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WP_Query Object ( [query] => Array ( [tag] => stormwater-management ) [query_vars] => Array ( [tag] => stormwater-management [error] => [m] => [p] => 0 [post_parent] => [subpost] => [subpost_id] => [attachment] => [attachment_id] => 0 [name] => [pagename] => [page_id] => 0 [second] => [minute] => [hour] => [day] => 0 [monthnum] => 0 [year] => 0 [w] => 0 [category_name] => flood-mitigation [cat] => 35 [tag_id] => 1048 [author] => [author_name] => [feed] => [tb] => [paged] => 1 [meta_key] => [meta_value] => [preview] => [s] => [sentence] => [title] => [fields] => all [menu_order] => [embed] => [category__in] => Array ( [0] => 35 ) [category__not_in] => Array ( ) [category__and] => Array ( ) [post__in] => Array ( ) [post__not_in] => Array ( ) [post_name__in] => Array ( ) [tag__in] => Array ( ) [tag__not_in] => Array ( ) [tag__and] => Array ( ) [tag_slug__in] => Array ( [0] => stormwater-management ) [tag_slug__and] => Array ( ) [post_parent__in] => Array ( ) [post_parent__not_in] => Array ( ) [author__in] => Array ( ) [author__not_in] => Array ( ) [search_columns] => Array ( ) [ignore_sticky_posts] => [suppress_filters] => [cache_results] => 1 [update_post_term_cache] => 1 [update_menu_item_cache] => [lazy_load_term_meta] => 1 [update_post_meta_cache] => 1 [post_type] => [posts_per_page] => 10 [nopaging] => [comments_per_page] => 5 [no_found_rows] => [order] => DESC ) [tax_query] => WP_Tax_Query Object ( [queries] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [taxonomy] => category [terms] => Array ( [0] => 35 ) [field] => term_id [operator] => IN [include_children] => ) [1] => Array ( [taxonomy] => post_tag [terms] => Array ( [0] => stormwater-management ) [field] => slug [operator] => IN [include_children] => 1 ) ) [relation] => AND [table_aliases:protected] => Array ( [0] => ph_term_relationships [1] => tt1 ) [queried_terms] => Array ( [category] => Array ( [terms] => Array ( [0] => 35 ) [field] => term_id ) [post_tag] => Array ( [terms] => Array ( [0] => stormwater-management ) [field] => slug ) ) [primary_table] => ph_posts [primary_id_column] => ID ) [meta_query] => WP_Meta_Query Object ( [queries] => Array ( ) [relation] => [meta_table] => [meta_id_column] => [primary_table] => [primary_id_column] => [table_aliases:protected] => Array ( ) [clauses:protected] => Array ( ) [has_or_relation:protected] => ) [date_query] => [queried_object] => WP_Term Object ( [term_id] => 1048 [name] => stormwater management [slug] => stormwater-management [term_group] => 0 [term_taxonomy_id] => 1048 [taxonomy] => post_tag [description] => [parent] => 0 [count] => 101 [filter] => raw [term_order] => 0 ) [queried_object_id] => 1048 [request] => SELECT SQL_CALC_FOUND_ROWS ph_posts.ID FROM ph_posts LEFT JOIN ph_term_relationships ON (ph_posts.ID = ph_term_relationships.object_id) LEFT JOIN ph_term_relationships AS tt1 ON (ph_posts.ID = tt1.object_id) WHERE 1=1 AND ( ph_term_relationships.term_taxonomy_id IN (35) AND tt1.term_taxonomy_id IN (1048) ) AND ((ph_posts.post_type = 'post' AND (ph_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR ph_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled'))) GROUP BY ph_posts.ID ORDER BY ph_posts.menu_order, ph_posts.post_date DESC LIMIT 0, 10 [posts] => Array ( [0] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 18586 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2025-11-06 00:15:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-11-06 00:15:54 [post_content] => The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) recently announced $8 million in Water Quality Restoration Grants to support projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution, mitigate harmful algal blooms, restore riparian areas, and enhance watershed and climate resilience. Funded through Section 319(h) of the federal Clean Water Act and administered by the DEP's Watershed and Land Management Program, these grants were awarded to municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions across the state. Princeton Hydro is proud to be a partner on five of the 17 funded projects. Our contributions vary by project and encompass activities such as engineering design, water quality assessment, watershed-based planning, and technical support for implementing stormwater and habitat restoration measures. Let's take a deeper look at these collaborative efforts: 1. The Watershed Institute – Watershed-Based Planning for Assunpink Creek The Watershed Institute received $205K in 319(h) grant funding to develop a watershed-based plan for the Assunpink Creek watershed, located within the Raritan River Basin. This watershed spans 11 municipalities across two counties, where varied landscapes and demographics share common challenges such as localized flooding, stormwater management, and water quality degradation, highlighting the need for a coordinated, watershed-wide, science-driven approach. The plan will evaluate pollution sources and identify large-scale restoration opportunities, including green infrastructure and riparian buffer restoration, to improve water quality and reduce flooding. It will also assess the cost, feasibility, and pollutant reduction potential of proposed measures to ensure practical implementation. Princeton Hydro supported the Institute in developing the grant proposal and planning framework, leveraging our expertise in watershed-based planning to prioritize nature-based solutions that address both water quality and climate resilience. This initiative represents a critical step toward regional collaboration, enabling upstream and downstream communities to work together on strategies that strengthen watershed health, protect public safety, and build long-term resilience. 2. Lake Hopatcong Commission – Watershed-Based Stormwater BMPs The Lake Hopatcong Commission (LHC) was awarded $366K to retrofit an existing stormwater detention basin between King Road and Mount Arlington Boulevard in Roxbury Township. This retrofit is part of a larger Watershed Implementation Plan that Princeton Hydro developed in collaboration with LHC, which prioritizes nutrient reduction and stormwater management strategies across the Lake Hopatcong watershed. Over the past several years, LHC has actively implemented multiple elements of this plan to address harmful algal blooms (HABs) and improve water quality. For this project, Princeton Hydro is providing engineering design and technical oversight to transform the existing basin into a green stormwater infrastructure system that slows, captures, and naturally treats runoff before it enters King Cove. The design incorporates native vegetation, invasive species management, and erosion control measures to stabilize soils and filter pollutants, reducing nutrient loading, which is one key driver of HABs. Public outreach and pre- and post-construction water quality monitoring will ensure performance tracking and measurable improvements. This basin retrofit represents a critical step in a coordinated, science-based approach to restoring ecological health and water quality in New Jersey’s largest lake. 3. Cozy Lake, Jefferson Township – Addressing Emerging Contaminants Jefferson Township received $350K in grant funding to develop an Emerging Contaminants Management Plan for Cozy Lake, focusing on cyanotoxins and HABs. Cozy Lake is a 28-acre waterbody within a 1,152-acre sub-watershed that includes both forested (60%) and developed (29%) land. The lake is fed by the Rockaway River at its northern end and a smaller southeastern inlet, with outflow through a dam on the western edge. The shoreline is primarily residential lawn with minimal emergent wetlands, and several inlets and rock-lined drainage ditches exhibit erosion and lack slope protection, contributing to sediment loading. Princeton Hydro provided early technical input to shape this innovative project with the creation of a comprehensive Jefferson Township Lake and Watershed Restoration and Protection Plan. As part of the plan, Princeton Hydro made recommendations for Cozy Lake, which included enhancing shoreline buffers with native vegetation and installing living shorelines at select properties to stabilize soils, filter stormwater and reduce nutrient loading, improve habitat quality, and enhance community access. These measures, combined with in-lake monitoring and proactive management strategies, will help mitigate HABs and protect ecological and public health. 