attendees, featured 75 presentations and poster displays, and hosted 45 exhibitor and sponsor tables. The two-day gathering offered a robust mix of workshops, poster sessions, networking events, lunch-and-learn opportunities, an exhibitor hall, and plenary sessions, with professional credits available for participants. The agenda spanned a wide range of timely and technical topics, including soil science, climate adaptation, assessment and monitoring, and wetland restoration and creation. Princeton Hydro sponsored the event, exhibited, and led two workshops: Environmental Scientist Ivy Rose, PWS presented “Third River Urban Park and Habitat Creation Project – Brownfield Turned Wetland Sanctuary." And, Director of Restoration and Resilience Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP presented “Urban Flood and Habitat Resilience in the Lower Darby Creek Watershed.”
PALMS hosted its 36th Annual Conference at the Wyndham Garden State College. Attendees engaged in a diverse lineup of professional presentations, workshops, and panel discussions highlighting the latest findings and innovative approaches related to invasive species, monitoring strategies, best management practices, pollutants, and harmful algal blooms. The conference offered a valuable forum for lake managers, researchers, consultants, and environmental professionals to exchange knowledge and advance effective lake and watershed stewardship across Pennsylvania. Princeton Hydro sponsored the event and two of our team members led workshops: Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow presented “A Review of the Use of Biochar for Lake and Watershed Management” and Project Manager – Aquatics and Environmental Scientist Pat Rose presented “The Evaluation of Innovative Treatment Strategies to Proactively and Reactively Control Near-Shore HABS.” Fred also participated in an “Ask the Experts” panel.
Princeton Hydro is proud to announce our work with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) at South Cape May Meadows Preserve received the New Jersey Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (NJASLA) Honor Award in the Landscape Architectural Design: Site Design category.
The award recognizes the Boardwalk Trail, a newly created half‑mile universally accessible route that offers visitors an immersive experience through one of the region’s most ecologically significant landscapes. Commissioned by TNC, the project was envisioned to provide inclusive public access and environmental education while safeguarding a fragile ecosystem that serves as a vital stopover along the Atlantic Flyway.
Award winners were celebrated during the NJASLA design Awards Program at Harrah's in Atlantic City. Landscape Architect Cory Speroff, PLA, ASLA, CBLP of Princeton Hydro, who served as both lead designer and project manager, accepted the award.
The South Cape May Meadows Boardwalk Trail sits within a 200-acre freshwater wetland estuary complex, a site historically restored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to function as a natural sponge—filtering runoff, storing stormwater, and supporting amphibians, aquatic plants, and migratory birds. Nestled between historic Cape May, Cape May Point, and the Delaware Bay-Atlantic Ocean shoreline, the preserve is framed by protective dunes and a rich mosaic of sensitive habitat.
Designing a public trail within such a dynamic wetland required a careful balance of human experience and habitat preservation. The project’s goal: create an inviting, educational, and fully accessible route without disturbing critical hydrology, soils, or wildlife.
Wetlands present a unique set of constraints, including seasonal water fluctuations, soft soils, sensitive habitat, and tight regulatory requirements. Traditional construction methods and materials risked unnecessary disturbance and long‑term maintenance issues, making innovation essential.
To minimize impacts, the design team utilized helical pile foundations installed with lightweight equipment. This allowed the boardwalk to be constructed from the top down, significantly reducing ground disturbance. Material selections, such as recycled plastic deck boards, anodized aluminum structural components, and stainless‑steel fasteners, were chosen for their durability and resilience in the harsh coastal environment.
The result is a low‑impact, elevated boardwalk that blends seamlessly into the landscape, allowing visitors to experience the wetland’s seasonal rhythms while deepening their understanding of its ecosystems, preserving ecological function, and ultimately serving as a model for sustainable recreation in sensitive environments.
The NJASLA Design Awards Program "highlights exemplary works of landscape architecture and brings recognition to organizations and individuals who demonstrate superior skill in the practice and study of landscape architecture." Each year, the NJASLA Design Awards Program is juried by a sibling ASLA chapter; this year’s jury consisted of selected members of the Arizona ASLA Chapter, who evaluated submissions based on design excellence, innovation, and alignment with professional standards.
This year’s NJASLA Design Awards program featured 17 entries, with only nine receiving awards: one Chapter award, three Honor awards, and five Merit awards. Entrants must be full or associate ASLA members, and submissions are evaluated on strict criteria that reflect the organization’s mission to elevate professional standards and expand public awareness of landscape architecture. In addition to being showcased during the awards celebration, award winners will be featured in upcoming NJASLA newsletters, on the chapter website, and in event displays promoting excellence in landscape architecture across New Jersey.
