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The law is intended to improve transparency during real estate transactions and help buyers better understand the responsibilities that can accompany dam ownership before becoming contractually obligated to buy the property. For many, a waterbody can be an attractive property asset that enhances aesthetics, recreation opportunities, and property value. However, what is not always apparent is that the waterbody may be maintained by a dam, and ownership of that dam comes with legal, financial, and regulatory responsibilities. Because dams are regulated infrastructure, depending on their size and hazard classification, owners may be responsible for routine inspections, maintenance, repairs, emergency planning, and ongoing compliance with state regulations. In some cases, property owners do not discover the full extent of those obligations until after a real estate transaction is complete, resulting in unexpected costs and liabilities. "Dams are critical infrastructure, but they also have long-term responsibilities. Owners can face substantial costs associated with inspections, maintenance, rehabilitation, and regulatory compliance, and those obligations often transfer with the property purchase," explained Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, President of Princeton Hydro and NJ-licensed Professional Engineer. "This legislation helps ensure that prospective buyers understand the presence and condition of a dam so that they can evaluate those obligations upfront. Families and business owners can make informed investments while preventing unexpected liabilities, promoting public safety, and encouraging responsible stewardship of aging dam infrastructure across the state." The passage of S3403/A4007 follows months of advocacy led by The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey, which first proposed the legislation and worked closely with lawmakers, stakeholders, and bipartisan supporters throughout the legislative process. Through testimony, coalition building, and sustained engagement, the organization helped elevate awareness of the challenges and costs associated with dam ownership and the importance of providing prospective property buyers with clear and timely information. "No family should learn after purchasing a home that they have also assumed responsibility for a structure that could require extensive repairs or ongoing compliance costs," said Rebecca Hilbert, New Jersey Policy Associate at The Nature Conservancy. "By requiring transparency for buyers upfront, this legislation supports consumers, enhances public safety and helps ensure that dams affecting New Jersey's rivers and communities are responsibly managed." [gallery link="none" ids="11742,11313,12035"] Understanding the New Law Section 1 of the New Jersey Dam Disclosure Law states, "A seller of real property located in this State shall disclose, on the property condition disclosure statement, whether a dam is located within the boundaries of the property and any actual knowledge of the seller concerning the dam, as required pursuant to this section, to the purchaser before the purchaser becomes obligated under any contract for the purchase of the property." The law also adds specific dam-related questions to the property condition disclosure statement, including: Is there a dam located wholly or partially on the property? If so, what is the hazard classification for the dam? If current law requires the inspection of the dam, what are the results of the most recent inspection? If there are any obligations associated with the dam under State law for which a purchaser would assume responsibility for, what are the obligations? Additionally, the law directs prospective buyers to New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) resources regarding dam ownership responsibilities, dam removal, and hazard classifications to gain a better understanding of the implications of dam ownership before becoming contractually obligated or completing the sale transaction. "Maintaining, repairing or replacing a dam can cost a lot of money. People deserve to know if they are purchasing property with a dam on it, and what obligations they have for that dam,” said Assemblyman Dave Bailey. “This bill could save a new homebuyer or business owner millions of dollars in unexpected future costs." Click here to read the full statutory language and implementation details of the New Jersey Dam Disclosure Law. [gallery link="none" ids="17568,13640,17566"] The Broader Impact of S3403 The law serves a broader public safety purpose. Better informed ownership can encourage compliance with dam safety requirements, timely maintenance and repairs, and informed decision-making regarding rehabilitation, dam removal, and river restoration. These responsibilities are not insignificant. Under New Jersey's Safe Dam Act and Dam Safety Standards (N.J.A.C. 7:20), regulated dams must be inspected by a qualified New Jersey-licensed Professional Engineer every two to four years, depending on the dam's hazard classification. Regulated dam owners are also required to maintain an Operation and Maintenance Manual, while Hazard Class I and II dams must have a NJDEP-approved Emergency Action Plan in place. A regulated dam is generally defined as an artificial dike, levee, or barrier that raises the waters of a stream more than five feet above the usual mean low water height. Many property owners may be unaware that these requirements apply to a structure on their property until they begin exploring its regulatory status or ownership obligations, or receive a compliance letter from NJDEP. These requirements exist to protect people, property, and the environment from the consequences of dam failures. When dams are not properly maintained, the impacts can extend far beyond the property boundary, potentially resulting in downstream flooding, property damage, environmental degradation, impacts to wildlife habitat, and, in the most severe cases, loss of life. By increasing awareness of dam ownership responsibilities before a property changes hands, the new law can help support safer, more proactive management of New Jersey's aging dam infrastructure while reducing the likelihood of unexpected costs and obligations for future owners. In a press release from The Nature Conservancy the organization stated, "The Nature Conservancy supported the legislation because dams can have lasting