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Celebrating two decades of collaboration and innovation within the floodplain management community, the conference brought together more than 500 practitioners, researchers, agency staff, and industry leaders from across the Northeast. As the region’s premier floodplain management event, the NJAFM conference serves as a hub for sharing cutting-edge tools, best practices, and real-world strategies that help communities reduce flood risk, adapt to changing climate conditions, and build long-term resilience. Over the course of two days, participants attended educational sessions, hands-on training, and networking events centered on the theme: “NJAFM at 20 Years: Celebrate the Past, Focus on the Future.” Princeton Hydro was excited to return as a conference sponsor, exhibitor, and session presenter. Understanding the Role of Floodplain Management Floodplain management is a multidisciplinary practice that integrates planning, engineering, ecological science, and public policy to reduce flood risk while preserving the natural functions of riverine and coastal systems. At its core, it involves understanding how water moves across a landscape, identifying areas vulnerable to flooding, and implementing measures that protect people, infrastructure, and ecosystems. Floodplains provide a range of essential functions. Hydrologically, they convey, store, and infiltrate water during storm events, supporting natural flood attenuation, erosion control, and groundwater recharge. Ecologically, they contribute to biodiversity by providing habitat, migration corridors, and spawning areas for fish and wildlife. From a community perspective, well-managed floodplains can offer recreational value, improve water quality, and enhance the aesthetic and economic vitality of local neighborhoods. Modern floodplain management relies on both structural and non-structural approaches. Structural measures may include engineered solutions such as levees, floodwalls, culvert improvements, or stormwater system upgrades. Non-structural tools often involve land-use planning, flood-resilient building standards, conservation of open space, and community engagement programs that help residents understand risk and adopt best practices. Princeton Hydro works with municipalities, state agencies, nonprofit organizations, and watershed groups to develop and implement comprehensive floodplain management strategies across the region, emphasizing strategies that balance flood risk reduction with ecological enhancement, ensuring that floodplain management supports both resilient communities and healthy, functioning watersheds. [gallery link="none" columns="2" size="large" ids="18742,18741"] Pictured above: before and after photos from the Floodplain Restoration and Urban Wetland Creation project in Bloomfield Township, New Jersey. By removing a little over four acres of upland historic fill in this densely developed area and converting it into 4.2 acres of a functioning floodplain wetland, the project restored valuable ecological functions, enhances wetland and riparian zone habitat, and increases flood storage capacity for urban stormwater runoff. Technical Sessions Led by Princeton Hydro Our team led two workshops at the NJAFM 20th Annual Conference: Urban Flood and Habitat Resilience in the Lower Darby Creek Watershed Christiana Pollack, CERP, CFM, GISP, Princeton Hydro’s Director of Restoration and Resilience, presented on strategies to address chronic flooding and climate-driven impacts in Eastwick and Tinicum Township, Philadelphia. Her talk highlighted a two-year technical assessment commissioned by The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania and the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, and led by Princeton Hydro. The project combines integrated field data collection, advanced hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and rigorous alternatives analysis to evaluate nature-based solutions. These include wetland creation or enhancement, stream and floodplain reconnection, and stormwater management retrofits, with the ultimate goal of restoring natural hydrologic function, reducing flood risk, and strengthening habitat and community resilience. Read more about the project here. Are You Hesitant to Pursue a Stormwater Utility? Elizabeth Treadway of WSP USA and Dr. Clay Emerson, PhD, PE, CFM, Senior Technical Director of Engineering at Princeton Hydro, led a session on the practical, legal, and financial considerations of establishing a stormwater utility, an increasingly vital tool for sustainable infrastructure funding. Participants learned:
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.
The Watershed Institute hosted a webinar on Enhanced Stormwater Management Ordinances, which featured two expert speakers: Princeton Hydro Senior Technical Director of Engineering Dr. Clay Emerson, PE, CFM, and The Watershed Institute Policy Director Michael Pisauro, Esq. They provided guidance on NJDEP's new stormwater ordinances, a summary of requirements, and recommendations for developing and implementing stronger ordinances.
Co-sponsored by the American Littoral Society, Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions, and Pinelands Preservation Alliance, the webinar was attended by officials, planning board members, municipal professionals (engineers and planners), attorneys and Environmental Commission members from all across the state.