4. Rockaway Township – Watershed-Based Green Infrastructure Rockaway Township received $399K in grant funding to implement elements of its Watershed Implementation Plan, focusing on green infrastructure stormwater management and nutrient reduction to improve water quality. The project will retrofit the municipal complex by converting a rock-lined drainage swale into a vegetated swale with a bioretention basin, designed to filter stormwater runoff and reduce nonpoint source pollutants entering Fox’s Pond and Fox Brook. Princeton Hydro played a key role in developing the Watershed Implementation Plan, which encompasses 11 private lakes within the Rockaway River watershed, prioritizing critical locations for intervention and designing cost-effective green infrastructure BMPs. This regional approach aligns with strategies recommended by NJDEP and the Highlands Council. The plan included a comprehensive watershed-based assessment to identify and quantify factors contributing to eutrophication, evaluate management measures, estimate costs, and establish an implementation schedule. Princeton Hydro authored the final report, which guided the Township in applying for the Section 319(h) grant and now informs the design and construction of green stormwater infrastructure that will deliver measurable water quality improvements while supporting ecological restoration goals. 5. Green Trust Alliance – Green Infrastructure and Community Engagement Green Trust Alliance (GTA), a nationally accredited land trust and public charity dedicated to accelerating large-scale conservation, received $1.39 million in NJDEP funding to implement green infrastructure improvements at Pinelands Regional High School in Tuckerton, New Jersey. This initiative targets the Tuckerton Creek watershed, which drains into Tuckerton Creek and ultimately flows into Barnegat Bay—a critical estuary spanning 33 municipalities in Ocean County and four in Monmouth County. The retrofit will transform the school’s stormwater detention basin into a multi-functional system that mimics natural hydrology, enhances flow control, and improves water quality locally and in the larger Barnegat Bay watershed. Working with GTA and GreenVest, Princeton Hydro is serving as the design engineer, applying nature-based engineering and ecological restoration techniques to intercept, evapotranspire, and infiltrate stormwater runoff at its source. In addition to its technical objectives, the effort includes a strong community engagement component and an educational platform for students. By bringing green infrastructure into the school environment, the initiative provides hands-on experience with water resources, stormwater management, and ecological engineering, help to build STEM skills while fostering a deeper connection to the surrounding landscape and an understanding of how natural systems work together to support environmental and community health. Princeton Hydro also assisted several of these partners in developing successful NJDEP Section 319(h) grant applications, providing technical documentation, conceptual designs, and pollutant load reduction estimates to strengthen the proposals. To date, the Murphy Administration has awarded more than $33M in Water Quality Restoration grants to improve the health of waterways in all corners of the state. Click here to read about all the 2025 grant funding recipients and their innovative projects. As NJDEP Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette noted in the department's press release, “Enhancing the ecological health of our lakes, rivers, streams and coastal waters has long been a priority of the Murphy Administration. The Department of Environmental Protection is pleased to award these grants that will help our partners advance a variety of strategies to improve the health of these waterways and enhance the quality of life in our communities.” We are proud to play a continued role in advancing that mission: helping communities implement practical, data-driven solutions that make a measurable difference for New Jersey’s waterways and the people who depend on them. Click here to learn more about our work to protect natural habitat and restore water quality throughout the New Jersey. [post_title] => NJDEP Awards $8M for Water Quality Restoration Projects [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => njdep-319h-grants-2025 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-11-07 01:20:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-11-07 01:20:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=18586 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 15760 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2024-09-24 21:58:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-09-24 21:58:58 [post_content] => New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette presented the City of Lambertville with the NJDEP "Our Water’s Worth It" award. The award ceremony, held at a stormwater infrastructure improvement project site behind the Lambertville Firehouse, celebrated the Lambertville's commitment to improving stormwater management, addressing flooding, protecting local waterbodies, increasing storm resilience, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. In a press release announcing the award, Commissioner LaTourette said, “Modernization of stormwater management strategies and infrastructure is critical to mitigating flooding that is severely impacting communities across New Jersey. My DEP colleagues and I applaud Lambertville for paving the way for others to follow in managing stormwater more effectively.” The "Our Water’s Worth It" campaign, launched by NJDEP earlier this year, aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting New Jersey’s water resources. The campaign highlights municipalities, water systems, and others who go above and beyond in water resource management and infrastructure improvements. Lambertville’s forward-thinking approach to stormwater management, particularly in meeting permitting requirements ahead of schedule, earned the city this well-deserved recognition. Partnering for Progress: Princeton Hydro and the City of Lambertville At Princeton Hydro, we are proud to support the City of Lambertville in its stormwater management initiatives. Our team has been working closely with Lambertville to design projects that not only mitigate flooding but also enhance the surrounding natural environment. During the award ceremony, Senior Project Manager and Professional Engineer, Sean Walsh, PE, said: “We are honored to be here today alongside NJDEP and the City of Lambertville celebrating Lambertville's remarkable achievement in receiving the 'Our Water's Worth It' trophy. It's particularly meaningful that this recognition comes during Climate Week, underscoring the importance of local action in addressing global environmental challenges.” Earlier this year, the Princeton Hydro team completed a comprehensive Stormwater Utility Feasibility Study, which provided critical insights into Lambertville’s current stormwater management capacity and forecasted future needs. Among the ongoing projects, Princeton Hydro is evaluating solutions for capturing runoff and reducing flooding in Lambertville's Music Mountain area, a critical greenspace in the heart of the city. This steep, wooded hillside, home to popular nature trails, serves as a cherished spot for after-school exploration, dog walking, and outdoor recreation. Music Mountain also plays a critical role in the city’s stormwater management system, acting as a natural buffer to protect lower-lying areas from flash flooding caused by runoff from the residential neighborhoods above. However, storm sewer outfalls discharging into the hillside have created deep erosion gullies, and during heavy rain events, the runoff has flooded the Fire Department. In collaboration with the City and the Fire Department, Princeton Hydro is designing a comprehensive solution that includes both the installation of a piped stormwater system and enlarging the inlet at the base of the mountain to better capture surface water runoff. [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="15769,15770"] Additionally, on the Closson Farm property, Princeton Hydro is designing a riparian restoration project to manage the effects of increasing storm intensity. Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, this project will result in 4.6 acres of restored floodplain, 300 trees planted, creation of wildlife habitat, measurable sediment and nutrient reduction, reduced stormwater runoff, community engagement, and new walking paths for recreation. “Together with Lambertville, we are taking essential steps to enhance the city’s infrastructure and safeguard the community against future flooding. Our partnership reflects a shared commitment to protecting the environment and promoting resilience,” said Princeton Hydro’s Director of Restoration & Resilience, Christiana Pollack, CFM, GISP. A Model for Resilience and Stewardship By embracing innovative stormwater solutions, Lambertville is not only enhancing its infrastructure but also setting a benchmark for resilience and environmental stewardship across New Jersey. This recognition reflects the city’s commitment to proactive flood management and sustainability, serving as an inspiration for other communities. Princeton Hydro is honored to partner with the City of Lambertville on these important efforts. We extend our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and are excited to continue our collaboration on future projects that will further strengthen the city's resilience and protect its vibrant neighborhoods. To learn more about NJDEP’s "Our Water’s Worth It" campaign, watch the video below: [embed]https://youtu.be/0kwuBLSl8tE?si=_KkaeeMkLI7RNchH[/embed] New Jersey’s water-related infrastructure is a complex system, constantly facing the challenges posed by stormwater runoff and working to properly manage it. Stormwater management isn’t just about handling rainfall; it’s a critical aspect of improving water quality and mitigating flood risks. In New Jersey, where urbanization and rainfall patterns intersect, managing stormwater is more than just a priority; it’s a necessity. To learn more about stormwater management solutions, check out our blog: "In the Eye of the Storm: Exploring A Stormwater Utility in New Jersey." [post_title] => City of Lambertville Honored with NJDEP Award for Stormwater Management Efforts [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => city-of-lambertville-honored-with-njdep-award-for-stormwater-management-efforts [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-09-24 21:58:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-09-24 21:58:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=15760 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 14409 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2024-02-10 07:12:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-02-10 07:12:51 [post_content] => New Jersey’s water-related infrastructure is a complex system, constantly facing the challenges posed by stormwater runoff and working to properly manage it. Stormwater management isn’t just about handling rainfall; it’s a critical aspect of preserving water quality and mitigating flooding risks. In New Jersey, where urbanization and rainfall patterns intersect, managing stormwater is more than just a priority; it’s a necessity. Enter a stormwater utility— a dedicated fee to address these stormwater management challenges. Stormwater Utilities in New Jersey New Jersey’s stormwater infrastructure (storm drains, sewer piping, etc.) is aging and unable to effectively handle the amount of runoff that has been flowing through the region in recent years. This is causing increased nutrient runoff and flooding in communities throughout the state. With increasing global temperatures and the proliferation of intense storm systems, this trend is likely to continue. To address these issues, in 2019, New Jersey enacted the Clean Stormwater & Flood Reduction Law that allows municipalities, counties, groups of municipalities, and sewage and improvement authorities to establish a stormwater utility. For many local leaders, the process to establish a utility can be complex, often depending on a number of details like the scope of the work and size of the community. In 2021, Princeton Hydro teamed up with the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters, New Jersey Future, and Flood Defense New Jersey to host a webinar explaining the purpose of a stormwater utility; how a stormwater utility works; how to decide if a stormwater utility is the right fit for a particular community; and how municipalities or counties can implement one. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUvD79bjiPQ[/embed] In 2022, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) announced the availability of Technical Assistance for Stormwater Utility Feasibility Studies, which supports municipalities in completing a stormwater utility feasibility study. Stormwater feasibility studies can help communities weigh the costs and benefits of having a stormwater utility to determine if it's right for them. Princeton Hydro is currently conducting a feasibility study for the City of Lambertville. Jersey Water Works Stormwater Utility Information Forum Jersey Water Works is a collaborative effort of many diverse organizations and individuals who embrace the common purpose of transforming New Jersey’s water infrastructure. They bring people together to find equitable solutions focused on: Clean water and waterways; healthier, safer neighborhoods; local jobs; flood and climate resilience; and economic growth. Jersey Water Works consists of many different committees run by volunteers, including the Stormwater Utilities Subcommittee, which is part of the Asset Management and Finance Committee. The Jersey Waterworks Stormwater Utility Subcommittee launched the “Stormwater Utility Informational Forum” comprising five one-hour-long, town-hall-style education sessions. Each session featured expert panelists who explored various aspects of creating a stormwater utility and establishing a sustainable and dedicated funding mechanism to pay for a community’s stormwater management program. Utility leaders, government stormwater managers, municipal and county representatives, elected officials, experts and stakeholders came together to discuss the topics of stormwater financial planning and funding options; New Jersey legislation and the utility development process; stormwater rate structures and credits; stormwater utility policies; and stakeholder engagement. Key leaders in the Stormwater Utility subcommittee who organized the information forum include Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing and Communications for Princeton Hydro (co-chair); Micah Shapiro of RES (co-chair); Prabha Kumar of Black & Veatch Management Consulting LLC; and Elizabeth Treadway of WSP. The forum presenters included Prabha Kumar, Elizabeth Treadway, Dana Patterson Grear, Dave Mason of CDM Smith; Lindsey Sigmund of New Jersey Future. The Art of Stakeholder Engagement Prabha Kumar and Dana Patterson Grear led the final session of the forum, which was dedicated to Stakeholder Engagement. They shared their expert recommendations and real-world experience in fostering community involvement, navigating the complexities of stakeholder engagement, and developing inclusive public meetings and dialogues related to implementing a stormwater utility feasibility study. The presentation emphasized the significance of prioritizing stakeholder engagement early on and maintaining consistent engagement throughout the entire stormwater utility feasibility process. Prabha and Dana also provided tons of easy-to-follow, actionable tips, including:
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) recently announced $8 million in Water Quality Restoration Grants to support projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution, mitigate harmful algal blooms, restore riparian areas, and enhance watershed and climate resilience. Funded through Section 319(h) of the federal Clean Water Act and administered by the DEP's Watershed and Land Management Program, these grants were awarded to municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions across the state.
Princeton Hydro is proud to be a partner on five of the 17 funded projects. Our contributions vary by project and encompass activities such as engineering design, water quality assessment, watershed-based planning, and technical support for implementing stormwater and habitat restoration measures. Let's take a deeper look at these collaborative efforts:
The Watershed Institute received $205K in 319(h) grant funding to develop a watershed-based plan for the Assunpink Creek watershed, located within the Raritan River Basin. This watershed spans 11 municipalities across two counties, where varied landscapes and demographics share common challenges such as localized flooding, stormwater management, and water quality degradation, highlighting the need for a coordinated, watershed-wide, science-driven approach.