impacts on public safety, local communities and the health of New Jersey's waterways. Ensuring property owners understand their responsibilities is an important step toward informed stewardship of dams that affect both people and nature." We applaud The Nature Conservancy for spearheading this effort and building the bipartisan support needed to move the legislation from concept to law. We also thank Governor Sherrill, Senator John Burzichelli, Assemblyman Dave Bailey, Assemblyman Sterley S. Stanley, and the many legislators who recognized the importance of greater transparency for New Jersey homebuyers and businesses. Princeton Hydro has long supported proactive dam safety management, providing dam inspections, geotechnical investigations, regulatory guidance, rehabilitation planning, and dam removal services to property owners, municipalities, organizations, and regulatory stakeholders throughout New Jersey and beyond. For decades, Geoff has been a leading voice in dam safety and removal. Widely recognized for pioneering dam removal efforts in New Jersey and for his expertise throughout the United States and internationally, Geoff has spent more than thirty years evaluating dams and helping owners navigate complex regulatory and infrastructure challenges. To learn more about dam safety inspection, we invite you to read our recent blog, "A Day in the Life of a Dam Inspector: Casey Pantaleo, PE." [post_title] => New Jersey's New Dam Disclosure Law: What Property Buyers and Sellers Need to Know [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => new-jerseys-new-dam-disclosure-law [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-08-08 13:44:01 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-08-08 13:44:01 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=20032 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 19972 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2026-06-24 22:08:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-06-24 22:08:28 [post_content] => When a dam is removed, what happens to all the sediment that has built up behind it? That question was the focus of a recent Dam Busters webinar led by Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, President of Princeton Hydro and an internationally recognized expert in dam removal and river restoration. During the session, Geoff shared insights on how sediment behaves during dam removal projects, how it accumulates behind dams, and how different materials such as sand, silt, and organic matter respond once the dam is removed. He also discussed the methods practitioners use to estimate how much sediment is likely to move, how quickly it will travel, and the risks it may pose downstream, along with the practical decisions project teams face, including when to rely on natural processes, when intervention is needed, and how to design a strategy that balances ecological benefits, cost, and potential impacts. Click here to watch the full webinar and explore the slide deck and additional resources. [embed]https://youtu.be/aQHGU0ha130?si=KJiZNCWSmBaj73Ld[/embed] Case Study: Paulina Lake Dam Removal Project During the webinar, Geoff highlighted a real-world example of a dam removal project that required careful sediment management: the Paulina Lake Dam removal on the Paulins Kill River in New Jersey. For this project, the team implemented a phased dam breach, gradually lowering water levels to control the release of sediment and allow the river to begin forming its new channel. A portion of the sediment, particularly the highly organic material near the dam, was actively removed to prevent downstream impacts, while the rest was allowed to mobilize naturally. To learn more about the Paulina Lake Dam removal project and see the transformation in action, click here to read our blog. [gallery link="none" ids="14028,17040,19110"] More About Dam Busters Dam Busters is an initiative created by the Mass Rivers Alliance in partnership with the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration and the Charles River Watershed Association. Its mission is to provide dam removal stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully support and implement projects. The program offers expert-led webinars with live Q&A, technical resources and guidance, site visits and hands-on learning opportunities, and in-person workshops and conferences. Whether new to dam removal or actively working in the field, Dam Busters provides valuable, expert-driven insights to help guide dam removal efforts. Click here to learn more and get involved. More About Geoff Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, a founding partner and the President of Princeton Hydro, has over 35 years of experience in water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, and river restoration. He is widely recognized for advancing innovative and effective approaches to river restoration. Geoff holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Rutgers University, a Master of Engineering Management from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in 11 states. He pioneered dam removals for the purposes of fish passage in New Jersey and has overseen more than 50 dam removal designs. His understanding of sedimentation mechanisms and management of sediment behind impoundments has been instrumental in managing the mitigation of environmental impacts during and after demolition of river and stream obstructions. Click here to learn more about Geoff. [post_title] => WATCH NOW: Understanding Sediment Management for Dam Removal Projects [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => watch-now-understanding-sediment-management-for-dam-removal-projects [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-06-24 22:08:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-06-24 22:08:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19972 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 17283 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-03-25 15:27:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-25 15:27:36 [post_content] => Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, recently traveled to Durban, South Africa, to participate in a symposium focused on “Dam Management and Restoration of River Connectivity.” Organized by the Ruben Rocha of the Dam Removal South Africa initiative of the former World Fish Migration Foundation (WFMF) and the Institute of Natural Resources (INR), this inaugural event brought together international experts, local researchers, and representatives from government agencies and environmental organizations to explore the complex challenges of balancing water security with ecosystem protection in South Africa. The dynamic two-day program featured on-site exploration, expert-led presentations, and collaborative “World Cafe” workshops aimed at advancing sustainable water management practices across South Africa. [caption id="attachment_17288" align="aligncenter" width="1346"] Photo by INR[/caption] Day One: A Field Visit to the uMkhomazi River The workshop kicked off with a visit to two weirs on the lower uMkhomazi River: the Goodenough Weir and the Department of Water and Sanitation Weir. Participants gained a firsthand perspective on the intricate and difficult balance between infrastructure development and ecosystem function preservation. At the Goodenough Weir, construction efforts to upgrade the structure were underway, incorporating a fish passage designed to support the upstream migration of native fish species. In contrast, just upstream, the outdated Department of Water and Sanitation Weir presented a stark example of the challenges posed by aging infrastructure. Its obsolete design continues to block river connectivity and disrupt natural habitats, impeding the broader success of restoration efforts downstream. The success of the Goodenough Weir’s fish passage structure will be evaluated for its effectiveness once in operation. This field visit provided an immersive learning experience, sparking meaningful discussions among attendees. Participants explored strategies for harmonizing ecological priorities with critical infrastructure needs, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and adopting a holistic, big-picture approach to sustainable water management and river connectivity. [caption id="attachment_17289" align="aligncenter" width="788"] Photo by WFMF[/caption] Day Two: Expert Insights and Collaborative Discussions The second day of the workshop was packed with impactful presentations and interactive discussions, offering both local and international perspectives on sustainable water management and river restoration. South African representatives shared innovative strategies and real-world examples from their work:
Today, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill signed Bill S3403/A4007 into law, requiring sellers to disclose the presence of dams on properties being sold in New Jersey along with information regarding the dams' condition, inspection history, hazard classification, and ownership obligations. The law is intended to improve transparency during real estate transactions and help buyers better understand the responsibilities that can accompany dam ownership before becoming contractually obligated to buy the property.
For many, a waterbody can be an attractive property asset that enhances aesthetics, recreation opportunities, and property value. However, what is not always apparent is that the waterbody may be maintained by a dam, and ownership of that dam comes with legal, financial, and regulatory responsibilities. Because dams are regulated infrastructure, depending on their size and hazard classification, owners may be responsible for routine inspections, maintenance, repairs, emergency planning, and ongoing compliance with state regulations. In some cases, property owners do not discover the full extent of those obligations until after a real estate transaction is complete, resulting in unexpected costs and liabilities.
"Dams are critical infrastructure, but they also have long-term responsibilities. Owners can face substantial costs associated with inspections, maintenance, rehabilitation, and regulatory compliance, and those obligations often transfer with the property purchase," explained Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, President of Princeton Hydro and NJ-licensed Professional Engineer. "This legislation helps ensure that prospective buyers understand the presence and condition of a dam so that they can evaluate those obligations upfront. Families and business owners can make informed investments while preventing unexpected liabilities, promoting public safety, and encouraging responsible stewardship of aging dam infrastructure across the state."
The passage of S3403/A4007 follows months of advocacy led by The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey, which first proposed the legislation and worked closely with lawmakers, stakeholders, and bipartisan supporters throughout the legislative process. Through testimony, coalition building, and sustained engagement, the organization helped elevate awareness of the challenges and costs associated with dam ownership and the importance of providing prospective property buyers with clear and timely information.
"No family should learn after purchasing a home that they have also assumed responsibility for a structure that could require extensive repairs or ongoing compliance costs," said Rebecca Hilbert, New Jersey Policy Associate at The Nature Conservancy. "By requiring transparency for buyers upfront, this legislation supports consumers, enhances public safety and helps ensure that dams affecting New Jersey's rivers and communities are responsibly managed."
Section 1 of the New Jersey Dam Disclosure Law states, "A seller of real property located in this State shall disclose, on the property condition disclosure statement, whether a dam is located within the boundaries of the property and any actual knowledge of the seller concerning the dam, as required pursuant to this section, to the purchaser before the purchaser becomes obligated under any contract for the purchase of the property." The law also adds specific dam-related questions to the property condition disclosure statement, including:
Additionally, the law directs prospective buyers to New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) resources regarding dam ownership responsibilities, dam removal, and hazard classifications to gain a better understanding of the implications of dam ownership before becoming contractually obligated or completing the sale transaction.
The law serves a broader public safety purpose. Better informed ownership can encourage compliance with dam safety requirements, timely maintenance and repairs, and informed decision-making regarding rehabilitation, dam removal, and river restoration.
