Memorial Pond Stabilization Planting

Memorial Pond is a 0.3-acre stormwater runoff basin located in Mount Arlington, New Jersey. The pond discharges into Glen Brook, which flows into Lake Hopatcong. The pond receives sheet flow of stormwater from the adjacent road, which contributes to nutrient and sediment loading, in turn reducing water quality in both Memorial Pond and Lake Hopatcong. In addition, the pond’s steeply-sloped shoreline was absent of stabilizing vegetation, leading to an increase in erosion. Through a grant secured from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, 400 native plants were installed along the western shoreline of Memorial Pond by a team of more than 20 volunteers from Mt. Arlington Department of Public Works, Lake Hopatcong Commission, and Princeton Hydro.

The plant selection and layout were designed to take into account the steep slope and the presence of mature, existing trees. A focus was placed on selecting regionally native plant species to restore the understory and stabilize the eroding shoreline. Herbivory protection fencing was also installed to ensure plant establishment.

The volunteer planting team participated in an educational training given by Princeton Hydro staff, covering how to properly install plants on a slope to reduce scour and ensure good root system-soil contact. Emphasizing the importance of maintenance in ensuring project success, Princeton Hydro provided a written maintenance manual. The manual provides guidance on seasonal care of the plantings; removal of the herbivory protection fencing; pruning; watering; and troubleshooting advice for common challenges to support the long term success of the project.