The plan will evaluate pollution sources and identify large-scale restoration opportunities, including green infrastructure and riparian buffer restoration, to improve water quality and reduce flooding. It will also assess the cost, feasibility, and pollutant reduction potential of proposed measures to ensure practical implementation. Princeton Hydro supported the Institute in developing the grant proposal and planning framework, leveraging our expertise in watershed-based planning to prioritize nature-based solutions that address both water quality and climate resilience. This initiative represents a critical step toward regional collaboration, enabling upstream and downstream communities to work together on strategies that strengthen watershed health, protect public safety, and build long-term resilience.
The Lake Hopatcong Commission (LHC) was awarded $366K to retrofit an existing stormwater detention basin between King Road and Mount Arlington Boulevard in Roxbury Township. This retrofit is part of a larger Watershed Implementation Plan that Princeton Hydro developed in collaboration with LHC, which prioritizes nutrient reduction and stormwater management strategies across the Lake Hopatcong watershed. Over the past several years, LHC has actively implemented multiple elements of this plan to address harmful algal blooms (HABs) and improve water quality.
For this project, Princeton Hydro is providing engineering design and technical oversight to transform the existing basin into a green stormwater infrastructure system that slows, captures, and naturally treats runoff before it enters King Cove. The design incorporates native vegetation, invasive species management, and erosion control measures to stabilize soils and filter pollutants, reducing nutrient loading, which is one key driver of HABs. Public outreach and pre- and post-construction water quality monitoring will ensure performance tracking and measurable improvements. This basin retrofit represents a critical step in a coordinated, science-based approach to restoring ecological health and water quality in New Jersey’s largest lake.
Jefferson Township received $350K in grant funding to develop an Emerging Contaminants Management Plan for Cozy Lake, focusing on cyanotoxins and HABs. Cozy Lake is a 28-acre waterbody within a 1,152-acre sub-watershed that includes both forested (60%) and developed (29%) land. The lake is fed by the Rockaway River at its northern end and a smaller southeastern inlet, with outflow through a dam on the western edge.
The shoreline is primarily residential lawn with minimal emergent wetlands, and several inlets and rock-lined drainage ditches exhibit erosion and lack slope protection, contributing to sediment loading. Princeton Hydro provided early technical input to shape this innovative project with the creation of a comprehensive Jefferson Township Lake and Watershed Restoration and Protection Plan. As part of the plan, Princeton Hydro made recommendations for Cozy Lake, which included enhancing shoreline buffers with native vegetation and installing living shorelines at select properties to stabilize soils, filter stormwater and reduce nutrient loading, improve habitat quality, and enhance community access. These measures, combined with in-lake monitoring and proactive management strategies, will help mitigate HABs and protect ecological and public health.
Rockaway Township received $399K in grant funding to implement elements of its Watershed Implementation Plan, focusing on green infrastructure stormwater management and nutrient reduction to improve water quality. The project will retrofit the municipal complex by converting a rock-lined drainage swale into a vegetated swale with a bioretention basin, designed to filter stormwater runoff and reduce nonpoint source pollutants entering Fox’s Pond and Fox Brook.
Princeton Hydro played a key role in developing the Watershed Implementation Plan, which encompasses 11 private lakes within the Rockaway River watershed, prioritizing critical locations for intervention and designing cost-effective green infrastructure BMPs. This regional approach aligns with strategies recommended by NJDEP and the Highlands Council. The plan included a comprehensive watershed-based assessment to identify and quantify factors contributing to eutrophication, evaluate management measures, estimate costs, and establish an implementation schedule. Princeton Hydro authored the final report, which guided the Township in applying for the Section 319(h) grant and now informs the design and construction of green stormwater infrastructure that will deliver measurable water quality improvements while supporting ecological restoration goals.
Green Trust Alliance (GTA), a nationally accredited land trust and public charity dedicated to accelerating large-scale conservation, received $1.39 million in NJDEP funding to implement green infrastructure improvements at Pinelands Regional High School in Tuckerton, New Jersey. This initiative targets the Tuckerton Creek watershed, which drains into Tuckerton Creek and ultimately flows into Barnegat Bay—a critical estuary spanning 33 municipalities in Ocean County and four in Monmouth County. The retrofit will transform the school’s stormwater detention basin into a multi-functional system that mimics natural hydrology, enhances flow control, and improves water quality locally and in the larger Barnegat Bay watershed.
Working with GTA and GreenVest, Princeton Hydro is serving as the design engineer, applying nature-based engineering and ecological restoration techniques to intercept, evapotranspire, and infiltrate stormwater runoff at its source. In addition to its technical objectives, the effort includes a strong community engagement component and an educational platform for students. By bringing green infrastructure into the school environment, the initiative provides hands-on experience with water resources, stormwater management, and ecological engineering, help to build STEM skills while fostering a deeper connection to the surrounding landscape and an understanding of how natural systems work together to support environmental and community health.
Princeton Hydro also assisted several of these partners in developing successful NJDEP Section 319(h) grant applications, providing technical documentation, conceptual designs, and pollutant load reduction estimates to strengthen the proposals.
To date, the Murphy Administration has awarded more than $33M in Water Quality Restoration grants to improve the health of waterways in all corners of the state. Click here to read about all the 2025 grant funding recipients and their innovative projects.
As NJDEP Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette noted in the department's press release, “Enhancing the ecological health of our lakes, rivers, streams and coastal waters has long been a priority of the Murphy Administration. The Department of Environmental Protection is pleased to award these grants that will help our partners advance a variety of strategies to improve the health of these waterways and enhance the quality of life in our communities.”
We are proud to play a continued role in advancing that mission: helping communities implement practical, data-driven solutions that make a measurable difference for New Jersey’s waterways and the people who depend on them. Click here to learn more about our work to protect natural habitat and restore water quality throughout the New Jersey.
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette presented the City of Lambertville with the NJDEP "Our Water’s Worth It" award. The award ceremony, held at a stormwater infrastructure improvement project site behind the Lambertville Firehouse, celebrated the Lambertville's commitment to improving stormwater management, addressing flooding, protecting local waterbodies, increasing storm resilience, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
In a press release announcing the award, Commissioner LaTourette said, “Modernization of stormwater management strategies and infrastructure is critical to mitigating flooding that is severely impacting communities across New Jersey. My DEP colleagues and I applaud Lambertville for paving the way for others to follow in managing stormwater more effectively.”
The "Our Water’s Worth It" campaign, launched by NJDEP earlier this year, aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting New Jersey’s water resources. The campaign highlights municipalities, water systems, and others who go above and beyond in water resource management and infrastructure improvements. Lambertville’s forward-thinking approach to stormwater management, particularly in meeting permitting requirements ahead of schedule, earned the city this well-deserved recognition.