To learn more about NJASLA and this year's award-winning projects, go here. To learn more about the South Cape May Meadows Preserve and our work with TNC to create a space where people of all abilities can enjoy nature, reflect, and find peace, go here.
As 2025 comes to a close, we’re proud to reflect on a year of innovation, collaboration, and impact. From advancing ecosystem restoration and water quality initiatives to sharing expertise on the global stage, these milestones showcase the dedication of our team and the strength of our partnerships. None of this would have been possible without the trust and support of our clients, collaborators, and community. Join us as we celebrate the Top 10 Successes of 2025:
After more than a century of standing, the Paulina Lake Dam on the Paulins Kill River in Warren County, NJ, was fully removed, marking a transformative milestone for one of New Jersey’s largest tributaries to the Delaware River. Led by The Nature Conservancy New Jersey and funded by NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife, this multi-phase project concluded this summer with the third and final phase that included adaptive management work and habitat enhancements to boost biodiversity. We provided engineering design and oversight throughout the effort helping restore natural river flow and improve ecological resilience. On the Farmington River in Connecticut, the Winchell-Smith Dam was fully removed after more than a decade of planning and collaboration. Spearheaded by the Farmington River Watershed Association, this project reconnects 30 miles of critical upstream habitat, improving fish passage for species like American shad, alewife, and American eel. We contributed engineering, design, and project oversight, working alongside partners including Miss Porter’s School, CTDEEP Fisheries, and RiverLogic Solutions. The removal enhances ecological health, fish passage, public safety, and recreational opportunities along one of New England’s most celebrated rivers.
We delivered incredible results for our nonprofit and government partners, securing over $3.2 million in funding to support projects that restore ecosystems, enhance habitats, improve water quality, and implement watershed-based green infrastructure and stormwater BMPs, with grants awarded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund and Section 319(h) of the federal Clean Water Act, administered by NJDEP’s Watershed and Land Management Program. We assisted the Borough of Mountain Lakes in securing grant funding from the New Jersey Highlands Council to develop a comprehensive Lake and Watershed Management Plan for nine lakes within the Borough. Also noteworthy: of the 17 total 319(h) grants awarded statewide this year, we’re proud to be a partner on five, demonstrating our commitment to advancing watershed restoration and sustainability.
In partnership with Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space, we kicked off a groundbreaking research project: “Monitoring Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the Delaware River Watershed Using Drones and Spatial Analysis.” Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation through the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund, this $1M initiative leverages drone technology, advanced data modeling, and community science to improve forecasting and management of HABs across a 73-mile stretch of the Delaware River and 23 associated waterbodies. We conceptualized and designed the project and are leading technical implementation, including field survey design, drone operations, data analysis, and volunteer training. By integrating drone-based remote sensing, on-the-water sampling, and spatial analysis, we aim to develop predictive tools for early detection and mitigation of HABs, helping protect drinking water supplies, wildlife, and local economies. This collaborative effort includes partners such as NYC College of Technology, Trenton Water Works, Mercer County Park Commission, The College of New Jersey, Aqua-PA, Philadelphia Water Department, Bucks County Conservation District, and Turner Designs. Data collection began in August will resume in Spring/Summer 2026 and culminate in 2027 with a final report.
Just this month, Princeton Hydro was honored with the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber “Innovator of the Year” Award and President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE received the “Notable Achievement” Award from SAME New Jersey Post during their Annual Holiday Luncheon. Geoffrey also received a “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the New Jersey Highlands Coalition for his dedication to protecting and enhancing New Jersey’s environmental, cultural, and natural resources. For another year in row, Princeton Hydro was recognized as one of New Jersey’s “Top Workplaces of 2025.” In partnership with Warrington Township, our transformative ecological uplift initiative at Lion’s Pride Park won the 2025 Pennsylvania Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence. We were selected as the recipient of the Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space “Corporate Conservation Recognition" Award, a distinction that celebrates our long-standing dedication to advancing ecological resilience through science-based, innovative solutions. And, along with Crow Holdings, we were chosen for the United Away "Spirit of Philanthropy” Award.