In March 2020, NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) published revisions to the New Jersey Stormwater Management Rule (N.J.A.C. 7:8), which states that, in order to meet stormwater management performance criteria set forth by NJDEP, New Jersey municipalities are required to update their stormwater control ordinances to incorporate green infrastructure. Check out our blog detailing the updated requirements.
NJDEP periodically updates the stormwater rules and provides municipalities with a deadline to incorporate the rule changes in order to stay in compliance. In July 2023, NJDEP published the Inland Flood Protection Rule, which requires municipalities to update their stormwater control ordinances to improve water quality. The Watershed Institute’s webinar, which was part of its “Technical Friday" webinar series, not only provided participants with a clear understanding of the recent rule updates and guidance on how to implement best practices, but also provided the opportunity for everyone to get their questions answered.
To view the full webinar, click below:
The Watershed Institute's next "Technical Friday" webinar, which is free to attend, will focus on "Stormwater Design: Myths and Misconceptions." One of the most complicated aspects of a new development application is designing the stormwater management infrastructure. It is also one of the most complex parts of reviewing applications before New Jersey’s land use boards. While stormwater management is a difficult and complex issue, it is vital to the health and wellbeing of New Jersey communities and residents. The state's 2023 Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit puts front and center New Jersey's obligation to review the stormwater issues caused by land development. Better design submissions will assist in reaching this goal and may speed up the process of review and approval.
On December 8 from 10 am - 12 pm, join Gabriel Mahon, PE, Bureau Chief of the Bureau of NJPDES Stormwater permitting and Water Quality Management and Dr. Clay Emerson, PhD, PE, CFM from Princeton Hydro as they examine some of the common issues they uncover in stormwater management proposals and provide guidance on incorporating best practices and submitting designs that successfully address New Jersey's stormwater management goals.
The Watershed Institute, established in 1949, is a nonprofit organization located in Central New Jersey that promotes and advocates conservation and restoration of natural habitats, collects data on environmental conditions in its watersheds, and provides environmental education through numerous programs. To learn more about The Watershed Institute, click here.
At Princeton Hydro, we recognize the benefit of green infrastructure and we’ve been incorporating it into our engineering designs since before the term was regularly used in the stormwater lexicon. We are a leader in innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally sound stormwater management systems. The preparation of stormwater management plans and design of stormwater management systems for pollutant reduction is an integral part of our projects. Click here to read about an award-winning Green Infrastructure stormwater management & Floodplain Restoration project we completed on Blue Acres Property in Linden’s Tremley Point.
The Watershed Institute’s Annual Conference brings together municipal representatives, engineers, environmental professionals, watershed advocates, business leaders, and community members to advance the best available information and techniques for protecting and restoring watersheds. The program consists of a keynote discussion, exhibits, poster sessions and presentations that combine science, policy, and practical applications.
This year’s conference, focused on stormwater management in New Jersey, Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requirements, regional solutions to address stormwater runoff and flooding, environmental justice, and the need for community-wide action.
Princeton Hydro, a proud sponsor of the conference, led two presentations:
This presentation, given by Princeton Hydro Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow and One Water Consulting, LLC Principal Jim Cosgrove P.E., provided a basic understanding of Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), how they’re connected to Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) requirements, and addressed how towns can best utilize Waste Load Allocations in the development of a WIPs.
This presentation was led by three members of the Princeton Hydro team: Senior Technical Director of Engineering Dr. Clay Emerson P.E., CFM; Vice President, Founding Principal Mark Gallagher; and Senior Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow. Participants learned about how to develop regional, multi-municipality plans for improving water quality and reducing flooding.
Other presentation topics included, “Understanding Water Quality in New Jersey,” “Stormwater Utilities for Community Members,” and “Youth Advocacy – Engaging the Next Generation in MS4.” You can view all the presentations from the 6th Annual Conference by clicking below:
Princeton Hydro is recognized as a leader in innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally sound stormwater management green infrastructure. We've been incorporating green infrastructure into our engineering designs since before the term was regularly used in the stormwater lexicon. Click here to learn how we designed a green infrastructure stormwater management system, on a 55-acre corporate campus, that is capable of containing on site nearly all the stormwater runoff generated by storm events up to and including a 100-year frequency, 24-hour duration storm:
Princeton Hydro led a stormwater management webinar during which participants learned about the purpose, management, and functionality of stormwater basins, and how to get involved in addressing stormwater management issues in their own communities. Dr. Clay Emerson, P.E., CFM and Mark Gallagher, the webinar instructors, provided examples of basins that could benefit most from a retrofit and step-by-step instructions on how to revitalize older basins to meet new stormwater standards and more effectively manage runoff.
