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More than a century after the Paulina Lake Dam first altered the Paulins Kill River, the site now tells a very different story. A recent return visit confirms what restoration practitioners know well: when barriers are removed, rivers heal. Today, the Paulins Kill flows freely through the former Paulina Lake Dam site, reconnecting habitats that had been fragmented for generations.

The Paulina Lake Dam stood for nearly 130 years in Blairstown Township, Warren County, NJ. Constructed in the late 1800s to generate hydropower, it had long outlived its original purpose. Like many aging dams across the country, it remained in place despite no longer serving a critical function, while continuing to disrupt river processes and pose growing safety risks.

[caption id="attachment_19094" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Paulina Lake Dam aerial view prior to removal. Photo by Jim Wright/TNC/LightHawk[/caption]  

As reported in CentralJersey.com’s recent feature “The fall of dams and rise of rivers,” the majority of New Jersey’s approximately 1,700 regulated dams were built in the 19th and early 20th centuries to power mills that no longer exist. Fewer than a dozen still serve an essential purpose today. Many persist due to nostalgia, misunderstanding, or uncertainty around removal—despite blocking fish passage, trapping sediment, warming water temperatures, exacerbating flooding, and increasing the risk of failure.

The removal of Paulina Lake Dam was led by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in partnership with Blairstown Township, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Riverlogic–Renova Joint Venture, and Princeton Hydro. The Office of Natural Resources Revenue awarded a grant to TNC to fund a substantial portion of the removal through the Paulins Kill and Pequest Watershed Natural Resource Restoration Grant Program.

The project advanced through carefully sequenced phases, beginning with controlled notching in late 2023, followed by full demolition and sediment management in 2024, and transitioning into final adaptive management and habitat enhancement in 2025.


What the River is Showing Us Now

The ecological response has been swift and visible.

With the dam removed, more than 7.6 miles of mainstem and tributary habitat have been reconnected at the Paulina Lake site alone. The removal of the Paulina Lake Dam represents one important element of a longer-term, watershed-scale restoration initiative launched in 2013 to restore connectivity and ecological function along the Paulins Kill River. As the downstream most dam on the river, its removal builds upon earlier restoration milestones achieved through the removal of four dams: the Columbia Lake Main and Remnant Dams in 2019, the County Line Dam in 2021, and now the Paulina Lake Dam, progressively reconnecting approximately 45 miles of mainstem and tributary habitat.

Since 2016, The Nature Conservancy has also implemented a 10-year Measures and Monitoring Program to track ecological response and conservation outcomes, providing clear evidence that coordinated, science-based restoration can support a healthier, more resilient river system.

The river channel is actively stabilizing, riffle and run sequences are re-forming, and previously inundated areas are beginning to revegetate. Cooler water temperatures and the restoration of sediment transport processes are enabling the Paulins Kill to function more consistently with a cold, free‑flowing, coarse‑substrate stream system.

This series of aerial drone photos was captured during a site visit in November 2025: [gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="19109,19110,19111"]

This recovery is already benefiting aquatic life. As Beth Styler Barry, Director of Freshwater Programs for The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey, noted in the CentralJersey.com article, “We’re already seeing American shad above the dams that were removed. We’re seeing sea lamprey and American eel. It used to be that only the biggest eels could make it upstream. Now we’re seeing all age classes.”

By reconnecting upstream and downstream populations that had been isolated for generations, the project has also restored connectivity for rare freshwater mussels, including the endangered dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon) and triangle floater (Alasmidonta undulata).

“All of the organisms in a river like the Paulins Kill evolved to live in a cool, flowing, rocky-bottom stream,” Styler Barry told CentralJersey.com. “When you restore flow, the river begins to heal itself.”


Watch the Project from Start to Finish

A newly released project video captures this transformation in a way that still images and written updates cannot.

Drawing on aerial footage collected by The Nature Conservancy’s Volunteer Drone Team prior to demolition and by Princeton Hydro throughout and after construction, the video documents the full arc of the Paulina Lake Dam removal from initial notching through full demolition and into the restored conditions visible today. The footage provides a comprehensive look at dam removal in practice, illustrating how careful sequencing, sediment management, and adaptive design allow rivers to recover rapidly once barriers are removed.

Click below to watch the full project video and see the transformation unfold: [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6dQRRU5DCE[/embed]

Beyond ecological gains, the removal of Paulina Lake Dam has significantly improved public safety and community resilience. In CentralJersey.com, Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, President of Princeton Hydro, emphasized the long-term risks associated with aging dams. “If you don’t take care of them, they’ll come out on their own—and that’s a much bigger problem. Once dams are properly removed, people start to see the value of a free-flowing river.”

Many dams were never designed to withstand today’s hydrologic conditions. With climate change driving more frequent and intense rainfall events, proactive removal reduces flood risk, eliminates inspection and maintenance liabilities, and allows rivers to function as more resilient, self-sustaining systems. At the Paulina Lake site, removal has also improved recreational access and restored a more natural landscape for the community.


Looking Ahead

While the Paulins Kill now flows freely through the former Paulina Lake Dam site, final project phases focus on adaptive management, targeted bank stabilization, habitat feature enhancement, and native tree planting to support long term ecological resilience. As the river continues to adjust and evolve, the Paulina Lake Dam site stands as a clear example of what is possible when outdated infrastructure is thoughtfully removed and natural systems are given the opportunity to recover.

To learn more about TNC's work to restore the Paulins Kill River, click here. To learn more about Princeton Hydro's work to remove dams and restore rivers throughout the Northeast, click here. [post_title] => Then and Now: Paulina Lake Dam Removal [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => then-and-now-paulina-lake-dam-removal [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-01-28 15:59:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-01-28 15:59:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19057 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18950 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-12-21 19:12:41 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-12-21 19:12:41 [post_content] =>

By Mikhail Velez, Communications Coordinator

Across Eswatini’s rural landscape, geography often dictates opportunity. Rivers that swell during rainy seasons can separate families from schools, healthcare, and markets, making daily routines unpredictable and sometimes unsafe. In the three years before the Imphumelelo Footbridge was completed, five people tragically lost their lives and ten were injured attempting to cross during floods. To help address this challenge, volunteers from the Engineers in Action chapter at Rutgers University joined with other students from the University of Iowa, Hofstra University, and Northwestern University, during the summer of 2025, living and working alongside local communities to build the Imphumelelo Footbridge. Each student chapter is responsible for raising the funds needed to purchase construction materials, making the project both a test of resourcefulness and commitment. For Rutgers students, the experience offered not only the chance to apply technical skills in the field, but also invaluable hands-on learning that deepened their understanding of engineering in practice.

At 108 meters long, the Imphumelelo Footbridge is the second longest bridge completed by the Rutgers Chapter in Eswatini, a small, landlocked country in Southern Africa, funded in part by the Microprojects Programme and constructed through the nonprofit Engineers in Action. Now providing safe, year‑round access for more than 1,320 people, the bridge drastically reduces travel distances to healthcare and schools, while standing as a testament to Rutgers students’ commitment to connecting communities and expanding opportunity.

This video offers a glimpse into the construction process itself, showing how the Rutgers Engineers in Action Chapter worked alongside community members in Eswatini to bring the bridge to life. Viewers can see the challenges that arose, the teamwork that solved them, and the collaborative spirit that carried the project from planning to completion:

 

Strength in Collaboration: Building the Imphumelelo Footbridge

The Imphumelelo Footbridge was the result of four months of careful preplanning and two months of intensive construction in southern Eswatini. This was the farthest site Engineers in Action has worked on, located nearly three hours by car from the nearest city. The remote setting added complexity to the project, but it also underscored the importance of building a reliable crossing for the communities who would depend on it.

Construction was not without its challenges. When hoisting the suspension cables, the team’s winch broke because it was old and rusted. With the guidance of local masons, students improvised solutions, even resorting to manually knocking the cables to adjust their height. On anchor pouring day, when several batches of concrete were poured to secure the massive blocks through which the cables run, shifting wood supports forced the team to pause, reassess, and slightly reduce the bearing load to ensure stability. Concrete mixing also presented difficulties, since batches sometimes contained too much water.

Rutgers Engineers in Action Co-President, Ula Sokolowski devised a practical solution: mixing gravel, sand, and cement without water, then combining it with the wetter batch to achieve the correct ratio. Reflecting on the experience, Ula noted, "Much of engineering happens behind a desk, but being on site and contributing directly to the build was a completely different experience. Learning how to do every part of the process was not only valuable, but genuinely fun."

Aito Sterle, who served as a Quality Control Manager on Rutgers project in the previous year, the project was equally transformative. Aito explained, “The experience completely changed my engineering mindset. Traveling gave me a new perspective on life and exposed me to a whole variety of problems that required creative solutions. As a quality control manager, I was able to dive into the nitty‑gritty of bridge building and really understand the ins and outs of the process. Even though we weren’t part of the initial design, we felt connected to it on site — documenting each step, taking precise measurements, and ensuring everything was engineered to a T. It opened my eyes to how engineering truly works in the real world.”

  [gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="18956,18959"]

The process was a full collaborative effort between students and community members: mixing concrete, sifting sand, moving rocks, and passing buckets of concrete down long human chains. Local masons built walls from stone, while students documented each step and checked measurements to ensure precision. For many community members, the project offered not only a chance to contribute to lasting infrastructure, but also meaningful daily work in a region where jobs are scarce.

