We’re committed to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better.
Our passion and commitment to the integration of innovative science and engineering drive us to exceed on behalf of every client.
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Despite its urban setting, the area supports diverse wetlands, waterways, and wildlife habitats that play an essential role in regional flood protection, resiliency, and ecological connectivity. Flooding and habitat loss have long challenged the Lower Darby Creek Area, particularly in the communities of Eastwick in southwest Philadelphia and Tinicum Township of Delaware County, PA. Residents in these neighborhoods experience extreme flooding during storm and high tide events, and community groups have been leading local efforts to enhance resilience and reduce flood risk. The increasing effects of climate change, such as more intense storms, sea level rise, and frequent tidal flooding, are compounding challenges. To help address these challenges, The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania (TNC) and the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge have commissioned Princeton Hydro to lead a two-year Urban Flood and Habitat Resilience Feasibility Study for the Lower Darby Creek Area. The study aims to identify and evaluate nature-based solutions that would help to convey, store, and infiltrate water to alleviate flooding, improve habitat for local wildlife species, and enhance community resilience. For this feasibility study, Princeton Hydro is combining field data collection, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and alternatives analysis to determine the most effective nature-based solutions that benefit both nature and people. These may include wetland creation or enhancement, stream and floodplain reconnection, and stormwater management retrofits designed to restore natural hydrologic function. Community engagement is a cornerstone of the Feasibility Study, ensuring that local voices help shape the region’s path toward long-term resilience. The project work began with a series of community meetings to learn from residents about the impacts of flooding and the changes they want to see in their neighborhoods. The outcome of this project will be a list of 6-10 nature-based solutions that have been prioritized by community members and that have been analyzed for feasibility and potential for flood reduction and ecological benefit. This information will be presented in a Project Roadmap for the co-developed pathway to achieve community and ecological resilience through project implementation. This guidance will empower partners and communities to secure funding, implement pilot projects, and advance long-term resilience goals. Once the study is complete, Princeton Hydro will create an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap webpage that will allow users to take a deeper dive into the study's findings and interact with the data. Users will be able to visualize flood scenarios and potential restoration opportunities and learn more about specific project activities and the proposed solutions. Community Engagement in Action: Eastwick Community Day Earlier this year, project partners joined residents for Eastwick Community Day, a vibrant event celebrating neighborhood connections, local leadership, and climate resilience. Hosted by the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Sustainability, the event was supported by representatives from The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, and Princeton Hydro, including Director of Restoration & Resilience Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP and Director of Aquatics Mike Hartshorne. The gathering offered residents an opportunity to meet the organizations involved in the flood study, learn about available climate resilience resources, and share their own experiences and priorities. Alongside informational displays and project updates, attendees enjoyed a picnic lunch, family activities, and hands-on learning about nature-based solutions. It was a day that captured the spirit of collaboration driving this initiative. Check out some highlights from the day, captured by Kim Hachadoorian, Stream Stewards Project Manager for The Nature Conservancy: [gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="17637,17638,17631,17635"] Building on the Eastwick Flood Resilience Study The Lower Darby Creek initiative builds on Princeton Hydro’s earlier Eastwick Flood Resilience Study, expanding from a neighborhood-focused analysis to a watershed-scale approach. In 2016, in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania, the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Keystone Conservation Trust, Audubon Pennsylvania, and the William Penn Foundation, Princeton Hydro conducted an analysis of Eastwick, the flood impacts created by the Lower Darby Creek, and the viability of several potential flood mitigation strategies. The study sought to answer questions commonly asked by community members related to flooding conditions, with the main question being: What impact does the landfill have on area flooding? Princeton Hydro developed a 2-D hydrologic and hydraulic model to understand how varying restoration techniques, including removal of the Clearview Landfill, expansion of the existing tidal freshwater wetland, removal of bridge infrastructure, and rerouting storm flows, would alter flooding in the Eastwick neighborhood. Findings from that study provided key data and analytical frameworks that now inform the Lower Darby Creek Area Feasibility Study. Expanding beyond the boundaries of Eastwick, the comprehensive Lower Darby Creek Area study takes a watershed-scale view, exploring how interconnected systems, including upstream hydrology, tidal influences, and habitat networks, can be managed holistically. [caption id="attachment_7896" align="aligncenter" width="751"] Princeton Hydro developed a 2-dimensional hydrologic and hydraulic model to understand how varying restoration techniques would alter flooding in the Eastwick neighborhood.[/caption] Partnerships for a Resilient Future Resilience is not achieved in isolation; it thrives through collaboration. The success of the Lower Darby Creek Area Feasibility Study and related restoration projects depends on a network of partners committed to shared goals. By aligning expertise, resources, and local knowledge, these partnerships create a foundation for long-term climate adaptation and ecological health. To learn more about the Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania, click here. To learn more about the City of Philadelphia Office of Sustainability Flood Resilience Strategy for Eastwick, go here. And, click here to learn more about the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Tinicum. Princeton Hydro is also collaborating with the Refuge to restore the Refuge’s Turkey Foot area. Working with Enviroscapes and Merestone Consultants, our team designed and implemented habitat enhancement and hydrologic restoration projects to improve water quality, restore native wetland vegetation, and expand habitat for fish and wildlife. If you’re interested in learning more about this project, check out our blog: Ecological Restoration in John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. [post_title] => Building Resilience: Exploring Nature-Based Solutions in Lower Darby Creek [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => building-resilience-exploring-nature-based-solutions-in-lower-darby-creek [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-12-10 15:03:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-12-10 15:03:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18641 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18716 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-12-01 15:46:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-12-01 15:46:00 [post_content] => As winter settles in, the Princeton Hydro team is staying active and connected. We’re sharing expertise at conferences, leading educational programs, and joining events that champion sustainability and community engagement. In this Winter Events Spotlight, we highlight the exciting opportunities ahead and how you can be part of them. December 4: Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber - Awards Dinner The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber will host its Legacy of Leadership Awards Dinner on Thursday, December 4 at TPC Jasna Polana, a historic and elegant golf club in Princeton, New Jersey. This annual tradition will celebrate the accomplishments of Chamber members and spotlight leaders who make a lasting impact on the business community. During the evening, four prestigious awards will be presented: Business Leader of the Year, Community Leader of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Innovator of the Year. Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor this event and will be honored as the recipient of the Innovator of the Year award. Our team looks forward to attending and is deeply grateful for this recognition. Get more info and register. December 11: The Jersey Water Works Annual Conference Hundreds of leaders, practitioners, and stakeholders committed to strengthening New Jersey’s water systems will come together at the College of New Jersey for the Jersey Water Works' (JWW) Annual Conference. With the theme “Our Commitment to Future Generations,” the program features an expanded lineup of 12+ interactive sessions, offering fresh perspectives on water infrastructure, stormwater management, and solutions for a sustainable and equitable water future. Attendees can expect a dynamic mix of committee-led discussions in the morning and collaborative workshops in the afternoon, plus opportunities to earn valuable Continuing Education Units. Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing and Communications for Princeton Hydro and JWW Stormwater Utilities Subcommittee Co-Chair, is facilitating a panel on "Building Holistic Pathways for Resilient Municipal Stormwater Management." The conference serves as a hub for exchanging ideas, building partnerships, and driving collective action toward a healthier water future for all. We hope to see you there! Get more info and register. December 16: SAME New Jersey Post Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor the SAME New Jersey Post Annual Holiday Luncheon being held on Tuesday, December 16th, from 12:00 - 2:00 PM at Harvest Moon Brewery & Café in New Brunswick, NJ. This festive gathering will celebrate the holiday season and commemorate the NJ Post’s 50th Anniversary. Enjoy a delicious lunch, network, and learn about upcoming events. The luncheon will also recognize outstanding contributions for 2025 with awards in the following categories: Young Professional Member, Sustaining Member Firm, BG Patrick McCarthy Service Award, and Notable Achievement Award; Princeton Hydro President Geoff Goll, PE has been selected as one of this year's award recipients. The Princeton Hydro team and our Director of Marketing and Communications Dana Patterson Greer, who serves as the NJ Post’s First Vice President, hopes to see you there! Get more info and register. January 6 - 8: Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society (NEAPMS) Annual Meeting NEAPMS will host its 27th Annual Meeting at the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa in Groton, Connecticut. The conference opens with a Tuesday afternoon workshop followed by an evening welcome reception. Wednesday features a full day of technical presentations focused on the active management of aquatic plants and algae, along with a poster session and evening banquet. The event concludes on Thursday with additional technical talks in the morning and a luncheon ending at 1:00 p.m. As part of the Invasive Aquatic Plant Management section of the conference program, Princeton Hydro Aquatic Ecologist Jesse Smith is leading a workshop on “Exploring Observations and Results of Nine Years of Brittle Naiad (Najas minor) Management in Sleepy Hollow Lake, New York.” Brittle naiad (Najas minor) is an invasive macrophyte found in the Northeast that has received little attention in the literature in regards to control and management, despite its widespread presence within its invasive range. The plant is a priority target species for management efforts in Sleepy Hollow Lake, NY due to its nuisance growth throughout the waterbody and impacts on recreation. Jesse’s presentation will explore management strategies and methods of measuring long-term management success. Get more info and register. January 21: “Roots So Deep” Film Screening and Panel Discussion A special screening of Roots So Deep will take place at the Newtown Theatre at 7:00 p.m. The four-part documentary series follows inventive farmers and pioneering scientists who are charting a path to addressing climate change through hooves, heart, and soil. This event will feature parts one and four and is co-hosted with Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve. The film investigates a central question: can a little-used grazing approach that mimics historic bison movement help lift farmers out of debt, restore depleted soils, rebuild wildlife habitat, and draw down significant amounts of carbon? The documentary features Princeton Hydro’s Senior Wildlife Biologist, Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, and ACE. He is part of a multidisciplinary team of scientists whose research forms the basis of the documentary. Mike’s studies have focused on observing the dynamics of breeding bird populations in paddocks using adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing and those continuously grazed. The documentary highlights that when managed effectively, farmland can boost productivity and profitability for farmers while simultaneously contributing positively to the environment and the diverse wildlife that shares the planet with humans. Following the screening, a panel of experts from Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, Princeton Hydro, and the Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast will discuss the film and answer audience questions. Get more info and purchase tickets. January 26 - 27: Lake Champlain Research Conference 2026 Lake Champlain Sea Grant, in partnership with the University of Vermont’s Water Resources Institute, the Lake Champlain Basin Program/NEIWPCC, and the Lake Champlain Research Consortium, will host the Lake Champlain Research Conference at the University of Vermont’s Davis Center in Burlington, VT. This year’s theme, "Research to Action," will feature representation and research from New York, Vermont, Québec, and beyond, providing an opportunity for discussion, networking, and collaboration across Lake Champlain’s multi-jurisdictional watershed. Princeton Hydro's Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, Dr. Fred Lubnow, will present on “The Monitoring and Management of Cyanobacteria HABs in Shallow, Nearshore Ecosystems such as Missisquoi Bay.” Registration will be open until December 18th at 4 pm. Get more info and register. Jan 28: Dam Removal in New Jersey Webinar Join New Jersey Statewide Dam Removal Partnership (SDRP) and Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC) for a free webinar on Dam Removal in New Jersey. Hosted via Zoom on Wednesday, January 28 at 7PM, this session will explore why and how dam removal matters. Learn about case studies, ecological benefits, and opportunities for municipalities and counties to reduce liability, restore waterways, and enhance recreation. The webinar will include ample time for questions and share details on upcoming workshops and training for local officials considering removal projects, including potential funding for high-benefit sites. Get more info and register. February 25 - 26: Pennsylvania Lake Management Society (PALMS) Annual Conference PALMS will host its 36th Annual Conference at the Wyndham Garden State College. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a diverse lineup of professional presentations, workshops, and panel discussions highlighting the latest findings and innovative approaches related to invasive species, monitoring strategies, best management practices, pollutants, and harmful algal blooms. The conference offers a valuable forum for lake managers, researchers, consultants, and environmental professionals to exchange knowledge and advance effective lake and watershed stewardship across Pennsylvania. Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the event, two of our team members are leading workshops: Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow will present on "A Review of the Use of Biochar for Lake and Watershed Management" and Project Manager - Aquatics and Environmental Scientist Pat Rose will present on "The Evaluation of Innovative Treatment Strategies to Proactively and Reactively Control Near-Shore HABS." Fred is also participating in an "Ask the Experts" panel. Get more info and register. February 26 - 27: New Jersey Watershed Conference The Watershed Institute's 9th Annual New Jersey Watershed Conference, titled All Hands on Deck: Multidisciplinary Approaches for Watershed Resilience, will be held on Friday, February 27, from 10:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in person at The College of New Jersey, with a virtual participation option available via Zoom. This statewide gathering brings together state, county, and municipal officials, nonprofit organizations, and environmental professionals for sessions designed to expand knowledge, build practical skills, spark dialogue among stakeholders, and promote collaboration on emerging watershed issues and solutions. Hosted by The Watershed Institute, the conference provides a dynamic forum for advancing resilient, science-based watershed management across New Jersey. Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the conference. We will have an exhibitor booth and members of our team are leading a workshop: Senior Project Manager of Engineering Services Sean Walsh, PE and Landscape Architect Jamie Feinstein, RLA are presenting with Lambertville Mayor Andrew Nowick on “Green or Gray? Stormwater Solutions in Constrained Watersheds.” Their session is eligible for CFM and PE CEUs. Get more info and register. March 4 & 5: Delaware Wetlands Conference The Delaware Wetlands Conference brings together hundreds of environmental professionals, scientists, practitioners, and community partners at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington. In previous years, the event has drawn more than 425 attendees, featured 75 presentations and poster displays, and hosted 45 exhibitor and sponsor tables. This two-day gathering offers a robust mix of workshops, poster sessions, networking events, lunch-and-learn opportunities, an exhibitor hall, and plenary sessions, with professional credits available for participants. The agenda spans a wide range of timely and technical topics, including soil science, climate adaptation, assessment and monitoring, and wetland restoration and creation. Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the event, exhibiting, and leading two workshops:
The Lower Darby Creek Area encompasses a unique blend of residential neighborhoods, commercial zones, and critical regional infrastructure, including the Philadelphia International Airport, Interstate 95, and portions of the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. Despite its urban setting, the area supports diverse wetlands, waterways, and wildlife habitats that play an essential role in regional flood protection, resiliency, and ecological connectivity.
