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.

Stewardship and Community Leadership from FoHVOS

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.

Expertise Shaping the Future of HAB Research

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.

A Collaborative Approach to Understanding HABs

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.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="19329,19330"]

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.

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.

[gallery link="none" ids="19427,19248,19428"]

Designed for Access, Education, and Ecological Protection

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.

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="19201,19200,19202"]

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.

Recognition from NJASLA

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.

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

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.

[post_title] => Princeton Hydro Receives NJASLA Honor Award for South Cape May Meadows Boardwalk Trail [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => princeton-hydro-receives-njasla-honor-award-for-south-cape-may-meadows-boardwalk-trail [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-03-20 17:29:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-03-20 17:29:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19205 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18888 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-12-16 16:04:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-12-16 16:04:21 [post_content] =>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="18899,18900"]

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

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

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

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18896,18895,18894,18897,18891,18892"]

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

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

[gallery link="file" columns="2" ids="18781,18902"]

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

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

[post_title] => Innovative Drone-Based Research Study to Predict HABs in the Delaware River Watershed [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => innovative-drone-based-research-study-to-predict-habs-in-the-delaware-river-watershed [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-02-09 14:20:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-02-09 14:20:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18888 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18859 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-12-10 04:33:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-12-10 04:33:09 [post_content] =>

We’re excited to announce Senior Wildlife Biologist and Ecologist Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE is a co-author of a newly published study in Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, a leading journal in agroecological research. The paper, “Is regenerative agriculture for the birds? Outcomes are practice and species specific,” offers fresh insight into how regenerative farming practices affect the abundance and diversity of bird species across working landscapes in the Northern Great Plains of the US and Canada.

The full paper is available for free via an open-access link until January 13. We encourage everyone interested in wildlife conservation, regenerative agriculture, or avian ecology to take advantage of this limited-time access. Click here to read it now.

What the Study Explores

Regenerative agriculture is often heralded as a win-win for soil health, productivity, and biodiversity, but how exactly do these practices affect bird communities? Birds are highly sensitive to agricultural change, and many North American species have experienced significant declines due to intensification of farming practices. The newly published study takes a closer, science-driven look at whether regenerative approaches can help reverse these trends.

Drawing on extensive point counts, distance sampling, and acoustic recording units across agricultural landscapes, the research team examined nine common regenerative practices, including cover cropping, integrating livestock, eliminating tillage, and enhancing field margins. Rather than assuming a blanket benefit, the study asked a nuanced question: Which birds benefit from which practices, and why?

The findings show that:

Regenerative practices do influence bird density, but the effects are both practice-specific and species-specific.
Some practices, such as maintaining field margins, integrating livestock, and reducing or eliminating tillage, tended to support higher densities of multiple bird species, including several grassland obligates.
Birds responded more strongly to on-farm, field-level practices than to broader land-use patterns across the surrounding landscape.
While regenerative practices can provide important conservation value without removing land from production, they should complement (not replace) grassland preservation and restoration efforts.

This work helps refine what regenerative agriculture can contribute to working-lands conservation and provides actionable, species-specific insights for farmers, land managers, and conservation practitioners.

[caption id="attachment_18865" align="aligncenter" width="1227"]

Pictured above: a patch of common milkweed growing in the margin of a regenerative agricultural field that supported many iconic grassland birds in the breeding season.[/caption] [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="18866,18863"]

About the Journal

Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment is a leading interdisciplinary journal that publishes high-impact research at the intersection of agroecology, land management, and environmental science. The journal focuses on how agricultural systems function, how they influence the environment, and how environmental change shapes those systems in return. Research featured in this publication is known for being data-rich, hypothesis-driven, and globally relevant.

About the Authors

[caption id="attachment_15635" align="alignright" width="290"]

Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE[/caption]

This publication represents a collaborative effort among a team of researchers dedicated to understanding how regenerative agriculture shapes biodiversity in working landscapes. The authors contributed expertise in avian ecology, agricultural management, statistical analysis, and landscape science, bringing a multi-disciplinary lens to this important study.

Mike J. McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE, is a Senior Project Manager, Regulatory and Wildlife and Senior Wildlife Biologist and Ecologist, Regulatory and Wildlife with Princeton Hydro. He has over 20 years of experience designing and conducting ecological assessments and wildlife surveys across the United States and Canada. His work spans compliance-based assessments, regenerative agriculture research, long-term ecological monitoring, and conservation-focused outreach. Mike also teaches Avifaunal Ecology in the MES program at the University of Pennsylvania and serves on several municipal and land trust committees.

