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Welcome to the latest edition of our Client Spotlight blog series, which provides an inside look at our collaboration, teamwork, and accomplishments with one of our client partners.
In this special edition, we’re shining the spotlight on the Town of Mina and Findley Lake Watershed Foundation (FLWF), two organizations working closely together to protect and preserve Findley Lake in Chautauqua County, New York. This charming 300-acre lake is a cherished focal point for recreation, tourism, and community pride, and safeguarding it is a shared responsibility. The Town of Mina and FLWF, a volunteer-led nonprofit, have built a strong partnership dedicated to maintaining the lake’s health and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
We spoke with Rebecca Brumagin, Town of Mina Supervisor, and Ed Mulkearn, Board President of the FLWF.


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

Q: Rebecca, can you provide an overview of the Town of Mina and the core values the Town prioritizes?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/DkloMSAMoyE[/embed]
Rebecca continues: “As part of our 2024 Comprehensive Plan, the Town of Mina identified four core community values that guide our decision-making, with our top priority being Findley Lake!
The lake is the heart of our community. Ensuring it remains clean, beautiful, and accessible for recreation and overall enjoyment is essential to our identity. That’s why we work so closely with FLWF. During the comprehensive planning process, FLWF developed a Lake Management Plan, which now guides our environmental efforts.
Our second core value is economic development. Findley Lake is experiencing an exciting period of growth, with several initiatives underway, including a new warehouse distribution center, growing retail presence, and revitalization in the downtown area. It’s truly a renaissance moment for our community.
Third, we’re deeply committed to preserving and enhancing our community character. We value our rural lifestyle and are working to improve it with expanded trails, new boardwalks, and safer, more accessible green spaces for all to enjoy. And, our fourth core value centers on strengthening local government, becoming more efficient, effective, and responsive to the needs of our residents. We want people to feel heard, supported, and engaged in the future of our town.”




Q: Ed, can you tell us about the history of FLWF and how it evolved into the organization it is today?
A:
“FLWF was established in 2002, but our roots go back much further. Before that, our work was carried out by the Findley Lake Property Owners Association, which formed in the late 1940s after the lake was no longer needed as a power source for milling operations.
At that time, the lake and dam were donated by Larry Schwartz to a group of local, stewardship-minded residents. That group did the best they could with limited resources and knowledge. But as science, lake management practices, and environmental awareness progressed, so did our approach.
By transitioning to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2002, we were able to access grant funding and expand our work significantly. Since then, we’ve purchased weed harvesters, partnered with Princeton Hydro for lake studies, and supported major infrastructure projects like the new sewer system currently in development to address septic-related pollution.
We’ve also taken steps to reduce streambank erosion and manage phosphorus loading that affects lake oxygen levels. Our board is strong and diverse—we have dedicated members with the expertise needed to keep moving the organization and the lake forward. At our core, FLWF is committed to maintaining, enhancing, and improving the quality of Findley Lake and its watershed through science-based action and collaboration.”




Q: Ed, what are the core values that guide FLWF, and which current projects highlight those values in action?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/l7ljPic09iE[/embed]



Q: Rebecca, what are some of the initiatives the Town of Mina is leading to support ecological uplift, water quality improvements, and environmental stewardship?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/hTb0GMQirgE[/embed]
Rebecca continues: “We’ve made significant strides in advancing the health of our local environment, thanks in part to support from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). We’ve completed three DEC-funded studies that are guiding our next steps.
One study focused on culverts throughout the watershed with the goal of improving water flow and reducing flood risk. Every culvert was assessed to identify those that need repair or replacement. Another study analyzed stormwater runoff, identifying ten key inflow areas to Findley Lake where erosion and sedimentation pose potential threats. Each site was evaluated and prioritized, and we’ve since secured a DEC grant to address the highest-priority site. And, the third study explored in-lake nutrient control strategies, which laid the groundwork for our current partnership with Princeton Hydro on nutrient management efforts.
Beyond lake-focused work, we’re also committed to enhancing community access to nature. We’ve received support from Chautauqua County for efforts that will benefit both the environment and quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”




Q: Ed, reflecting on past collaborations, can you highlight a project or two that FLWF has worked on with Princeton Hydro?
A:
“We first partnered with Princeton Hydro a few years ago when our board recognized the need for expert guidance on lake management. While we have a strong, professional board, we lacked the specialized knowledge in lake ecology and water quality science to move forward confidently with major decisions.
After researching several firms, we chose to bring Princeton Hydro on board to help us better understand nutrient dynamics in the lake. One of our key concerns was the persistent late-summer algae blooms, which we later learned were linked to phosphorus being released from the lake’s sediments.
Princeton Hydro conducted an in-lake nutrient study that clearly explained this internal loading process and helped us chart a path forward. Building on that work, we’re now working with the Princeton Hydro team on a bathymetric and sediment analysis to guide our next step, which will be to install an aeration system to reduce phosphorus release and improve water quality.
Princeton Hydro’s expertise has been instrumental in making complex science understandable and actionable, which has helped us take meaningful steps toward restoring the health of Findley Lake.”
[gallery columns="2" link="none" size="full" ids="17908,17907"]



Q: Rebecca, is there anything you'd like to add about the Town’s collaboration with Princeton Hydro?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/vtEIi23Ov98[/embed]
Following Rebecca’s remarks, Ed adds: “I’d just like to echo what Rebecca said—the Princeton Hydro team we worked with this Spring was truly a pleasure to collaborate with. Their depth of knowledge was impressive, but just as important was their ability to communicate complex concepts in a way that was clear and easy for our board to understand. That kind of approachability made a big difference. It was a great experience working with them.”




Q: Ed, for those interested in supporting FLWF’s mission, how can individuals get involved and contribute to your efforts?
A:
“We’re always grateful for donations, they fuel much of what we do. But beyond financial support, one of the most valuable ways people can contribute is by sharing their experiences and ideas.
There are countless lakes and watershed organizations out there facing similar challenges, and many have come up with innovative, cost-effective solutions. We’re always eager to learn from others; whether it's a new technology, a successful restoration approach, or a creative funding strategy. Collaboration and information-sharing are incredibly powerful tools in watershed management. If you’ve worked on a similar issue or simply have ideas that could help, we’d love to hear from you. The more we connect and learn from each other, the better we can protect and improve Findley Lake for generations to come.”
Following Ed’s comments, Rebecca adds: “One of the things that makes the Town of Mina so special is the strong culture of volunteerism. We’re fortunate to have many residents, often individuals who’ve had professional careers elsewhere, who bring their skills, energy, and passion to our community.
Even though we’re a small town, we benefit from a wide network of nonprofit organizations and local initiatives. For example, the Findley Lake Nature Center is actively working on trail development, and there are many other opportunities for people to get involved in stewardship, whether it’s helping maintain green spaces, supporting water quality efforts, or sharing expertise on local projects.
What’s especially unique about our community is how welcoming we are. Newcomers don’t have to wait decades to feel at home here—they’re embraced right away, and their ideas are valued. That openness has really enhanced our ability to protect Findley Lake and strengthen the town as a whole.”