Flooding and habitat loss have long challenged the Lower Darby Creek Area, particularly in the communities of Eastwick in southwest Philadelphia and Tinicum Township of Delaware County, PA. Residents in these neighborhoods experience extreme flooding during storm and high tide events, and community groups have been leading local efforts to enhance resilience and reduce flood risk. The increasing effects of climate change, such as more intense storms, sea level rise, and frequent tidal flooding, are compounding challenges.
To help address these challenges, The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania (TNC) and the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge have commissioned Princeton Hydro to lead a two-year Urban Flood and Habitat Resilience Feasibility Study for the Lower Darby Creek Area. The study aims to identify and evaluate nature-based solutions that would help to convey, store, and infiltrate water to alleviate flooding, improve habitat for local wildlife species, and enhance community resilience.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of the Feasibility Study, ensuring that local voices help shape the region’s path toward long-term resilience. The project work began with a series of community meetings to learn from residents about the impacts of flooding and the changes they want to see in their neighborhoods. The outcome of this project will be a list of 6-10 nature-based solutions that have been prioritized by community members and that have been analyzed for feasibility and potential for flood reduction and ecological benefit. This information will be presented in a Project Roadmap for the co-developed pathway to achieve community and ecological resilience through project implementation. This guidance will empower partners and communities to secure funding, implement pilot projects, and advance long-term resilience goals.
Once the study is complete, Princeton Hydro will create an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap webpage that will allow users to take a deeper dive into the study's findings and interact with the data. Users will be able to visualize flood scenarios and potential restoration opportunities and learn more about specific project activities and the proposed solutions.
Earlier this year, project partners joined residents for Eastwick Community Day, a vibrant event celebrating neighborhood connections, local leadership, and climate resilience. Hosted by the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Sustainability, the event was supported by representatives from The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, and Princeton Hydro, including Director of Restoration & Resilience Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP and Director of Aquatics Mike Hartshorne.
The gathering offered residents an opportunity to meet the organizations involved in the flood study, learn about available climate resilience resources, and share their own experiences and priorities. Alongside informational displays and project updates, attendees enjoyed a picnic lunch, family activities, and hands-on learning about nature-based solutions. It was a day that captured the spirit of collaboration driving this initiative.
The Lower Darby Creek initiative builds on Princeton Hydro’s earlier Eastwick Flood Resilience Study, expanding from a neighborhood-focused analysis to a watershed-scale approach. In 2016, in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania, the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Keystone Conservation Trust, Audubon Pennsylvania, and the William Penn Foundation, Princeton Hydro conducted an analysis of Eastwick, the flood impacts created by the Lower Darby Creek, and the viability of several potential flood mitigation strategies. The study sought to answer questions commonly asked by community members related to flooding conditions, with the main question being: What impact does the landfill have on area flooding? Princeton Hydro developed a 2-D hydrologic and hydraulic model to understand how varying restoration techniques, including removal of the Clearview Landfill, expansion of the existing tidal freshwater wetland, removal of bridge infrastructure, and rerouting storm flows, would alter flooding in the Eastwick neighborhood.
Findings from that study provided key data and analytical frameworks that now inform the Lower Darby Creek Area Feasibility Study. Expanding beyond the boundaries of Eastwick, the comprehensive Lower Darby Creek Area study takes a watershed-scale view, exploring how interconnected systems, including upstream hydrology, tidal influences, and habitat networks, can be managed holistically.
Resilience is not achieved in isolation; it thrives through collaboration. The success of the Lower Darby Creek Area Feasibility Study and related restoration projects depends on a network of partners committed to shared goals. By aligning expertise, resources, and local knowledge, these partnerships create a foundation for long-term climate adaptation and ecological health. To learn more about the Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania, click here. To learn more about the City of Philadelphia Office of Sustainability Flood Resilience Strategy for Eastwick, go here. And, click here to learn more about the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Tinicum.
Princeton Hydro is also collaborating with the Refuge to restore the Refuge’s Turkey Foot area. Working with Enviroscapes and Merestone Consultants, our team designed and implemented habitat enhancement and hydrologic restoration projects to improve water quality, restore native wetland vegetation, and expand habitat for fish and wildlife. If you’re interested in learning more about this project, check out our blog: Ecological Restoration in John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge.
As winter settles in, the Princeton Hydro team is staying active and connected. We’re sharing expertise at conferences, leading educational programs, and joining events that champion sustainability and community engagement. In this Winter Events Spotlight, we highlight the exciting opportunities ahead and how you can be part of them.
The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber will host its Legacy of Leadership Awards Dinner on Thursday, December 4 at TPC Jasna Polana, a historic and elegant golf club in Princeton, New Jersey. This annual tradition will celebrate the accomplishments of Chamber members and spotlight leaders who make a lasting impact on the business community. During the evening, four prestigious awards will be presented: Business Leader of the Year, Community Leader of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Innovator of the Year. Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor this event and will be honored as the recipient of the Innovator of the Year award. Our team looks forward to attending and is deeply grateful for this recognition.
Get more info and register.
Hundreds of leaders, practitioners, and stakeholders committed to strengthening New Jersey’s water systems will come together at the College of New Jersey for the Jersey Water Works' (JWW) Annual Conference. With the theme “Our Commitment to Future Generations,” the program features an expanded lineup of 12+ interactive sessions, offering fresh perspectives on water infrastructure, stormwater management, and solutions for a sustainable and equitable water future. Attendees can expect a dynamic mix of committee-led discussions in the morning and collaborative workshops in the afternoon, plus opportunities to earn valuable Continuing Education Units. Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing and Communications for Princeton Hydro and JWW Stormwater Utilities Subcommittee Co-Chair, is facilitating a panel on "Building Holistic Pathways for Resilient Municipal Stormwater Management." The conference serves as a hub for exchanging ideas, building partnerships, and driving collective action toward a healthier water future for all. We hope to see you there!
Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor the SAME New Jersey Post Annual Holiday Luncheon being held on Tuesday, December 16th, from 12:00 - 2:00 PM at Harvest Moon Brewery & Café in New Brunswick, NJ. This festive gathering will celebrate the holiday season and commemorate the NJ Post’s 50th Anniversary. Enjoy a delicious lunch, network, and learn about upcoming events. The luncheon will also recognize outstanding contributions for 2025 with awards in the following categories: Young Professional Member, Sustaining Member Firm, BG Patrick McCarthy Service Award, and Notable Achievement Award; Princeton Hydro President Geoff Goll, PE has been selected as one of this year's award recipients. The Princeton Hydro team and our Director of Marketing and Communications Dana Patterson Greer, who serves as the NJ Post’s First Vice President, hopes to see you there!