These responsibilities are not insignificant. Under New Jersey's Safe Dam Act and Dam Safety Standards (N.J.A.C. 7:20), regulated dams must be inspected by a qualified New Jersey-licensed Professional Engineer every two to four years, depending on the dam's hazard classification. Regulated dam owners are also required to maintain an Operation and Maintenance Manual, while Hazard Class I and II dams must have a NJDEP-approved Emergency Action Plan in place. A regulated dam is generally defined as an artificial dike, levee, or barrier that raises the waters of a stream more than five feet above the usual mean low water height. Many property owners may be unaware that these requirements apply to a structure on their property until they begin exploring its regulatory status or ownership obligations, or receive a compliance letter from NJDEP.
These requirements exist to protect people, property, and the environment from the consequences of dam failures. When dams are not properly maintained, the impacts can extend far beyond the property boundary, potentially resulting in downstream flooding, property damage, environmental degradation, impacts to wildlife habitat, and, in the most severe cases, loss of life. By increasing awareness of dam ownership responsibilities before a property changes hands, the new law can help support safer, more proactive management of New Jersey's aging dam infrastructure while reducing the likelihood of unexpected costs and obligations for future owners.
In a press release from The Nature Conservancy the organization stated, "The Nature Conservancy supported the legislation because dams can have lasting impacts on public safety, local communities and the health of New Jersey's waterways. Ensuring property owners understand their responsibilities is an important step toward informed stewardship of dams that affect both people and nature."
We applaud The Nature Conservancy for spearheading this effort and building the bipartisan support needed to move the legislation from concept to law. We also thank Governor Sherrill, Senator John Burzichelli, Assemblyman Dave Bailey, Assemblyman Sterley S. Stanley, and the many legislators who recognized the importance of greater transparency for New Jersey homebuyers and businesses.
Princeton Hydro has long supported proactive dam safety management, providing dam inspections, geotechnical investigations, regulatory guidance, rehabilitation planning, and dam removal services to property owners, municipalities, organizations, and regulatory stakeholders throughout New Jersey and beyond. For decades, Geoff has been a leading voice in dam safety and removal. Widely recognized for pioneering dam removal efforts in New Jersey and for his expertise throughout the United States and internationally, Geoff has spent more than thirty years evaluating dams and helping owners navigate complex regulatory and infrastructure challenges. To learn more about dam safety inspection, we invite you to read our recent blog, "A Day in the Life of a Dam Inspector: Casey Pantaleo, PE."
When a dam is removed, what happens to all the sediment that has built up behind it?
That question was the focus of a recent Dam Busters webinar led by Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, President of Princeton Hydro and an internationally recognized expert in dam removal and river restoration.
During the session, Geoff shared insights on how sediment behaves during dam removal projects, how it accumulates behind dams, and how different materials such as sand, silt, and organic matter respond once the dam is removed. He also discussed the methods practitioners use to estimate how much sediment is likely to move, how quickly it will travel, and the risks it may pose downstream, along with the practical decisions project teams face, including when to rely on natural processes, when intervention is needed, and how to design a strategy that balances ecological benefits, cost, and potential impacts.
During the webinar, Geoff highlighted a real-world example of a dam removal project that required careful sediment management: the Paulina Lake Dam removal on the Paulins Kill River in New Jersey. For this project, the team implemented a phased dam breach, gradually lowering water levels to control the release of sediment and allow the river to begin forming its new channel. A portion of the sediment, particularly the highly organic material near the dam, was actively removed to prevent downstream impacts, while the rest was allowed to mobilize naturally.
To learn more about the Paulina Lake Dam removal project and see the transformation in action, click here to read our blog.
Dam Busters is an initiative created by the Mass Rivers Alliance in partnership with the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration and the Charles River Watershed Association. Its mission is to provide dam removal stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully support and implement projects.
The program offers expert-led webinars with live Q&A, technical resources and guidance, site visits and hands-on learning opportunities, and in-person workshops and conferences. Whether new to dam removal or actively working in the field, Dam Busters provides valuable, expert-driven insights to help guide dam removal efforts.
Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, a founding partner and the President of Princeton Hydro, has over 35 years of experience in water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, and river restoration. He is widely recognized for advancing innovative and effective approaches to river restoration.
Geoff holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Rutgers University, a Master of Engineering Management from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in 11 states. He pioneered dam removals for the purposes of fish passage in New Jersey and has overseen more than 50 dam removal designs. His understanding of sedimentation mechanisms and management of sediment behind impoundments has been instrumental in managing the mitigation of environmental impacts during and after demolition of river and stream obstructions. Click here to learn more about Geoff.
Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, recently traveled to Durban, South Africa, to participate in a symposium focused on “Dam Management and Restoration of River Connectivity.”