To close out the conversation, we asked Rebecca and Ed if there was anything else they’d like to share.
In the video below, Ed reflects on the strong sense of community in the Town of Mina and the local support that fuels the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve Findley Lake:
[embed]https://youtu.be/nrsMt1WMODw[/embed]
After Ed’s remarks, Rebecca shares a few additional reflections: “One particularly meaningful designation we’ve received is from New York State, which has identified us as one of only two rural NORCs (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities) out of 43 statewide. This designation recognizes our vibrant population of older adults and has allowed us to pursue new forms of support and services. We’re currently looking into developing a pocket neighborhood to help seniors remain in the community, where they continue to be active, involved, and deeply valued.
And here’s a fun fact that speaks to the energy of Findley Lake: it serves as the practice site for the women’s rowing team from Mercyhurst University, who happen to be the reigning national champions. Pretty cool, right?”
Yes, Rebecca, we think that’s very cool!


[caption id="attachment_17902" align="alignnone" width="1482"] Photo from Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau[/caption]


A heartfelt thank you to Rebecca and Ed for their partnership and for taking the time to speak with us to share their passion for protecting Findley Lake and strengthening the Town of Mina. Their leadership and collaboration exemplify the power of community-driven stewardship.
To learn more about their work and how you can get involved, we encourage you to visit the Town of Mina’s website and FLWF at findleylakewf.org.
Click here to read the previous edition of our Client Spotlight Series featuring Farmington River Watershed Association Executive Director Aimee Petras.
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Welcome to the latest edition of our Client Spotlight series, which provides an inside look at our collaboration, teamwork, and accomplishments with one of our client partners.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Farmington River Watershed Association (FRWA).
The FRWA is a citizen-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1953 by a group of concerned citizens and community leaders to address the long-term degradation of the Farmington River. FRWA is committed to protecting, maintaining, and revitalizing the Farmington River and its watershed.
Farmington River runs for 46.7 miles along its main stem in northwest Connecticut, with major tributaries extending into southwest Massachusetts. Its longest route, originating from the West Branch, stretches 80.4 miles, making it the longest tributary of the Connecticut River. The watershed covers 609 square miles, supporting a variety of cold-water resident fish species and important habitats for migratory fish. It also serves as a critical public drinking water supply for hundreds of thousands of people in the Hartford region. Additionally, the West Branch of the Farmington is highly regarded for its exceptional trout fishery.
For this Client Spotlight, we spoke with FRWA Executive Director Aimee Petras via Zoom.




Q.What are FRWA’s core values?
A.
“FRWA addresses a range of challenges facing the Farmington River, including water quality, water distribution, habitat restoration, recreation, open space conservation, and the protection of wetlands and floodplains. We are dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural resources of the Farmington River Watershed through research, education, advocacy, and restoration.”
“Through research initiatives, we establish a comprehensive scientific understanding of watershed functions and health. We educate the public, government and business communities about the importance of a healthy river system. We advocate at the local, state and federal level for policies and actions that ensure the long-term protection of our watershed resources. And, we plan and implement restoration projects with long-lasting positive impacts on the river and surrounding ecosystems, engaging in hands-on stewardship through activities like fish habitat restoration, stormwater runoff reduction, and re-vegetating streambanks with native plants.”




Q. Can you tell us a little more about FRWA’s advocacy work?
A.
[embed]https://youtu.be/-3wCsQD9Y60[/embed]
"The Farmington River is one of the first designated 'Partnership Wild & Scenic Rivers.' Its protection is ensured through the combined efforts of federal, state, and local governments, along with various organizations dedicated to preserving the river's health. Currently, 78.6 miles of the Farmington River are safeguarded under two different designations. The Upper Farmington River has a 15.1-mile designation, and the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook, cover 61.7 miles.”
“To earn the 'Wild and Scenic' designation, a river must possess at least one 'outstandingly remarkable' natural, cultural, or recreational value as defined by the federal Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. This recognition is a significant achievement that our organization is extremely proud of."
Click here to learn about the National Wild & Scenic Rivers designation.




Q. What is one exciting initiative FRWA is currently spearheading?
A.
[embed]https://youtu.be/74s2MAGF9n4[/embed]
Click here to learn more about FRWA's Rainbow Dam removal advocacy and related river protection initiatives.


[caption id="attachment_15054" align="aligncenter" width="1419"] Rainbow Dam. Photo by Farmington River Watershed Association.[/caption]



Q. Let's delve into the collaborative history between FRWA and Princeton Hydro: Can you provide insight into our partnership?
A.
[embed]https://youtu.be/Zic5OGqDiqc[/embed]
"Removing the dam also restored natural river flow rates and enabled American shad, alewife, and blueback herring to swim upstream through Tariffville Gorge, accessing over 20 additional miles of river. Additionally, this removal uncovered a historically scenic waterfall at a popular fishing site, replacing the neglected dam with a beautiful natural feature."
Click here to learn more about the Spoonville Dam Removal project.

[caption id="attachment_15046" align="aligncenter" width="1366"] Spoonville Dam prior to its removal. Photo by Farmington River Watershed Association.[/caption]



Q. What is another exciting project that FRWA and Princeton Hydro worked on together?
A.
[embed]https://youtu.be/7oGjPSzi8nQ[/embed]
“The removal of Winchell-Smith Dam restores access for aquatic organisms to a 30-mile stretch of the Farmington River upstream of the dam within the Connecticut River watershed. This area is a historic spawning habitat for species such as American shad, alewife, blueback herring, sea lamprey, and American eel. Removing the dam helps prevent local erosion and scour, clear barriers for migratory fish, eliminate hazards for river users, and repurpose existing timbers for historic preservation and educational purposes.”


[caption id="attachment_15048" align="aligncenter" width="1371"] Winchell-Smith Dam and Miss Porter’s School Administration Building. Photo by Farmington River Watershed Association.[/caption]



Q. In addition to dam removal projects, what other exciting initiatives have FRWA and Princeton Hydro collaborated on?
A.
[embed]https://youtu.be/syL-kFafl4w[/embed]
To read the complete Pequabuck River Watershed Based Plan that Princeton Hydro developed for FRWA, click here.




Q. For those interested in supporting FRWA's mission, how can individuals get involved and contribute to your efforts?
A.
“As a nonprofit organization, we continually seek support for our efforts. We encourage anyone interested to visit our website to learn about our programs, explore our research, access water quality reports, and understand our mission and priorities. There are numerous ways to get involved with FRWA, including donating, volunteering, participating in educational programs, or applying for internships. We are grateful to everyone who joins us in our mission to protect and restore our beautiful river.”




Q. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our blog readers?
A.
[embed]https://youtu.be/IVe9gO-7FwQ[/embed]



A big thanks to Aimee and FRWA for taking part in our Client Spotlight Series!

To learn more about FRWA, we encourage you to visit their website.

 

 

 

 



Click here to read the previous edition of our Client Spotlight Series featuring Karla Rossini, Executive Director of Citizens United to Protect the Maurice River and Its Tributaries (CU Maurice).