NEAPMS will host its 27th Annual Meeting at the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa in Groton, Connecticut. The conference opens with a Tuesday afternoon workshop followed by an evening welcome reception. Wednesday features a full day of technical presentations focused on the active management of aquatic plants and algae, along with a poster session and evening banquet. The event concludes on Thursday with additional technical talks in the morning and a luncheon ending at 1:00 p.m.
As part of the Invasive Aquatic Plant Management section of the conference program, Princeton Hydro Aquatic Ecologist Jesse Smith is leading a workshop on “Exploring Observations and Results of Nine Years of Brittle Naiad (Najas minor) Management in Sleepy Hollow Lake, New York.” Brittle naiad (Najas minor) is an invasive macrophyte found in the Northeast that has received little attention in the literature in regards to control and management, despite its widespread presence within its invasive range. The plant is a priority target species for management efforts in Sleepy Hollow Lake, NY due to its nuisance growth throughout the waterbody and impacts on recreation. Jesse’s presentation will explore management strategies and methods of measuring long-term management success.
A special screening of Roots So Deep will take place at the Newtown Theatre at 7:00 p.m. The four-part documentary series follows inventive farmers and pioneering scientists who are charting a path to addressing climate change through hooves, heart, and soil. This event will feature parts one and four and is co-hosted with Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve. The film investigates a central question: can a little-used grazing approach that mimics historic bison movement help lift farmers out of debt, restore depleted soils, rebuild wildlife habitat, and draw down significant amounts of carbon?
The documentary features Princeton Hydro’s Senior Wildlife Biologist, Mike McGraw, CSE, QAWB, and ACE. He is part of a multidisciplinary team of scientists whose research forms the basis of the documentary. Mike’s studies have focused on observing the dynamics of breeding bird populations in paddocks using adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing and those continuously grazed. The documentary highlights that when managed effectively, farmland can boost productivity and profitability for farmers while simultaneously contributing positively to the environment and the diverse wildlife that shares the planet with humans.
Following the screening, a panel of experts from Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, Princeton Hydro, and the Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast will discuss the film and answer audience questions.
Get more info and purchase tickets.
Lake Champlain Sea Grant, in partnership with the University of Vermont’s Water Resources Institute, the Lake Champlain Basin Program/NEIWPCC, and the Lake Champlain Research Consortium, will host the Lake Champlain Research Conference at the University of Vermont’s Davis Center in Burlington, VT. This year’s theme, "Research to Action," will feature representation and research from New York, Vermont, Québec, and beyond, providing an opportunity for discussion, networking, and collaboration across Lake Champlain’s multi-jurisdictional watershed. Princeton Hydro's Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, Dr. Fred Lubnow, will present on “The Monitoring and Management of Cyanobacteria HABs in Shallow, Nearshore Ecosystems such as Missisquoi Bay.” Registration will be open until December 18th at 4 pm.
Join New Jersey Statewide Dam Removal Partnership (SDRP) and Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC) for a free webinar on Dam Removal in New Jersey. Hosted via Zoom on Wednesday, January 28 at 7PM, this session will explore why and how dam removal matters. Learn about case studies, ecological benefits, and opportunities for municipalities and counties to reduce liability, restore waterways, and enhance recreation. The webinar will include ample time for questions and share details on upcoming workshops and training for local officials considering removal projects, including potential funding for high-benefit sites.
PALMS will host its 36th Annual Conference at the Wyndham Garden State College. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a diverse lineup of professional presentations, workshops, and panel discussions highlighting the latest findings and innovative approaches related to invasive species, monitoring strategies, best management practices, pollutants, and harmful algal blooms. The conference offers a valuable forum for lake managers, researchers, consultants, and environmental professionals to exchange knowledge and advance effective lake and watershed stewardship across Pennsylvania. Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the event, two of our team members are leading workshops: Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow will present on "A Review of the Use of Biochar for Lake and Watershed Management" and Project Manager - Aquatics and Environmental Scientist Pat Rose will present on "The Evaluation of Innovative Treatment Strategies to Proactively and Reactively Control Near-Shore HABS." Fred is also participating in an "Ask the Experts" panel.
The Watershed Institute's 9th Annual New Jersey Watershed Conference, titled All Hands on Deck: Multidisciplinary Approaches for Watershed Resilience, will be held on Friday, February 27, from 10:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in person at The College of New Jersey, with a virtual participation option available via Zoom. This statewide gathering brings together state, county, and municipal officials, nonprofit organizations, and environmental professionals for sessions designed to expand knowledge, build practical skills, spark dialogue among stakeholders, and promote collaboration on emerging watershed issues and solutions. Hosted by The Watershed Institute, the conference provides a dynamic forum for advancing resilient, science-based watershed management across New Jersey.
Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the conference. We will have an exhibitor booth and members of our team are leading a workshop: Senior Project Manager of Engineering Services Sean Walsh, PE and Landscape Architect Jamie Feinstein, RLA are presenting with Lambertville Mayor Andrew Nowick on “Green or Gray? Stormwater Solutions in Constrained Watersheds.” Their session is eligible for CFM and PE CEUs.
The Delaware Wetlands Conference brings together hundreds of environmental professionals, scientists, practitioners, and community partners at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington. In previous years, the event has drawn more than 425 attendees, featured 75 presentations and poster displays, and hosted 45 exhibitor and sponsor tables. This two-day gathering offers a robust mix of workshops, poster sessions, networking events, lunch-and-learn opportunities, an exhibitor hall, and plenary sessions, with professional credits available for participants. The agenda spans a wide range of timely and technical topics, including soil science, climate adaptation, assessment and monitoring, and wetland restoration and creation.
Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the event, exhibiting, and leading two workshops:
Due to a large winter storm, the conference, which was previously scheduled for January 27 & 28, has been rescheduled to March 4 & 5. Don’t miss this premier forum for advancing wetland research, policy, and practice in the region.
New Jersey Coastal Resilience Collaborative (NJCRC) and Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) are hosting the 2026 New Jersey Coastal & Climate Resilience Conference from Monday, March 9, through Wednesday, March 11, at the Seaview Hotel in Galloway, NJ. With a theme of “Navigating Changing Tides,” The three-day event, themed "Navigating Changing Tides," brings together hundreds of coastal and climate resilience professionals to gather, learn, collaborate and celebrate.
Princeton Hydro, a conference sponsor, is exhibiting and leading a workshop. Dr. Fred Lubnow, Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services, is presenting on Harmful Algal Blooms in the Coastal Environment and Restoration Strategies to Address Them. He'll explore the impacts of HABs in coastal environments and practical nature-based restoration strategies to prevent, control or mitigate HABs.
Presented by the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, the 2026 Watershed Congress takes place in-person at Alvernia University in Reading, PA from 8:30am through 3:30pm. The Watershed Congress has evolved since 1998 to advance the best available information and techniques for protecting and restoring watersheds. The focus on networking across disciplines means that the Watershed Congress melds science, policy, and practical applications into one program. As a result, the annual Watershed Congress is a highly anticipated event for people interested in understanding, protecting, and restoring their local streams. Princeton Hydro is a proud event sponsor, and our team members are leading two educational sessions:
As we move into the new year, additional events will be announced, and this blog will be updated accordingly. Stay tuned for more details and upcoming opportunities.