In addition to Mike, the paper was co-authored by the following contributors:

John E. Quinn of Furman University (Lead Author)
Bryce DelaCourt of Clemson University
Ry Thompson of Resource Environmental Solutions
Steven T. Rosenzweig and James O. Eckberg of General Mills
Jonathan G. Lundgren of Ecdysis Foundation

This publication reflects years of fieldwork, analysis, and collaboration—an accomplishment the entire Princeton Hydro team is proud to celebrate. Though Mike’s work has been published previously, this marks the first time his work appears in print under the Princeton Hydro affiliation, making it a particularly meaningful milestone for all of us.

Join Mike at the “Roots So Deep” Screening & Discussion

In addition to his peer-reviewed work, Mike’s contributions to regenerative agriculture research are featured in “Roots So Deep,” a four-part documentary series about inventive farmers and maverick scientists working to solve climate change with hooves, heart, and soil.

Mike appears throughout the series, including Parts 1 & 4 which will be shown at the Newtown Theatre in Newtown, Pennsylvania, during a special Screening & Discussion event taking place on January 21 at 7pm. Following the film, Mike will join the post-screening panel to take part in the audience Q&A.

Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.

Don’t miss your chance to access Mike's full article for free through January 13. Explore the study and discover the latest insights into bird conservation and the role of regenerative agriculture. Click here to dive in.

[gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="18867,18868"] *Photos provided by Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE. [post_title] => Princeton Hydro Wildlife Biologist Mike McGraw Publishes New Research on Regenerative Agriculture and Bird Conservation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => princeton-hydro-wildlife-biologist-mike-mcgraw-publishes-new-research-on-regenerative-agriculture-and-bird-conservation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-12-10 19:01:39 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-12-10 19:01:39 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18859 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18724 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-11-21 18:54:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-11-21 18:54:17 [post_content] =>

Princeton Hydro was proud to participate in the New Jersey Association for Floodplain Management (NJAFM) 20th Annual Conference and Exhibition, held this fall in Atlantic City, NJ. Celebrating two decades of collaboration and innovation within the floodplain management community, the conference brought together more than 500 practitioners, researchers, agency staff, and industry leaders from across the Northeast.

As the region’s premier floodplain management event, the NJAFM conference serves as a hub for sharing cutting-edge tools, best practices, and real-world strategies that help communities reduce flood risk, adapt to changing climate conditions, and build long-term resilience. Over the course of two days, participants attended educational sessions, hands-on training, and networking events centered on the theme: “NJAFM at 20 Years: Celebrate the Past, Focus on the Future.”

Princeton Hydro was excited to return as a conference sponsor, exhibitor, and session presenter.

Understanding the Role of Floodplain Management

Floodplain management is a multidisciplinary practice that integrates planning, engineering, ecological science, and public policy to reduce flood risk while preserving the natural functions of riverine and coastal systems. At its core, it involves understanding how water moves across a landscape, identifying areas vulnerable to flooding, and implementing measures that protect people, infrastructure, and ecosystems.

Floodplains provide a range of essential functions. Hydrologically, they convey, store, and infiltrate water during storm events, supporting natural flood attenuation, erosion control, and groundwater recharge. Ecologically, they contribute to biodiversity by providing habitat, migration corridors, and spawning areas for fish and wildlife. From a community perspective, well-managed floodplains can offer recreational value, improve water quality, and enhance the aesthetic and economic vitality of local neighborhoods.

Modern floodplain management relies on both structural and non-structural approaches. Structural measures may include engineered solutions such as levees, floodwalls, culvert improvements, or stormwater system upgrades. Non-structural tools often involve land-use planning, flood-resilient building standards, conservation of open space, and community engagement programs that help residents understand risk and adopt best practices.

Princeton Hydro works with municipalities, state agencies, nonprofit organizations, and watershed groups to develop and implement comprehensive floodplain management strategies across the region, emphasizing strategies that balance flood risk reduction with ecological enhancement, ensuring that floodplain management supports both resilient communities and healthy, functioning watersheds.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="large" ids="18742,18741"]

Pictured above: before and after photos from the Floodplain Restoration and Urban Wetland Creation project in Bloomfield Township, New Jersey. By removing a little over four acres of upland historic fill in this densely developed area and converting it into 4.2 acres of a functioning floodplain wetland, the project restored valuable ecological functions, enhances wetland and riparian zone habitat, and increases flood storage capacity for urban stormwater runoff.