 
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Welcome to the latest edition of our Client Spotlight series, which provides an inside look at our collaboration, teamwork, and accomplishments with one of our client partners.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Citizens United to Protect the Maurice River and Its Tributaries, known commonly as CU Maurice River, a 501(c)3 nonprofit membership organization dedicated to protecting the Maurice River Watershed’s natural integrity and cultural heritage.
The Maurice River, located in south-central New Jersey, was designated a National Wild and Scenic River by Congress in 1993. It draws from a drainage area of 385 square miles and meanders south for 50 miles, through Southern New Jersey primarily in Cumberland County. Headwaters are in parts of Gloucester, Salem, and Atlantic Counties, emptying into the main stem of the Maurice; from there it flows into Delaware Bay. The major tributaries of the river are Scotland Run, Muddy Run, Menantico Creek, Muskee Creek, and the Manumuskin River. There are about 20 small lakes in the watershed, the largest of which is Union Lake at 950 acres.
[gallery link="none" ids="17583,17586,17584"]
As South Jersey’s leading watershed organization, CU Maurice River engages in fieldwork, advocacy, research, and education initiatives generating and contributing to a greater understanding of the local environment and wildlife.
For this Client Spotlight, we spoke with CU Maurice River Executive Director Karla Rossini via Zoom:

Q. Tell us a little about CU Maurice River and what makes it unique?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/iahd-_hbgPU[/embed]

 
"CU Maurice River is a very grassroots, very local organization. One of our core strengths is community involvement. In everything we do, we try to invite the largest section of community that we possibly can. Whether that’s to participate in educational opportunities or participate in volunteerism or become an advocate of our local resources, we really make it our goal to develop and foster stewardship within the community."




Q. What are some exciting things your organization is working on right now?
A:
"We're very excited about the work we're doing with the WheatonArts & Cultural Center, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to engage artists and audiences in an evolving exploration of creativity.
Over the years, CU Maurice River has worked with WheatonArts to design and implement various best management practices throughout its 45-acre campus. We’ve installed vernal pools, purple martin gourds, a blue bird trail, a nature trail, and a massive rain garden. The projects support water resources on site and beyond, revitalize and preserve natural habitats, and provide an invaluable community resource for promoting eco-friendly land management, stewardship, and nature exploration.
WheatonArts and CU Maurice River also launched a four-week nature journaling course, which will take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from August 3 to August 25 (2023). Kids get to spend time outdoors while growing their science knowledge, appreciation for nature, and artistic ability. Nature journaling is a way to creatively connect and build a deep, lasting relationship with the natural world.
The CU Maurice River team does the scientific teachings, and the WheatonArts team does the art teachings. So for example, CU Maurice River will teach about the anatomy of a tree, how a tree functions, why an Oak tree produces acorns, and the ecosystem services a tree provides. And, WheatonArts teaches the kids how to draw and paint a tree, how to make an acorn look round, and how to get the shades of the brown tree trunk just right.
Another interesting aspect of the program is that it also highlights the history of communication in nature exploration. Darwin had to draw his pictures to describe his findings. Mary Treat had to draw her discoveries. Audubon had to illustrate his birds. And, let’s face it, most of the best ID books aren’t photo books, they’re illustrated books. So, this program focuses on the importance of art in science."




Q. Can you talk a little about the CU Maurice and Princeton Hydro partnership: 
A: 
"The first time I encountered Princeton Hydro was at a Musconetcong River event where Princeton Hydro was presenting on dam removal and the restoration of trout habitat on the Musconetcong. Then, later that year, at the Annual Delaware River Watershed Forum, I met Dana Patterson (Princeton Hydro's Director of Marketing and Communications). We got to talking about a variety of different projects we could explore together, and it's been a really great partnership ever since. I’m pretty sure I've given Dana and Christiana Pollock (Princeton Hydro's Director of Restoration and Resilience) some wacky ideas to figure out, but Princeton Hydro has always been very supportive AND realistic.
Since then, we’ve contracted with Princeton Hydro to do a feasibility study on the Centerton Dam removal. We’re also working with Princeton Hydro to do an ArcGIS StoryMap of the Paddle Trails in the Maurice River Watershed. And, we've got some other exciting things in the works that I'm not at liberty to discuss publicly today, but stay tuned for more great things as a result of CU Maurice River's collaboration with the Princeton Hydro team.
Princeton Hydro has really provided a lot of support and guidance, and I am eternally grateful for their partnership."




Q. How can people get involved in and help support the important work CU Maurice River is doing?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/9WY0D21EFeo[/embed]
For more CU Maurice River volunteer opportunities and upcoming events, click here.




Q. Do you have anything else you'd like to share with our blog readers about CU Maurice River or yourself?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/Kb1l8Qfxe4c[/embed]


A big thanks to Karla and CU Maurice River for taking part in our Client Spotlight Series!
To learn more about CU Maurice River, we invite you to visit their website and subscribe to their newsletter.
Click below to check out the previous edition of our Client Spotlight Series featuring George Jackman, PhD, Senior Habitat Restoration Manager for Riverkeeper:

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Welcome to the latest edition of our Client Spotlight series, which provides an inside look at our collaboration, teamwork, and accomplishments with one of our client partners.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Riverkeeper, a 501(c)3 nonprofit membership organization headquartered in Ossining, New York. The organization is committed to protecting and restoring the Hudson River from source to sea and safeguarding drinking water supplies through advocacy rooted in community partnerships, science, and law.
For this Client Spotlight, we spoke with Riverkeeper’s Senior Habitat Restoration Manager George Jackman, PhD via zoom:

Q. Tell us a little about Riverkeeper and what makes it unique?
A: We are the first Keeper organization in the world. We began in 1966 as the Hudson River Fishermen’s Association, an environmental watchdog and enforcement organization founded by a group of concerned fishermen. In 1986, we officially changed our name to Riverkeeper. We've helped set worldwide standards for waterway and watershed protection, and continue to serve as the model for more than 300 Keeper programs around the globe.
As New York’s clean water advocate, Riverkeeper is the unique voice in the Hudson Valley that is continually speaking-up to protect the integrity of the water, the creatures that call it home, and our surrounding communities. We are a voice of environmental justice for the people of Hudson Valley, advocating for communities that have often been marginalized or placed in disadvantaged situations that are now at the mercy of climate change. We are always striving for a fishable, swimmable, and drinkable Hudson River and a healthy watershed.
For historical photos and more info about Riverkeeper's origination, click here to view the "Riverkeeper: An Incomplete History" slideshow.



Q. What does your organization value?
A: We value clean, reliable drinking water and an equitable justice for all people. We value a healthy, ecologically-balanced environment and clean, sustainable forms of energy. We value free-flowing rivers that are resilient and teeming with life. We value stewardship of the Hudson River and its watershed. And, last but not least, we value all of our members, volunteers, partners, supporters, and neighbors who play a primary and vital role in protecting our local environment.




Q. What are some exciting things your organization is working on right now?
A: I have to tell you, some of the work we do is not incredibly exciting, but it's incredibly important.
We do a lot of work to strengthen the laws and regulations that impact New York’s water resources. We advocate for environmental justice, and we help our fellow community members understand the legislative process and how to get involved in garnering support for legislation that protects our Hudson River, its tributaries, our watershed, wetlands and surrounding areas. Strong environmental policy may not be the most exciting thing, but it is one of the best tools we have.
And, it is very exciting when we win. Riverkeeper has taken on some of the largest corporations on planet Earth - General Electric, General Motors, Exxon - and we've won! The work isn’t easy; sometimes it can be a long, persistent slog. But, you know what? We’ve stayed the course and we've prevailed. Every time we win for the fish, it’s a big win for all of us, and for me that’s incredibly exciting and fulfilling.
Click here to read Riverkeeper’s 2023 Legislative Agenda for New York State.