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.
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.
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.
Our team led two workshops at the NJAFM 20th Annual Conference:
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Princeton Hydro is honored to be recognized by Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space (FoHVOS) with the 2025 Corporate Conservation Recognition Award. This distinction celebrates Princeton Hydro's long-standing dedication to advancing ecological resilience through science-based, innovative solutions. Over the past three decades, our team has led more than 10,000 water resource projects in New Jersey and beyond, integrating engineering and ecology to restore wetlands, manage stormwater, and safeguard natural resources.
The award was presented to Princeton Hydro Vice President Mark Gallagher by FoHVOS Executive Director Jenn Rogers during the organization's Annual Fundraising Gala on Sunday, September 14, at Glenmoore Farm.
"I’m honored and deeply grateful to accept the Corporate Conservation Award. It’s a privilege to be recognized among so many passionate and dedicated individuals and organizations working to protect and restore our natural world," said Mark during his acceptance speech. "We’re proud to collaborate with environmental nonprofit groups like FOHVOS, government agencies, and community stakeholders to restore habitats that support biodiversity, improve water quality, and enhance climate resilience. Every restoration effort is a step toward healing the land and reconnecting people with the natural spaces around them."
Also honored at the event was Jim Waltman, Executive Director of the Watershed Institute, who received the Jack Gleeson Environmental Achievement Award.
This year's gala theme - "Flowing Together - Land and Water, People and Purpose, Community and Care" - celebrated science, stewardship, and the collective efforts of the conservation community. Alongside Mark, Princeton Hydro leaders Megan Hunter Ruf, Chief Operating Officer; Samara McAuliffe, Chief People Officer; and Christiana Pollack CERP, CFM, GISP, Director of Restoration & Resilience, attended the event. Guests enjoyed live music, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and the signature Green Carpet, where eco-inspired attire took center stage.
Guests weren't the only stars of the evening. Roaming the grounds of Glenmoore Farm was Rizzo, a resident turkey, who quickly became a crowd favorite. From strutting across the Green Carpet to mingling with guests, Rizzo delighted as she proudly paraded through the party.
Princeton Hydro and FoHVOS have a long history of partnership and collaboration, rooted in a shared mission to protect natural resources and foster resilient communities. In addition to project collaborations, our Chief People Officer Samara McAuliffe has proudly served on the FoHVOS Board of Trustees since 2022. Princeton Hydro was also a proud sponsor of this year's gala.
Learn more about FoHVOS's initiatives and how you can get involved by clicking here.
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette presented the City of Lambertville with the NJDEP "Our Water’s Worth It" award. The award ceremony, held at a stormwater infrastructure improvement project site behind the Lambertville Firehouse, celebrated the Lambertville's commitment to improving stormwater management, addressing flooding, protecting local waterbodies, increasing storm resilience, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
In a press release announcing the award, Commissioner LaTourette said, “Modernization of stormwater management strategies and infrastructure is critical to mitigating flooding that is severely impacting communities across New Jersey. My DEP colleagues and I applaud Lambertville for paving the way for others to follow in managing stormwater more effectively.”
The "Our Water’s Worth It" campaign, launched by NJDEP earlier this year, aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting New Jersey’s water resources. The campaign highlights municipalities, water systems, and others who go above and beyond in water resource management and infrastructure improvements. Lambertville’s forward-thinking approach to stormwater management, particularly in meeting permitting requirements ahead of schedule, earned the city this well-deserved recognition.
At Princeton Hydro, we are proud to support the City of Lambertville in its stormwater management initiatives. Our team has been working closely with Lambertville to design projects that not only mitigate flooding but also enhance the surrounding natural environment.
During the award ceremony, Senior Project Manager and Professional Engineer, Sean Walsh, PE, said: “We are honored to be here today alongside NJDEP and the City of Lambertville celebrating Lambertville's remarkable achievement in receiving the 'Our Water's Worth It' trophy. It's particularly meaningful that this recognition comes during Climate Week, underscoring the importance of local action in addressing global environmental challenges.”
Earlier this year, the Princeton Hydro team completed a comprehensive Stormwater Utility Feasibility Study, which provided critical insights into Lambertville’s current stormwater management capacity and forecasted future needs.
Among the ongoing projects, Princeton Hydro is evaluating solutions for capturing runoff and reducing flooding in Lambertville's Music Mountain area, a critical greenspace in the heart of the city. This steep, wooded hillside, home to popular nature trails, serves as a cherished spot for after-school exploration, dog walking, and outdoor recreation. Music Mountain also plays a critical role in the city’s stormwater management system, acting as a natural buffer to protect lower-lying areas from flash flooding caused by runoff from the residential neighborhoods above. However, storm sewer outfalls discharging into the hillside have created deep erosion gullies, and during heavy rain events, the runoff has flooded the Fire Department. In collaboration with the City and the Fire Department, Princeton Hydro is designing a comprehensive solution that includes both the installation of a piped stormwater system and enlarging the inlet at the base of the mountain to better capture surface water runoff.
Additionally, on the Closson Farm property, Princeton Hydro is designing a riparian restoration project to manage the effects of increasing storm intensity. Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, this project will result in 4.6 acres of restored floodplain, 300 trees planted, creation of wildlife habitat, measurable sediment and nutrient reduction, reduced stormwater runoff, community engagement, and new walking paths for recreation.
“Together with Lambertville, we are taking essential steps to enhance the city’s infrastructure and safeguard the community against future flooding. Our partnership reflects a shared commitment to protecting the environment and promoting resilience,” said Princeton Hydro’s Director of Restoration & Resilience, Christiana Pollack, CFM, GISP.
By embracing innovative stormwater solutions, Lambertville is not only enhancing its infrastructure but also setting a benchmark for resilience and environmental stewardship across New Jersey. This recognition reflects the city’s commitment to proactive flood management and sustainability, serving as an inspiration for other communities.
Princeton Hydro is honored to partner with the City of Lambertville on these important efforts. We extend our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and are excited to continue our collaboration on future projects that will further strengthen the city's resilience and protect its vibrant neighborhoods.
To learn more about NJDEP’s "Our Water’s Worth It" campaign, watch the video below:
New Jersey’s water-related infrastructure is a complex system, constantly facing the challenges posed by stormwater runoff and working to properly manage it. Stormwater management isn’t just about handling rainfall; it’s a critical aspect of improving water quality and mitigating flood risks. In New Jersey, where urbanization and rainfall patterns intersect, managing stormwater is more than just a priority; it’s a necessity. To learn more about stormwater management solutions, check out our blog: "In the Eye of the Storm: Exploring A Stormwater Utility in New Jersey."
Princeton Hydro is dedicated to protecting our natural resources and changing our ecosystems, quality of life and communities for the better. Our team members are passionate about continuing to learn new technologies, staying ahead of regulatory changes, and expanding their knowledge.
Today, we are proud to put the spotlight on seven team members who recently achieved new professional certifications.