In New York, we completed the Spring Creek North Ecosystem Restoration Project, revitalizing 43 acres of degraded habitat within the historic Jamaica Bay salt marsh system. The project restored a mosaic of ecosystems, including low marsh, high marsh, scrub-shrub wetland, and maritime upland, through activities like recontouring uplands to intertidal elevations, thin-layer sand placement, invasive species removal, and native plantings. This effort improves water quality, biodiversity, and wildlife habitat, contributing to the long-term health of Jamaica Bay. In the Meadowlands of New Jersey, we helped design and build the Steven R. Rothman Overlook and Preserve, a new five-acre public open space within the 587-acre Richard P. Kane Natural Area. The site offers ADA-accessible trails, sweeping views of the Meadowlands and NYC skyline, and a gateway into one of the state’s most ecologically significant landscapes along the Atlantic Flyway. We provided environmental, civil, and geotechnical engineering, landscape architecture, and construction oversight, ensuring the space honors decades of conservation work while creating opportunities for community connection and nature-based recreation.
Our team continues to shine, reaching new heights in research, professional development, and industry leadership. Senior Wildlife Biologist Michael McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE co-authored a study published in Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, a leading journal in agroecological research, and was featured on the Native Plants, Healthy Planet podcast, a Top 20 Nature Apple podcast with over 7,000 monthly listeners. Senior Director of Field Services Scott Churm became a PRO Certified EutroSORB® Specialist, and Geotechnical Engineer Matthew Pappas, CSS earned the highly respected Certified Construction Specifier credential from the Construction Specifications Institute. We also welcomed five new team members: Controller Andy Ryba; Senior Water Resources Engineer Rich Farella, PE, CFM; Staff Engineer Patricia Hurley, EIT; Marketing & Proposal Manager Amie Souza, and Aquatics Project Manager Tanya Dapkey, CE who earned her ESA Certified Ecologist credential this year. Way to go, team! Your dedication and talent continue to inspire us all.
Princeton Hydro teamed up with Billion Oyster Project, AKRF, and Monmouth University to explore how restored oyster reefs are revitalizing New York City’s waterways. The project, “Monitoring of Mobile Estuarine Organisms at Restored Oyster Reefs,” combines hands-on species surveys with cutting-edge environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to capture a complete picture of reef biodiversity. As the field sampling lead, our team conducted monitoring at sites including Brooklyn Bridge Park, Bush Terminal Park, Flushing Bay, and Paedergat Basin. These efforts revealed a diverse array of estuarine life, from schooling fish to a surprise dogfish, and collected eDNA samples for advanced species detection. By integrating traditional sampling with innovative genetic tools, this collaboration is helping refine strategies for scaling up oyster reef restoration and strengthening the ecological resilience of New York Harbor.
This year, Princeton Hydro shared expertise on the global stage and celebrated major milestones in international river restoration. Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow traveled to Lisbon, Portugal, for the 17th International Symposium on Aquatic Plants, where he presented on managing submerged aquatic vegetation to prevent harmful algal blooms. Director of Aquatics Michael Hartshorne spoke at the Southern African Society for Aquatic Scientists Congress in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, an event that convened researchers, industry professionals, and government leaders to advance aquatic science through collaboration and applied research. President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, participated in a symposium in Durban, South Africa, focused on Dam Management and Restoration of River Connectivity organized by Dam Removal South Africa and the Institute of Natural Resources. We also celebrated progress in Portugal: Dam Removal Europe published a new case study on the Perofilho Weir removal and stream restoration project in Santarém for which Geoffrey M. Goll contributed to the removal design, helping reconnect 2.5 km of stream habitat and restore fish passage. In February, we published a blog highlighting Geoffrey's ongoing collaboration in Portugal and his October 2024 visit to key restoration sites, showcasing how barrier removal is addressing river fragmentation and creating a blueprint for future efforts.
We collaborated with the Bucks County Conservation District and Bucks County Planning Commission to launch the Lake Luxembourg Restoration StoryMap, an interactive tool that chronicles the decade-long effort to restore Lake Luxembourg’s Conservation Pool. This dynamic resource combines maps, multimedia, and storytelling to make restoration details accessible to the public. Working with Rutgers University’s Climate Change Resource Center and The Nature Conservancy, we contributed technical expertise to the New Jersey Nature-Based Solutions: Planning, Implementation, and Monitoring Reference Guide. This comprehensive guide offers science-based strategies, case studies, and funding resources to help communities implement nature-based solutions statewide. In partnership with the Borough of Harveys Lake, we developed a ArcGIS StoryMap that chronicles the community’s long-standing commitment to water quality, showcases a pilot project aimed at reducing stormwater nutrient pollution, and connects local efforts to broader Chesapeake Bay watershed health. And, for the Lower Makefield Township Environmental Advisory Council, Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, developed a Rain Gardens 101 step-by-step tutorial on designing and building rain gardens. The recorded presentation, now available to the public, provides practical tips and visuals to help homeowners improve stormwater management and support pollinator habitats.