The bridge’s completion was celebrated not only by the Rutgers team and local residents, but also by community leaders. At the handover ceremony, MP David Ngcamphalala of Qomintaba emphasized the power of collaboration, stating, “Nothing is impossible when people work together.”

Engineers in Action Program Manager Ana Jovanovic echoed this sentiment, describing the Imphumelelo Footbridge as “a promise of safety, opportunity, and connection. It will save lives, open access to healthcare, and help the next generation reach their classrooms without fear.”

Local leaders also looked ahead to future development. Bucopho of Sigwe expressed gratitude to the Microprojects Programme and appealed for continued support, noting that the dedication of Members of Parliament, Indvuna Yenkhundla, and community leaders gave him confidence that more projects would follow in Qomintaba and Matsanjeni South.

These reflections, reported in the Africa-Press – Eswatini, highlight how the Imphumelelo Footbridge was not only a technical achievement but also a symbol of partnership, resilience, and hope for the communities it serves.

[gallery columns="2" link="none" ids="18964,18961,18960,18962"]

Life with the Community

Beyond construction, the Rutgers Engineers in Action team immersed themselves in local life. Prior to travel, students studied language and cultural traditions with the help of a Cultural Relationships Manager, preparing them to build genuine connections. Once in Eswatini, those connections flourished. Community members welcomed the students warmly, eager to share experiences and perspectives.

Every Saturday, soccer matches and games brought students and residents together. Music often filled the downtime at the construction site, with dance becoming a universal language that bridged cultural and linguistic gaps. Families opened their homes to the volunteers, with one household affectionately adopting the students for the duration of their stay.

For Rutgers students, these relationships were as impactful as the bridge itself. The project was not only about engineering a structure, but also about building trust, friendship, and mutual respect across cultures.


How You Can Help Support Engineers in Action Chapter at Rutgers

Engineers in Action began in 2009 as an international nonprofit dedicated to connecting isolated communities to essential resources through sustainable infrastructure projects. Originally linked with the Bridges to Prosperity program, Engineers in Action has expanded its mission to include not only footbridges, but also water and sanitation systems that empower underserved communities. Student chapters across the United States and Canada have played a vital role in advancing this mission, gaining hands-on engineering experience while helping communities overcome barriers to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.

To continue building bridges and expanding access to vital resources, Engineers in Action relies on donations. Contributions directly fund materials, logistics, and training that make future projects possible. Supporting Engineers in Action means helping students like those from Rutgers bring their skills to communities in need, while ensuring that families around the world can safely reach schools, hospitals, and markets. For more information check out the chapters Linktree. Readers who wish to make a difference are encouraged to consider donating to the Rutgers Engineers in Action Chapter at their year end campaign or their main donation page and become part of the effort to bridge divides and expand opportunity.

[post_title] => From Vision to Impact: Rutgers Engineers in Action Student Chapter Bring Change to Eswatini [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => from-vision-to-impact-rutgers-engineers-in-action-student-chapter-bring-change-to-eswatini [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-01-06 21:25:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-01-06 21:25:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18950 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18379 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-10-14 17:37:53 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-10-14 17:37:53 [post_content] =>

When most people think of engineering, they picture bridges, buildings, and dams rising above the landscape. Yet the performance and longevity of these structures depend just as much on the subsurface conditions beneath them. Geotechnical engineering is the discipline dedicated to investigating, analyzing, and characterizing soil, rock, landscape, and groundwater conditions, and applying that data to the design and construction of safe, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure and restoration projects.

At Princeton Hydro, our geotechnical and soils engineers design and execute customized, cost-effective investigations that provide the parameters needed for successful design. Because geotechnical services touch every stage of a project, our integrated approach of investigation, including soils laboratory testing, analysis, and design, all done in-house, ensures streamlined communication, efficiency, and technical excellence.

This blog offers a closer look at what geotechnical engineering entails, the specialized capabilities Princeton Hydro provides, and real-world examples of how our work supports resilient, sustainable design.


Princeton Hydro’s Geotechnical Capabilities

Geotechnical Investigations: Our engineers can perform subsurface investigation, identification, and assessment of accumulated sediment, subsurface soils, and rock, as well as slope stability and stabilization modeling. Our work ranges from foundation type and bearing capacity assessments to mitigation strategies for unsuitable materials. We also regularly conduct forensic geotechnical investigations, which focus on investigating soil-interaction-related failures of engineered infrastructure.

Laboratory Testing: We operate an American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Accredited laboratory in Sicklerville, NJ. This allows us to complete 100% of geotechnical investigation planning and oversight, laboratory testing, analysis, design, and reporting in-house. Our geotechnical laboratory performs a full suite of soils and materials testing, including grain size analysis, plasticity index, organic content, moisture content, compaction characteristics of soil (Standard and Modified Proctor), California bearing ratio (CBR), one dimensional consolidation, and flexible and rigid wall permeability testing under constant or falling head conditions. With this capability, we can rapidly deliver high-quality data to inform project design and construction. Our laboratory is also a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Validated Laboratory. Click here to view Princeton Hydro’s complete accreditation listing and certificate. And, click here to learn more about the USACE Materials Testing Laboratories and Validation.

Field & Construction Services: Our engineers are experienced in construction requirements, design, and methodology for various structures, as well as field inspections and special testing. We have a Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) on staff and ACI-certified concrete field-testing technicians. Our team performs compaction testing of soil and asphalt using a nuclear density gauge, reinforcing steel inspections, and 2006 International Building Code (IBC) special inspections. We help determine foundation type, site improvements, and optimal construction techniques.

Dredging & Sediment Investigations: Over our 25-year history, we’ve managed more than 100 dredging projects across freshwater and estuarine systems. We specialize in beneficial reuse of dredged material for ecological restoration, including wetland creation, thin-layer placement, and living shorelines. Our team provides sediment characterization, slope stability modeling, and contaminant analysis in complex, developed watersheds.


Princeton Hydro’s Geotechnical Work in Action

To bring this work to life, we’ve chosen a few Princeton Hydro projects that showcase where our geotechnical expertise helped solve unique challenges:

Geotechnical Design & Subsurface Investigations for Coastal Wetland Restoration – New York

At Spring Creek Park North in Jamaica Bay, New York, decades of urbanization and dredged material placement had degraded more than 40 acres of tidal marsh and uplands. To address this, Princeton Hydro provided subsurface investigations and design services for a large-scale ecosystem restoration led by the USACE New York District, in partnership with NYC Parks.

A key design assumption was the reuse of excavated material: soils removed from wetland areas were repurposed to construct upland hills, supporting both ecological function and cost-effective implementation. Our work included geotechnical borings, slope stability analyses, and hydraulic modeling, as well as the collection of topographic and bathymetric survey data, wetland delineations, vegetation assessments, and hydrodynamic measurements. This data informed the development of slope stability and hydraulic models and guided the restoration design.

The project advanced through a structured engineering design process — with 30%, 60%, 90%, and 100% design submissions — along with preparation of technical specifications, permit applications, and a detailed construction cost estimate. When complete, the project will restore more than 43 acres of marsh and upland habitat, improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity, and strengthening climate resilience in one of New York City’s most ecologically significant coastal systems.

[gallery size="medium" link="none" columns="2" ids="18187,18188"]

Offshore Subsurface Investigation for Jetty Reconstruction – Delaware

Princeton Hydro was contracted by USACE Philadelphia District to perform offshore subsurface geotechnical investigations in support of reconstructing the Indian River Inlet jetty at Delaware Seashore State Park. Working under challenging marine conditions, our team successfully advanced deep geotechnical borings (to depths of 100 feet) from a lift boat platform, collected soil samples, performed laboratory testing including triaxial strength, consolidation, and direct shear tests; and delivered detailed soil data. Despite difficult sea states, we maintained close communication with USACE to ensure safety and project continuity.

The resulting data provided USACE with critical insight into subsurface conditions, helping inform design alternatives for the new jetty structure.

[gallery size="medium" columns="2" link="none" ids="18185,18184"]

Subsurface Investigations for Dike Raising – New Jersey

At the Killcohook Confined Disposal Facility (CDF), Princeton Hydro carried out a large-scale subsurface investigation to support USACE Philadelphia District’s plans for raising the site’s perimeter dikes.  The project site, formerly a National Wildlife Refuge, is located in Pennsville, New Jersey, on the eastern bank of the Delaware River, to the north of Fort Mott State Park and adjacent to the Supawna Meadows Wildlife Refuge. Each cell of the CDF receives dredge material from the Delaware River. The subsurface explorations performed by Princeton Hydro were conducted along the existing dike comprising the border of Cell 1 of the CDF. Cell 1 consists of an area of approximately 710 acres with the entire CDF covering 1,200 acres.

For this exploration project, Princeton Hydro was tasked with the performance of thirty-one (31) geotechnical borings as well as sixty-five (65) cone penetrometer tests with porewater measurements (CPTu) soundings. Princeton Hydro also provided site safety oversight in accordance with USACE standards. Soil samples were logged and collected by Princeton Hydro and tested at their Sicklerville, New Jersey geotechnical laboratory, which is accredited under the AASHTO Accreditation Program and validated by USACE for soils testing.

The data collected is now being used by USACE to design the upgraded dike system, ensuring safe, resilient operation of the facility for future dredged material management.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="medium" ids="18181,18183"]

Comprehensive Geotechnical Investigation and Reporting – New Jersey

At the 545-acre Pedricktown North Confined Disposal Facility in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, located on the Delaware River west of Route 130 between Porcupine Road and Pennsgrove-Pedricktown Road, Princeton Hydro conducted a comprehensive subsurface investigation in support of a dike raising project led by the USACE Philadelphia District.