Organized by the Ruben Rocha of the Dam Removal South Africa initiative of the former World Fish Migration Foundation (WFMF) and the Institute of Natural Resources (INR), this inaugural event brought together international experts, local researchers, and representatives from government agencies and environmental organizations to explore the complex challenges of balancing water security with ecosystem protection in South Africa. The dynamic two-day program featured on-site exploration, expert-led presentations, and collaborative “World Cafe” workshops aimed at advancing sustainable water management practices across South Africa.
The workshop kicked off with a visit to two weirs on the lower uMkhomazi River: the Goodenough Weir and the Department of Water and Sanitation Weir. Participants gained a firsthand perspective on the intricate and difficult balance between infrastructure development and ecosystem function preservation. At the Goodenough Weir, construction efforts to upgrade the structure were underway, incorporating a fish passage designed to support the upstream migration of native fish species. In contrast, just upstream, the outdated Department of Water and Sanitation Weir presented a stark example of the challenges posed by aging infrastructure. Its obsolete design continues to block river connectivity and disrupt natural habitats, impeding the broader success of restoration efforts downstream. The success of the Goodenough Weir’s fish passage structure will be evaluated for its effectiveness once in operation.
This field visit provided an immersive learning experience, sparking meaningful discussions among attendees. Participants explored strategies for harmonizing ecological priorities with critical infrastructure needs, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and adopting a holistic, big-picture approach to sustainable water management and river connectivity.
The second day of the workshop was packed with impactful presentations and interactive discussions, offering both local and international perspectives on sustainable water management and river restoration.
South African representatives shared innovative strategies and real-world examples from their work:
Navashni Govender of SANParks highlighted South Africa's groundbreaking efforts in Kruger National Park, where dam removals—the first of their kind on the African continent—have restored natural river flow and enhanced biodiversity.
Nkosinjani Mkhize of the Pongola-Umzimkhulu Catchment Management Agency discussed strategies for balancing social and ecological demands.
Futhi Vilakazi of uMngeni-uThukela Water addressed the dual challenge of securing water supplies and protecting ecosystems, with a focus on catchment interventions.
Dr. Andrew Blackmore of KZN Wildlife provided a detailed exploration of South Africa’s complex regulatory framework for dam removal, shedding light on how to navigate environmental legislation effectively.
The program also welcomed two international experts who enriched the conversation with perspectives from their respective regions:
Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey M. Goll, PE delivered a presentation titled “Sediment Management Before, During, and After Dam/Weir Removal,” emphasizing the critical role of sediment in maintaining river health. Through case studies and strategies from the United States, he demonstrated how proactive sediment management can enhance both the ecological and social benefits of barrier removal. His insights underscored the interconnected challenges of sedimentation, water quality, and dam removal—issues South Africa must address to achieve sustainable water resource management.
Mr. Hamish Moir of Scotland’s CBEC Eco-Engineering shared success stories from Europe, including projects in Scotland, the UK, and Iceland. His presentation on reconnecting rivers through selective barrier removal showcased how nature-based solutions can improve ecosystem dynamics and mitigate flood risks, offering valuable lessons for South Africa.
The day concluded with interactive "World Café" workshop sessions focused on key themes such as stakeholder involvement, governance mechanisms, water scarcity, biodiversity, socio-economic impacts, and funding models. Participants explored solutions for integrating ecological, social, and economic priorities into river restoration projects.
Together, the presentations and workshops provided actionable knowledge and innovative approaches to advancing river connectivity and sustainable dam management.
After the conference, Geoff had the honor of being invited by Dr. Matthew Burnett to tour the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s hydraulics lab. Dr. Burnett, who serves as Principal Scientist at the Institute of Natural Resources, Honorary Freshwater Ecology Researcher at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, and coordinator of the “Dam Management and Restoration of River Connectivity” symposium, introduced Geoff to the research being conducted at the University. Researchers there are developing sediment transport models and fish passage testing methods. The emerging program reflects South Africa’s growing commitment to tackling water scarcity, sedimentation, and ecosystem health.
Geoff noted that South Africa is at a pivotal stage in balancing water security with ecological protection. Many dams, while designed for long-term water availability, struggle with sedimentation that reduces reservoir capacity and leads to water quality issues like harmful algal blooms, in addition to creating barriers for diadromous and potamodromous fish, prawn, and crab species. These challenges highlight the need for integrated solutions that address human, agricultural, and biodiversity needs, ensuring sustainable outcomes.
“It was an honor to be invited to South Africa to participate in this important workshop and collaborate with so many talented individuals, all while gaining a deeper understanding of the country’s water resource challenges,” said Geoff. “By exchanging knowledge and ideas from around the world, we can foster innovative approaches and shape balanced solutions.”