Technical Sessions Led by Princeton Hydro

Our team led two workshops at the NJAFM 20th Annual Conference:

Urban Flood and Habitat Resilience in the Lower Darby Creek Watershed

Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP, Princeton Hydro’s Director of Restoration and Resilience, presented on strategies to address chronic flooding and climate-driven impacts in Eastwick and Tinicum Township, Philadelphia. Her talk highlighted a two-year technical assessment commissioned by The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania and the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, and led by Princeton Hydro. The project combines integrated field data collection, advanced hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and rigorous alternatives analysis to evaluate nature-based solutions. These include wetland creation or enhancement, stream and floodplain reconnection, and stormwater management retrofits, with the ultimate goal of restoring natural hydrologic function, reducing flood risk, and strengthening habitat and community resilience. Read more about the project here.

Are You Hesitant to Pursue a Stormwater Utility?

Elizabeth Treadway of WSP USA and Dr. Clay Emerson, PhD, PE, CFM, Senior Technical Director of Engineering at Princeton Hydro, led a session on the practical, legal, and financial considerations of establishing a stormwater utility, an increasingly vital tool for sustainable infrastructure funding. Participants learned:

The purpose and function of a stormwater utility
How to determine if it’s the right fit for a community
Steps municipalities can take to implement one

The session also addressed common challenges such as aging infrastructure, rapid development, and the growing frequency of severe storm events driven by climate change. Stormwater feasibility studies were highlighted as a key resource for evaluating costs and benefits before moving forward.

Managing stormwater effectively is essential for resilient infrastructure and community safety. Click here to learn about a Stormwater Utility Investigation & Feasibility Study we conducted for the Town of Hammonton, New Jersey.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="18732,18731"]

Throughout the conference, our team was able to connect with planners, municipal officials, engineers, and local leaders at our exhibitor booth. These conversations offered valuable opportunities to discuss project experiences, share resources, and learn from others working to advance resilience across New Jersey.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="18728,18727"]

Princeton Hydro is proud to be part of this community and remains committed to advancing science-based, equitable, and sustainable approaches to reducing flood risk. We look forward to continuing our partnership with NJAFM and supporting clients and communities in building a safer, more resilient future.

[post_title] => Celebrating 20 Years of NJAFM: Highlights from the Annual Conference [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => celebrating-20-years-of-njafm-highlights-from-the-annual-conference [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-12-10 13:24:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-12-10 13:24:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18724 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18586 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-11-06 00:15:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-11-06 00:15:54 [post_content] =>

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

Princeton Hydro is proud to be a partner on five of the 17 funded projects. Our contributions vary by project and encompass activities such as engineering design, water quality assessment, watershed-based planning, and technical support for implementing stormwater and habitat restoration measures. Let's take a deeper look at these collaborative efforts:

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

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

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

2. Lake Hopatcong Commission – Watershed-Based Stormwater BMPs

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

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

3. Cozy Lake, Jefferson Township – Addressing Emerging Contaminants

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

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

4. Rockaway Township – Watershed-Based Green Infrastructure

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

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

5. Green Trust Alliance – Green Infrastructure and Community Engagement

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

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

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

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

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

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

[post_title] => NJDEP Awards $8M for Water Quality Restoration Projects [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => njdep-319h-grants-2025 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-11-07 01:20:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-11-07 01:20:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18586 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18149 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-09-04 13:26:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-09-04 13:26:49 [post_content] =>

Princeton Hydro's Director of Aquatics, Michael Hartshorne, recently traveled to Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, to present at the Southern African Society for Aquatic Scientists (SASAqS) Congress 2025. Hosted by the Institute of Natural Resources (INS) and the University of KwaZulu-Natal, the annual event convened researchers, industry professionals, government officials, and students from around the world to advance aquatic science by linking research with real-world practice.

Over the course of five days, participants shared insights on critical global and regional issues, including water pollution, water security, biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, and community-based resource management. The program featured an array of interdisciplinary presentations spanning hydrology, freshwater ecology, and policy, while also creating space for collaboration and connection through interactive workshops, poster sessions and exhibits, networking events, and a gala dinner and awards ceremony. On the closing day, field trips brought attendees out into the surrounding landscape, offering a tangible backdrop to the themes explored throughout the conference.

Michael's Presentation on Harmful Algal Blooms

On the opening day of the SASAqS Congress 2025 program, Michael addressed the full conference audience with a presentation titled “Novel Techniques for the Monitoring of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in Lakes and Rivers of the United States,” which focused on innovative approaches for detecting and managing HABs, a growing worldwide concern driven by nutrient pollution and climate change. Michael illustrated how innovative research can inform practical management strategies while encouraging global collaboration.