Q. Can you talk a little about the history behind the Riverkeeper and Princeton Hydro partnership and some of the milestone projects we’ve collaborated on: 
A:

[embed]https://youtu.be/HVJ6GBbq6jM[/embed]
The removal of the two defunct dams that George mentions in the video clip – Strooks Felt Dam and Furnace Brook Barrier #1 – marked an important milestone in the Riverkeeper’s journey to “Undam the Hudson River” and restore fish passage between the Hudson and the Atlantic Ocean. Click here to read more.




Q. How can people get involved in and help support the important work Riverkeeper is doing?
A:

[embed]https://youtu.be/rnDjgHMNLX4[/embed]
For more Riverkeeper volunteer opportunities and upcoming events, click here.




Q. Does Riverkeeper have community science opportunities available for the public to participate in?
A: We have a great citizen science water sampling program; it’s actually one of the first community science initiatives in the world related to sampling water.
It begins every April and volunteers have to commit to 6-months of water quality sampling. The samples are collected from the water’s edge by Riverkeeper-trained community scientists. We test for salinity, oxygen, temperature, suspended sediment, chlorophyll, and Enterococcus (Entero), a fecal indicator bacteria. It’s quite an unprecedented scope for a citizen science sampling initiative. We compile the data into “How’s the Water” reports and tributary watershed reports, and post them to our website.
One of the wonderful things about the citizen science program is that we’re working with younger generations, training them on how to take samples and make observations, and helping them learn about the river. We’re trying to create a deeper connection between the river and its surrounding community members, especially our younger groups, and teach everyone how to be stewards for the river and protect the rivers’ many creatures.
Click here to meet Riverkeeper’s water quality program science partners and supporters, and check out the data findings.




Q. Do you have anything else you’d like to share with our blog readers?
A: I’ll just close by saying, I’ve had a great experience working with Princeton Hydro. And, we look forward to Princeton Hydro bidding on future Riverkeeper projects, and hopefully working with them in the future.



A big thanks to George and Riverkeeper for taking part in our Client Spotlight Series!
To learn more about George and the important work he's doing with Riverkeeper, we invite you to read this article recently published in Planet A Magazine, "Channeling the Flow of Nature."
Click below to check out the previous edition of our Client Spotlight Series featuring Tim Fenchel, Deputy Director of Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area:

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Welcome to the latest edition of our Client Spotlight series, which provides an inside look at our collaboration and accomplishments with a specific client.
For this Client Spotlight, we spoke with Tim Fenchel, Deputy Director of Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area (SRG). The mission of SRG is to connect residents, visitors, and communities to the Schuylkill River and the Schuylkill River Trail by serving as a catalyst for civic engagement and economic development in order to foster stewardship of the watershed and its heritage. The boundaries of the Heritage Area cover the Schuylkill River watershed in Schuylkill, Berks, Chester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties.
Let's dive in!

1. Tell us a little about SRG and what makes it unique?
[embed]https://youtu.be/vhdJlEUKyOg[/embed]



2. What does SRG value?
We value our heritage and the deeply-rooted culture of this region. We also look ahead to how we can continue to engage our communities with that heritage and create future generations of stewards for the Schuylkill River and Schuylkill River Trail.
We value vibrant and revitalized communities, and it’s rewarding to see how SRG has contributed to sustainable revitalization of river-town communities, including Phoenixville, Manayunk, and Pottstown. We really value helping to maintain a strong connection between the river and its surrounding neighborhoods. By enabling and encouraging communities to enjoy the river and trail, we create lifelong stewards of these important resources.
Another core value is making outdoor recreation accessible for everyone. The trail is a public recreational resource that anyone can enjoy, and we really try to promote it as a means for health and wellness, all kinds of recreation experiences, family-friendly outings, arts and culture, and much more.
Collaboration is also very valuable to SRG. Every single project and program that we do, we do it in partnership with at least one other organization if not multiple other organizations. The Schuylkill River Water Quality project, which we’ll talk more about today, is a great example of that.




3. What is your primary role within SRG?
As Deputy Director, I get to be involved in just about everything that we do here. I assist with the day-to-day operations of the organization; I pitch in with trail issues when they arise; I’m involved, in some way shape or form, with our various community events throughout the year; and I also have several projects and programs that I personally oversee. The Schuylkill River Water Quality project is one, which we'll discuss in more detail shortly.
Another unique project I oversee is the Schuylkill River Restoration Fund. Essentially, SRG receives funding from both private and public entities, and we then regrant those funds to local government agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations to implement on-the-ground projects for the improvement of water quality throughout the Schuylkill River Watershed. The grants focus on three major sources of pollution: stormwater run-off, agricultural pollution, and abandoned mine drainage.
There is a lot of variety in my role here, which I really enjoy.




4. What excites you about going to work every day?
[embed]https://youtu.be/LAcyIU4HvYQ[/embed]



5. Can you talk a little bit about the partnership between SRG and Princeton Hydro, and the Schuylkill River Water Quality project?
An important aspect of our mission is to connect communities to the Schuylkill River through recreational and educational activities. To fully achieve the Schuylkill River’s potential, we must help the public understand the current health status and what they can do to continue to improve its quality for this generation and generations to come. In 2019, we received a grant from the William Penn Foundation to fund the Schuylkill River Water Quality project, which aimed to document the current ecological status and health of the river, and engage and educate a diverse set of river users and residents.
Through an RFP process, we selected Princeton Hydro as one of the main project advisors. From the start, we hit it off with Michael Hartshorne, Director of Aquatics, and Dana Patterson, Director of Marketing & Communications. The strength of what they brought as a team and their scientific water quality and engagement expertise impressed us from the start and it really carried on throughout the entirety of the project. We had a truly tremendous team of partners, including Berks Nature, Bartram’s Garden, The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, and Stroud Water Research Center.
The project, which focused on the main stem of the river from Reading to Southwest Philadelphia, included four key components:


 	
User Opinion and Perceptions Survey
 	
Community Science Visual Assessment Trash Survey
 	
Water Quality Monitoring
 	
Educational Outreach

The yearlong data collection and community science initiative culminated with the launch of  an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap webpage that reveals the local perceptions of the Schuylkill River and aims to connect residents with and encourage engagement with this special resource.
[embed]https://youtu.be/5QHMQwGvU38[/embed]

Click here to explore the interactive ArcGIS StoryMap:





6. Do you have a favorite or most memorable moment from the project?
[embed]https://youtu.be/l6PzseNpdNI[/embed]



7. The Schuylkill River StoryMap is part of a larger project to foster positive perceptions of the Schuylkill River. Can you talk a little more about your goals moving forward and how you plan to use the StoryMap?
[embed]https://youtu.be/eCKyofuKCcE[/embed]



8. What are some of SRG’s initiatives and upcoming activities that you’d like to share?
We have so many wonderful events throughout the year that provide an opportunity for community members to learn about and engage with the Schuylkill River and the Trail.