Geoff’s participation exemplifies Princeton Hydro’s commitment to advancing global river restoration efforts. By sharing expertise and fostering collaborative dialogue, the workshop in Durban marked a meaningful step toward reconnecting South Africa’s rivers and creating a more sustainable future for its communities and ecosystems.
Before the workshop, Geoff and his wife, Amy, began the trip in Cape Town immersing themselves in South Africa’s rich culture and natural beauty. They explored the city, took part in a guided history tour, and visited the Cape of Good Hope where they admired the stunning coastal landscape, vibrant flora, and fascinating wildlife, including African penguins!
Princeton Hydro's President and Founding Principal, Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, recently participated in the prestigious Free Flow 2024 conference in Groningen, The Netherlands. This international event, focused on protecting and restoring free-flowing rivers, gathered policy makers, river managers, ecologists, researchers, students, and industry professionals from around the globe. With 130 speakers spread across 27 sessions, the conference delved into crucial topics like dam removal, fish passage, and the ecology of free-flowing rivers.
Free Flow 2024, organized by the World Fish Migration Foundation and the Institute of Fisheries Management, highlighted the urgent need for river restoration to achieve the EU 2030 Biodiversity goal of freeing up 25,000 km (15,534 miles) of rivers. The conference aimed to connect practitioners and scientists, promote knowledge sharing, and spur the implementation of innovative river restoration projects.
Geoff participated in an expert panel for the "Prioritizing Rivers and Dams for Restoration" workshop. The workshop, moderated by Joshua Royte of The Nature Conservancy and Dr. Ruben van Treeck of World Wide Fund For Nature Germany, also included esteemed panelists Dr. Carlos Garcia De Leaniz of Swansea University, Dr. Jesse O'Hanley of the University of Kent, and Dr. Paulo Branco of the University of Lisbon. The discussion focused on the most efficient means and tools for prioritizing the removal of stream and river barriers in watersheds, considering both micro- and macroscale approaches. Geoff's contribution centered on the confounding and feasibility issues of individual barriers that could influence the overall prioritization process.
Geoff also led a presentation titled "Dam Removal is not just about Dam Removal," Geoff emphasized the multifaceted benefits of dam removal beyond fish passage restoration. He argued that successful dam removal projects hinge on understanding and balancing the diverse values of stakeholders, managing sediment, protecting infrastructure, and recognizing the opportunities for restoring natural capital.
During the presentation, Geoff highlighted that while many dams no longer serve their original functions, some remain integral to the communities around them, often holding deep emotional significance. His presentation illustrated the wide-ranging restoration possibilities and community benefits of dam removal, including:
Additionally, Geoff's presentation reviewed the values of existing dams and their impoundments, the institutional and physical challenges of removal, and showcased successful examples of dam removal projects in the northeastern United States, providing valuable insights for European ecosystem restoration efforts.
Princeton Hydro was also proud to sponsor the Dam Removal & Small Barriers portion of the education program.
In advance of his panel presentation, Geoff created and distributed a poll using Mentimeter to gather insights from conference attendees. This interactive approach allowed participants to share their thoughts and experiences ahead of the workshop, fostering a more engaging and tailored discussion. The questions posed in the poll were designed to capture a range of perspectives on barrier removal, a key topic at the conference.
The responses collected provided valuable input that helped shape the dialogue during Geoff's presentation. Here are the visual results of the poll:
The creative atmosphere of the Oosterpoort venue in Groningen fostered dynamic exchanges of ideas and solutions. The conference featured over 100 presentations, divided into parallel sessions, providing a comprehensive exploration of river restoration topics, including: Ecology and hydromorphology of free-flowing rivers; freshwater fish and fisheries; hydropower development vs. free-flowing rivers; policies for free-flowing rivers; river restoration tools and projects; cultural and socio-economic aspects of free-flowing rivers; nature-based solutions; and dam removal and fish passage projects.
The conference included various networking opportunities, such as a cocktail reception on the first evening and a conference dinner on the second, allowing attendees to connect and discuss their work in a more relaxed setting. Throughout the conference, poster sessions showcased ongoing research, and an exhibitor marketplace provided an additional platform for participants to engage with the latest innovations and tools in river restoration.
Participants also had the opportunity to join one of five field trips organized in cooperation with the Wadden Sea Swimway project. These excursions provided a hands-on look at various river restoration and fish passage projects. For instance, one field trip followed the journey of a sea trout as it navigates to its ancestral spawning grounds, offering participants an immersive experience in understanding the challenges and successes of fish migration.
The Free Flow 2024 conference underscored the critical importance of river restoration in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss. By bringing together leading experts and fostering a collaborative environment, the event contributed significantly to the advancement of knowledge and the implementation of effective river restoration strategies.