As part of this field exploration, our team performed eight geotechnical borings, thirty-eight cone penetrometer tests with porewater measurement (CPTu) soundings, and collected five grab samples. These efforts provided critical soil strength and settlement data to inform USACE’s design of the upgraded dike system.

In addition to managing subcontractors and ensuring compliance with USACE safety protocols, Princeton Hydro oversaw the field program, coordinated directly with the Project Manager, and delivered the final geotechnical report. This investigation is supplying USACE with essential geotechnical data to guide the design and construction of the improved dike infrastructure.

  [gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="18190,18193,18192"]  
This blog only scratches the surface of what geotechnical engineering entails. To dive deeper, we invite you to read “A Day in the Life: Princeton Hydro’s Geotechnical Laboratory,” where you’ll step into our laboratory and shadow Marissa Ciocco, P.E. as she turns soil samples into the data that drives resilient design. [post_title] => Beneath the Surface: Exploring the World of Geotechnical Engineering [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => beneath-the-surface-exploring-the-world-of-geotechnical-engineering [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-10-15 17:39:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-10-15 17:39:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18379 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 17598 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-06-04 17:07:23 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-06-04 17:07:23 [post_content] =>

Welcome to our “A Day in the Life” blog series, where we explore the diverse expertise and everyday experiences of the professionals who power Princeton Hydro’s mission. In this edition, we follow Casey Pantaleo, PE, a licensed Professional Engineer and Senior Project Manager on the Engineering Services team as he performs one of his highly specialized roles: dam inspection.

 

Casey meets the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)’s criteria for a “qualified engineer,” meaning he is licensed in New Jersey, has more than a decade of relevant experience in dam design, construction, operation, and evaluation, and possesses a deep understanding of the potential causes and consequences of dam failures. He routinely conducts detailed inspections to help ensure the safety and stability of dams across New Jersey and throughout the Northeast.

These structures, which play crucial roles in flood control, water supply, and recreation, require routine maintenance and monitoring to protect downstream communities and preserve infrastructure integrity.

Spend a day with Casey and you’ll quickly realize that dam safety inspection is anything but routine—it’s equal parts technical expertise, historical context, and regulatory navigation, along with a good pair of waterproof boots.


Inspection, Planning & Records Review

Before heading into the field, the inspection process begins with reviewing the dam’s existing documentation; the scope of that review depends on the type of inspection being conducted.

For a Formal Inspection, the process requires an in-depth review of all available records on the dam. This typically takes place in person at the NJDEP Bureau of Dam Safety office and should be completed prior to the field visit.

For a Regular Inspection, the inspector reviews the most recent inspection report, the dam’s Emergency Action Plan (EAP), and the Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manual. This step is essential for understanding the dam’s history, known concerns, and any previous recommendations or repairs.

Both inspection types involve a detailed on-site visual examination of the dam. The Bureau of Dam Safety provides a standardized inspection checklist that guides this process. The checklist includes specific criteria for earthen embankments, concrete/masonry dams, and their spillway structures.

“For earthen embankment dams, we assess the overall alignment, crest, upstream and downstream slopes, and dam abutments,” explains Casey. “We’re looking for signs of settlement, depressions, slope instability, seepage, and other indicators of distress.”

For concrete dams, inspectors evaluate the upstream and downstream faces, crest, foundation, abutments, and any interior galleries. The key concerns here are material condition, cracking, seepage, and structural movement.

The spillway, which is often inspected last, requires identification of all structures associated with overflow and release. Depending on the dam’s configuration, this may include primary, secondary, or emergency spillways.

 

Components typically observed include:

  • Inlet structure and entrance channel
  • Wing walls or training walls
  • Culverts and downstream apron
  • Trash racks and low-level outlets
  • Stilling basin and exit channels

“Every dam is different,” Casey adds. “Not all structures have every component listed on the checklist, so part of our job is tailoring the inspection to the specific site configuration.”

The Formal Inspections checklist also includes a review and description of previous engineering studies and analyses, which ensures the dam continues to meet regulatory requirements. These formal evaluations are required every six years for Class I (high hazard) dams, and every ten years for Class II (significant hazard) dams.

All findings from both the field inspection and records review are compiled into a detailed inspection report, which includes photographic documentation and a formal condition rating:

  • Satisfactory
  • Fair
  • Poor
  • Unsatisfactory

The report also outlines a compliance schedule, proposing timelines for maintenance work, additional studies, or other corrective actions. Once complete, the report is signed and sealed by a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) and submitted to both the client and the Bureau of Dam Safety.


Field Prep and Gear Check

With the planning and records review process complete, Casey prepares for the physical site visit. Dam inspections often require a full day in the field, so preparation is key.

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The first step before heading to the site is preparing an Activity Hazards Analysis (AHA). This document outlines the specific activities planned during the inspection, identifies potential hazards associated with each task, and defines the control measures used to eliminate or reduce risk. The AHA also includes the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care facility in case of injury.

Common hazards associated with dam inspections include slips, trips, and falls, insect nests, poison ivy, working near water, and occasionally, working on or near active roadways. Seasonal risks are also considered, such as the potential for heat illnesses during the summer months or cold-related injuries in the winter.

With safety protocols in place, Casey reviews the inspection schedule, checks the weather forecast, prints site maps, and gathers all the necessary personal protective equipment—waders, hard hat, and high-visibility vest—along with essential tools like a tape measure, measuring wheel, tile probe, field notebook, and camera.

Each tool plays a specific role. The tape measure is used for small-scale assessments, such as measuring cracks or depressions. The measuring wheel helps determine distances between notable features onsite. The tile probe allows Casey to gauge the density and consistency of embankment soils and to investigate for voids in concrete structures. It also comes in handy for checking the depth of animal burrows or the extent of subsurface voids within the dam.

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“Having the right measuring tools is absolutely essential,” Casey explains. “We aim to collect the most detailed measurements possible so future inspections can determine whether a condition is getting worse. We also try to anticipate every potential hazard and ensure we have everything we might need before leaving the office. Sometimes we’re hiking through thick brush to reach a spillway or crawling into an outlet conduit—so having a solid plan and the right gear isn’t just helpful, it’s critical.”


Arriving on Site

Today’s inspection takes place at Assunpink Dam #6, an earth embankment dam located in Robbinsville Township, Mercer County, New Jersey. Built in 1975, the dam is part of a flood control system designed to reduce risks along Assunpink Creek. The structure stands 31 feet high and stretches 2,500 feet long, with a total storage capacity of 12,653 acre-feet. It features a concrete spillway and an upstream water control structure. Owned by the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife, the dam is regulated by the state and classified as a high-hazard structure—meaning its failure could result in significant downstream impacts, making regular inspections essential.

 

To begin the inspection, Casey walks the full length of the embankment, conducting a detailed visual assessment. He looks for telltale warning signs: animal burrows, seepage, erosion, settlement, slope instability, and woody vegetation that could damage the dam face or block visibility during future inspections. One of the most common and problematic issues he encounters is overgrown vegetation, which can significantly hinder the ability to properly evaluate the structure. Keeping the dam clear is critical for spotting early warning signs and maintaining long-term safety.

 

“Each dam tells its own story,” Casey explains. “Some may show signs of movement, others are perfectly stable. One site might have seepage issues, while another remains completely dry. It all depends on the structure and how it’s aged.”

He carefully inspects the embankment and associated structures for signs of movement, depressions, sloughing, cracking, and uncontrolled seepage, any of which could indicate an underlying issue that requires remediation.

“We follow a standard checklist during every inspection, but each dam is unique,” he adds. “Part of the job is understanding how these systems were built—some decades or even over a century ago—and how they’ve changed over time.”

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Documentation, Reporting, and Follow-Up

After completing the full inspection, including the downstream toe, abutments, and emergency spillway, Casey wraps up his field notes, double-checks measurements, and ensures that all required photos have been captured. Before leaving the site, he often debriefs with the site representative, noting any immediate maintenance needs and outlining the next steps in the reporting process.

Back in the office, Casey begins transcribing his notes into a formal inspection report. He uploads and labels photos, updates GIS data where applicable, and reviews the dam’s historical inspection records to identify long-term trends or recurring issues. These records often help tell a broader story about the structure’s condition over time, highlighting vegetation growth, erosion patterns, or the effectiveness of past repairs.

Safety is always the top priority. If the inspection reveals anything that could pose an immediate risk to people or property downstream, such as uncontrolled seepage, excessive settlement, or slope instability, Casey contacts the dam owner and the NJDEP right away to recommend prompt action. Beyond urgent concerns, the inspection report also includes recommendations for routine maintenance and identifies any outdated analyses or studies that should be updated.

In many cases, the findings involve standard upkeep: clearing overgrown vegetation, reseeding disturbed areas, monitoring minor cracks or depressions, or maintaining access to critical features. One frequently emphasized point is the importance of operating the dam’s low-level outlet, if one is present, on a regular basis. Doing so helps ensure the outlet remains free of sediment or debris and functions properly in an emergency when water levels need to be lowered quickly.