We just held the Ride for the River outing, which is a one-day bike ride and fundraising event. The ride began at the Pottstown River Front Park and followed about 20-miles of the Schuylkill River Trail to Reading. It’s always a ton of fun.
Every June we have our Annual Schuylkill River Sojourn, which consists of a 7-day, 112-mile guided canoe/kayak trip on the Schuylkill River that begins in rural Schuylkill Haven and ends in Philadelphia. The event combines kayaking/canoeing, camping, education, and games into one exciting adventure.
In November, we're hosting our 18th annual “Scenes of the Schuylkill” Art Show. Throughout the year, we host several free educational programs, do guided tours at locations within the Heritage Area, and so much more.
Click here to learn more about SRG’s Programs and Events.
 


A big thanks to Tim and SRG for taking part in our Client Spotlight Series!
Schuylkill River Greenways relies on help from volunteers, who provide valued assistance with trail maintenance, special events, environmental education, water quality monitoring and more. To learn more about how to get involved, visit SRG's volunteer portal for a full rundown of opportunities.
 

Click below to read the previous edition of our Client Spotlight Series featuring Seatuck Environmental Association Conservation Policy Advocate Emily Hall:

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Welcome to the latest edition of our Client Spotlight series, which provides an inside look at our collaboration, teamwork, and accomplishments with a specific client.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on the Seatuck Environmental Association. Seatuck Environmental Association is a 501c3 nonprofit based in Islip, New York. They work on wildlife conservation and nature education across Long Island. The organization advocates for wildlife and advancing conservation projects, engages community scientists in wildlife research, and offers environmental education opportunities for Long Islanders of all ages.
For this Client Spotlight, we spoke with Seatuck’s Conservation Policy Advocate Emily Hall via zoom:

Q. What is your primary role within Seatuck? 
[embed]https://youtu.be/SoAgRaypc4Q[/embed]
Q. What does Seatuck value?
Particularly in our conservation work, we really try to stay niche. We specifically focus on restoring and protecting Long Island’s wildlife and environment. We advocate for wildlife, advance restoration projects, conduct surveys, educate public officials, host workshops, lead coalitions and pursue a host of other approaches to promote wildlife conservation and habitat restoration.

Q. What makes the Seatuck Environmental Association unique?
Seatuck is really unique because we're one of the only environmental organizations that works island-wide and isn’t part of a national organization. This really gives us the opportunity to stay focused on Long Island’s wildlife and environment, and dive into a lot of different wildlife protection efforts as well as habitat restoration projects. We also offer nature-based education programs all the way from pre-k to professional teacher training.

Q. How long has Seatuck been working with Princeton Hydro?
We’ve been working with Princeton Hydro since 2018. Seatuck was awarded the NYSDEC Division of Marine Resources Grant for Tributary Restoration and Resiliency to design a fish passage at the dam intersecting Mill Pond and Bellmore Creek. We contracted Princeton Hydro to design the fish passage options. Read more about the project here:

Q. What are some key takeaways/highlights from the Bellmore Creek Fish Passage project?
[embed]https://youtu.be/E1oYOy9Y688[/embed]
Q. In what ways did you get the community involved in the Bellmore Creek Fish Passage Project?
As an organization, it’s very important for us to collaborate with the community on projects and initiatives, and to understand the perspectives of all the different stakeholders involved. For the Bellmore Creek Fish Passage Project, we brought together environmental organizations, community members and the dam owners. We began by holding in-person meetings and site visits in order to provide education around the site’s history and the project goals, and give everyone a chance to hear each other’s feedback in real-time. Then COVID forced us to go virtual so we hosted a community webinar and developed an online survey. We collected a lot of valuable feedback that we were able to bring back to the dam owners to help them make the best decision possible.

Q. Do you have a favorite or most memorable moment from the project?
Meeting with all the different stakeholders and talking to them about the project is probably one of my most rewarding parts of the project. Educating people on why these diadromous fish are important and helping them understand the different benefits of a fish passage is very important to me and incredibly rewarding.

Q. The Bellmore Creek project is part of a larger initiative called “Seatuck’s Long Island River Revival.” Can you talk more about that?
[embed]https://youtu.be/f5BV2u04Q5A[/embed]
Q. What connectivity and restoration project is coming up next for Seatuck?
[embed]https://youtu.be/wyRIHwMD5gE[/embed]

To learn more, click below to explore the River Revival Story Map:


Q. How can an individual get involved with Seatuck?
[embed]https://youtu.be/rT1CinT-xKs[/embed]
Q. How can Princeton Hydro support you/your organization in the future?
Princeton Hydro has been a fantastic partner through the Bellmore Creek Project. We look forward to working with Princeton Hydro in the future and supporting our efforts to look at different fish passage projects, potentially dam removals, and related alternative assessments. For Bellmore Creek, Princeton Hydro provided valuable insights as to the different types of fish passage options and helped to identify the best option for our community. We’ll hopefully continue this partnership and work together to restore the ecological health of more coastal rivers and streams.

Q. What excites you about going to work everyday?
[embed]https://youtu.be/YtuZLiqrYYs[/embed]

 
Thanks to Seatuck Environmental Association and Emily Hall for being a great project partner and participating in this Client Spotlight. To learn more about Seatuck, visit their website.
Click here to read a previous edition of our Client Spotlight blog series, which features Medford Lakes Colony in New Jersey:

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Welcome to another edition our Client Spotlight series! Each blog provides a peek into our partnership with a particular 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. 



Meet Medford Lakes Colony



Medford Lakes Colony is a not-for-profit organization that organizes social, community, and recreational activities for the Town of Medford Lakes, New Jersey. The Colony grew out of a resort development in the early 1920’s in the heart of New Jersey’s Pine Barrens on the edge of the Pinelands National Reserve. The area was first settled hundreds of years ago by the Lenni-Lenape tribe of Native Americans.



Today the Colony lakes are still dotted by log cabin homes built according to the original plan for the community nearly a century ago.



For this Client Spotlight, we spoke to Medford Lakes Colony’s Lake Restoration Chair, Jim Palmer. 



Q: What makes your organization unique?



The Medford Lakes Colony is a nearly 100-year-old, private, not-for-profit organization. Our organization is actually older than the municipality in which we reside. We “own” the 21 lakes in our town. We are nearly an all-volunteer organization with only an Office Manager and a Maintenance Manager on our payroll. Everything else is done by volunteers.



Q: What does your organization value?



Everyone in our town will agree with the following statement: The most important asset in our town is our lakes. And maintaining the water quality in those lakes is a high-value responsibility. But with that said, we are a town in the New Jersey Pinelands, with all our lakes surrounded by trees. That presents us with challenges every year.











 Q: How long have you been working with Princeton Hydro?  



The Colony started working with Princeton Hydro back in the late 1990s. I have personally been working with Princeton Hydro for around 10 years. I have partnered with nearly a dozen Princeton Hydro people, from Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey Goll, PE down to many individual Project Engineers.  









Q: What types of services have we provided to your organization?



Princeton Hydro has provided recurring dam inspection services, as well as design, permitting, and oversight work for both planned and emergency dam repair and maintenance work. There are multiple dams for which Princeton Hydro completes the NJDEP Dam Safety inspections. There have been multiple large spillway repair projects where Princeton Hydro has been the Engineer-of-Record, completing the official designs, getting Dam Safety approval,  and doing the full project management. The Princeton Hydro engineers and project managers have always been great partners on these projects. 





 Q: Do you have a favorite or most memorable project we’ve worked on together? 



Three years ago we had an emergency situation at our Wauwaushkashe Dam. Over the previous several years, unknown to us, the culvert pipe was getting increasingly clogged with organic material. Then, one Sunday, it became completely plugged.  



