We strengthened partnerships and advanced critical conversations through a year of dynamic engagement. From technical conferences to community events, our team shared expertise, fostered collaboration, and inspired action on climate resilience, water quality, and ecosystem restoration. Princeton Hydro was proud to participate as a sponsor, exhibitor, and session presenter at the New Jersey Association for Floodplain Management 20th Annual Conference and Exhibition - Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP, Director of Restoration and Resilience, presented on strategies to address climate-driven impacts in Philadelphia and Clay Emerson, PhD, PE, CFM, Senior Technical Director of Engineering, led a session on establishing a stormwater utility. We participated in six SAME events, including the National Small Business Conference in Phoenix, AZ. President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, presented to 300+ attendees during the 2025 National Dam Safety Program Technical Seminar. We gave two presentations at the Society for Ecological Restoration World Conference. Senior Manager of Aquatics Chris L. Mikolajczyk, CLM, and Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow presented at the 42nd Annual NYSFOLA Conference. As part of the Invasive Aquatic Plant Management portion of the Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society Annual Meeting, Aquatic Ecologist Jesse Smith led a workshop on Brittle Naiad (Najas minor) Management. Aquatics Project Manager and Environmental Scientist Pat Rose presented at NJDEP’s 6th Annual Harmful Algal Bloom Summit. During the New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative for its Coastal Ecological Restoration Technical Workshop, Director of Marketing & Communications, Dana Patterson Grear, presented “How to Build a Digital Communications Toolkit for Climate Action.” Locally, we celebrated community and stewardship through events like the Trenton Reel and Restore Day and Trenton River Fest. These are just a few highlights from a truly impactful year!
As we look back on these achievements, we are deeply grateful for the relationships that made them possible. Your confidence in and support of our mission empowers us to innovate, restore, and protect the natural resources we all depend on. Here’s to building on this momentum in 2026 and continuing to make a positive impact together!
Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber hosted its Legacy of Leadership Awards Dinner at the historic and elegant TPC Jasna Polana in Princeton, New Jersey. This annual tradition celebrates the accomplishments of Chamber members and shines a spotlight on leaders who make a lasting impact on the business community.
The evening featured four prestigious awards: Business Leader of the Year, Community Leader of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Innovator of the Year. We are proud to announce that Princeton Hydro was selected as the recipient of the 2025 Innovator of the Year Award.
Pictured below from left to right - Mike Coyle of PESG and Chamber Board of Directors with Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE and Vice President Mark Gallagher:
The Legacy Awards dinner also recognized an incredible lineup of honorees whose leadership and vision shape the Princeton Mercer business community and beyond:
Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE accepted the award on behalf of the firm, accompanied by members of the firm's leadership: Mark Gallagher, Vice President; Megan Hunter Ruf, Chief Operating Officer; and Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing and Communications.
During his acceptance remarks, Geoff reflected on what innovation truly means: the courage to challenge the status quo, the curiosity to explore new ideas, and the collaboration needed to turn those ideas into impact. He emphasized that innovation at Princeton Hydro goes beyond technology—it’s about reimagining how we interact with nature and creating solutions that balance ecological integrity with human needs. From combating toxic algal blooms and restoring urban waterways to pioneering green infrastructure and building climate resilience, innovation drives everything we do.
Geoff also highlighted the importance of community engagement, noting that Princeton Hydro’s commitment extends beyond project sites. Whether supporting environmental education, partnering with nonprofits, or working with underserved communities to ensure access to clean water and green spaces, the company believes innovation is most powerful when it’s inclusive and community-driven.
Princeton Hydro was also honored to sponsor the event, which brought together business leaders from across the region. Guests enjoyed an evening of networking, fine dining, and recognition of outstanding achievements. The Legacy of Leadership Awards Dinner highlights the Chamber’s commitment to fostering growth and collaboration.
Receiving the "Innovator of the Year" Award is a tremendous honor for our team. At Princeton Hydro, innovation is at the heart of everything we do, from designing sustainable, nature-based solutions to restoring ecosystems and advancing environmental stewardship. This recognition reinforces our mission to create a positive, lasting impact on both people and nature.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber for this acknowledgment and to all who make this annual celebration possible. We look forward to continuing to innovate and collaborate with our partners and community in the year ahead.
Learn more about the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber here. To read about one of Princeton Hydro's award-winning projects, click here.
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