The workshop, hosted by The Watershed Institute, is part of the Watershed Wednesdays webinar series, which explores a variety of topics related to protecting and improving water quality. The Watershed Institute, established in 1949, is a nonprofit organization located in Central New Jersey that promotes and advocates conservation and restoration of natural habitats, collects data on environmental conditions in its watersheds, and provides environmental education through numerous programs. To learn more about The Watershed Institute and other upcoming adult-education events, click here.
At Princeton Hydro, we are experts in stormwater management; we recognize the numerous benefits of green infrastructure; and we’ve been incorporating green infrastructure into our engineering designs since before the term was regularly used in the stormwater lexicon. Click here to read about the on-call stormwater services and ongoing residential, commercial, and professional redevelopment projects we’re working on in Tredeffryin Township, Pennsylvania.
The Princeton Hydro team is participating in and sponsoring a variety events focused on conserving, restoring, and protecting our precious water resources. In this edition of our Events Spotlight, we provide a snapshot of upcoming events this Fall and information on how to get involved:
Do you have questions about harmful algal blooms? Now is your chance to get answers! Join us on Tuesday, October 5 at 6:30 PM EDT for a "Facebook Live" conversation with two of Princeton Hydro's HAB experts, Dr. Fred Lubnow and Mike Hartshorne. Participants will get an overview of HABs and engage in a live Q&A session. You can submit a question by joining the live feed and typing in the comments. Get more info and register.
This year’s conference features a mix of in-person and virtual events, including informative keynotes; local, State, and Federal agency panels; networking sessions; training workshops; webinars; and two special field trip activities. Princeton Hydro is honored to sponsor MEGA Maryland, which is seen as the premier event for the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Our Director of Marketing, Dana Patterson, will be exhibiting at the in-person portion of the event. Get more info and register.
Presented by the Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space and hosted by Duke Farms, the 2021 Annual New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team Conference will focus on the use of prescribed burning to combat invasive species. Princeton Hydro is sponsoring this event, which is being held outdoors under a tent. We look forward to seeing you there in October! Get more info and register.
Join NJ-AWRA and Princeton Hydro for a tour of the Award-Winning Linden Blue Acres Green Infrastructure & Floodplain Restoration Project. This project set the precedent for enhancing ecological and floodplain function on flood-prone properties acquired by the NJDEP Blue Acres Program. This event is approved for one (1) credit hour of continuing education for Certified Floodplain Managers. Get more info and register.
Western Connecticut State University presents its Fall 2021 Regional Lake Communities Symposium “Fall Science at Night Virtual Seminar Series." The seminar, titled “Threats to Our Lakes: Beyond Aquatic Invasive Plants,” welcomes members of the public, students, and scientists to participate in a variety of workshops focused on local lake conservation and management. Princeton Hydro’s Director of Aquatic Programs Dr. Fred Lubnow is presenting “The Lake Hopatcong (NJ) Story.” Get more info and register.
Join Restore America's Estuaries, American Littoral Society, NJDEP and the Chesapeake Bay and New Jersey field offices of the USFWS for the Living Shorelines & Nature - Based Methods Tech Transfer Workshop. The workshop, which is being held both virtually and in-person at the Grand Hotel in Cape May, NJ, features field trips to local restoration projects, workshops, networking events, and an exhibit hall. Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the event and our Director of Marketing & Communications Dana Patterson is exhibiting! Please note: Attendees must provide confirmation of COVID-19 vaccination as part of registration. Get more info and register.
We are thrilled to sponsor the 48th Annual Environmental Congress, which is being held in an all-virtual Zoom format. Each day includes a variety of workshop sessions on topics like stormwater management, environmental justice advancement in New Jersey, and local climate action. The closing session on Friday includes entertainment by Musician Maxwell Kofi Donkor. Get more info and register.
Princeton Hydro’s Senior Project Manager and Senior Aquatic Ecologist Chris L. Mikolajczyk, CLM, is giving a Halloween-inspired presentation titled "In Celebration of All Hallows Eve: Reflections of a Study on One of the Spookiest Lakes in the U.S." This free, one-day conference will be held virtually and is open to he public. Get more info and register.