The upstream lake filled till the water was a foot above the top of the outbound spillway and was threatening to overtop the dam. Through the network of volunteers we have in Medford Lakes, we were able to get a contractor out within 24 hours to clear the plug. Princeton Hydro was brought into the project because the full repair was going to require engineering design, project plan development, submission to Dam Safety, and ongoing oversight to ensure the repair was completed correctly. Princeton Hydro managed that full process with a very quick turnaround. Who would have thought that pine needles could plug a 30-inch corrugated culvert pipe?



Q: What are some exciting things your organization is working on right now?



In this line of work, around managing dams and water quality, we don’t like “exciting.” Waking up one day to a plugged culvert pipe and a lake about to overtop a dam is the kind of “excitement” we would prefer not to have! 



We are moving along with a program to install aeration bubblers in most of our lakes. We have them in about one-third of the lakes completed right now. Subject to budget constraints, we should have them in all relevant lakes within the next two years. We are also in the first year of a small longitudinal data collection project. Last fall, the Colony purchased a YSI Proline data logger which allows us to collect temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) levels. I have partnered with another volunteer, and we have collected data from nearly a dozen lakes on multiple dates in May, June, July, and August. We have defined locations in each lake and we gather data in one-foot increments in the entire water column at each location. We are able to see water stratification developing in some of the lakes as the summer moves on and temperatures rise. I have identified a couple locations where we have underground springs flowing into specific lakes. This is just the start of a broader data collection and the analysis program the Colony wants to implement to understand the long-term dynamics of this watershed. 







Click here to read the previous edition of our Client Spotlight blog series, which features The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey:



CLIENT SPOTLIGHT: The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey
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....

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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.



Meet The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey (TNCNJ)



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. 





Q: What makes your organization unique?



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. 



Q: What does your organization value?



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. 



Q:   How long have you been working with Princeton Hydro?



I joined TNC in 2016, so about 4.5 years.



Q:   What types of services have we provided to your organization?



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.

















Q:  Do you have a favorite or most memorable project we’ve worked on together?



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!



WATCH: Time-Lapse of Columbia Dam Removal
It’s been two and a half years since the removal of the Columbia Dam on the Paulins Kill in Northern New Jersey. In that time, American Shad have been discovered upstream of the former dam, a major indicator of improved water quality. The following time-lapse videos highlight the amazing efforts by the project team to reconnect...



Q:  What are some exciting things your organization is working on right now?



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.



Q: What drives you to want to go to work everyday?



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.







Q:  How can Princeton Hydro support you/your organization in the future?



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.



...



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.



Client Spotlight: Musconetcong Watershed Association
Welcome to the latest 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....

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Welcome to the latest 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.

Meet the Musconetcong Watershed Association

The Musconetcong Watershed Association (MWA) is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and improving the quality of the Musconetcong River and its watershed, including its natural and cultural resources. Members of the organization are part of a network of individuals, families, and companies that care about the Musconetcong River and its watershed, and are dedicated to improving the watershed resources through public education and awareness programs, river water quality monitoring, promotion of sustainable land management practices, and community involvement.
Princeton Hydro has been working with MWA in the areas of river restoration, dam removal, and engineering consulting since 2003. To develop this Client Spotlight, we collaborated with MWA's Executive Director Cindy Joerger and Communications Coordinator Karen Doerfer:
Q: What makes MWA unique?
A: As a watershed association, we focus on a specific place. This includes the Musconetcong River, a National Wild and Scenic River, as well as the area’s cultural, historical, recreational, and natural resources. We take a watershed focus, seeking to monitor the river and upstream areas to ensure it maintains good water quality.
Q: What does MWA value?
A: MWA values community. Our membership is mostly grassroots, including residents, riverfront landowners, farmers, and local businesses. We value the long-term community of people who have helped form the organization, improve the river, and protect the scenic and historic resources that make our watershed unique.
Q: How long has MWA been working with Princeton Hydro?

[caption id="attachment_5512" align="alignnone" width="596"] Dam removal project partners and community members pose with Sally Jewell at the Hughesville Dam removal event on Sept. 8, 2016. Photo Credit: USFWS.[/caption]
A: Princeton Hydro has helped MWA with dam removal projects since the very first one, the Gruendyke Mill Dam, which was an obsolete dam on the border of Hackettstown and Mount Olive. Since then, Princeton Hydro has helped with four other dam removal projects and is currently assisting in the removal and restoration of the Beatty’s Mill Dam in Hackettstown, providing engineering plans and project management support.
The dam removals in the lower Musconetcong River have created a free-flowing passage to the Delaware River, and the removal of the Hughesville Dam welcomed the return of American shad less than a year after its removal.
Q: What types of services have Princeton Hydro provided to your organization?
A: Princeton Hydro has provided MWA with dam removal services on the Musconetcong River, most notably, the removal of Hughesville Dam, which brought Secretary of the Interior, Sally Jewell, out for its notching. Princeton Hydro has also helped us with the engineering and design for the Musconetcong Island Park Project, which involves the demolition of a building in a Historic District and the replacement of new, safer stairs.
We value Princeton Hydro’s expertise in environmental permitting, hydrology, and fisheries, as we have utilized this expertise to review development proposals and conduct fish surveys.

Q: Do you have a favorite or most memorable project we’ve worked on together?
A: The Hughesville Dam removal saw many successes and a few challenges we had to overcome as a team. After the initial removal and restoration, we worked together on another streambank restoration project to further stabilize the streambank near the dam removal site. This dam removal restored over 5 miles of free-flowing river to the Delaware River and will help lay the groundwork for the Warren Glen Dam removal, which is the largest dam on the Musconetcong River.
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=969581229908361

Q: What are some exciting things your organization is working on right now?

[caption id="attachment_5515" align="alignnone" width="1128"] Photo from Princeton Hydro led volunteer clean-up effort on the Musconetcong River in 2018. The team picked-up garbage along the road and riverbank, and pulled trash from the riverbed.[/caption]
A: MWA is still working to restore the Asbury Mill, which we plan to use as an educational and eco-tourism hub for the community, as well as a much-needed office space for our growing staff.
We’ve also received some exciting new grants that will help us continue to involve the community in efforts to protect and improve water quality. Our “Push Back the Lawn” campaign will allow us to reach out to small landowners and educate them on the importance of riparian buffers.

This year has also brought some challenges for our organization, but we are excited to be picking up our River Cleanup again this fall. Normally, we conduct a watershed-wide cleanup in April, but due to COVID-19, we had to push it back. However, families and small groups are glad to be able to get out and give back by picking up trash that has collected with increasing staycations and small trips.