At Princeton Hydro, we are proud to support the City of Lambertville in its stormwater management initiatives. Our team has been working closely with Lambertville to design projects that not only mitigate flooding but also enhance the surrounding natural environment.
During the award ceremony, Senior Project Manager and Professional Engineer, Sean Walsh, PE, said: “We are honored to be here today alongside NJDEP and the City of Lambertville celebrating Lambertville's remarkable achievement in receiving the 'Our Water's Worth It' trophy. It's particularly meaningful that this recognition comes during Climate Week, underscoring the importance of local action in addressing global environmental challenges.”
Earlier this year, the Princeton Hydro team completed a comprehensive Stormwater Utility Feasibility Study, which provided critical insights into Lambertville’s current stormwater management capacity and forecasted future needs.
Among the ongoing projects, Princeton Hydro is evaluating solutions for capturing runoff and reducing flooding in Lambertville's Music Mountain area, a critical greenspace in the heart of the city. This steep, wooded hillside, home to popular nature trails, serves as a cherished spot for after-school exploration, dog walking, and outdoor recreation. Music Mountain also plays a critical role in the city’s stormwater management system, acting as a natural buffer to protect lower-lying areas from flash flooding caused by runoff from the residential neighborhoods above. However, storm sewer outfalls discharging into the hillside have created deep erosion gullies, and during heavy rain events, the runoff has flooded the Fire Department. In collaboration with the City and the Fire Department, Princeton Hydro is designing a comprehensive solution that includes both the installation of a piped stormwater system and enlarging the inlet at the base of the mountain to better capture surface water runoff.
Additionally, on the Closson Farm property, Princeton Hydro is designing a riparian restoration project to manage the effects of increasing storm intensity. Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, this project will result in 4.6 acres of restored floodplain, 300 trees planted, creation of wildlife habitat, measurable sediment and nutrient reduction, reduced stormwater runoff, community engagement, and new walking paths for recreation.
“Together with Lambertville, we are taking essential steps to enhance the city’s infrastructure and safeguard the community against future flooding. Our partnership reflects a shared commitment to protecting the environment and promoting resilience,” said Princeton Hydro’s Director of Restoration & Resilience, Christiana Pollack, CFM, GISP.
By embracing innovative stormwater solutions, Lambertville is not only enhancing its infrastructure but also setting a benchmark for resilience and environmental stewardship across New Jersey. This recognition reflects the city’s commitment to proactive flood management and sustainability, serving as an inspiration for other communities.
Princeton Hydro is honored to partner with the City of Lambertville on these important efforts. We extend our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and are excited to continue our collaboration on future projects that will further strengthen the city's resilience and protect its vibrant neighborhoods.
To learn more about NJDEP’s "Our Water’s Worth It" campaign, watch the video below:
New Jersey’s water-related infrastructure is a complex system, constantly facing the challenges posed by stormwater runoff and working to properly manage it. Stormwater management isn’t just about handling rainfall; it’s a critical aspect of improving water quality and mitigating flood risks. In New Jersey, where urbanization and rainfall patterns intersect, managing stormwater is more than just a priority; it’s a necessity. To learn more about stormwater management solutions, check out our blog: "In the Eye of the Storm: Exploring A Stormwater Utility in New Jersey."
New Jersey’s water-related infrastructure is a complex system, constantly facing the challenges posed by stormwater runoff and working to properly manage it. Stormwater management isn’t just about handling rainfall; it’s a critical aspect of preserving water quality and mitigating flooding risks. In New Jersey, where urbanization and rainfall patterns intersect, managing stormwater is more than just a priority; it’s a necessity. Enter a stormwater utility— a dedicated fee to address these stormwater management challenges.
New Jersey’s stormwater infrastructure (storm drains, sewer piping, etc.) is aging and unable to effectively handle the amount of runoff that has been flowing through the region in recent years. This is causing increased nutrient runoff and flooding in communities throughout the state. With increasing global temperatures and the proliferation of intense storm systems, this trend is likely to continue.
To address these issues, in 2019, New Jersey enacted the Clean Stormwater & Flood Reduction Law that allows municipalities, counties, groups of municipalities, and sewage and improvement authorities to establish a stormwater utility.
For many local leaders, the process to establish a utility can be complex, often depending on a number of details like the scope of the work and size of the community. In 2021, Princeton Hydro teamed up with the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters, New Jersey Future, and Flood Defense New Jersey to host a webinar explaining the purpose of a stormwater utility; how a stormwater utility works; how to decide if a stormwater utility is the right fit for a particular community; and how municipalities or counties can implement one.
In 2022, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) announced the availability of Technical Assistance for Stormwater Utility Feasibility Studies, which supports municipalities in completing a stormwater utility feasibility study. Stormwater feasibility studies can help communities weigh the costs and benefits of having a stormwater utility to determine if it's right for them. Princeton Hydro is currently conducting a feasibility study for the City of Lambertville.
Jersey Water Works is a collaborative effort of many diverse organizations and individuals who embrace the common purpose of transforming New Jersey’s water infrastructure. They bring people together to find equitable solutions focused on: Clean water and waterways; healthier, safer neighborhoods; local jobs; flood and climate resilience; and economic growth. Jersey Water Works consists of many different committees run by volunteers, including the Stormwater Utilities Subcommittee, which is part of the Asset Management and Finance Committee.
The Jersey Waterworks Stormwater Utility Subcommittee launched the “Stormwater Utility Informational Forum” comprising five one-hour-long, town-hall-style education sessions. Each session featured expert panelists who explored various aspects of creating a stormwater utility and establishing a sustainable and dedicated funding mechanism to pay for a community’s stormwater management program.
Utility leaders, government stormwater managers, municipal and county representatives, elected officials, experts and stakeholders came together to discuss the topics of stormwater financial planning and funding options; New Jersey legislation and the utility development process; stormwater rate structures and credits; stormwater utility policies; and stakeholder engagement.
Key leaders in the Stormwater Utility subcommittee who organized the information forum include Dana Patterson Grear, Director of Marketing and Communications for Princeton Hydro (co-chair); Micah Shapiro of RES (co-chair); Prabha Kumar of Black & Veatch Management Consulting LLC; and Elizabeth Treadway of WSP. The forum presenters included Prabha Kumar, Elizabeth Treadway, Dana Patterson Grear, Dave Mason of CDM Smith; Lindsey Sigmund of New Jersey Future.
Prabha Kumar and Dana Patterson Grear led the final session of the forum, which was dedicated to Stakeholder Engagement. They shared their expert recommendations and real-world experience in fostering community involvement, navigating the complexities of stakeholder engagement, and developing inclusive public meetings and dialogues related to implementing a stormwater utility feasibility study.