The 16th Annual Conference will be held at the Hard Rock Casino Hotel in Atlantic City. With more than 40 speakers lined-up, conference workshops will focus on a robust array of floodplain management topics, including flood hazard identification and mapping; flood hazard mitigation; technical assistance and training; and natural resource protection and enhancement. Princeton Hydro is happy to sponsor this event and our Director of Marketing, Dana Patterson, will be attending and exhibiting. Get more info and register.
The theme of the 26th Biennial CERF Conference is "CERF at 50: Celebrating Our Past, Charting Our Future." The virtual, eight-day conference aims to connect science and society in the collective goals of preserving coastal and estuarine habitats, resources, and heritage. The conference, which is expected to draw 1,300+ scientists and researchers from all over the world, includes a virtual exhibit hall, networking events, a film festival and a variety of workshops. Johnny Quispe, Princeton Hydro Natural Resources Project Manager, is presenting on November 3 at 10 AM as part of the session on "Transdisciplinary design and adaptation for sustainable, resilient urban coastlines: realizing triple-bottom line outcomes." His presentation features The South River Ecosystem Restoration & Flood Resiliency Enhancement Project. Get more info and register.
The Watershed Institute’s 5th Annual Watershed Conference will be in a hybrid format with participants selecting socially distanced, in-person sessions at the Watershed Center and Reserve or choosing to attend virtually if they prefer. Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the event and leading two workshops. Our Director of Green Infrastructure and Stormwater Management, Dr. Clay Emerson, P.E., CFM, along with Kathy Hale, Principal Watershed Protection Specialist, NJ Water Supply Authority, is presenting on “Naturalizing Detention Basins.” And, Vice President Mark Gallagher, along with Patrick Ryan of the NJDEP, is presenting on "Understanding Permit Requirements for Conservation Activities." Get more info and register.
Science professionals from throughout the world will come together for this hybrid-format event offering both virtual and in-person participation opportunities. This year's conference, themed “Investing in People, Habitat, and Science” includes scientific sessions, a poster hall, a tradeshow and exhibits, and a variety of Plenary Speakers. Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey Goll is presenting on, "Dam Removal in History, Current State of Removal, and Future Needs." Get more info and register.
The Northwest New Jersey Rivers Conference is coordinated by the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, with the support of partner organizations in the Highlands and Ridge & Valley regions of New Jersey. Together, these groups are collaborating to restore water quality under the four-state Delaware River Watershed Initiative. The 2021 Conference, held in an online-only format, will focus on three key themes, "Sustainability & Economic Development," "Land Use Planning & Conservation," and "Water Quality Monitoring & Management." The conference is free and open to the public, and includes a variety of presentations, workshops and a virtual exhibitor hall. Princeton Hydro is exhibiting. Get more info and register.
Princeton Hydro is sponsoring the NALMS 2021 International Symposium, which will be held virtually. The event consists of multiple panels and discussions focused on the value of water for economics, ecology, and culture. Senior Project Manager Christopher L. Mikolajczyk, CLM is giving a presentation titled "A Public-Private Approach to Lake and Watershed Management in the Highlands Region of New Jersey.” Our Director of Aquatic Resources, Dr. Fred Lubnow, is presenting on "Monitoring and Management of HABs in New Jersey Waterbodies From 2019 to 2021." Get more info and register.
This one-day virtual summit, hosted by the The Camden Collaborative Initiative, focuses on preserving the environment in the city of Camden. Princeton Hydro is proud to sponsor this event, which is free for Camden residents and students, and $25 for all other attendees. Get more info and register.
Stay Tuned for More!
March 2, 2021 is the deadline for New Jersey’s municipalities to comply with the new stormwater management ordinances laid out in the New Jersey Stormwater Management Rule (N.J.A.C. 7:8).
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) revised the rule last year to now require construction projects to include green infrastructure in order to meet the three performance criteria that NJDEP sets forth for stormwater management. The new rule gives local governments an opening to revise their existing stormwater management ordinances to better manage flooding and improve compromised water quality.
The rule defines green infrastructure as, “a stormwater management measure that manages stormwater close to its source by: treating stormwater runoff through infiltration into subsoil; treating stormwater runoff through filtration by vegetation or soil; or storing stormwater runoff for reuse.”