HABs are intensifying in frequency, scale, and severity worldwide, presenting challenges for drinking water supplies, recreational lakes, and river ecosystems. Michael’s presentation showcased a suite of monitoring tools, from handheld phycocyanin and phycoerythrin meters, to drones with multispectral lenses, to advanced techniques such as qPCR (quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction), microscopy, and akinete cell monitoring. Through case studies from lakes, reservoirs, and river systems in New Jersey, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, he highlighted the strengths and limitations of each method, emphasizing the importance of tailoring monitoring strategies to the unique conditions of each waterbody. Michael also discussed management interventions and highlighted how emerging technologies can support more adaptive, science-driven management of HABs.

[gallery link="none" size="large" columns="2" ids="18171,18172"]

“It was an honor to participate in this year’s event and learn alongside so many dedicated professionals who are working to protect and restore aquatic ecosystems,” said Michael. “The international exchange of ideas and techniques is critical in helping us all address the increasingly complex challenges facing our water resources.”

[caption id="attachment_18151" align="aligncenter" width="553"]

Michael Hartshorne with Dr. Matthew Burnett, Principal Scientist at the Institute of Natural Resources and member of the SASAqS 2025 local organizing committee.[/caption]

In the Field: Aquatic Science in Action

The conference concluded with optional field trips that gave participants a chance to view South Africa’s aquatic systems and management challenges firsthand. Each excursion highlighted a different aspect of aquatic science in practice:

UKZN Zebrafish Research Facility: On the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Pietermaritzburg campus, this outing introduced participants to the zebrafish as a model organism for studying genetics, development, and aquatic toxicology. The tour provided a window into laboratory-based aquatic science and its applications to regional and global challenges.
Lions River Monitoring Demonstration: Hosted by GroundTruth, this field trip took a group to Lions River to observe live demonstrations of water quality and quantity monitoring using advanced tools such as UAVs (drones), USVs (unmanned survey boats), and a suite of citizen science methods, including MiniSASS, clarity tubes, and velocity planks. The excursion showcased how high-tech innovation and community-driven monitoring can complement one another in managing freshwater resources.
uMkhomazi Upper Catchment: Michael chose to participate in this field trip, led by the Institute of Natural Resources’ Chief Scientist Jon McCosh and Scientist Zanele Makhaya, which examined grassland rehabilitation efforts aimed at reducing sediment mobilization at catchment scale. Erosion control project implementation and monitoring is conducted locally with participants who are trained as community scientists and restoration ecologists by the INR. Participants learned how erosion control strategies can extend the lifespan of proposed dams on the uMkhomazi River, while also considering the complex socio-ecological impacts of large infrastructure projects on local communities and landscapes.

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18166,18168,18167"]

Travel Highlights Beyond the Conference

Outside of the conference, Michael took the opportunity to explore the diverse beauty and culture of South Africa. At Betty's Bay, a small town on the Western Cape he enjoyed coffee while taking in sweeping coastal views; walked scenic trails; spotted a few Hyraxes and Chacma baboons; and observed the African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) at the Stony Point colony. He also viewed the Cape Rockjumper (Chaetops frenatus), a ground-dwelling bird endemic to the mountain Fynbos, at nearby Rooi-Els.

[gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18159,18157,18160"]

He visited Karkloof Nature Reserve in the KwaZulu-Natal province, a rural agricultural area which has implemented conservation efforts for the once endangered, but still threated, Wattled Crane (Grus carunculate).

[gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="18152,18155"]

Michael’s participation in SASAqS Congress 2025 reflects Princeton Hydro’s ongoing commitment to advancing aquatic science and collaborating with experts around the world. By sharing practical monitoring and management strategies for HABs, his contributions added to a rich global dialogue on how science can inform sustainable solutions.

Since joining Princeton Hydro in 2006, Michael has led numerous lake, stream, and watershed studies focused on water quality, restoration, and sustainable management. His expertise includes applied limnology, ecological restoration, TMDL (total maximum daily load) development, and biological surveys. Michael is skilled in designing and implementing monitoring programs that integrate technical rigor with community engagement, ensuring effective outcomes for both ecosystems and stakeholders. To learn more about Michael, click here.

The Institute of Natural Resources promotes the sustainable use of natural resources to benefit both the environment and society. Click here to learn more. To learn more about The University of KwaZulu-Natal a teaching and research-led university with multiple campuses across South Africa, click here.

Earlier this year, Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE traveled to Durban, South Africa, to participate in a symposium focused on “Dam Management and Restoration of River Connectivity.” Click here to read the blog about his journey.

[post_title] => International Collaboration in Aquatic Science: Michael Hartshorne Presents in South Africa [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => international-collaboration-in-aquatic-science-michael-hartshorne-presents-in-south-africa [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-09-04 13:26:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-09-04 13:26:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18149 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18077 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-08-27 18:56:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-08-27 18:56:49 [post_content] =>

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

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

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

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

Let’s jump in!