The presentation emphasized the significance of prioritizing stakeholder engagement early on and maintaining consistent engagement throughout the entire stormwater utility feasibility process. Prabha and Dana also provided tons of easy-to-follow, actionable tips, including:
How to structure your stakeholder groups, including the creation of a project team, a project champion and internal steering committee;
Which local community groups, municipal entities, and other external stakeholders to include in the conversation and when to include them;
Key factors in planning public workshops, like how many workshops to host, should the workshops be virtual or in-person, and how to structure the agenda for the best results; and
How to create engaging graphics, solicit feedback and educate the target audience in ways that are inclusive, informative and tailored to the unique characteristics of the community.
"Creating a stormwater utility in your community can be challenging as it is a public policymaking process. Engaging stakeholders throughout the entire process and educating the public is not just a step; it's the cornerstone to success," said Dana. "It's about embracing a diversity of voices from day one, listening to concerns and ideas, and collaboratively shaping a solution that resonates with your communities' needs."
Watch the full presentation.
The Stormwater Utility Information Forum served as a platform for sharing expertise and fostering dialogue around supporting community efforts to properly manage stormwater and protect water quality. As the conversation continues, it's crucial to leverage these insights to drive meaningful change in stormwater management initiatives across New Jersey.
The sessions were held via Zoom and the recordings of the forum sessions made available on the Jersey Water Works website. The recorded sessions serve as invaluable resources for individuals, communities, and policymakers interested in delving deeper into stormwater management.
The journey towards sustainable stormwater management is ongoing. If you or your community are interested in furthering this cause or exploring a stormwater utility, don't hesitate to reach out. The Jersey Water Works Stormwater Utility Subcommittee and Princeton Hydro welcome all voices committed to creating a more resilient and equitable water infrastructure. For more information about the Stormwater Utility Subcommittee or to get involved, please contact info@jerseywaterworks.org. Also, please explore New Jersey Future's New Jersey Stormwater Utility Resource Center which is a treasure trove of resources on this topic!
Princeton Hydro is a leader in innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally sound stormwater management systems. The preparation of stormwater management plans and design of stormwater management systems for pollutant reduction is an integral part of our projects - learn more.
On June 6, 2023, New Jersey Governor Philip Murphy announced the Administration’s upcoming adoption of the Inland Flood Protection Rule to better protect New Jersey’s communities from worsening riverine flooding and stormwater runoff. The rulemaking was filed with the Office of Administrative Law and was adopted, effective on July 17, 2023, after publication in the New Jersey Register. A courtesy copy of the rule and additional information are available here.
The Inland Flood Protection Rule updates New Jersey’s existing flood hazard and stormwater regulations by replacing outdated precipitation estimates with modern data that account for observed and projected increases in rainfall. These changes will help reduce flooding from stormwater runoff and increase the resilience of new developments located in flood-prone inland areas. Upon adoption, New Jersey will become the first state to use predictive precipitation modeling to implement rules to inform and protect future development and redevelopment from the impacts of climate change.
“The Inland Flood Protection Rule will serve as a critical component of my Administration’s comprehensive strategy to bolster our state’s resilience amid the worsening impacts of climate change,” said Governor Murphy. “As a national model for climate adaptation and mitigation, we can no longer afford to depend on 20th-century data to meet 21st-century challenges. This rule’s formation and upcoming adoption testify to our commitment to rely on the most up-to-date science and robust stakeholder engagement to inform our most crucial policy decisions.”
The Inland Flood Protection Rule establishes design elevations that are reflective of New Jersey’s changing climate and more frequent and intense rainfall, replacing standards based on outdated data and past conditions. The updated standards will apply to certain new and substantially reconstructed developments in inland riverine areas that are subject to flooding, but they do not prohibit development in these flood hazard areas.
Under the two primary components of the rule:
The updated standards in the Inland Flood Protection Rule will apply to new or reconstructed developments and not to existing developments. Pending development applications before NJDEP that are administratively complete at the time of adoption are not affected by these changes. Existing provisions of the flood hazard and stormwater rules that provide flexibility from strict compliance based on unique site-specific conditions will remain in place, along with new provisions designed to ensure that infrastructure projects already in progress can continue to move forward.
The final rule also provides clarifications for the legacy provision of the Flood Hazard Area Control Act rules at N.J.A.C. 7:13-2.1 to address projects that were wholly located outside the prior flood hazard area, and which have already received local approval under the Municipal Land Use Law. As initially proposed, this exemption from the new flood elevations would have been limited to those projects that had begun construction before the new rules were adopted. In recognition of the often-significant investments made for projects that have reached the stage of receiving municipal approval, NJDEP is retaining the existing exemption for such projects.
“New Jersey’s communities are facing unprecedented threats from the devastating impacts of extreme rainfall events, which are expected to continue to intensify in their frequency and severity,” said Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette. “The Inland Flood Protection Rule ensures that inland, riverine areas at significant risk are better defined and that new and reconstructed assets in these areas are designed and constructed to protect New Jersey’s assets, economy and, above all, our people from the catastrophic effects of worsening floods. My DEP colleagues and I are truly grateful for Governor Murphy’s vision and leadership and for the thoughtful feedback we have received from the public and leaders in labor, business, local government, academia, and advocacy in designing this rule as part of the New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Threats (NJ PACT) initiative.”
In connection with the proposed Inland Flood Protection Rule, to aid the public to gauge flood risk and provide a visual approximation of regulatory jurisdiction on specific parcels, NJDEP has launched a flood indicator tool. While the tool does not provide a definitive demonstration of regulatory jurisdiction or calculate actual risk, it can be useful in assisting property owners or prospective property owners on potential risk and, by referencing the 500-year flood extent, approximate NJDEP’s regulatory jurisdiction and flood risk. Equipped with this information, property owners may then decide to take additional steps to determine actual risk, which is dependent on site-specific conditions.
The Watershed Institute’s Annual Conference brings together municipal representatives, engineers, environmental professionals, watershed advocates, business leaders, and community members to advance the best available information and techniques for protecting and restoring watersheds. The program consists of a keynote discussion, exhibits, poster sessions and presentations that combine science, policy, and practical applications.
This year’s conference, focused on stormwater management in New Jersey, Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requirements, regional solutions to address stormwater runoff and flooding, environmental justice, and the need for community-wide action.
Princeton Hydro, a proud sponsor of the conference, led two presentations:
This presentation, given by Princeton Hydro Senior Technical Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow and One Water Consulting, LLC Principal Jim Cosgrove P.E., provided a basic understanding of Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), how they’re connected to Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) requirements, and addressed how towns can best utilize Waste Load Allocations in the development of a WIPs.
This presentation was led by three members of the Princeton Hydro team: Senior Technical Director of Engineering Dr. Clay Emerson P.E., CFM; Vice President, Founding Principal Mark Gallagher; and Senior Director of Ecological Services Dr. Fred Lubnow. Participants learned about how to develop regional, multi-municipality plans for improving water quality and reducing flooding.