The pre-existing rule required that major developments incorporate nonstructural stormwater management BMPs/strategies to the “maximum extent practicable” to meet their criteria. The amended rule not only gives specific suggestions for the kind of BMPs it’s looking for by adding a definition of green infrastructure, but it also makes those BMPs/strategies a requirement for compliance with the rule’s minimum standards. Also included in the rule are tables outlining the application of each type of stormwater BMP.
Another update to the rule is that motor vehicle surfaces are now incorporated into the definition of major development. The amended rule requires these motor vehicle surfaces to have 80% total suspended solids (TSS) removal in order to maintain water quality. These surfaces include standard pavement drive/parking areas and gravel and dirt drive/parking areas, according to the rule. However, the rule does not require water quality control for runoff from other impervious surfaces that are not traveled by automobiles, such as rooftops and sidewalks, or other paved walkway areas.
New Jersey municipalities need to comply with the new standards and the ordinances must be in effect by March 2nd, 2021. To make this transition a bit smoother, NJDEP released a revised Model Ordinance in Appendix D of the NJ Stormwater BMP Manual to act as a sample for municipalities to follow when adopting these new regulations.
The Watershed Institute also drafted its own Model Ordinance to help municipalities go beyond the updated rule and strengthen protections to benefit the environment. The Model Ordinance builds on the state’s baseline requirements with the following enhancements:
At the end of last year, The Watershed Institute held a webinar about the state’s new Green Infrastructure rule. The webinar, attended by 240 people, included three presentations that provided a detailed look at the NJDEP’s rule updates and the steps needed for local governments to comply. Click below to watch the full webinar:
The presentations, given by the following green infrastructure experts, are also available to view in full:
At Princeton Hydro, we recognize the benefit of green infrastructure and we’ve been incorporating it into our engineering designs since before the term was regularly used in the stormwater lexicon. We’ve been following the rule amendments very closely, and, last year, we developed the following blog to help folks garner a deeper understanding of green infrastructure, interpret the rule updates, and break down the complexities of the stormwater guidelines:
If you have further questions regarding green infrastructure or stormwater utilities, we encourage you to contact us.
…
In March 2020, NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) published the long-awaited revisions to the New Jersey Stormwater Management Rule (N.J.A.C. 7:8), which now requires the use of green infrastructure. But what do these updates actually mean for New Jersey’s stormwater infrastructure?
At Princeton Hydro, we recognize the benefit of green infrastructure and we've been incorporating it into our engineering designs since before the term was regularly used in the stormwater lexicon. We've been following the rule amendments very closely, so we’ve got the inside scoop on how to interpret these new updates. In this blog, we’ll break down the complexities and changes to help you understand what’s really going on.
So, let’s start with what green infrastructure actually is in a general sense. Many people think of green infrastructure solely as a way to classify certain stormwater best management practices, or BMPs, but in reality, it goes much deeper than that. Green infrastructure is an approach to engineering design that emphasizes the use of natural processes. Examples include green roofs, rain gardens, constructed wetlands, vegetated bioswales, and living shorelines. In general, approaching environmental management from this lens can help reduce costs and negative impacts to our ecosystems. The benefit to using green infrastructure over structural grey infrastructure is that these living BMPs are incredibly resilient. Being living systems, green infrastructure BMPs help decrease stormwater volume, as soil and vegetation naturally retain and evapotranspire water. Afterall, those natural processes have successfully worked for billions of years, so why not mimic them in our design?
In addition to effectively managing stormwater, green infrastructure has other added benefits such as reducing the heat island effect, reducing energy use, removing pollutants from the air, beautifying public spaces, and even increasing property value. Though the actual practice of green infrastructure may seem new and innovative, the concept has been around for decades.
So now, let’s get to the updated regulations. The biggest takeaway from this update is that green infrastructure is now required to meet the three performance criteria that NJDEP sets forth for stormwater management. The amendments to the rule give definitions of green infrastructure as it applies to stormwater management. The rule defines green infrastructure as follows:
"‘Green Infrastructure’ means a stormwater management measure that manages stormwater close to its source by:
Treating stormwater runoff through infiltration into subsoil;
Treating stormwater runoff through filtration by vegetation or soil; or
Storing stormwater runoff for reuse.”