"Participating in the Free Flow 2024 Conference was an incredible opportunity to collaborate with global experts dedicated to river restoration," said Geoff. "Through insightful discussions and educational sessions, we exchanged valuable knowledge and experiences, strengthening our shared commitment to protecting and restoring free-flowing rivers. It is encouraging to witness the dedication and innovative solutions being applied globally.”
Click here to learn more about Free Flow 2024, view presentation abstracts, the complete agenda, and more photos from the conference.
Princeton Hydro has successfully designed, permitted, and overseen the removal of over 84 dams to date. Geoff holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Rutgers University and a Master of Engineering Management from UW–Madison. His knowledge encompasses water resources and geotechnical engineering, including sediment management, stream and river restoration, stormwater management, green infrastructure, freshwater wetland and coastal marsh design, dam design, and dam removal. Geoff’s is recognized as a distinguished leader in advancing innovative and effective solutions for dam removal and river restoration. To read about a recent dam removal project that Geoff spearheaded with The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey, click here.
Princeton Hydro President and Founding Principal Geoffrey M. Goll, P.E. was recently featured on the Native Plants, Healthy Planet Podcast, which is ranked as a Top 20 Nature Apple podcast with 7k+ listeners per month.
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick, owners of Pinelands Nursery, invited Geoff on the show to discuss all things dam removal. For Episode 187 titled "The Dam Show" Geoff shared the history of dams and dam removal, the many benefits of removing dams, the challenges around implementing dam removal, recent stories of river restoration success, and helpful resources for anyone looking to learn more.
Princeton Hydro has designed, permitted, and overseen the removal of 84 dams to date. 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. Princeton Hydro is committed to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better.
Welcome to the newest edition of our Client Spotlight Blog Series! Each spotlight provides an inside look at our collaboration, teamwork, and accomplishments with a specific client. We value our client relationships and pride ourselves on forming strong ties with organizations that share our values of creating a better future for people and our planet.
The Nature Conservancy began as a collaborative effort between leading scientists, committed citizens, and dedicated leaders who shared a vision to care for the world around them. Their priorities include finding innovative solutions to some of the planet’s biggest challenges: tackling climate change, protecting land and water, providing food and water sustainability, and building healthy cities. Princeton Hydro has worked with TNCNJ on about a dozen projects since 2009.
To develop this Client Spotlight, we spoke with TNCNJ’s Director of River Restoration Beth Styler Barry. Beth has over 18 years of experience in river restoration, water quality monitoring, community outreach, and project management. In addition to leading major stream restoration projects for TNCNJ, Beth also co-leads the statewide New Jersey Dam Removal Partnership. Beth has worked with Princeton Hydro on a number of projects, including the removal of the Columbia Dam, the largest dam removal in New Jersey's history.
The Nature Conservancy is a global organization and the largest environmental nonprofit in the United States, so we can make conservation happen at a continental scale. At the same time, we are structured into smaller business units that keep us nimble and relevant for handling ecological challenges that affect and resonate with people, wildlife, and habitats locally. Everyone who works here is very passionate about protecting nature.
Our conservation work is always guided by science. In fact, we have more than 400 scientists on staff around the world. We also have a knack for working with a wide range of partners and bringing about positive outcomes where they otherwise may not have been easily achieved.
I joined TNC in 2016, so about 4.5 years.
I have worked with Princeton Hydro on water and soil studies, engineering and design for dam removals, and oversight for the construction phase of river restoration.
Princeton Hydro was an important partner in our effort to remove the Columbia Dam from the Paulins Kill in 2019. A study ranked the 300-foot-long, 18-foot-high structure in the top 5% of East Coast dams for removal. The impoundment of water behind the dam was unhealthy and the dam itself impeded the migration of threatened American shad for more than 100 years. With Princeton Hydro’s help, and working with a team of partners including the State of New Jersey and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, we succeeded in the largest dam removal in state history. Less than two weeks after the dam was completely removed, the shad were recorded ten miles upstream!
There are so many exciting projects! We are working on two more dam removals on the Paulins Kill, as part of a watershed-wide restoration. As a part of that restoration work, we’re working on completing design and permitting on a 1,000-acre wetland and stream restoration project in the headwaters of the Paulins Kill. We are also still working in New Jersey to protect and connect land for state-endangered Bobcat and other wildlife; to increase the use of nature as a way of building resiliency in communities dealing with flooding from storms and sea level rise; and to support a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from 2006 levels by 2025.
I feel a deep connection to rivers, especially the rivers of New Jersey. I’ve seen so many good restoration projects that it inspires me to keep pushing forward. We owe that to our rivers.