Other presentation topics included, “Understanding Water Quality in New Jersey,” “Stormwater Utilities for Community Members,” and “Youth Advocacy – Engaging the Next Generation in MS4.” You can view all the presentations from the 6th Annual Conference by clicking below:
Princeton Hydro is recognized as a leader in innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally sound stormwater management green infrastructure. We've been incorporating green infrastructure into our engineering designs since before the term was regularly used in the stormwater lexicon. Click here to learn how we designed a green infrastructure stormwater management system, on a 55-acre corporate campus, that is capable of containing on site nearly all the stormwater runoff generated by storm events up to and including a 100-year frequency, 24-hour duration storm:
When New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Group (NJM) developed their new Regional Operations Facility, a 55-acre corporate campus in Hammonton, New Jersey, they approached the construction with one major goal at the forefront: stormwater management.
Fundamental to that goal was designing a green infrastructure stormwater management system capable of containing on site nearly all the stormwater runoff generated by storm events up to and including a 100-year frequency, 24-hour duration storm.
The group hired Princeton Hydro, recognized as a leader in innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally sound stormwater management, to develop a concept plan that could be built within the context of proper stormwater management and meet the stringent requirements of the NJ Pinelands Comprehensive Management Plan.
To accomplish the ambitious stormwater management goals, the project team designed and implemented an integrated stormwater management system that combined traditional and green infrastructure components, and consisted of bioinfiltration basins, parking lot islands, a wetland basin, and a bioretention island. These features were designed to promote the interception, evapotranspiration, and infiltration of stormwater runoff at its source.
Emphasis was given to green infrastructure BMPs specifically capable of treating and infiltrating large volumes of runoff. Thus, all of the infiltration areas were designed using a soil amendment process where the underlying soils were excavated and amended with organic material to improve the underlying recharge capabilities of the soils. To complement the BMPs, the team designed and installed 120,000 gallon below-grade rainwater capture and reuse system. The system captures roof runoff to be used for on-site irrigation, which not only reduces stormwater volume but also decreases the facility’s water usage.
The project is one of the first projects in New Jersey built to infiltrate nearly 100% of the on-site runoff and uses site-design-based stormwater capacity to determine allowable impervious cover.
Before construction began, the team implemented a comprehensive study, which began with a detailed analysis of the site’s soils, with particular attention given to physical properties of the soil and the depth to seasonal high water (groundwater). During construction, Princeton Hydro provided monitoring services for all earthwork activities. Our team was on site full-time during critical activities to ensure that the project was built in accordance with the intent of the original design and ensure the maintenance of the project schedule. The team also provided environmental and geotechnical design and engineering services throughout the corporate campus construction, including the analysis of subsurface structures shop drawings and providing consultation support to the general contractor.
For the project, we partnered with Burgis Associates, Inc. who created site designs, provided landscape architectural and professional planning services, and helped to obtain agency approvals. The landscape program sought to establish native plant communities that filter runoff, provide an aesthetically pleasing visual, reduce invasive species, create habitat for pollinators and other critical species, and require limited maintenance to stay healthy and flourishing.
Post construction, the Princeton Hydro team led the preparation of the scope of services, budget, and proposal for the Stormwater Basin Maintenance, which included mowing and clearing the vegetation in nine infiltration basins. The basins were inspected monthly for functionality and for the presence of invasive plants. And, we are happy to report that the basins are all working properly and invasive plants have been eradicated.
At Princeton Hydro, we are experts in stormwater management; we recognize the numerous benefits of green infrastructure; and we’ve been incorporating green infrastructure into our engineering designs since before the term was regularly used in the stormwater lexicon. Click below to read about a Stormwater Treatment Train we designed and implemented in Thompson Park, a 675-acre recreation area in Middlesex County, New Jersey.
In October 2021, the largest stream restoration in Maryland was completed. Over 7 miles (41,000 linear feet) of Tinkers Creek and its tributaries were stabilized and restored.
The project was designed by Princeton Hydro for GV-Petro, a partnership between GreenVest and Petro Design Build Group. Working with Prince George’s County Department of the Environment and coordinating with the Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission, this full-delivery project was designed to meet the County’s Watershed Implementation Plan total maximum daily load (TMDL) requirements and its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Discharge Permit conditions.
Today, we are thrilled to report that the once highly urbanized watershed is flourishing and teeming with life:
We used nature-based design and bioengineering techniques like riparian zone planting and live staking to prevent erosion and restore wildlife habitat.
10,985 native trees and shrubs were planted in the riparian area, and 10,910 trees were planted as live stakes along the streambank.
For more information about the project visit GreenVest's website and check out our blog:
Thousands of native flowering plants and grasses were planted at Thompson Park in Middlesex County, New Jersey. Once established, the native plant meadow will not only look beautiful, it will reduce stormwater runoff and increase habitat for birds, pollinators, and other critical species.
The planting was completed by community volunteers along with Eric Gehring of Kramer+Marks Architects, Middlesex County Youth Conservation Corps, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County, South Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council, and Princeton Hydro Landscape Architect Cory Speroff, PLA, ASLA, CBLP.
All of the plants that were installed are native to the north-central region of New Jersey. Volunteers planted switchgrass (panicum virgatum), orange coneflower (rudbeckia fulgida), blue wild indigo (baptisia australis), partridge pea (chamaecrista fasciculata), Virginia mountain mint (pycnanhemum virginianum), and aromatic aster (symphyotrichum oblongifolium). In selecting the location for each of the plants, special consideration was given to each species' drought tolerance and sunlight and shade requirements. The selected plant species all provide important wildlife value, including providing food and shelter for migratory birds.
The planting initiative is one part of a multi-faceted Stormwater Treatment Train project recently completed in Thompson Park. The project is funded by a Water Quality Restoration 319(h) grant awarded to South Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council by the NJDEP.
Middlesex County Office of Parks and Recreation and Office of Planning, NJDEP, 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 bring this project to fruition.
To learn more about the Thompson Park Zoo stormwater project, check out our recent blog:
Stormwater runoff is all of the rainfall or snowmelt water that is not absorbed into the ground and instead flows over land. When not managed properly, stormwater runoff causes issues like pollution in our waterways, flooding, and erosion. Stormwater runoff has been cited in multiple studies as a leading cause of water quality impairment to our local lakes and rivers. And, with increasing levels of rainfall from climate change impacts, stormwater management is an especially critical issue for communities all across the U.S.
Stormwater management focuses on reducing runoff and improving water quality through a variety of techniques.