Q: What drives you to want to go to work every day?
A: Working for such a small organization, it is easier and more gratifying to see the impact it's making. Our staff gets to see a lot of projects from start to finish, so it’s rewarding to be able to have your stamp on something you watched grow from its inception to conclusion.
Q: How can Princeton Hydro support you/your organization in the future?
A: In the upper watershed, we are hoping that Princeton Hydro, in concert with others, can continue to help guide improvements to the water quality of Lake Hopatcong. The lake acts as our headwaters and is the largest in New Jersey. Last year, it suffered a serious issue with Harmful Algal Blooms.
We are also looking forward to the Beatty’s Mill Dam removal project, where we will remove a remnant dam and reduce streambank erosion. We hope this will roll into another similar project at Newburgh, which should improve water quality and fish habitat and decrease flooding severity in the Hackettstown area.
…
Click below to read the previous edition of our Client Spotlight blog series, which features the Lake Hopatcong Foundation:

 

https://princetonhydro.com/client-spotlight-lake-hopatcong-foundation/
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This month we are launching the first blog in our Client Spotlight Blog Series! Each spotlight will feature one of our important client relationships in order to give you an inside look at our collaboration. We pride ourselves on forming strong ties with organizations that share our values of creating a better future for people and our planet. So we are excited to be able to share snippets of the incredible teamwork we've been able to accomplish over the years!
At Princeton Hydro, we value our client relationships, as the collaborative work we are able to complete with organizations like the Lake Hopatcong Foundation (LHF) reaches exponentially further than anything we could complete alone. One of the reasons our organizations have such strong symmetry is that our values align and complement each other.
As their mission states,”Lake Hopatcong Foundation dedicates itself to protecting the lake environment and enhancing the lake experience, bringing together public and private resources to encourage a culture of sustainability and stewardship on and around New Jersey’s largest lake, for this and future generations.” We are so proud to help protect New Jersey’s largest lake with LHF.

We have been working with LHF since its inception in 2012, which is why we are excited to feature them in our first client spotlight blog. We spoke with Jessica Murphy, President/Executive Director of the Foundation, and Donna Macalle-Holly, Grants and Program Director, to give you an insider look at the organization:
Q: What makes the Lake Hopatcong Foundation unique?
A: The Lake Hopatcong Foundation is unique in that our mission spans a wide spectrum of activities. In addition to projects that focus on the lake environment, we also take on initiatives that support education, safety, community-building, recreation, and even arts and culture. The lake is split between two counties and four towns, so bringing the community together for all these things is very important to us, in addition to making sure the lake itself is healthy.
Q: What does the Lake Hopatcong Foundation value?
A: During our strategic planning process, the board and staff developed a list of values that we go back to when operating and making decisions. They are:


 	
Collaboration - We operate in a way that brings people together throughout the community.
 	
Action - We are committed to our mission, moving quickly to take on projects that have an impact on and around the lake.
 	
Sustainability - We are forward-thinking when making decisions, taking future generations into account when considering projects and initiatives.
 	
Warmth - We are a friendly face to the community, showing the best of ourselves and bringing out the best in the people of Lake Hopatcong.

Q: How long have you been working with Princeton Hydro?
When we first started the Lake Hopatcong Foundation in 2012, Dr. Fred Lubnow was kind enough to do a water quality presentation as one of our very first events as an organization! In the years since, we’ve worked closely with Princeton Hydro, particularly in a support role as they conduct business with the Lake Hopatcong Commission. The Lake Hopatcong Commission is a state entity created in 2001 through the Lake Hopatcong Protection Act dedicated to protecting the water quality of Lake Hopatcong and to preserve the natural, scenic, historical and recreational resources of the lake. LHF funded Princeton Hydro’s water quality monitoring during the years that the Commission ran out of money
Q: What types of services has Princeton Hydro provided to your organization?
A: In addition to water quality monitoring on the lake, Princeton Hydro has led volunteer training for us in our efforts to prevent the spread of invasive species and to teach local students in our spring field trip program. Dr. Lubnow has also worked alongside us in applying for grants and in providing insight and expertise for other environmental projects at the lake, including helping guide the installation of floating wetland islands, and helping our NJ Lakes Group to work with NJDEP on Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) policies. He even did a quick fact check on our children’s book, Lake Hopatcong Speaks Out, before we published it!
Q: Do you have a favorite or most memorable project we’ve worked on together?
A: The days that Chris Mikolajczyk spent teaching our volunteers about how to find and remove water chestnuts from the lake were a lot of fun, particularly because we were kayaking on the lake for it! And, also because the kayak we provided Chris was too small for him, and he had to scrunch in to fit, but he was a trouper and paddled on.
Q: What are some exciting things your organization is working on right now?

A: We are working closely with Princeton Hydro and LHC on a series of projects, funded through NJDEP grants, LHC, LHF, and local governments, that we hope will prevent and mitigate HABs on the lake. Those projects include aeration systems, phosphorus-locking technologies, and stormwater infrastructure upgrades. We’re excited to see how effective each can be. Also, on August 7 at 12:30, Dr. Lubnow will be presenting the Lake Hopatcong water quality monitoring project results at LHF’s “Thirst for Knowledge” lunch-and-learn webinar series, which was created to share information and discuss topics of interest to our lake community. To register for the free webinar, visit lakehopatcongfoundation.org.


[caption id="attachment_5249" align="aligncenter" width="584"]  [/caption]

Q: What drives you to want to go to work every day?
A: All of us at Lake Hopatcong Foundation have a passion for this lake and want to see it protected; we have a love for the community that surrounds it, too. Jessica Murphy grew up on the lake, met her husband here, and now is raising her four children to love the lake, too. Donna Macalle-Holly also met her husband on Lake Hopatcong, lives on the lake, and has worked professionally to take care of it for nearly two decades. Everyone in our office has made memories on Lake Hopatcong and developed friendships with those who live and work here. Those personal connections fuel our passion for what we do.
Q: How can Princeton Hydro support you/your organization in the future?
A: Continue to be the incredible resource you are! We are so fortunate to have the deep knowledge and expertise that Fred and your entire team provide, and we look forward to continuing to work together in the years ahead.


[caption id="attachment_5286" align="aligncenter" width="576"]  [/caption]


Some recent projects we are/have been working on with LHF include installing biochar bags to help control phosphorus levels and applying Phoslock to help mitigate harmful algal blooms! Because of our history working on Lake Hopatcong, we too have gained a passion for protecting and maintaining this lake. This incredibly important work could not be done without the genuine devotion and dedication from the Lake Hopatcong Foundation. We look forward to continuing great work with this incredible group!
…
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Welcome to the latest edition of our Client Spotlight blog series, which provides an inside look at our collaboration, teamwork, and accomplishments with one of our client partners.
In this special edition, we’re shining the spotlight on the Town of Mina and Findley Lake Watershed Foundation (FLWF), two organizations working closely together to protect and preserve Findley Lake in Chautauqua County, New York. This charming 300-acre lake is a cherished focal point for recreation, tourism, and community pride, and safeguarding it is a shared responsibility. The Town of Mina and FLWF, a volunteer-led nonprofit, have built a strong partnership dedicated to maintaining the lake’s health and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
We spoke with Rebecca Brumagin, Town of Mina Supervisor, and Ed Mulkearn, Board President of the FLWF.


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

Q: Rebecca, can you provide an overview of the Town of Mina and the core values the Town prioritizes?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/DkloMSAMoyE[/embed]
Rebecca continues: “As part of our 2024 Comprehensive Plan, the Town of Mina identified four core community values that guide our decision-making, with our top priority being Findley Lake!
The lake is the heart of our community. Ensuring it remains clean, beautiful, and accessible for recreation and overall enjoyment is essential to our identity. That’s why we work so closely with FLWF. During the comprehensive planning process, FLWF developed a Lake Management Plan, which now guides our environmental efforts.
Our second core value is economic development. Findley Lake is experiencing an exciting period of growth, with several initiatives underway, including a new warehouse distribution center, growing retail presence, and revitalization in the downtown area. It’s truly a renaissance moment for our community.
Third, we’re deeply committed to preserving and enhancing our community character. We value our rural lifestyle and are working to improve it with expanded trails, new boardwalks, and safer, more accessible green spaces for all to enjoy. And, our fourth core value centers on strengthening local government, becoming more efficient, effective, and responsive to the needs of our residents. We want people to feel heard, supported, and engaged in the future of our town.”