NJDEP evaluates stormwater management compliance through three basic performance metrics: (1) groundwater recharge, (2) water quality, and (3) peak flow control. While these metrics have remained relatively unchanged under the amended rule, the requirements for meeting them have been modified to include green infrastructure. The pre-existing rule required that major developments incorporate nonstructural stormwater management BMPs/strategies to the “maximum extent practicable” to meet their criteria. The amended rule not only gives specific suggestions for the kind of BMPs it's looking for by adding a definition of green infrastructure, but it also makes those BMPs/strategies a requirement for compliance with the rule’s minimum standards.
The rule also includes tables outlining/summarizing the application of each type of stormwater BMP. One of the biggest changes here is that some of those BMPs have drainage area limitations, which could pose new challenges in the design process.
As stated above, the rule defines green infrastructure as, “a stormwater management measure that manages stormwater close to its source.” This is where those drainage area limitations come into play. Dry wells have a one acre drainage area limitation, which is not new, however, pervious pavement has a 3:1 ratio requirement, meaning that the water flowing over standard pavement, or impervious surfaces, should not be more than three times greater than the area of the pervious pavement.
Likewise, in the amended rule, BMPs like bioretention systems, have a drainage area limitation of 2.5 acres. The addition of this requirement will require designers to spread BMPs out throughout their site, instead of simply including one large structural BMP in a single location on the site. This approach decentralizes and distributes BMPs, enabling more stormwater to infiltrate into the ground, rather than runoff. Because this method more clostely mimics the natural water cycle, it is expected to foster better long-term performance of the BMPs.
This 2.5-acre drainage area limitation is going to effect stormwater design in that it will lead to BMP decentralization. So, project sites will likely have numerous smaller BMPs that will be distributed throughout the area, as opposed to having one large basin at the bottom of the site. This applies, in particular, to large scale commercial and residential projects, as the updated rule will discourage, and in most cases actually not allow, for the implementation of one large basin at the bottom of the site, which currently is common practice in large-scale development design.
Another update to the rule is that motor vehicle surfaces are now incorporated into the definition of major development, which was further clarified and defined as:
“Any individual ‘development,’ as well as multiple developments that individually or collectively result in:
The disturbance of one or more acres of land since February 2, 2004;
The creation of one-quarter acre or more of “regulated impervious surface” since February 2, 2004;
The creation of one-quarter acre or more of “regulated motor vehicle surface” since March 2,2021; or
A combination of 2 and 3 above that totals an area of one-quarter acre or more. The same surface shall not be counted twice when determining if the combination area equals one quarter acre or more.”
The amended rule requires these motor vehicle surfaces to have 80% total suspended solids (TSS) removal, in order to maintain water quality. These surfaces include standard pavement drive/parking areas and gravel and dirt drive/parking areas, according to the rule. However, the rule does not require water quality control for runoff from other impervious surfaces that are not traveled by automobiles, such as rooftops and sidewalks, or other paved walkway areas.
In addition to the changes made to the actual rule, NJDEP released an updated draft of Chapters 5, 12, 13, and Appendix D of the NJ Stormwater BMP Manual, which is currently open for public comment. Chapter 5 regards Stormwater Management and Quantity and Quality Standards and Computations and Chapter 12 regards Soil Testing Criteria. The biggest update to the manual is the addition of the recently finalized Chapter 13: Groundwater Table Hydraulic Impact Assessments for Infiltration BMPs, which requires design engineers to assess the hydraulic impact on the groundwater table to avoid adverse impacts such as surficial ponding, flooding of basements, interference with sewage disposal systems, and interference with the proper functioning of the BMP itself. The addition of this chapter will ensure that these issues are minimized, helping to improve the state’s stormwater management practices overall.
New Jersey municipalities will need to comply with the new standards, as the NJ Stormwater Management Rule represents the minimum requirements for stormwater control ordinances. The law states that municipalities must update their ordinances by March 2, 2021. To make this transition a bit smoother, NJDEP has released a revised model ordinance in Appendix D of the NJ Stormwater BMP Manual to act as a sample for municipalities to follow when adopting these new regulations. Similar to before, municipalities do have the ability to require stricter stormwater performance metrics, but the criteria outlined in the rule are the minimum that must be met under the new regulations.
For more information on the updates to the stormwater regulations, you can check out an informational webinar (below) hosted by NJ-AWRA and The Watershed Institute. This webinar includes three presentations by New Jersey stormwater experts, including our Director of Stormwater Management & Green Infrastructure, Dr. Clay Emerson, PE, CFM.