One thing that I enjoy about working with Princeton Hydro is that staff are always ready to really walk me through a new design idea, method, or step in the regulatory process. I like the opportunity to ask a lot of questions and fully understand the work at hand.
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To learn more about The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey, visit their website. And, click below to read the previous edition of our Client Spotlight blog series, which features the Musconetcong Watershed Association.
We, at Princeton Hydro, care for the health, safety, and well-being of our clients. We are tracking Tropical Storm Isaias closely as it heads up the East Coast, and the most recent precipitation forecast by NOAA is calling for a significant amount of rainfall in the NJ, PA, MD, NY region. Please be advised that the predicted precipitation could potentially pose a risk to your dam, pond, basin, or other structures.
For our clients who own and/or operate dams, levees, and other flood management structures, please take the following precautions, as adopted from a statement issued today by NJDEP Division of Dam Safety and Flood Engineering (see below), seriously:
If you are a Princeton Hydro client and we provide inspection services to your dam, please reach President Geoffrey Goll, P.E. directly if you have any issues and/or concerns at 908-237-5660 ext. 103 or ggoll@princetonhydro.com. Even if it is after hours and you are concerned about the condition of your dam during this storm event, please do call Geoff directly. Safety is our priority and will do our best to assist you immediately.
This message is from the NJDEP, Division of Dam Safety & Flood Engineering. Based on weather forecasts, it has been determined that the potential for a significant rainfall event exists in the area of your dam. At this time, we are reminding high/significant hazard dam owners to check your Emergency Action Plan to ensure that all contacts for emergency notification and emergency resources (engineers, contractors, supplies, etc.) are up to date. Please also take a moment to refresh yourself regarding the dam owner’s responsibilities in the event of an emergency. Please monitor your dam before, during, and after the storm event and report any concerns to this office. Prior to the storm, please take precautions to ensure that all spillways are clear of debris and that floating objects (boats, floating docks, etc.) which could block a spillway during high flow events are secured, where possible. If you discover that a potential emergency condition exists at the dam, you should immediately contact this office and our 24-Hour DEP Hotline at 1-877-WARNDEP (1-877-927-6337). You must also contact your engineer, as well as implement your emergency action plan. If your dam has any known vulnerabilities that you wish to discuss in advance of the storm, we recommend that you first contact your engineer. You may also contact our office at the number below. No modifications should be made to the dam without approval from this office. Please also be advised that the Division of Dam Safety and Flood Engineering does NOT recommend or require the lowering of impoundments prior to, during, or immediately following a storm event unless the integrity of the dam is in question. If a dam owner chooses to lower an impoundment for any reason, we encourage them to coordinate with local and county emergency management officials to ensure that any increased flow as a result of the lowering does not create flooding conditions downstream of the dam. The dam owner must also coordinate with the Division of Freshwater Fisheries (908-236-2118). A lake lowering permit (issued by Division of Freshwater Fisheries) is usually required prior to lowering. Division of Dam Safety & Flood Engineering NJ Department of Environmental Protection 609-984-0859
This message is from the NJDEP, Division of Dam Safety & Flood Engineering. Based on weather forecasts, it has been determined that the potential for a significant rainfall event exists in the area of your dam. At this time, we are reminding high/significant hazard dam owners to check your Emergency Action Plan to ensure that all contacts for emergency notification and emergency resources (engineers, contractors, supplies, etc.) are up to date. Please also take a moment to refresh yourself regarding the dam owner’s responsibilities in the event of an emergency.
Please monitor your dam before, during, and after the storm event and report any concerns to this office. Prior to the storm, please take precautions to ensure that all spillways are clear of debris and that floating objects (boats, floating docks, etc.) which could block a spillway during high flow events are secured, where possible. If you discover that a potential emergency condition exists at the dam, you should immediately contact this office and our 24-Hour DEP Hotline at 1-877-WARNDEP (1-877-927-6337). You must also contact your engineer, as well as implement your emergency action plan.
If your dam has any known vulnerabilities that you wish to discuss in advance of the storm, we recommend that you first contact your engineer. You may also contact our office at the number below. No modifications should be made to the dam without approval from this office.
Please also be advised that the Division of Dam Safety and Flood Engineering does NOT recommend or require the lowering of impoundments prior to, during, or immediately following a storm event unless the integrity of the dam is in question. If a dam owner chooses to lower an impoundment for any reason, we encourage them to coordinate with local and county emergency management officials to ensure that any increased flow as a result of the lowering does not create flooding conditions downstream of the dam. The dam owner must also coordinate with the Division of Freshwater Fisheries (908-236-2118). A lake lowering permit (issued by Division of Freshwater Fisheries) is usually required prior to lowering.
Click here for more information about Tropical Storm Isaias, visit NOAA's National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific Hurricane Center.
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