Why It Matters

New Jersey is home to more than 1,700 dams, according to data from NJDEP Bureau of Dam Safety. These regulated structures range from low-hazard to high-hazard classifications, the latter being dams whose failure could result in significant property damage or loss of life. Regular inspections are not only a regulatory requirement, but a frontline defense against catastrophic failure. They help identify small problems before they become serious, support safe operation, and guide critical maintenance and repair decisions that protect both people and ecosystems.

“Dam inspection doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it’s essential,” says Casey. “We’re helping communities prevent disasters before they happen by keeping a close eye on structures that quietly serve very big purposes.”

For more information about New Jersey’s dam infrastructure and safety programs, go here!


About Casey

Casey Pantaleo, PE has over a decade of experience in the Geotechnical Engineering field and expertise in dam inspection, stormwater infrastructure, and regulatory permitting. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, and New York. He maintains a wide range of professional responsibilities for the firm including subsurface explorations, development of geotechnical laboratory testing programs, shallow and deep foundation analysis and design, settlement evaluation, earth retaining system design, slope stability analyses, and management of geotechnical field operations. He also has extensive experience with stormwater infiltration analysis and testing, as well as performing annual dam inspections in compliance with the NJDEP Division of Dam Safety. He completes regular inspection reports, as well as reviews of O&M Manuals and Emergency Action Plans. He has experience with the design of dams for rehabilitation, preparation of engineering plans, and submission of relevant dam permits.

Casey earned his Master of Science in Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical focus from Rowan University. While at Rowan he performed comprehensive research on the effects of particle morphology in geotechnical testing using discrete element modeling and has several peer reviewed journal and conference publications outlining the results of this research.


Stay tuned for more “Day in the Life” stories. In the meantime, click here to read a recent “A Day in the Life” blog where we join Patrick Rose, an Environmental Scientist and Project Manager in Princeton Hydro’s Aquatics Division, for a day out on the lake! [post_title] => A Day in the Life of a Dam Inspector: Casey Pantaleo, PE [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => a-day-in-the-life-of-a-dam-inspector-casey-pantaleo-pe [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-07-11 10:06:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-11 10:06:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=17598 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 16696 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2024-12-22 01:47:33 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-12-22 01:47:33 [post_content] =>

As 2024 comes to a close, we’re proud to reflect on a year filled with meaningful achievements and memorable milestones. From groundbreaking projects to personal accomplishments, these successes highlight the dedication and innovation of our team and the strength of our partnerships. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our clients, collaborators, and staff.

Join us as we celebrate the top 10 successes that made this year extraordinary:

1. Restored Free-Flowing Rivers in the Delaware River Watershed

This year marked major milestones in the restoration of three Delaware River tributaries. The removal of the 129-year-old Paulina Lake Dam on the Paulins Kill River reconnected an additional 7.6 miles of river habitat, adding to the 10 miles restored following the removal of Columbia Lake Dam. This project, led by The Nature Conservancy and designed by Princeton Hydro, represents a significant step forward in revitalizing New Jersey’s third-largest tributary to the Delaware River. The removal of Dam #2 on Bushkill Creek completed a five-dam removal effort, making the lower Bushkill Creek free-flowing and reconnecting it to the Delaware River for the first time in over 200 years. This effort enhances water quality, supports the passage of migratory fish, and bolsters freshwater mussel populations, vital to the health of the watershed. In November, work began to remove the Cedar Grove Dam, the first of four dams slated for removal along the Pequest River over the next year. This collaborative effort, led by The Nature Conservancy with training support from Princeton Hydro, will open nearly 10 miles of mainstem river and reconnect 57 miles of tributaries. Collectively, these dam removals celebrate a shared commitment to restoring ecological balance, reconnecting critical habitats, and supporting the biodiversity of the Delaware River Basin.


2. Designed & Implemented Urban Ecological Uplift Initiatives

Through engineering and ecological enhancements, we are revitalizing landscapes across the region. In New Jersey, the 279-acre Miry Run Dam Site 21 in Mercer County Park is being transformed into a vibrant public park that balances nature and community. We also collaborated with the Trenton South Ward Neighborhood Association on a Community Garden and Park Visioning project, assisting them in securing a grant that led to the planting of 500 native plants, enhancing public spaces and creating critical habitat for monarch butterflies. In Pennsylvania, Warrington Township’s Lion’s Pride Park is being converted into a resilient wetland complex with accessible pathways, demonstrating how ecological uplift fosters healthier communities. And, construction is now complete on the Turkey Foot restoration project within the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum in Philadelphia. The project revitalized 7.5 acres of critical wetland and upland habitats, preserving Pennsylvania’s last freshwater tidal marsh and supporting migratory and threatened and endangered species. In New York, we broke ground on the Spring Creek (North) Ecosystem Restoration Project in Brooklyn and Queens, which aims to restore 43 acres of degraded habitat within Jamaica Bay into a mosaic of low marsh, high marsh, scrub shrub wetland, and maritime upland within a 67-acre footprint. Meanwhile, the addition of the Marsh Master® 2MX-KC-FH to Princeton Hydro’s fleet elevated the ability to combat invasive species like Phragmites australis with minimal ecological disturbance.


3. Earned 7 Prestigious Awards

Princeton Hydro was recognized as one of New Jersey’s “Top Workplaces of 2024,” a prestigious honor that highlights our commitment to fostering an inspiring and supportive work environment. Two of our project achievements received acclaim: the Musconetcong Island Park project earned both the New Jersey Future Smart Growth Award and the American Planning Association of New Jersey’s 2024 Great Places in New Jersey - Great Public Space Award for transforming an abandoned site into a riparian park. The City of Lambertville’s stormwater management initiatives received the NJDEP “Our Water’s Worth It” Award for advancing flood resilience and water quality. Additionally, the restoration of the historic Roebling Wireworks, home to our Trenton headquarters, earned the New Jersey Historic Preservation Project Award, and our President, Geoffrey Goll, PE, was honored with the “Catalyst for Sustainable Change” Award from Hold High the Torch for advancing STEAM education and environmental stewardship. And just this month, Dr. Fred Lubnow was honored with the NJ-AWRA Peter Homack Award for his outstanding contributions to the multi-disciplinary understanding and management of New Jersey’s water resources. These awards reflect the passion, innovation, and commitment to excellence that define Princeton Hydro.


4. Enhanced Accessibility & Transformed Trails at a Vital Nature Preserve

[embed]https://youtu.be/wSJeYM8ajPE[/embed]

We partnered with The Nature Conservancy to enhance accessibility and visitor experience at the South Cape May Meadows Preserve, a 200-acre haven of biodiversity that welcomes 90,000 visitors annually. The centerpiece of this collaboration is a new 2,675-foot elevated boardwalk and 480-square-foot viewing platform, designed to open access to previously unreachable areas and go beyond ADA standards to ensure visitors of all abilities can explore the preserve’s diverse landscape. Situated largely within freshwater wetlands, the project required innovative solutions to minimize impact on sensitive habitats. This effort highlights the importance of creating inclusive spaces that both protect and celebrate our natural world.


5. Secured $1 Million in Grants for our Clients

One of Princeton Hydro’s core offerings is grant writing for our nonprofit and government clients. This year alone, we landed nearly $1 million in grants for our clients for harmful algal bloom monitoring, habitat enhancement, water quality improvements, and planting native plants via the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation's Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund and the Xerces Mid-Atlantic Pollinator Habitat Kit Planting Program.


6. Celebrated Numerous Staff Achievements:

 

This year, our talented team reached numerous applaud-worthy milestones, showcasing their dedication to advancing environmental science and sustainability. Amy McNamara became a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control (CPESC), highlighting her expertise in sustainable site design and regulatory compliance. Marissa Ciocco earned a Professional Engineer (PE) license in Connecticut, building on her existing licensure in Delaware. Chris Mikolajczyk CLM was appointed President-Elect of the Colorado Lake and Reservoir Management Association Board. Jesse Smith organized and implemented Flemington’s first-ever BioBlitz, a community-focused event that fostered a deeper connection to local biodiversity. Erin Bennett became a Notary Public in New Jersey and earned her Green Infrastructure Champions certification. Thomas Hopper achieved the Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP®) certification, further elevating his contributions to geospatial analysis and restoration efforts. And, Matt Kreines earned his FAA Commercial Drone Pilot license.


7. Completed First Project in Colorado:

We completed our first project in Colorado—a bathymetric assessment of the Fairplay Beach Reservoir, focused on mapping the reservoir’s underwater landscape to support ongoing conservation efforts. We are excited to bring our expertise in water resource management to new regions like Colorado and look forward to future opportunities to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of Colorado’s unique high-altitude aquatic environments. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore new waters and chart new territories.


8. Used Innovative & Integrated Strategies to Safeguard Water Quality:

We made significant strides in advancing lake and watershed health through innovative initiatives. At Virginia’s Smith Mountain Lake, decades of historical data and cutting-edge research were leveraged to identify the drivers of harmful algal blooms and shape sustainable solutions. In New Jersey, a collaboration with the Mercer County Park Commission resulted in comprehensive lake and watershed management plans to address algal blooms and bolster ecological resilience across the park’s aquatic ecosystems. These projects highlight our unwavering commitment to protecting vital freshwater resources and fostering healthier ecosystems for future generations.