Are you a consultant, planner, municipal representative, community leader, or project manager seeking to learn more about Green Stormwater Infrastructure & Management Techniques? This one-day course is for YOU!
Green infrastructure techniques have increasingly become the “go to” strategy to address flooding, water quality, and environmental impacts caused by stormwater runoff. Whether it be rain gardens or regional bioretention basins, infiltration basins or other large-scale bio engineered BMPs, green infrastructure is being implemented everywhere from suburban subdivisions to urban redevelopment sites. Unfortunately, while growing popular, these techniques are often misapplied, improperly constructed, or inadequately maintained.
This innovative one-day class focuses on the proper design and implementation of green infrastructure BMPs, as well as their special maintenance requirements. The course curriculum includes interactive presentations, case studies and project examples.
Dr. Stephen Souza, Princeton Hydro Co-Founder and President of Clean Waters Consulting, LLC, is the faculty coordinator for the course, which also features a lecture by Princeton Hydro's Green Infrastructure Practice Area Leader Dr. Clay Emerson, PE, CFM.
Princeton Hydro is proud to partner with Montclair State University and take part in this valuable continuing professional education course. We hope to see you there!
People generally think of green infrastructure as an eco-friendly way to handle stormwater runoff. While many green infrastructure elements are planned and managed specifically for stormwater control, the capabilities and benefits are far reaching. In this piece, we’ll provide an in-depth look at all that green infrastructure encompasses, best practices, and real-world examples of green infrastructure projects in action.
Defined as an approach to water management that protects, restores, or mimics the natural water cycle, green infrastructure can be implemented for large scale projects and small scale projects alike.
Unlike conventional, or “gray” infrastructure, green infrastructure uses vegetation, soil, and other natural components to manage stormwater and generate healthier urban environments. Green infrastructure systems mimic natural hydrology to take advantage of interception, evapotranspiration and infiltration of stormwater runoff at its source. Examples include permeable pavers, rain gardens, bioretention basins, rain barrels, and tree boxes.
Green infrastructure provides various benefits, including cleaning and conserving water, reducing flooding, improving public health, providing jobs, beautifying neighborhoods, supporting wildlife and providing economic benefits at both the larger community and individual household level. Let’s take a closer look at some of the primary benefits:
Prevents Flooding: By absorbing and slowing the flow of water, green infrastructure can reduce the burden on storm sewer systems and mitigate localized flooding.
Saves Money: While some green infrastructure designs may require the same or greater initial investment than conventional strategies, green design methods provide a big return in reducing costs over the long-term.
Improves Water Quality: Through natural absorption and filtration processes, green infrastructure significantly reduces stormwater runoff volume, decreases the pollutants and particulates within the stormwater, and improves the quality of the runoff flowing into surrounding water bodies.
Improves Air Quality: Green infrastructure techniques like tree boxes, green roofs and vegetative barriers have long been associated with improving air quality. Urban tree boxes help shade surfaces, effectively putting moisture into the air while reducing greenhouse gases. Trees mitigate heat and air pollution, both cooling and cleaning the air.
Enhances Aesthetics: Many green infrastructure practices utilize native plants and trees to improve runoff absorption and reduce stormwater pollution. This vegetation can provide a sound barrier or privacy screen for properties, and enhances the overall aesthetics of the surrounding environment.
Increases Property Values: Research shows that property values increase when trees and other vegetation are present in urban areas. Planting trees can increase property values by as much as 15%.
With the use of proper design techniques, green infrastructure can be applied almost anywhere and is especially beneficial in urban areas. In developed environments, unmanaged stormwater creates two major issues: one related to the volume and timing of stormwater runoff (flooding) and the other related to pollutants the water carries. Green Infrastructure in urban environments can recharge groundwater, decrease runoff, improve water quality, and restore aquatic habitats while controlling flooding.
Across the United States, more than 700 cities utilize combined sewer systems (CSS) to collect and convey both sanitary sewage and stormwater to wastewater treatment facilities. During dry weather, all wastewater flows are conveyed to a sewage treatment plant where it receives appropriate treatment before it is discharged to the waterway. However, during heavy rainfall or significant snowmelt, the additional flow exceeds the capacity of the system resulting in a discharge of untreated sewage and stormwater to the waterway; this discharge is referred to as a combined sewer overflow (CSOs). For many cities with CSS, CSOs remain one of the greatest challenges to meeting water quality standards. Green infrastructure practices mimic natural hydrologic processes to reduce the quantity and/or rate of stormwater flows into the CSS.