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

A:

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

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

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

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

A:

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

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

A:

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

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

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

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

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

A:

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

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

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

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

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

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

A:

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

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

A:

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

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

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

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

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

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

A:

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

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

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

A:

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

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

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

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

[post_title] => Partner Spotlight: Save Barnegat Bay [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => partner-spotlight-save-barnegat-bay [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-08-27 18:56:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-08-27 18:56:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18077 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [8] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 17900 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-07-21 14:35:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-07-21 14:35:31 [post_content] =>

Welcome to the latest edition of our Client Spotlight blog series, which provides an inside look at our collaboration, teamwork, and accomplishments with one of our client partners.

In this special edition, we’re shining the spotlight on the Town of Mina and Findley Lake Watershed Foundation (FLWF), two organizations working closely together to protect and preserve Findley Lake in Chautauqua County, New York. This charming 300-acre lake is a cherished focal point for recreation, tourism, and community pride, and safeguarding it is a shared responsibility. The Town of Mina and FLWF, a volunteer-led nonprofit, have built a strong partnership dedicated to maintaining the lake’s health and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

We spoke with Rebecca Brumagin, Town of Mina Supervisor, and Ed Mulkearn, Board President of the FLWF.

We kicked-off the conversation with a question for Rebecca:

Q: Rebecca, can you provide an overview of the Town of Mina and the core values the Town prioritizes?

A:

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

Rebecca continues: “As part of our 2024 Comprehensive Plan, the Town of Mina identified four core community values that guide our decision-making, with our top priority being Findley Lake!

The lake is the heart of our community. Ensuring it remains clean, beautiful, and accessible for recreation and overall enjoyment is essential to our identity. That’s why we work so closely with FLWF. During the comprehensive planning process, FLWF developed a Lake Management Plan, which now guides our environmental efforts.

Our second core value is economic development. Findley Lake is experiencing an exciting period of growth, with several initiatives underway, including a new warehouse distribution center, growing retail presence, and revitalization in the downtown area. It’s truly a renaissance moment for our community.

Third, we’re deeply committed to preserving and enhancing our community character. We value our rural lifestyle and are working to improve it with expanded trails, new boardwalks, and safer, more accessible green spaces for all to enjoy. And, our fourth core value centers on strengthening local government, becoming more efficient, effective, and responsive to the needs of our residents. We want people to feel heard, supported, and engaged in the future of our town.”

Q: Ed, can you tell us about the history of FLWF and how it evolved into the organization it is today?

A:

“FLWF was established in 2002, but our roots go back much further. Before that, our work was carried out by the Findley Lake Property Owners Association, which formed in the late 1940s after the lake was no longer needed as a power source for milling operations.

At that time, the lake and dam were donated by Larry Schwartz to a group of local, stewardship-minded residents. That group did the best they could with limited resources and knowledge. But as science, lake management practices, and environmental awareness progressed, so did our approach.

By transitioning to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2002, we were able to access grant funding and expand our work significantly. Since then, we’ve purchased weed harvesters, partnered with Princeton Hydro for lake studies, and supported major infrastructure projects like the new sewer system currently in development to address septic-related pollution.

We’ve also taken steps to reduce streambank erosion and manage phosphorus loading that affects lake oxygen levels. Our board is strong and diverse—we have dedicated members with the expertise needed to keep moving the organization and the lake forward. At our core, FLWF is committed to maintaining, enhancing, and improving the quality of Findley Lake and its watershed through science-based action and collaboration.”

Q: Ed, what are the core values that guide FLWF, and which current projects highlight those values in action?

A:

[embed]https://youtu.be/l7ljPic09iE[/embed]

Q: Rebecca, what are some of the initiatives the Town of Mina is leading to support ecological uplift, water quality improvements, and environmental stewardship?

A:

[embed]https://youtu.be/hTb0GMQirgE[/embed]

Rebecca continues: “We’ve made significant strides in advancing the health of our local environment, thanks in part to support from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). We’ve completed three DEC-funded studies that are guiding our next steps.

One study focused on culverts throughout the watershed with the goal of improving water flow and reducing flood risk. Every culvert was assessed to identify those that need repair or replacement. Another study analyzed stormwater runoff, identifying ten key inflow areas to Findley Lake where erosion and sedimentation pose potential threats. Each site was evaluated and prioritized, and we’ve since secured a DEC grant to address the highest-priority site. And, the third study explored in-lake nutrient control strategies, which laid the groundwork for our current partnership with Princeton Hydro on nutrient management efforts.