9. Welcomed 5 New Team Members & 4 Interns:

This year we welcomed Senior Wildlife Biologist Michael McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE, who joined our Regulatory Compliance & Wildlife Surveys team, bringing over 20 years of expertise in ecological assessments and wildlife surveys. Alexandra Garnett became a vital part of our Trenton office as an Administrative Assistant. Civil Engineer Ryan Krueger, PE, joined our Engineering Services team this month, and Eric Libis returned to our team as an Aquatics Specialist over the summer/fall. Kaitlyn Jones, who began as an intern, has now joined our Aquatics team permanently as a Staff Scientist! This summer, we also hosted four interns: Francisco Batz (Landscape Architecture), Jade Gallagher (Communications), Daniel Goll (Engineering), and Rachel Trokenheim (Aquatics).


10. Participated in 50+ Conferences, Workshops, Community Gatherings and Sponsored 30+ Events:

We connected with industry professionals, communities, and stakeholders through a wide array of events, fostering collaboration, sustainability, and stewardship. In partnership with The Watershed Institute, we delivered impactful workshops, including the inaugural “Watershed Restoration Academy: Healthy Streams 101;” webinar sessions on daylighting streams and the conservation of American shad; and two education sessions at the 7th Annual Watershed Institute Conference. President Geoffrey Goll, PE traveled globally to participate in important river restoration and dam removal conversations, including the “Free Flow 2024 Conference” in The Netherlands, a river connectivity workshop in South Africa, and collaborations with Associação Natureza Portugal, a Portuguese non-profit NGO that works in association with World Wide Fund for Nature in Portugal. We also sponsored and presented at nationally prominent events, including the “NALMS International Symposium” in Lake Tahoe, CA; the “NYSFOLA Conference” in Lake George, NY; the “Harmful Algal Bloom Summit” in Portland, ME; and the “Delaware River Watershed Forum” in Bethlehem, PA, covering topics such as climate change impacts on lake ecology and green infrastructure stormwater management. Locally, we celebrated community and stewardship through events like the “Trenton River Days Fair,” Mercer County’s “Juneteenth Celebration,” and the New Jersey Highlands Council’s 20th anniversary, which highlighted collaborative Lake Hopatcong project successes. We also led two Facebook Live events: “Understanding and Managing Invasive Species in Your Backyard” and “Debunking Myths About Bats, Spiders & Snakes.” Through these efforts we deepened relationships with partners, advanced critical conversations, and inspired meaningful, sustainable change. These are just a few highlights from a truly impactful year!


As we reflect on this year’s achievements, we are deeply grateful for the trust, collaboration, and support of our clients, partners, and community. Your belief in our mission fuels our ability to innovate, restore, and protect. Here’s to building on this momentum in 2025 and continuing to make a positive impact together.

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In urban areas, streams have often been buried beneath streets, buildings, and infrastructure, cutting them off from the natural ecosystem. However, a growing movement towards "daylighting" streams—uncovering and restoring these buried watercourses—has proven to be an innovative solution for improving water quality, reducing flood risks, restoring fish passage, and creating healthier habitats. Princeton Hydro has been at the forefront of these efforts, bringing expertise in ecological restoration and water resource management to daylighting projects across New Jersey.


What Exactly is Daylighting?

Daylighting is the process of removing obstructions and impervious surfaces from a buried stream or river, restoring it to a more natural state. Often, streams were diverted underground to make way for urban development. Daylighting involves reversing this process, bringing the water flow back above ground where it can interact with the natural environment. The result is a newly visible, revitalized waterway that reconnects the stream to its surrounding ecosystem. This process not only improves stormwater management but also enhances urban spaces and promotes healthier habitats.


The Benefits of Daylighting Streams

Daylighting streams offers numerous advantages to both the environment and local communities. Some key benefits include:

  • Improved Water Quality: By restoring the natural flow of water, daylighted streams help filter pollutants and reduce nutrient loads, leading to healthier ecosystems.
  • Flood Mitigation: Daylighted streams can absorb stormwater more effectively, reducing the risk of urban flooding during heavy rain events.
  • Enhanced Biodiversity: Restoring stream habitats encourages the return of native plants and wildlife, boosting local biodiversity. The process can also lead to restored fish passage.
  • Public Health and Recreation: Exposure to natural environments improves mental and physical well-being, and daylighted streams create new spaces for recreation and community engagement.
  • Urban Revitalization: These projects can transform neglected areas into vibrant public spaces, improving property values and contributing to the overall quality of life.

Daylighting in Action: Project Highlights

Princeton Hydro has successfully completed numerous daylighting projects that demonstrate the transformative power of restoring natural waterways. By leveraging innovative engineering and ecological practices, these projects restored the natural flow of waterways and enhanced the surrounding landscape. Let’s take a closer look at two examples:

Petty's Run Stream Daylighting and Floodplain Creation in Trenton, NJ

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In the heart of Trenton, NJ, Princeton Hydro undertook a comprehensive stream restoration. The City of Trenton, as part of a larger urban revitalization and brownfield redevelopment project, sought to restore the stream, Petty’s Run, which had long suffered from typical urban afflictions: pollution, flooding, and heavy debris accumulation.

Princeton Hydro developed a green infrastructure design that addressed these challenges holistically. The design included removing from the stream channel heavy debris, contaminated soils, and the concrete remains of previous development. The team also replaced the restrictive upstream road crossing with a pedestrian bridge, enhancing both the stream’s flow and the community’s connectivity. A significant aspect of the project involved daylighting the 250-foot underground portion of Petty’s Run, restoring it to a natural, open flow while creating an adjacent floodplain meadow to manage stormwater and provide habitat.

The project improved stormwater management, enhanced the landscape’s biodiversity, added habitat value, and established a new public green space with walking trails, which now serves as both an ecological asset and a recreational area for the community. This project earned both the Phoenix Award for Brownfield Redevelopment and the Bowman’s Hill Land Ethics Award.

Thompson Park Zoo Stream Restoration

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Thompson Park, a sprawling 675-acre recreational area in Middlesex County, NJ, boasts a variety of amenities, including hiking trails, ballfields, and a zoo that is home to over 50 geese and fowl, goats, and approximately 90 deer. The streams within the park faced challenges, particularly in the areas surrounding the zoo’s enclosures, including erosion and compromised water quality.

In order to increase channel stability, decrease erosion, improve water quality and ecological function, and reduce the pollutants originating from the zoo, a stormwater management treatment train was designed and constructed.

Middlesex County Office of Parks and Recreation and Office of Planning, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, South Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council, Middlesex County Mosquito Extermination Commission, Freehold Soil Conservation District, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Enviroscapes and Princeton Hydro worked together to fund, design, permit, and construct numerous stormwater management measures within Thompson Park.

One of the key project initiatives involved daylighting a section of a 24-inch reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) that had previously conveyed stormwater underground. Daylighting the stream, widen the stream channel, improved stormwater absorption, reduced erosion, helped restore the stream’s natural gradient, and improved aquatic habitat.

This multi-faceted restoration project improved stream function and created a more sustainable environment for both zoo inhabitants, the park’s visitors, and the watershed.


Expert Insights on Daylighting

Princeton Hydro’s President and Founding Principal, Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, recently shared his expertise in stream restoration during a "Daylighting Streams: Design & Engineering" webinar hosted by The Watershed Institute. The webinar explored the process of uncovering and restoring buried watercourses. Moderated by Susan Bristol, The Watershed Institute Municipal Policy Specialist, the webinar featured experts Vince Sortman, Biohabitats Senior Fluvial Geomorphologist; Warren T. Byrd, Jr., FASLA, Founding Partner of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects & Professor Emeritus, University of Virginia; and Geoffrey. The webinar provided valuable insights into the challenges and benefits of these projects, highlighting the importance of hazard mitigation, maintenance, and community involvement in successful daylighting initiatives. The event underscored the significance of daylighting in enhancing both urban infrastructure and natural ecosystems.


Daylighting streams is a forward-thinking approach to urban water management that brings immense benefits to the environment and local communities. As daylighting continues to gain recognition as an essential tool for watershed restoration, Princeton Hydro remains a trusted leader in the field, combining innovative design with environmental stewardship.

Click here to read more about Princeton Hydro's innovative stream restoration initiatives. [post_title] => Reviving Buried Waterways: The Benefits of Daylighting Streams [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => reviving-buried-waterways [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-01-13 15:46:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-01-13 15:46:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=15800 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 15689 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2024-10-23 10:03:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-10-23 10:03:42 [post_content] =>

Princeton Hydro is excited to announce that the Musconetcong Island Park Project received the New Jersey Future 2024 Smart Growth Award. This project, led by the Musconetcong Watershed Association (MWA), transformed a crumbling, long-abandoned laboratory into a vibrant, accessible riparian park space that provides opportunities for fishing, wading, paddling, and viewing wildlife in Bethlehem Township, NJ.

The site, which once housed a two-story concrete block laboratory used by the Asbury Graphite Mill, had become a hazard after decades of disuse. Located on a quarter-acre island in the Musconetcong River, the building was not only structurally unsound but also in the floodway of the River, posing ongoing risks to the surrounding environment. Through a collaborative, multi-year effort, the abandoned building was demolished, the area was restored, and the island was transformed into a welcoming, accessible space for public enjoyment and recreation.

The image below shows the old stairway, laboratory building, and island space with a white outline depicting the project area:

Taken in 2018 before construction: [gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="15697,15702"]   Taken in 2023 after project completion (photos by MWA): [gallery link="file" columns="2" ids="15706,15707"]

The Musconetcong Island Park Project represents a successful collaboration among numerous partners. Led by MWA, the project involved National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the Township of Bethlehem, Harrington Construction, and Princeton Hydro.