New Jersey, as part of the 2012 USEPA’s Integrated Municipal Stormwater and Wastewater Planning Approach Framework, utilized green infrastructure as one of the main components in managing its CSS and reducing CSOs. Because of the flexibility of green infrastructure in design performance, it can reduce and mitigate localized flooding and sewer back-ups while also reducing CSOs. An integrated plan that addresses both overflows and flooding can often be more cost-effective than addressing these issues separately. New Jersey, in addition to meeting its CSO reduction goals, is using green infrastructure throughout the sewershed to build resilience to large storm events and improve stormwater management.
Philadelphia takes advantage of numerous green stormwater infrastructure programs such as Green Streets, Green Schools, and Green Parking. There are a wide variety of green infrastructure practices that Philadelphia is using to decrease stormwater runoff throughout the entire city. After just five years of implementing the Green City, Green Waterplan, Philadelphia has reduced the stormwater pollution entering its waterways by 85%. Using over 1,100 green stormwater tools (i.e. CSO, living landscapes, permeable surfaces, etc.), in just one year, Philadelphia was able to prevent over 1.7 billion gallons of polluted water from entering their rivers and streams.
New York City is using a green infrastructure program, led by its Department of Environmental Protection, that utilizes multiple green infrastructure practices to promote the natural movement of water while preventing polluted stormwater runoff from entering sewer systems and surrounding waterbodies. While attaining this goal, the green infrastructure also provides improvements in water and air quality, as well as improves the aesthetics of the streets and neighborhoods. According to the NYC Green Infrastructure Plan, “By 2030, we estimate that New Yorkers will receive between $139 million and $418 million in additional benefits such as reduced energy bills, increased property values, and improved health.”
Green infrastructure techniques are extremely beneficial on every scale. Residential homes and neighborhoods can benefit from the implementation of green infrastructure in more ways than many people realize. There are a wide variety of green infrastructure projects that can be completed with a relatively small time and financial investment. Many of us at Princeton Hydro have incorporated green infrastructure practices into our homes and properties. Here’s a look at some of those projects in action:
Dr. Steve Souza, a founding principal of Princeton Hydro, installed rain gardens throughout his property utilizing native, drought-resistant, pollinator-attracting plants. The rain gardens are designed to capture and infiltrate rainwater runoff from the roof, driveway, patio and lawn.
Princeton Hydro's President Geoffrey Goll, P.E. built an infiltration trench in his backyard. An infiltration trench is a type of best management practice (BMP) that is used to manage stormwater runoff, prevent flooding and downstream erosion, and improve water quality in adjacent waterways.
Since its inception, Princeton Hydro has been a leader in innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally sound stormwater management systems. Long before the term “green infrastructure” was part of the design community’s lexicon, the firm’s engineers were integrating stormwater management with natural systems to fulfill such diverse objectives as flood control, water quality protection, and pollutant reduction. Princeton Hydro has developed regional nonpoint source pollutant budgets for over 100 waterways. The preparation of stormwater management plans and design of stormwater management systems for pollutant reduction is an integral part of many of the firm’s projects.
Interested in working with us on your next Green Infrastructure project? Contact us here.
Tucker is a Civil and Environmental Engineering major at Rowan University focusing on Water Resources Engineering. He is the President and player of the Rowan University Men's DII Ice Hockey Team. His Junior Clinic experience includes the study of Bio-Cemented sand and the Remote Sensing of Landfill Fires. In the future, Tucker hopes to work on creating a more sustainable environment. Tucker enjoys playing ice hockey, being with friends and family, and exercising.
Clay’s areas of expertise include hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, stormwater management and infiltration, nonpoint source (NPS) pollution, watershed modeling, groundwater hydrology/modeling, and water quality and quantity monitoring at both the individual site and watershed scales. His educational and work experience includes a substantial amount of crossover between engineering and environmental science applications. He has specific expertise in the field of stormwater infiltration and has conducted extensive research on the NPS pollution control and water quantity control performance of stormwater BMPs. He regularly disseminates his monitoring results through numerous peer-reviewed journal publications, magazine articles, and presentations.
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