Q: Ed, can you tell us about the history of FLWF and how it evolved into the organization it is today?
A:
“FLWF was established in 2002, but our roots go back much further. Before that, our work was carried out by the Findley Lake Property Owners Association, which formed in the late 1940s after the lake was no longer needed as a power source for milling operations.
At that time, the lake and dam were donated by Larry Schwartz to a group of local, stewardship-minded residents. That group did the best they could with limited resources and knowledge. But as science, lake management practices, and environmental awareness progressed, so did our approach.
By transitioning to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2002, we were able to access grant funding and expand our work significantly. Since then, we’ve purchased weed harvesters, partnered with Princeton Hydro for lake studies, and supported major infrastructure projects like the new sewer system currently in development to address septic-related pollution.
We’ve also taken steps to reduce streambank erosion and manage phosphorus loading that affects lake oxygen levels. Our board is strong and diverse—we have dedicated members with the expertise needed to keep moving the organization and the lake forward. At our core, FLWF is committed to maintaining, enhancing, and improving the quality of Findley Lake and its watershed through science-based action and collaboration.”




Q: Ed, what are the core values that guide FLWF, and which current projects highlight those values in action?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/l7ljPic09iE[/embed]



Q: Rebecca, what are some of the initiatives the Town of Mina is leading to support ecological uplift, water quality improvements, and environmental stewardship?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/hTb0GMQirgE[/embed]
Rebecca continues: “We’ve made significant strides in advancing the health of our local environment, thanks in part to support from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). We’ve completed three DEC-funded studies that are guiding our next steps.
One study focused on culverts throughout the watershed with the goal of improving water flow and reducing flood risk. Every culvert was assessed to identify those that need repair or replacement. Another study analyzed stormwater runoff, identifying ten key inflow areas to Findley Lake where erosion and sedimentation pose potential threats. Each site was evaluated and prioritized, and we’ve since secured a DEC grant to address the highest-priority site. And, the third study explored in-lake nutrient control strategies, which laid the groundwork for our current partnership with Princeton Hydro on nutrient management efforts.
Beyond lake-focused work, we’re also committed to enhancing community access to nature. We’ve received support from Chautauqua County for efforts that will benefit both the environment and quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”




Q: Ed, reflecting on past collaborations, can you highlight a project or two that FLWF has worked on with Princeton Hydro?
A:
“We first partnered with Princeton Hydro a few years ago when our board recognized the need for expert guidance on lake management. While we have a strong, professional board, we lacked the specialized knowledge in lake ecology and water quality science to move forward confidently with major decisions.
After researching several firms, we chose to bring Princeton Hydro on board to help us better understand nutrient dynamics in the lake. One of our key concerns was the persistent late-summer algae blooms, which we later learned were linked to phosphorus being released from the lake’s sediments.
Princeton Hydro conducted an in-lake nutrient study that clearly explained this internal loading process and helped us chart a path forward. Building on that work, we’re now working with the Princeton Hydro team on a bathymetric and sediment analysis to guide our next step, which will be to install an aeration system to reduce phosphorus release and improve water quality.
Princeton Hydro’s expertise has been instrumental in making complex science understandable and actionable, which has helped us take meaningful steps toward restoring the health of Findley Lake.”
[gallery columns="2" link="none" size="full" ids="17908,17907"]



Q: Rebecca, is there anything you'd like to add about the Town’s collaboration with Princeton Hydro?
A:
[embed]https://youtu.be/vtEIi23Ov98[/embed]
Following Rebecca’s remarks, Ed adds: “I’d just like to echo what Rebecca said—the Princeton Hydro team we worked with this Spring was truly a pleasure to collaborate with. Their depth of knowledge was impressive, but just as important was their ability to communicate complex concepts in a way that was clear and easy for our board to understand. That kind of approachability made a big difference. It was a great experience working with them.”




Q: Ed, for those interested in supporting FLWF’s mission, how can individuals get involved and contribute to your efforts?
A:
“We’re always grateful for donations, they fuel much of what we do. But beyond financial support, one of the most valuable ways people can contribute is by sharing their experiences and ideas.
There are countless lakes and watershed organizations out there facing similar challenges, and many have come up with innovative, cost-effective solutions. We’re always eager to learn from others; whether it's a new technology, a successful restoration approach, or a creative funding strategy. Collaboration and information-sharing are incredibly powerful tools in watershed management. If you’ve worked on a similar issue or simply have ideas that could help, we’d love to hear from you. The more we connect and learn from each other, the better we can protect and improve Findley Lake for generations to come.”
Following Ed’s comments, Rebecca adds: “One of the things that makes the Town of Mina so special is the strong culture of volunteerism. We’re fortunate to have many residents, often individuals who’ve had professional careers elsewhere, who bring their skills, energy, and passion to our community.
Even though we’re a small town, we benefit from a wide network of nonprofit organizations and local initiatives. For example, the Findley Lake Nature Center is actively working on trail development, and there are many other opportunities for people to get involved in stewardship, whether it’s helping maintain green spaces, supporting water quality efforts, or sharing expertise on local projects.
What’s especially unique about our community is how welcoming we are. Newcomers don’t have to wait decades to feel at home here—they’re embraced right away, and their ideas are valued. That openness has really enhanced our ability to protect Findley Lake and strengthen the town as a whole.”




To close out the conversation, we asked Rebecca and Ed if there was anything else they’d like to share.
In the video below, Ed reflects on the strong sense of community in the Town of Mina and the local support that fuels the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve Findley Lake:
[embed]https://youtu.be/nrsMt1WMODw[/embed]
After Ed’s remarks, Rebecca shares a few additional reflections: “One particularly meaningful designation we’ve received is from New York State, which has identified us as one of only two rural NORCs (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities) out of 43 statewide. This designation recognizes our vibrant population of older adults and has allowed us to pursue new forms of support and services. We’re currently looking into developing a pocket neighborhood to help seniors remain in the community, where they continue to be active, involved, and deeply valued.
And here’s a fun fact that speaks to the energy of Findley Lake: it serves as the practice site for the women’s rowing team from Mercyhurst University, who happen to be the reigning national champions. Pretty cool, right?”
Yes, Rebecca, we think that’s very cool!


[caption id="attachment_17902" align="alignnone" width="1482"] Photo from Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau[/caption]


A heartfelt thank you to Rebecca and Ed for their partnership and for taking the time to speak with us to share their passion for protecting Findley Lake and strengthening the Town of Mina. Their leadership and collaboration exemplify the power of community-driven stewardship.
To learn more about their work and how you can get involved, we encourage you to visit the Town of Mina’s website and FLWF at findleylakewf.org.
Click here to read the previous edition of our Client Spotlight Series featuring Farmington River Watershed Association Executive Director Aimee Petras.
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