We are thrilled to announce that six team members earned their Professional Engineer (PE) license in four states:
The PE license is the engineering profession’s highest standard of competence, a significant symbol of achievement and assurance of quality. To become licensed, engineers must complete a four-year college degree, work under a Professional Engineer for at least four years, pass two intensive competency exams, and earn a license from their state's licensure board. Then, to retain their licenses, PEs must continually maintain and improve their skills throughout their careers.
Andrew Simko, who works in our Bowie, Maryland office, has extensive experience in floodplain and stormwater management, and is proficient in hydrologic and hydraulics computer modeling and GIS. Before arriving to Princeton Hydro, Andrew worked as a water resources engineer developing FEMA flood insurance rate maps and helping to design stormwater management projects.
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Jake Dittes is passionate about restoring the habitat and natural functions of aquatic systems. As a Water Resources Engineer, Jake works on hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, project design, drafting and construction management on ecological restoration projects. He is based in our New England field office.
Jake Schwartz is a Staff Engineer with a B.S. in Civil Engineering with experience in stormwater design, site layout, construction inspection, environmental regulation, as well as water chemistry and hydraulic principles. Jake uses his knowledge and experience to design sustainable site plans for a variety of projects.
Water Resource Engineer Robert Costello uses his knowledge and experience to provide the best possible outcomes for our clients in every one of his projects. Robert received his degree from the University of Delaware, with a major in Environmental Engineering and a Minor in Civil Engineering. Robert has experience in subsurface geotechnical investigations, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling of water conveyance systems, stormwater BMP design, as well as the complete design, modeling, and supervision of Green Infrastructure Systems.
Ryan Wasik is a Water Resource Engineer with a B.S. in Civil Engineering and a minor in Environmental Engineering from Widener University in in Chester, PA. He has professional experience in roadway design, ADA ramp design, site grading and layout, utility design, erosion and sediment control measures, and stormwater design/inspections.
Staff Engineer Stephen Duda is a civil engineer with expertise in grading and stormwater design, drafting, permitting, soil testing and construction inspection. Prior to Princeton Hydro, he worked for a small land development firm in South Jersey, where he worked on multiple aspects of land development projects, construction management and municipal engineering. He holds an Associate degree in General Engineering and Engineering Technologies/CAD, as well as a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Rowan University.
Jake Dittes also earned the New Jersey Watershed Institute Green Infrastructure (WIGI) certification. WIGI is an adapted version of the Level 1 training to landscape professionals in New Jersey who design, install, and maintain stormwater best management practices (BMPs) and conservation landscapes.
The achievement of the WIGI certification demonstrates an advanced level of professionalism and knowledge of sustainable landscaping practices for healthier watersheds. Certification is voluntary and candidates must pass a comprehensive exam that assesses an individual’s command of sustainable practices in the design, installation, and maintenance of landscapes. WIGI-certified professionals have in-depth knowledge of sustainable landscape best practices and a focus on maintenance of stormwater best management practices.
Jake recently led a webinar for The Watershed Institute about stream bank stabilization and restoration. Check it out here:
Christiana Pollack, GISP, CFM, Senior Project Manager, Ecologist and Certified Floodplain Manager, is now a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) through the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER).
SER’s CERP program encourages a high professional standard for those who are designing, implementing, overseeing, and monitoring restoration projects. Only senior level practitioners who have achieved the knowledge requirements and have greater than five years of full-time experience with restoration can be certified.
Christiana has 15+ years of expertise in hydrologic modeling and ecological restoration, with a focus on freshwater and tidal habitats, living shorelines using natural and nature-based features, spatial analysis, and environmental mapping. She performs flood mitigation and wetland hydrology modeling in riverine systems, and, as a project manager, she oversees numerous ecological restoration design and geospatial projects, including vulnerability assessments and hazard mitigation planning mapping. Additionally, Christiana manages several wetland restoration projects that provide ecosystem services to mitigate flood risks, improve water quality, and strengthen storm resiliency.
CERP is designed to ensure that certified practitioners are up to date on the new and important developments in the field of ecological restoration – both from the scientific and the practical perspectives. The certification is valid for 5 years after approval, and recertification requires that CERPs earn a minimum of 50 continuing education credits within the five-year period since they were last certified.
Non-native Phragmites australis, also known as Common Reed, is a species of perennial grass found across North America, especially along the Atlantic coast, in wetlands, riparian areas, shorelines, and other wet areas like roadside ditches and drainage basins. This aggressively invasive grass can grow up to 20 feet tall, in dense groupings, and tends to spread rapidly, quickly colonizing disturbed wetlands.
Once established, the invasive plant forms a monoculture with a dense mat, outcompeting native vegetation, lowering the local plant biodiversity, and displacing native animals. These landscape changes impair the natural function of the marsh ecosystem by altering its elevations and tidal reach. A higher, drier marsh leads to less vigorous growth of native salt marsh vegetation, allowing Phragmites australis to gain a stronger foothold and continue to take over.
Phragmites australis can also eliminate small, intertidal channels and obliterate pool habitat that offers natural refuge and feeding grounds for invertebrates, fish, and birds. The spread of invasive Phragmites australis also has negative impacts on land aesthetics and outdoor recreation by obscuring views and restricting access. And, each Fall, when Phragmites australis die off, the large concentrations of dry vegetation increase the risk of fast-spreading fires near highly populated residential and commercial areas.
Over the last century, there has been a dramatic increase in the spread of Phragmites australis, partly due to an increase in residential and commercial development that resulted in disturbances to wetlands. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the rapid spread of Phragmites australis in the 20th century can also be attributed to the construction of railroads and major roadways, habitat disturbance, shoreline development, pollution, and eutrophication.
Princeton Hydro has worked in areas throughout the East Coast to address and properly manage Phragmites australis in order to restore natural habitats and enhance plant diversity, wildlife habitat, and water quality. Two recent projects include the restoration of John A. Roebling Memorial Park in Hamilton and Pin Oak Forest Conservation Area in Woodbridge, New Jersey.
Mercer County’s John A. Roebling Memorial Park is home to the northernmost freshwater tidal marsh on the Delaware River, the Abbott Marshlands, an area containing valuable habitat for many rare species. Unfortunately, the area experienced a significant amount of loss and degradation, partially due to the introduction of the invasive Phragmites australis.
For Mercer County Park Commission, Princeton Hydro put together a plan to reduce and control the Phragmites australis, in order to increase biodiversity, improve recreational opportunities, and enhance visitor experience at the park. This stewardship project replaced the Phragmites australis with native species in order to reduce its ability to recolonize the marsh.
By Spring of this year, the team expects to see native species dominating the landscape from the newly exposed native seed bank with minimal Phragmites australis growth.
The Pin Oak Forest Conservation Area is a 97-acre tract of open space that contains an extremely valuable wetland complex at the headwaters of Woodbridge Creek. The site is located in a heavily developed landscape of northern New Jersey. As such, the area suffered from wetland and stream channel degradation, habitat fragmentation, ecological impairment, and decreased biodiversity due to invasive species, including Phragmites australis.