Princeton Hydro provided engineering and environmental consulting services for the project. Our scientists and engineers completed all necessary permitting, designed both the conceptual and final restoration plans, and oversaw construction throughout the project.

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Funding for the project was secured through three primary sources: New Jersey Green Acres Program, National Park Foundation, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund. These grants were instrumental in facilitating the transformation of an industrial relic into a thriving park space, balancing the preservation of the river's natural resources with the creation of an accessible community destination.

[caption id="attachment_15690" align="aligncenter" width="1300"] Photo courtesy of the Township of Bethlehem, NJ.[/caption]  

The two-story concrete block building that once stood on Musconetcong Island was originally the Asbury Graphite Mill laboratory, constructed between 1925 and 1940. It was built on the foundation of a woolen factory that had been destroyed by fire in 1881. The laboratory was used for testing graphite, an inert and non-toxic mineral primarily used for lubrication and other industrial applications. Graphite refining began in Asbury in 1895, when Harry M. Riddle purchased the existing mills and converted them for this specialized purpose.

By the early 1980s, the laboratory was abandoned due to frequent flooding and a lack of modern plumbing. Despite its industrial history, the building had become a safety and environmental concern due to its floodway location and deteriorating condition. In 1999, the laboratory building was donated to the Musconetcong Watershed Association, who then initiated efforts to restore the site and transform it into a valuable public resource.

Today, the island has been transformed into a place where residents and visitors can enjoy the Musconetcong River. With improved access, new stairways, and interpretive signage sharing the history of the area, Musconetcong Island Park is a prime example of how thoughtful design can blend environmental restoration with community-focused development.

[caption id="attachment_15705" align="aligncenter" width="1074"] The Musconetcong Island Park project was completed in Spring 2023. Photo by MWA.[/caption]  

“We are honored to have contributed to the transformation of Musconetcong Island Park and proud to see this project recognized with a New Jersey Future Smart Growth Award for its role in enhancing the Musconetcong River Watershed. It reflects our commitment to sustainable design and the power of collaboration in creating lasting, positive impacts for both the environment and the community. It’s truly a win-win — removing an obstruction from the floodway while providing public access to the river,” said Geoffrey M. Goll PE, President of Princeton Hydro.

Since 2002, the New Jersey Future Smart Growth Awards have celebrated the best examples of sustainable planning and development across the state. The Musconetcong Island Park Project exemplifies these values by enhancing public access to nature, improving resilience to flooding, and fostering sustainable recreation opportunities in the heart of Bethlehem Township. The project showcases the importance of balancing environmental restoration with community needs, creating a space where people can connect with nature while preserving and protecting it for future generations.

The 2024 New Jersey Future Smart Growth Awards recognize six outstanding projects that exemplify innovative and sustainable development. This year’s award ceremony and celebration took place yesterday at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center.

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Click here to learn more about the awards and to view the full list of 2024 Smart Growth Award recipients.

MWA is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and improving the quality of the natural and cultural resources of the Musconetcong River and its Watershed. 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. Click here to learn more.

Princeton Hydro has been working with MWA in the areas of river restoration, dam removal, and engineering consulting since 2003. Explore how the partnership between Princeton Hydro and the MWA led to the historic return of American shad to the Musconetcong River for the first time in over 250 years, revitalizing the ecosystem—read the full story here!

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Nestled within the New Jersey townships of Hamilton, Robbinsville, and West Windsor lies Miry Run Dam Site 21—an expansive 279-acre parcel with a rich history dating back to its acquisition by Mercer County in the late 1970s. Originally earmarked for flood mitigation and recreation, this hidden gem is on the cusp of a remarkable transformation, poised to unveil its true potential as a thriving public park.

Central to the revitalization efforts is a comprehensive Master Plan, meticulously crafted by Mercer County Park Commission in partnership with Simone Collins Landscape Architecture and Princeton Hydro. This visionary roadmap encompasses a spectrum of engineering and ecological uplift initiatives, including:

  • Several types of trails and boardwalks that total approximately 7 miles, including a tree canopy walk-through over an area of vernal pools;
  • A nature-based playground and an ADA inclusive playground;
  • Kayak launch and water trail;
  • Protected swimming area for a limited number of swimmers each day;
  • A native plant arboretum and horticultural garden;
  • Fishing access areas;
  • Parking lots, driveways, small restrooms and pavilions; and
  • A group camping area that would accommodate about 30-40 campers.

The Master Plan serves as a long-term vision for improvements to the property and will be implemented over multiple phases. In 2021, it was recognized with the Landscape Architectural Chapter Award from the New Jersey Chapter American Society of Landscape Architects, which underscores its innovative and impactful approach to landscape design.


Phase One is Underway

Now, Dam Site 21’s revitalization has begun with a crucial endeavor: the dredging of its 50-acre lake. This process, spearheaded by Mercer County Park Commission in collaboration with Princeton Hydro, aims to rejuvenate the water body by removing accumulated debris, sediment, and invasive vegetation—a vital step towards restoring its ecological balance. Beyond the aesthetic and ecological improvements, dredging enhances accessibility for recreational activities that provide an opportunity to create a deeper connection between the park’s visitors and its beautiful natural landscape.

Based on the bathymetric assessment, which the Princeton Hydro team completed as part of the Master Plan, the dredging efforts are focused on three primary areas: Area 1 is located in the main body of the lake just downstream of Line Road and will generate approximately 34,000 cubic yards of dredged material; Area 2, which has approximately 4,900 cubic yards of accumulated sediment is located in the northeast cove, just north of Area 1; and Area 3, the northwestern cove, entails the removal of approximately 7,300 cubic yards of accumulated sediment.

This video, taken on February 27, provides an aerial view of the project site and the dredging in progress: [embed]https://youtu.be/F7t39mD1Rq8?si=6pnAarnT2RomS0s6[/embed]

Before the dredging work could begin, the Princeton Hydro team was responsible for providing a sediment sampling plan, sample collection and laboratory analysis, engineering design plan, preparation and submission of all NJDEP regulatory permitting materials, preparation of the technical specifications, and bid administration. Currently, our team is providing construction administration and oversight for the project.

[gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="14730,14726"] [caption id="attachment_14729" align="aligncenter" width="1227"] March 19 2024 - The dredging work begins[/caption]

From Planning to Implementation and Beyond

The journey towards Dam Site 21's revival has been marked by meticulous planning, design, and community engagement spanning several years. With the commencement of dredging operations, the project's vision is gradually materializing—a testament to the dedication of all stakeholders involved. As the first phase unfolds, anticipation mounts for the realization of a vibrant, inclusive public space that honors both nature and community.

[caption id="attachment_14713" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Drone image of the Miry Run Dam Site 21 Project (Feb 27 2024)[/caption] [gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="14735,14734,14736"]

As Dam Site 21 undergoes its metamorphosis, it symbolizes not just a physical restoration, but a renewal of collective vision and commitment. Ultimately, Dam Site 21 isn't just a park—it's a testament to the enduring legacy of conservation, community, and the transformative power of restoration.

The significance of Dam Site 21's transformation extends far beyond its recreational appeal. It embodies a commitment to environmental stewardship, with measures aimed at bolstering flood resilience, improving water quality, and nurturing diverse wildlife habitats. By blending conservation with recreation, the project strikes an important balance between creating access for community members to enjoy the space and ecological preservation that puts native plants,  critical habitat, and wildlife at the forefront.


To learn more about the restoration initiative and view the Final Master Plan, visit the Mercer County Park Commission’s website. Click here to learn about another one of Princeton Hydro’s recent restoration efforts. And, stay tuned here for more Mercer County Park Commission project updates!

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The Brooklyn Bridge, a symbol of architectural excellence, spans the East River, connecting the vibrant boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Beyond its iconic presence, the construction of this masterpiece has a surprising connection to our firm. The roots of the Princeton Hydro headquarters building stretch back to the late 1800s; the first occupants of the building played a pivotal role in manufacturing and supplying the sturdy steel cables that formed the bridge's suspension system, an integral part of its enduring strength. Exploring the building's rich past, we discover a remarkable link to a legendary figure, bridging our current aspirations with the legacy of a woman who left an enduring mark on history.

[caption id="attachment_13546" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Panorama of Brooklyn Bridge, with the Manhattan Bridge behind it, and the Williamsburg Bridge father back.[/caption]

The Roebling Complex

The John A. Roebling's Sons Company was a wire rope manufacturing facility in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania founded in 1841. In 1848, the company relocated to Trenton, NJ along the Delaware & Raritan Canal and built a 25-acre complex of industrial buildings and facilities for wire rope manufacturing. This included the Carpenter's Shop (Building 110), the building that is now home to the Princeton Hydro's headquarters office, which manufactured specialty wooden products for the operation. The company quickly established itself as a notable employer in the city.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="7920,14703"]

The company gained international recognition for its expertise in wire, wire rope manufacturing, and bridge building. Additionally, their products were extensively utilized in various industries, commercial sectors, and consumer goods. Over 112 years, four generations of the Roebling family successfully managed the business, a remarkable and uncommon accomplishment in the corporate world.

John A. Roebling, the company's founder, was renowned for inventing the wire rope, which revolutionized the way we build bridges. The wire rope (or steel cable) was innovative as it replaced the bulkier and weaker hemp fiber rope that was used to haul canal boats. He also developed a technique for spinning cables in place rather than constructing pre-fabricated cables that required maintenance before actually being used. This enabled him to become the world's foremost builder of suspension bridges in the 19th century, and his bridges spanned major rivers despite skeptics who believed such feats were impossible.