Beyond lake-focused work, we’re also committed to enhancing community access to nature. We’ve received support from Chautauqua County for efforts that will benefit both the environment and quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”

Q: Ed, reflecting on past collaborations, can you highlight a project or two that FLWF has worked on with Princeton Hydro?

A:

“We first partnered with Princeton Hydro a few years ago when our board recognized the need for expert guidance on lake management. While we have a strong, professional board, we lacked the specialized knowledge in lake ecology and water quality science to move forward confidently with major decisions.

After researching several firms, we chose to bring Princeton Hydro on board to help us better understand nutrient dynamics in the lake. One of our key concerns was the persistent late-summer algae blooms, which we later learned were linked to phosphorus being released from the lake’s sediments.

Princeton Hydro conducted an in-lake nutrient study that clearly explained this internal loading process and helped us chart a path forward. Building on that work, we’re now working with the Princeton Hydro team on a bathymetric and sediment analysis to guide our next step, which will be to install an aeration system to reduce phosphorus release and improve water quality.

Princeton Hydro’s expertise has been instrumental in making complex science understandable and actionable, which has helped us take meaningful steps toward restoring the health of Findley Lake.”

[gallery columns="2" link="none" size="full" ids="17908,17907"]

Q: Rebecca, is there anything you'd like to add about the Town’s collaboration with Princeton Hydro?

A:

[embed]https://youtu.be/vtEIi23Ov98[/embed]

Following Rebecca’s remarks, Ed adds: “I’d just like to echo what Rebecca said—the Princeton Hydro team we worked with this Spring was truly a pleasure to collaborate with. Their depth of knowledge was impressive, but just as important was their ability to communicate complex concepts in a way that was clear and easy for our board to understand. That kind of approachability made a big difference. It was a great experience working with them.”

Q: Ed, for those interested in supporting FLWF’s mission, how can individuals get involved and contribute to your efforts?

A:

“We’re always grateful for donations, they fuel much of what we do. But beyond financial support, one of the most valuable ways people can contribute is by sharing their experiences and ideas.

There are countless lakes and watershed organizations out there facing similar challenges, and many have come up with innovative, cost-effective solutions. We’re always eager to learn from others; whether it's a new technology, a successful restoration approach, or a creative funding strategy. Collaboration and information-sharing are incredibly powerful tools in watershed management. If you’ve worked on a similar issue or simply have ideas that could help, we’d love to hear from you. The more we connect and learn from each other, the better we can protect and improve Findley Lake for generations to come.”

Following Ed’s comments, Rebecca adds: “One of the things that makes the Town of Mina so special is the strong culture of volunteerism. We’re fortunate to have many residents, often individuals who’ve had professional careers elsewhere, who bring their skills, energy, and passion to our community.

Even though we’re a small town, we benefit from a wide network of nonprofit organizations and local initiatives. For example, the Findley Lake Nature Center is actively working on trail development, and there are many other opportunities for people to get involved in stewardship, whether it’s helping maintain green spaces, supporting water quality efforts, or sharing expertise on local projects.

What’s especially unique about our community is how welcoming we are. Newcomers don’t have to wait decades to feel at home here—they’re embraced right away, and their ideas are valued. That openness has really enhanced our ability to protect Findley Lake and strengthen the town as a whole.”

To close out the conversation, we asked Rebecca and Ed if there was anything else they’d like to share.

In the video below, Ed reflects on the strong sense of community in the Town of Mina and the local support that fuels the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve Findley Lake:

[embed]https://youtu.be/nrsMt1WMODw[/embed]

After Ed’s remarks, Rebecca shares a few additional reflections: “One particularly meaningful designation we’ve received is from New York State, which has identified us as one of only two rural NORCs (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities) out of 43 statewide. This designation recognizes our vibrant population of older adults and has allowed us to pursue new forms of support and services. We’re currently looking into developing a pocket neighborhood to help seniors remain in the community, where they continue to be active, involved, and deeply valued.

And here’s a fun fact that speaks to the energy of Findley Lake: it serves as the practice site for the women’s rowing team from Mercyhurst University, who happen to be the reigning national champions. Pretty cool, right?”

Yes, Rebecca, we think that’s very cool!

[caption id="attachment_17902" align="alignnone" width="1482"]

Photo from Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau[/caption]

A heartfelt thank you to Rebecca and Ed for their partnership and for taking the time to speak with us to share their passion for protecting Findley Lake and strengthening the Town of Mina. Their leadership and collaboration exemplify the power of community-driven stewardship.

To learn more about their work and how you can get involved, we encourage you to visit the Town of Mina’s website and FLWF at findleylakewf.org.

Click here to read the previous edition of our Client Spotlight Series featuring Farmington River Watershed Association Executive Director Aimee Petras.