The site was viewed as one of only a few large-scale freshwater wetland restoration opportunities remaining in this highly developed region of New Jersey. A dynamic partnership between government agencies, NGOs, and private industry, was formed to restore the natural function of the wetlands complex, transform the Pin Oak Forest site into thriving habitat teeming with wildlife, and steward this property back to life.
This award-winning restoration project converted over 30 acres of degraded freshwater wetlands, streams and disturbed uplands dominated by invasive species into a species-rich and highly functional headwater wetland complex. The resulting ecosystem provides valuable habitat for wildlife including the state-threatened Black-crowned Night-heron and Red-headed Woodpecker. Biodiversity was also increased through invasive species management, which allowed establishment of native plants such as pin oak, swamp white oak, marsh hibiscus, and swamp rose. The restored headwater wetland system provides stormwater management, floodplain storage, enhanced groundwater recharge onsite, and surface water flows to Woodbridge Creek, as well as public hiking trails, all benefiting the town of Woodbridge.
Scientific field research continues to be conducted in order to identify the best way(s) to manage and control the spread of Phragmites australis. Depending on the landscape and how established the Phragmites australis population is, there are several different methods that can be effective in reducing Phragmites australis infestations in order to allow for the regeneration of native wetland plant communities and protect fish and wildlife habitat.
Recently, a group of more than 280 scientists, resource managers and policy professionals gathered together at the Hudson River Estuary Program’s (HEP) annual conference to explore how natural and nature-based solutions (i.e. building living shorelines, enhancing tidal wetlands and stream corridors, and conserving vulnerable floodplains) can be used as critical tools for addressing the impacts of climate change while also protecting and enhancing critical habitat.
The conference included six interactive workshops and dynamic panel discussions. Christiana Pollack, CERP, GISP, CFM of Princeton Hydro, Terry Doss of New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority, Kip Stein from New York City Parks, and Judith Weis of Rutgers lead a panel discussion, moderated by Lisa Baron from U.S. Army Corps Engineers, on "The Yin and Yang of Estuarine Phragmites Management" to share lessons learned over many years of combating invasive species, including how sea level rise is changing minds and techniques.
Together, representing decades of experience in Phragmites australis management and research, these experts presented the evolving nature of restoration for this habitat type, common control/management methodologies, and long-term management and monitoring strategies for this reed and other invasive species. During the panel discussion, Christiana made specific mention of the Roebling Park project as one example of successful strategies in action.
If you’re interested in learning more and seeing photos from a few recent Phragmites australis management projects, click below for a free download of Christiana’s full presentation.
Through a combination of prevention, early detection, eradication, restoration, research and outreach, we can protect our native landscapes and reduce the spread of invasive species. Click here to learn more about how invasive species disrupt our ecosystems, why managing them is so important, and the cutting-edge tools and innovative techniques helping to eradicate invasives and restore balance to delicate ecosystems.
This fall, Princeton Hydro is participating in a variety of events, including presenting at conferences that explore topics ranging from floodplain management to stream restoration to stormwater management. Here's a snapshot of what's to come:
The Great Swamp Watershed Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and improving the water resources of the Passaic River region, is hosting its 2019 Gala & Silent Auction. This year’s event is being held in honor of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill for her commitment to protecting our planet and growing the clean energy economy in New Jersey. The evening will include a cocktail hour, dinner banquet, and expansive silent auction.
The Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC) is a nonprofit organization that's been supporting efforts to protect the environment and preserve natural resources in communities throughout New Jersey for 50 years. The Environmental Congress is an annual statewide gathering of environmental commissions, local officials, agencies, citizen groups and environmental organizations, which includes an exhibitors hall, farmer’s market, and workshops on a variety of current environmental topics. Princeton Hydro, a business member of the ANJEC, will be exhibiting during the event. Come say "hello" to our staff at the booth: Vice President Mark Gallagher, Senior Project Manager Kelly Klein, Communications Strategist Dana Patterson, and Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Mattison.
The conference, being held in Baltimore, gives small and minority businesses in the architecture, engineering and construction industries the opportunity to come together with federal agencies in order to showcase best practices and highlight future opportunities to work in the federal market. Nearly 500 professionals throughout the Mid-Atlantic region are expected to attend this year's MEGA Maryland, which includes 25+ speakers and 50+ exhibits. Be sure to stop by the Princeton Hydro booth!
NJAFM is hosting its 15th Annual Conference and Exhibition in Atlantic City, NJ. Participants will attend meetings and seminars covering topics, including hazard mitigation, flood insurance, flood modeling, stormwater management, construction standards and more. Princeton Hydro’s Christiana Pollack, GISP, CFM is giving a presentation about the Blue Acres ecological restoration project, which increases storm resiliency by reducing flooding and stormwater runoff by improving the ecological and floodplain function within the former residential properties acquired by the NJDEP Blue Acres Program. This presentation will highlight the green infrastructure techniques employed including restoration of native coastal forest and meadow.
The 7th Annual Delaware River Watershed Forum, taking place in Allentown, PA, brings together organizations and individuals spanning the four watershed states of PA, NY, NJ, and DE. The Forum allows for collaboration among those working on environmental conservation and policy; and provides professional and personal development opportunities. Workshops will focus on topics such as water quality, community engagement, equity, and environmental policy. Princeton Hydro President Geoff Goll, P.E., Senior Project Manager Kelly Klein, and Communications Strategist Dana Patterson are participating in this year's event. Geoff and Kelly, along with Alan Hunt of the Musconetcong Watershed Association, are leading a "Musconetcong River Restoration Tour" on Oct 16.
The theme of this year's Villanova University College of Engineering Stormwater Management Symposium is “Building Resilience into Stormwater.” Participants will attend technical sessions, hear a variety of presentations, and have an opportunity to take part in field trips and networking events. Topics covered during the symposium include Water Reuse and Harvesting, Stormwater Regulations and Design, Vegetated Infiltration Systems and more. Princeton Hydro is thrilled to be attending!
We are a proud sponsor of the Nature Conservancy's Oak Leaf Auction being held at The Ridge in Basking Ridge, NJ. Participants of this fun fundraising event will enjoy live and silent auctions for items like artwork, weekend getaways, one-of-a-kind experiences, and much more. The evening also includes cocktails, appetizers and networking opportunities.
New Jersey Watershed Conference, which is an educational event that aims to advance knowledge and communications on issues related to water quality and quantity across the state. The agenda features a variety of presentations from local experts on watershed management, stormwater, green infrastructure, and the problems and solutions related to the health of our watersheds. Princeton Hydro, a proud sponsor of the event, is exhibiting and giving two presentations: Director of Aquatic Programs Dr. Fred Lubnow is presenting on "An Overview of the Causes and Impacts of Harmful Algal Blooms." Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Mattison is leading a workshop on “Flipping the Script on American Environmental Thought."
Are you a natural resource manager, scientist, conservation advocate, or policy leader? Join the NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program and the Hudson River Foundation for the 2019 Restoration Conference. The conference, titled "Explore Lessons Learned for a Changing Future at HEP," will explore how habitat restoration can shape our community’s response to a changing climate. The day will feature a series of plenary presentations and interactive workshops that will help participants better understand these challenges, current initiatives, and the state of practice and scientific understanding.