Building the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge construction started with an accident when the chief designer, John A. Roebling, had his foot injured by a ferry. He died of tetanus, and his son, Washington A. Roebling, who worked with his father on the Roebling Suspension Bridge over the Ohio River at Cincinnati and on the design of the Brooklyn Bridge, took over the project. Three years into construction of the longest suspension bridge in the world (at that time), Washington was incapacitated by "caisson disease." His wife, Emily Warren Roebling, took over and guided the completion of the bridge, which was one of the 19th century's most impressive architectural achievements. In honor of Women's History Month, we are spotlighting Emily Warren Roebling, whose groundbreaking contributions serve as an inspiring testament to the capabilities and achievements of women in history.

While Washington is widely credited for completing the Brooklyn Bridge in 1883, it's essential to equally acknowledge Emily's significant contributions. Her remarkable leadership, engineering acumen, and tireless dedication were pivotal in navigating the complexities of the Brooklyn Bridge's construction, ensuring its successful completion and solidifying her legacy as an engineering pioneer.

In his book "The Great Bridge," historian David McCullough describes Emily's multifaceted role as both a nurse and private secretary to her husband, taking over his correspondence and record-keeping. Additionally, she actively engaged in the bridge's construction, reviewing plans, visiting the site, and interacting with contractors and bridge officials. McCullough aptly summarized her contributions, stating that she served as "his eyes, his legs, his good right arm."

However, Emily's dedicated support also led to false rumors that her husband, Washington, had lost his mental faculties. Despite these challenges, Emily successfully fought to prevent Washington's removal as chief engineer nearing the bridge's completion. Washington, in turn, acknowledged his wife's invaluable contributions to the project. He later expressed his gratitude, acknowledging her as a "strong tower" and a wise counselor who supported him during difficult times.


Beyond the Brooklyn Bridge

Emily Warren Roebling's advocacy extended beyond her work on the Brooklyn Bridge with her husband.  A pioneering figure of the early 20th century, Emily championed women's equality in education, ownership rights, legal matters, and philanthropic endeavors. She actively participated in women's clubs, contributed to the World's Columbian Exposition, and was nominated for the presidency of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Her written papers addressed crucial topics such as philanthropy, settlement houses, and the importance of legal education for women. Her legacy continues to inspire, as a new generation of professional women, including lawyers and engineers, joined the suffrage movement after her demise in 1903. It is speculated that had she lived longer, she would have been a prominent leader in the women's suffrage movement. While her direct contributions remain unknown, the sight of female engineers proudly asserting their rights during rallies in academic attire would likely have brought a smile to her face. Emily's advocacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of equality, as subsequent generations of professional women carried her vision forward.


In our dynamic business landscape, we find inspiration in the tale of an extraordinary woman whose vision and tenacity shaped history. Her legacy reminds us that genuine success goes beyond material gains. It lies in the positive influence we leave on the world. Let us all strive to leave a lasting mark that echoes the timeless principles of integrity, resilience, and inclusivity.

A blog by Mikhail Velez, Communications Coordinator

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As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on the milestones and successes that have shaped the past twelve months. We're excited to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to our incredible clients, partners, and friends. Your support and collaboration have been the driving force behind our achievements. Join us as we revisit and celebrate our top 10 successes of 2023:

1. CELEBRATED 25 YEARS OF SUCCESS.

As we joyfully celebrate our 25th anniversary year at Princeton Hydro, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible journey. Over the past quarter-century, our firm has been dedicated to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better, and it's an honor to reflect on the milestones we've achieved together. Since our inception in 1998, working with 2,000 clients, we have removed 84 dams, restored dozens of miles of rivers, improved water quality in hundreds of ponds and lakes, and enhanced thousands of acres of wetlands in the Northeast. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey!


2. DESIGNED AND OVERSAW THE REMOVAL OF 5 DAMS.

Over the past year, we completed five dam removal projects. We worked with Wildlands Conservancy to remove two dams from Bushkill Creek, a tributary to the Delaware River, opening up several miles of river to migratory fish and critical species. We partnered with the Musconetcong Watershed Association to remove Beatty's Mill Dam, a critical step in restoring the Musconetcong River and addressing long-standing concerns regarding flood mitigation and the preservation of essential habitats. On Pohatcong Creek, we decommissioned a defunct dam for the Pinelands Regional Board of Education. And, working with The Nature Conservancy, we kicked off the removal of the 128-year-old hazardous Paulina Dam, reconnecting over 7.6 miles of mainstream and tributary habitat along the Paulins Kill. Highlighting our dedication and expertise in this field, our firm's president and founding principal, Geoffrey M. Goll, P.E., was recently featured on a Top 20 podcast. His discussion provides insights into the complexities and significance of dam removal.


3. EARNED 6 PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS.

This year, we are proud to share that our firm earned the Society for American Military Engineers NJ Post’s 2023 Small Business Award! Our newly restored Trenton office earned two top tier awards: 2023 New Good Neighbor Award and NJ Historic Preservation Award. Two of our projects were spotlighted too: Lake Hopatcong Foundation’s Floating Classroom received the very honorable New Jersey Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award and the Readington Digital ERI won an ANJEC 2023 Environmental Achievement Award. And, a big shout out to Duncan Simpson who earned the SAME Mid-Maryland Post President’s Commendation Award.


4. BROKE GROUND ON LIBERTY STATE PARK ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION PROJECT.

Liberty State Park, located on the west bank of Upper New York Bay, is one of the most visited state parks in the nation. Within 235 acres of this highly urbanized setting, Princeton Hydro was contracted to design a resilient coastal ecosystem that provides both ecological and social benefits. In a momentous event, the Commissioner of NJDEP, Commander of USACE New York District, and local elected officials broke ground for the Liberty State Park Ecosystem Restoration Project. When constructed, it will have 80 acres of tidal and non-tidal wetlands and several hundred feet of intertidal shoreline and shallow water habitat, making it the largest ecosystem restoration project in New Jersey.


5. CELEBRATED NUMEROUS STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS.

Our team members continue to amaze us with their drive to expand knowledge and grow personally. This past year, several staff earned new licenses and certifications: Marissa Ciocco earned her Professional Engineer license in Delaware. Eric Zawatski achieved The Wildlife Society’s “Associate Wildlife Biologist” certification. Michael Allers became a licensed FAA-Certified Commercial Drone Pilot. Mark Gallagher was appointed to two boards: the Outdoor Equity Alliance Advisory Committee and Friends of Abbots Marshland Advisory Board. Dana Patterson was voted in as First Vice President of NJ SAME Post and Duncan Simpson, PWS was voted in as Second Vice President of the Mid-Maryland SAME Post.


6. SECURED $2.43 MILLION IN GRANTS FOR OUR CLIENTS.

One of Princeton Hydro’s core offerings is grant writing for our nonprofit and government clients. This year alone, we assisted in securing $2.43 million in grant funding from a variety of programs, including the NJDEP Stormwater Assistance Grants, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, NJDEP Natural Climate Solutions Grant, Restore America’s Estuaries National Estuaries Program Watersheds Grant Program, and New Jersey Highlands Council Planning Grant Program. The pivotal projects include building green infrastructure, developing watershed management programs, controlling invasive species, and planting hundreds of trees.


7. PARTICIPATED IN 50+ CONFERENCES, WORKSHOPS, OR LECTURES AND SPONSORED 35+ EVENTS.

We traveled around the Northeast and beyond to share our project stories and lessons learned. For the Watershed Institute’s 6th Annual Conference, we led two presentations focused on stormwater management, improving water quality, and reducing flooding. Our Senior Technical Director of Engineering Dr. Clay Emerson, PE, CFM, led two webinars for the Watershed Institute this year. The first one, "Enhanced Stormwater Management Ordinances," provided guidance on NJDEP’s new stormwater ordinances and recommendations for developing and implementing stronger ordinances. The second webinar, “Stormwater Design: Myths and Misconceptions,” provided guidance on incorporating best practices and submitting design proposals that address New Jersey’s stormwater management goals. For the Resource Institute's 2023 National Stream Restoration Conference, Jake Dittes, PE and Duncan Simpson, PWS presented on Hudson Valley Dam removal and showcased the importance of projects like the Maiden Lane Dam removal in preserving our natural treasures. We led five presentations during this year's North American Lake Management Society International Symposium. The topics included harmful algal bloom mitigation, stormwater management for lake communities, and monitoring. We are honored to have sponsored over $26,000 to nonprofit events and fundraisers, and the Marketing Team is proud to have exhibited at 15 conferences, festivals, and local events.


8. WELCOMED 9 NEW TEAM MEMBERS.

This year, we welcomed Controller Barry Shallenberger to our Business Administration team. Four engineers joined: Sean Walsh, PE as a Senior Project Manager; Rebecca Adamo, PE and Lexie Seifert as Water Resource Engineers; and Ryan Eno, EIT as a Staff Engineer. We grew our Landscape Architecture team with the addition of Angelica Diaz, and bolstered our Ecological Engineering group with Restoration Ecologist Michael Allers. We also welcomed two interns this summer, Mikhail Velez (Communications) and Jackson Tilves (Aquatics), who have now joined our staff permanently. And, last but certainly not least, we promoted six of our four-legged team members to Chief Happiness Officers!