[post_title] => Client Spotlight: The Town of Mina & Findley Lake Watershed Foundation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => client-spotlight-the-town-of-mina-findley-lake-watershed-foundation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-04-01 14:48:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-04-01 14:48:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=17900 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 17640 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-06-16 04:09:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-06-16 04:09:27 [post_content] =>

We are thrilled to announce that Warrington Township received the prestigious 2025 Pennsylvania Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence for the transformative ecological uplift initiative at Lion’s Pride Park—a collaborative restoration effort for which Princeton Hydro served as the design, regulatory, and construction administration lead.

Each year, the Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) under the leadership of Governor Josh Shapiro, recognize innovative projects that demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental protection, climate resilience, community engagement, and sustainability. Winning projects are selected for their measurable environmental outcomes, creative approaches to conservation, and the strength of their partnerships. For 2025, only 19 projects across the entire Commonwealth were selected for this honor, highlighting the exceptional impact and innovation of each initiative.

In a press release, PADEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley said, “The Environmental Excellence honorees embody the innovative thinking needed to protect our environment and shape a more sustainable future here in Pennsylvania. Together, we will spur the next generation of environmental stewards. These projects showcase our ability to work collaboratively to preserve and protect Pennsylvania’s natural resources.”

The Lion’s Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project stood out as a model of creative collaboration, forward-thinking design, and community engagement. This ambitious effort transformed an overgrown, flood-prone pond into a thriving, accessible wetland mosaic that now supports native biodiversity, mitigates stormwater impacts, and provides a wide range of environmental education and outdoor recreation opportunities.

A Vision for Ecological Uplift

Spanning 47 acres, Lion’s Pride Park serves as a vital green space for the Warrington Township community. However, the pond at the center of the park was affected by invasive species overgrowth, chronic flooding, and declining water quality.

To address these issues, Warrington Township and Warrington Environmental Advisory Council partnered with Princeton Hydro to develop and implement a comprehensive restoration strategy. Beginning in 2020, the team conducted detailed site investigations, including bathymetric surveys, sediment analysis, and wetland delineations to understand the site’s specific challenges and ecological potential.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="14492,14493"] The photos above were taken in the fall of 2023.

The work culminated in the design and regulatory coordination of a restoration plan focused on converting the pond area into a biodiverse emergent wetland system. Some of the key project elements include:

Channel stabilization to reduce erosion and enhance aquatic habitats
Berm construction for flood resilience and wetland expansion
Native vegetation planting to foster biodiversity and improve water quality
ADA-compliant boardwalks and pathways to promote inclusive public access
Interpretive signage to engage and educate visitors on wetland ecology

Throughout the process, Princeton Hydro led the permitting and compliance efforts, securing approvals from PADEP, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and Bucks County Conservation District to ensure that the project met both ecological and regulatory standards.

Now, the revitalized wetland serves as a habitat haven for birds, pollinators, and native plant species; reduces nonpoint source pollutants discharged to downstream waters; and provides accessible pathways and observation platforms so all community members may learn from and enjoy this restored landscape. Click here to learn more about the Lion's Pride Park restoration effort.

The two photos above were taken in early June 2025.

Environmental Excellence in Action

On Tuesday, June 10, the Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence was formally presented at a ceremony hosted by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Attending on behalf of the project were Ivy Ross, member of the Warrington Township Environmental Advisory Council; Andy Oles, Parks and Recreation Director for Warrington Township; and Amy McNamara, EIT, CPESC, Water Resources Engineer and Engineering Services Technical Project Manager at Princeton Hydro. Their presence at the ceremony reflected the strong inter-agency collaboration and shared commitment that made this award-winning project possible.

“This project exemplifies how ecological restoration can do so much more than improve habitat—it can strengthen community resilience, foster environmental stewardship, and create lasting educational opportunities,” said McNamara. “We’re incredibly proud to have partnered with Warrington Township, the Advisory Council, and others to bring this vision to life, and are honored to see that work recognized at the state level.”

Pictured below from left to right: Ivy Ross Warrington Township Environmental Advisory Council; Andy Oles Warrington Township Parks and Recreation Director; Amy McNamara EIT, CPESC, Princeton Hydro Water Resource Engineer and Engineering Services Technical Project Manager.

[gallery size="large" columns="4" link="none" ids="17655,17657,17654,17648"]

Congratulations to Warrington Township and everyone who made the Lion’s Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project a success! And, thanks to Ivy Ross for providing great photos from the awards event.