Engineers Without Borders (EWB), a nonprofit organization that works to build a better world through engineering projects that aid communities in meeting their basic needs, is hosting its National Conference in Pittsburgh, PA. Staff Engineer Natalie Rodrigues, EIT, CPESC-IT is an active volunteer with EWB. Natalie began volunteering for the organization seven years ago while attending college at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Resources Engineering with a focus in water resources. The conference includes dynamic discussions with industry leaders, educational opportunities about complex global challenges that engineers can solve, and networking with the people driving the engineering sector's socially minded future.
SAME Philadelphia is hosting a one-day symposium featuring experts on infrastructure resiliency in the face of extreme storms, flooding and other natural disasters. Presentation topics include, Coastal Resiliency, Public/Private Partnerships for Resiliency, and Climate Vulnerability and Adaptation/Flood Risk. Stop by the Princeton Hydro exhibitor booth to say hello to Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey Goll, P.E. and Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Mattison. We hope to see you there!
NALMS' 39th International Symposium, being held in Burlington, VT, is themed “Watershed Moments: Harnessing Data, Science, and Local Knowledge to Protect Lakes.” This year’s symposium includes a robust exhibit hall, a variety of field trips, and a wide array of presentations on topics ranging from water level management to combating invasive species to nutrient pollution and more. Dr. Fred Lubnow will be presenting a poster on Harmful Algal Blooms in Lake Hopatcong, and Dr. Stephen Souza, a founding principal of Princeton Hydro, is leading a workshop on Stormwater Management for Lake Managers, which is designed to demonstrate the importance of implementing ecologically appropriate, cost-effective green infrastructure stormwater management techniques as part of comprehensive lake restoration plan. In addition to conference activities, visitors will enjoy Vermont's scenic beauty and a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Mid-Atlantic Stream Restoration Conference, hosted by the Resource Institute, invites resource professionals, researchers and practitioners to participate in discussions and workshops focused on Building Resilient Streams in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. Princeton Hydro is giving two presentations during the conference:
SAME gives leaders from the A/E/C, environmental, and facility management industries the opportunity to come together with federal agencies in order to showcase best practices and highlight future opportunities for small businesses to work in the federal market. Princeton Hydro's Chief Operating Officer Kevin M. Yezdimer, PE and Communication Strategist Dana Patterson are attending the 2019 SAME SBC Conference, which is being held in Dallas, Texas. The program consists of networking events, small business exhibits, a variety of speakers and much more.
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Rutgers Office of Continuing Professional Education is offering a one-day class that explores the utilization of mitigation and sustainable design techniques to reduce stormwater impacts and increase storm resiliency.
The course, designed for ecologists, engineers, planners, and landscape architects involved in the recovery of impacted river, lake, riparian, wetland, and coastal environments, draws heavily upon real-world examples of restoration ecology in practice. This interactive course focuses specifically on the multi-disciplined recovery of degraded, damaged, or impaired ecosystems.
Dr. Stephen Souza, a founding principal of Princeton Hydro and owner of Clean Waters Consulting, LLC, is the main instructor and course coordinator. The course curriculum includes lessons from Dr. Souza and a number of experts from the Princeton Hydro team, including:
Course instruction will also be provided by John Miller, P.E., CFM, CSM, FEMA Mitigation Liaison; Nathaniel Burns, Langan Engineering Project Landscape Architect; and Capt. Al Modjeski, American Littoral Society Habitat Restoration Program Director.
In addition to 0.7 Rutgers CEUs, the course also awards participants with professional credits, including:
The course will be held on Wednesday, June 5 2019 from 8:30AM to 5:00PM at the Rutgers Continuing Education Center at the Atrium in Somerset, NJ. Register on or before May 22 to take advantage of a discounted early registration fee. Pre-registration is required. Continental breakfast and buffet lunch are provided at no additional cost.
Princeton Hydro is proud to partner with Rutgers Office of Continuing Professional Education and take part in this valuable continuing professional education course. We hope to see you there!
To prevent further erosion at the Slade Dale Sanctuary in Point Pleasant, dozens of volunteers helped stabilize the shoreline using a technique that has never been done before in New Jersey. On Saturday, American Littoral Society, in partnership with Princeton Hydro, Borough of Point Pleasant, New Jersey Nature Conservancy, New Jersey Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership, and the Point Pleasant Rotary Club, organized dozens of volunteers to restore the shoreline and prevent further erosion at the Slade Dale Sanctuary using recycled Christmas trees.
As one of only a few areas of open space left in Point Pleasant, the 13-acre Slade Dale Sanctuary is an important part of the local ecosystem and is home to a number of unique animals and plants. This waterfront preserve along the North Branch Beaver Dam Creek is predominantly tidal marsh, which provides habitat for various birds, including osprey, as well as passive recreation opportunities for the community.
Unfortunately, the Slade Dale Sanctuary is disappearing. Since 1930, the shoreline of Slade Dale Sanctuary has retreated approximately 300 feet, equal to the length of a football field, and the channels into the marsh have increased in number and size, according to a study we conducted on behalf of American Littoral Society, for which we provide engineering and natural resources management consulting services.
In order to stabilize the shoreline, restore the marsh, and enhance the ecological function and integrity of the preserve, Princeton Hydro developed a conceptual and engineering design using living shoreline features to enhance ecological value and reduce erosion. The final conceptual plan for restoration uses tree vane structures to attenuate wave action, foster sediment accretion, and reduce erosion along the coast.
To implement this vision and begin building back marsh, the project team is constructing several Christmas tree breakwaters and Christmas tree vanes that mimic naturally occurring debris structures in tidal systems and enhance habitat opportunity and shelter for aquatic life. Volunteers came together on Saturday, May 11 to help with the construction. The Mayor of Point Pleasant Robert A. Sabosik also attended the event, "The Barnegat Bay is an attribute that we all enjoy, and it's something we have to protect."
After the 2018 holiday season, the Good Sheppard Lutheran Church in Point Pleasant provided space to collect and store donated Christmas trees, which were then moved to the marsh a few days before the event. On the day of the event, recycled Christmas trees were transported from their staged locations on the marsh to the breakwater sections that were previously installed in the water. To transport them across the water to the pilings, volunteers used two methods: by walking a skiff boat loaded with trees through the water to the pilings or by forming assembly line from the shore to pilings to guide floating trees through the water (check out the album below!). Then, they stuffed the Christmas trees between the pilings, securely tied them down, and staked Christmas trees directly into the creek bottom. For extra assurance, the placed and tied heavy bags of used oyster shells on top of the tree line. Oyster shells were donated by local Monmouth County restaurants in an effort to reduce waste streams.
"We really enjoyed participating in this event with American Littoral Society and so many wonderful volunteers,” Christiana L. Pollack, GISP, CFM, Princeton Hydro's Project Manager for this restoration effort. “It is so wonderful to see this project coming to fruition. We’re so proud of our partnership with American Littoral Society and our combined efforts to revitalize and rehabilitate our precious coastal habitats.”
Many thanks to everyone who came out in support of this important restoration effort at Slade Dale Sanctuary American Littoral Society hosts volunteer events throughout the year. Go here to get involved.
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