9. RELEASED 3 NEW RESOURCES FOR THE PUBLIC.

Working with New Jersey Future, we published the NJ Stormwater Retrofit Best Management Practices Guide, a comprehensive resource and pivotal tool that aids local and county governments, nonprofits, developers, and property owners in retrofitting stormwater infrastructure and integrating sustainable green infrastructure solutions. We partnered with New York - New Jersey Harbor & Estuary Program and the Hudson River Foundation to create a toolkit for addressing problematic road-stream crossings. The easy-to-use matrix helps to prioritize potential projects and identify solutions. In partnership with Readington Township in New Jersey,  we developed New Jersey’s first interactive Environmental Resource Inventory (ERI) in digital format, paving the way for a more modernized, easily accessible, and highly functional resource. Readington Township was chosen as the recipient of the ANJEC “2023 Environmental Achievement Award" in the Environmental Commission category for creating the ERI. We've conducted two insightful 'Facebook Live Chat' Q&A sessions featuring four of our experts, which we recorded as informative resources available for ongoing access. The first session shared valuable spring gardening tips from our Landscape Architects. The second event, 'Birding in Your Backyard,' was hosted by two of our scientists who are passionate about birding.


10. GIVING BACK TO THE CITY OF TRENTON.

Since opening our Trenton Headquarters office, we have donated the use of our space for a variety of nonprofit organization events. In 2023, we hosted Revolutionary Trenton’s Launch Event, Boys and Girls club of Mercer County, Capital Philharmonic of New Jersey, Outdoor Equity Alliance Board Meeting, and African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County’s African American History Bowl Scholarship Presentation. We held donation drives here too to support local nonprofit organizations working in Trenton. During our Spring 2023 Staff Donation Drive, we collected 208 pounds of shelf-stable food items for Arm In Arm, a Trenton-based nonprofit organization that addresses food and housing insecurity in the city and surrounding areas. For our Holiday Employee Virtual Giving Event, 19 staff donated 72 items valued over $1560 to Children’s Home Society of New Jersey. Inspiring local youth to pursue a pathway in the STEM fields is also a priority for our firm. This year, we volunteered our time to support community programs like NJDEP’s Youth Inclusion Initiative and Hold High the Torch’s Eco Innovators for Youth STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics) Leaders Program.


Gratitude fills us, knowing these milestones were made possible by your support. Cheers to YOU and the promise of many more successes ahead! [post_title] => A Year in Review: Top 10 Successes of 2023 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => top-10-successes-of-2023 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-11-07 15:11:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-11-07 15:11:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=14108 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 10 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 19057 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2026-01-28 15:50:41 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-01-28 15:50:41 [post_content] =>

More than a century after the Paulina Lake Dam first altered the Paulins Kill River, the site now tells a very different story. A recent return visit confirms what restoration practitioners know well: when barriers are removed, rivers heal. Today, the Paulins Kill flows freely through the former Paulina Lake Dam site, reconnecting habitats that had been fragmented for generations.

The Paulina Lake Dam stood for nearly 130 years in Blairstown Township, Warren County, NJ. Constructed in the late 1800s to generate hydropower, it had long outlived its original purpose. Like many aging dams across the country, it remained in place despite no longer serving a critical function, while continuing to disrupt river processes and pose growing safety risks.

[caption id="attachment_19094" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Paulina Lake Dam aerial view prior to removal. Photo by Jim Wright/TNC/LightHawk[/caption]  

As reported in CentralJersey.com’s recent feature “The fall of dams and rise of rivers,” the majority of New Jersey’s approximately 1,700 regulated dams were built in the 19th and early 20th centuries to power mills that no longer exist. Fewer than a dozen still serve an essential purpose today. Many persist due to nostalgia, misunderstanding, or uncertainty around removal—despite blocking fish passage, trapping sediment, warming water temperatures, exacerbating flooding, and increasing the risk of failure.

The removal of Paulina Lake Dam was led by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in partnership with Blairstown Township, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Riverlogic–Renova Joint Venture, and Princeton Hydro. The Office of Natural Resources Revenue awarded a grant to TNC to fund a substantial portion of the removal through the Paulins Kill and Pequest Watershed Natural Resource Restoration Grant Program.

The project advanced through carefully sequenced phases, beginning with controlled notching in late 2023, followed by full demolition and sediment management in 2024, and transitioning into final adaptive management and habitat enhancement in 2025.


What the River is Showing Us Now

The ecological response has been swift and visible.

With the dam removed, more than 7.6 miles of mainstem and tributary habitat have been reconnected at the Paulina Lake site alone. The removal of the Paulina Lake Dam represents one important element of a longer-term, watershed-scale restoration initiative launched in 2013 to restore connectivity and ecological function along the Paulins Kill River. As the downstream most dam on the river, its removal builds upon earlier restoration milestones achieved through the removal of four dams: the Columbia Lake Main and Remnant Dams in 2019, the County Line Dam in 2021, and now the Paulina Lake Dam, progressively reconnecting approximately 45 miles of mainstem and tributary habitat.

Since 2016, The Nature Conservancy has also implemented a 10-year Measures and Monitoring Program to track ecological response and conservation outcomes, providing clear evidence that coordinated, science-based restoration can support a healthier, more resilient river system.

The river channel is actively stabilizing, riffle and run sequences are re-forming, and previously inundated areas are beginning to revegetate. Cooler water temperatures and the restoration of sediment transport processes are enabling the Paulins Kill to function more consistently with a cold, free‑flowing, coarse‑substrate stream system.

This series of aerial drone photos was captured during a site visit in November 2025: [gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="19109,19110,19111"]

This recovery is already benefiting aquatic life. As Beth Styler Barry, Director of Freshwater Programs for The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey, noted in the CentralJersey.com article, “We’re already seeing American shad above the dams that were removed. We’re seeing sea lamprey and American eel. It used to be that only the biggest eels could make it upstream. Now we’re seeing all age classes.”

By reconnecting upstream and downstream populations that had been isolated for generations, the project has also restored connectivity for rare freshwater mussels, including the endangered dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon) and triangle floater (Alasmidonta undulata).

“All of the organisms in a river like the Paulins Kill evolved to live in a cool, flowing, rocky-bottom stream,” Styler Barry told CentralJersey.com. “When you restore flow, the river begins to heal itself.”


Watch the Project from Start to Finish

A newly released project video captures this transformation in a way that still images and written updates cannot.

Drawing on aerial footage collected by The Nature Conservancy’s Volunteer Drone Team prior to demolition and by Princeton Hydro throughout and after construction, the video documents the full arc of the Paulina Lake Dam removal from initial notching through full demolition and into the restored conditions visible today. The footage provides a comprehensive look at dam removal in practice, illustrating how careful sequencing, sediment management, and adaptive design allow rivers to recover rapidly once barriers are removed.

Click below to watch the full project video and see the transformation unfold: [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6dQRRU5DCE[/embed]

Beyond ecological gains, the removal of Paulina Lake Dam has significantly improved public safety and community resilience. In CentralJersey.com, Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, President of Princeton Hydro, emphasized the long-term risks associated with aging dams. “If you don’t take care of them, they’ll come out on their own—and that’s a much bigger problem. Once dams are properly removed, people start to see the value of a free-flowing river.”

Many dams were never designed to withstand today’s hydrologic conditions. With climate change driving more frequent and intense rainfall events, proactive removal reduces flood risk, eliminates inspection and maintenance liabilities, and allows rivers to function as more resilient, self-sustaining systems. At the Paulina Lake site, removal has also improved recreational access and restored a more natural landscape for the community.


Looking Ahead

While the Paulins Kill now flows freely through the former Paulina Lake Dam site, final project phases focus on adaptive management, targeted bank stabilization, habitat feature enhancement, and native tree planting to support long term ecological resilience. As the river continues to adjust and evolve, the Paulina Lake Dam site stands as a clear example of what is possible when outdated infrastructure is thoughtfully removed and natural systems are given the opportunity to recover.

To learn more about TNC's work to restore the Paulins Kill River, click here. To learn more about Princeton Hydro's work to remove dams and restore rivers throughout the Northeast, click here. [post_title] => Then and Now: Paulina Lake Dam Removal [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => then-and-now-paulina-lake-dam-removal [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-01-28 15:59:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-01-28 15:59:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=19057 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [comment_count] => 0 [current_comment] => -1 [found_posts] => 79 [max_num_pages] => 8 [max_num_comment_pages] => 0 [is_single] => [is_preview] => [is_page] => [is_archive] => 1 [is_date] => [is_year] => [is_month] => [is_day] => [is_time] => [is_author] => [is_category] => [is_tag] => 1 [is_tax] => [is_search] => [is_feed] => [is_comment_feed] => [is_trackback] => [is_home] => [is_privacy_policy] => [is_404] => [is_embed] => [is_paged] => [is_admin] => [is_attachment] => [is_singular] => [is_robots] => [is_favicon] => [is_posts_page] => [is_post_type_archive] => [query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => f610df84be3b8331e24403c86d2ca6b4 [query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => 1 [thumbnails_cached] => [allow_query_attachment_by_filename:protected] => [stopwords:WP_Query:private] => [compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => query_vars_hash [1] => query_vars_changed ) [compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => init_query_flags [1] => parse_tax_query ) [query_cache_key:WP_Query:private] => wp_query:620699fb9fe2e1bd4aa8a6b59e63302e )

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