Click here for more information and to read about all the award-winning projects selected for 2025. We invite you to explore the links below to learn more about the organizations that contributed to this effort:

Warrington Township
Warrington Environmental Advisory Council
Pennsylvania Environmental Council
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
PADEP
Aquatic Resource Restoration Company

[post_title] => Lion’s Pride Park Restoration Project Wins 2025 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => lions-pride-park-restoration-project-wins-2025-governors-award-for-environmental-excellence [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-01-22 17:53:41 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-01-22 17:53:41 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=17640 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 10 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 19285 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2026-03-12 14:33:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-03-12 14:33:49 [post_content] =>

Stewardship and Community Leadership from FoHVOS

Expertise Shaping the Future of HAB Research

A Collaborative Approach to Understanding HABs

[gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="19329,19330"]

[post_title] => LISTEN: Native Plants, Healthy Planet Podcast Highlights HAB Science & Stewardship [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => listen-native-plants-healthy-planet-podcast-highlights-hab-science-stewardship [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-03-13 20:28:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-03-13 20:28:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19285 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [comment_count] => 0 [current_comment] => -1 [found_posts] => 50 [max_num_pages] => 5 [max_num_comment_pages] => 0 [is_single] => [is_preview] => [is_page] => [is_archive] => 1 [is_date] => [is_year] => [is_month] => [is_day] => [is_time] => [is_author] => [is_category] => 1 [is_tag] => [is_tax] => [is_search] => [is_feed] => [is_comment_feed] => [is_trackback] => [is_home] => [is_privacy_policy] => [is_404] => [is_embed] => [is_paged] => [is_admin] => [is_attachment] => [is_singular] => [is_robots] => [is_favicon] => [is_posts_page] => [is_post_type_archive] => [query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => 0e16a0b9dafd8d11265d775b4fa52822 [query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => 1 [thumbnails_cached] => [allow_query_attachment_by_filename:protected] => [stopwords:WP_Query:private] => [compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => query_vars_hash [1] => query_vars_changed ) [compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => init_query_flags [1] => parse_tax_query ) [query_cache_key:WP_Query:private] => wp_query:58937dfc25692fae1a80115308f779f6 )

Home Blog

Category: Company News

Posted on March 12, 2026 by Princeton Hydro

Stewardship and Community Leadership from FoHVOS

Expertise Shaping the Future of HAB Research

A Collaborative Approach to Understanding HABs

Designed for Access, Education, and Ecological Protection

Recognition from NJASLA

What the Study Explores

About the Journal

About the Authors

Join Mike at the “Roots So Deep” Screening & Discussion

Understanding the Role of Floodplain Management

Technical Sessions Led by Princeton Hydro

Urban Flood and Habitat Resilience in the Lower Darby Creek Watershed

Are You Hesitant to Pursue a Stormwater Utility?

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

2. Lake Hopatcong Commission – Watershed-Based Stormwater BMPs

3. Cozy Lake, Jefferson Township – Addressing Emerging Contaminants

4. Rockaway Township – Watershed-Based Green Infrastructure

5. Green Trust Alliance – Green Infrastructure and Community Engagement

Michael's Presentation on Harmful Algal Blooms

In the Field: Aquatic Science in Action

Travel Highlights Beyond the Conference

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

A:

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

A:

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

A:

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

A:

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

A:

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

A:

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

A:

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

A:

Q: Rebecca, can you provide an overview of the Town of Mina and the core values the Town prioritizes?

A:

Q: Ed, can you tell us about the history of FLWF and how it evolved into the organization it is today?

A:

Q: Ed, what are the core values that guide FLWF, and which current projects highlight those values in action?

A:

Q: Rebecca, what are some of the initiatives the Town of Mina is leading to support ecological uplift, water quality improvements, and environmental stewardship?

A:

Q: Ed, reflecting on past collaborations, can you highlight a project or two that FLWF has worked on with Princeton Hydro?

A:

Q: Rebecca, is there anything you'd like to add about the Town’s collaboration with Princeton Hydro?

A:

Q: Ed, for those interested in supporting FLWF’s mission, how can individuals get involved and contribute to your efforts?

A:

To close out the conversation, we asked Rebecca and Ed if there was anything else they’d like to share.

A Vision for Ecological Uplift

Environmental Excellence in Action

Stewardship and Community Leadership from FoHVOS

Expertise Shaping the Future of HAB Research

A Collaborative Approach to Understanding HABs

Category: Company News

Popular Topics

Company News

Engineering

Environmental Action

Environmental Services

Flood Mitigation

Invasive Species Management

Lake and Pond Management

Natural Resource Management

Stormwater Management

Stream Restoration

get in touch

How would you like to be contacted?

Careers

Wrapper title

Wrapper title

Wrapper title

Wrapper title