Traditional stormwater management methods include things like storm drains, retention ponds, and culverts. Green stormwater infrastructure uses vegetation, soil, and other natural components to manage stormwater. Green stormwater infrastructure systems mimic natural hydrology to take advantage of interception, evapotranspiration, and infiltration of stormwater runoff at its source. Examples include rain gardens, constructed wetlands, vegetated bioswales, and living shorelines. Many stormwater systems include a combination of grey and green infrastructure management practices.
Stormwater management treatment "trains" combine multiple stormwater management processes in order to prevent pollution and decrease stormwater flow volumes that negatively affect the receiving waterbody.
Thompson Park is a 675-acre recreation area - the largest developed park in the Middlesex County park system - with numerous attractions including playgrounds, ballfields, hiking trails, and a zoo. The zoo is an animal haven that houses over 50 geese and fowl, goats, and approximately 90 deer in a fenced enclosure. The park also features Lake Manalapan.
Within the zoo is a 0.25-acre pond that impounds stormwater runoff from adjacent uplands and two stormwater-fed tributaries to Lake Manalapan and Manalapan Brook. There are three tributaries to the pond with varying levels of erosion. The western tributary contains a headcut that is approximately four feet high. A headcut is created by a sudden down-cutting of the stream bottom. Similar to a miniature waterfall, a headcut slowly migrates upstream and becomes deeper as it progresses. The headcut in the Zoo tributary had destabilized the stream by eroding and incising its channel and banks. Additionally, foraging by Zoo inhabitants had removed most ground cover around the pond and associated tributaries, which also caused erosion.
The bare soil conditions, headcut, and manure from the Zoo animals were contributing sediment, nutrient, and pathogen loading to the Zoo pond and subsequently Lake Manalapan. The Zoo pond drains to an outlet structure, a 24-inch reinforced concrete pipe (RCP), and subsequently to a vegetated swale via a stormwater outlet. A second outlet pipe drains stormwater runoff from an asphalt parking lot which discharges to the vegetated swale.
The shoreline of Lake Manalapan where the vegetated swale drains into the lake was the subject of a previous restoration project during which a diverse suite of native plants was installed; however, the swale was not included in this project and a maintained lawn, which does not adequately filter stormwater runoff or provide any ecosystem services. The swale also had little access to its floodplain where vegetation can help filter non-point source (NPS) pollutants from the Zoo pond and adjacent uplands.
In order to increase channel stability, decrease erosion, improve water quality and ecological function, and reduce the NPS 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, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), South Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council (SJRC&D), Middlesex County Mosquito Extermination Commission, Freehold Soil Conservation District, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Enviroscapes and Princeton Hydro worked together to fund, design, permit, and construct the following stormwater management measures:
To see the project elements taking shape and being completed, watch our video:
The project is funded by a Water Quality Restoration 319(h) grant awarded to SJRC&D by the NJDEP for continued implementation of watershed-based measures to reduce NPS pollutant loading and compliance with a total phosphorus (TP) Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) established by the NJDEP for Lake Manalapan. The TMDL is a regulatory term in the U.S. Clean Water Act, that identifies the maximum amount of a pollutant (in this case phosphorus) that a waterbody can receive while still meeting water quality standards.
“The South Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council was pleased to participate in this project. Partnering with these various governmental agencies and private entities to implement on the ground conservation and water quality improvements aligns perfectly with our mission. We are thrilled with the great work done at Thompson Park and look forward to continuing this partnership.”Craig McGee, South Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council District Manager
“The South Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council was pleased to participate in this project. Partnering with these various governmental agencies and private entities to implement on the ground conservation and water quality improvements aligns perfectly with our mission. We are thrilled with the great work done at Thompson Park and look forward to continuing this partnership.”
Construction of the stormwater treatment train components began in early August 2021 and was completed by the end of September 2021.
The first step of the stormwater treatment train was to stabilize the tributary to Lake Manalapan and its associated headcut. Streambank stabilization measures included grade modifications to create a gradual stream slope and dynamically stable form with improved habitat features, including riffles and pools, with gravel and cobble substrate. On August 17, grading of the floodplain bench began, the RCP was exposed, and the team started excavation for the lower three steps in the step-pool sequence.
On August 20, the rock grade and step-pool sequence were completed. And, fabric was installed along both sides of the rock-lined channel to increase stream-bank stability. Rock was placed within the pools to cover the edge of the fabric. We are very pleased to report that the newly restored channel held up to two large storm events during the construction process.
Bags of BioChar, a pure carbon charcoal-like substance made from organic material, were installed across the Zoo pond using an anchor and line system. The BioChar bags help to remove TP and other nutrients from the water column and bed sediments of the Zoo pond and subsequently Manalapan Brook Watershed. The team also built, planted and installed a floating wetland island, an effective green infrastructure solution that improves water quality by assimilating and removing excess nutrients that could fuel algae growth.
After conclusion of pipe lighting, excavation of the floodplain bench and installation of scour protection, native perennial vegetation was planted within the floodplain and swale in order to provide sediment deposition and nutrient uptake functions, as well as aquatic food web services and water temperature moderation before flows are discharged to Lake Manalapan. The plantings also enhance and create suitable avian and pollinator species habitat, and greater flora and fauna diversity.
This stormwater treatment train project improves the habitat and water quality of the Manalapan Brook Watershed by addressing NPS pollutants that originate from Thompson Park Zoo. The completed work also supports the Watershed Protection and Restoration Plan for the Manalapan Brook Watershed by reducing TSS and TP loads in compliance with the TMDL. Additionally, the project improves the overall ecosystem by stabilizing eroded streambanks, installing native and biodiverse vegetation, and reducing the quantity of pollutants entering Lake Manalapan.
“Thompson Park Zoo is an excellent model for showcasing a successful and comprehensive approach to stormwater management and watershed restoration through a dynamic multi-stakeholder partnership. We are so proud to be a part of this project and continue to support the Manalapan Brook Watershed Protection Plan through a variety of restoration activities.”Amy McNamara, E.I.T, Princeton Hydro Project Manager and Water Resource Engineer
“Thompson Park Zoo is an excellent model for showcasing a successful and comprehensive approach to stormwater management and watershed restoration through a dynamic multi-stakeholder partnership. We are so proud to be a part of this project and continue to support the Manalapan Brook Watershed Protection Plan through a variety of restoration activities.”
At Princeton Hydro, we are experts in stormwater management; we recognize the numerous benefits of green infrastructure; and we’ve been incorporating green infrastructure into our engineering designs since before the term was regularly used in the stormwater lexicon. Click here to learn more about our stormwater management services.
Just east of Washington D.C. in Prince George’s County, what will soon be the largest stream restoration in Maryland, is well underway. In this highly urbanized watershed, over 7 miles (41,000 linear feet) of Tinkers Creek and its tributaries, Meetinghouse Branch and Paynes Branch, will be stabilized and restored using nature-based design techniques.
The project was designed by Princeton Hydro for GV-Petro, a partnership between GreenVest and Petro Design Build Group. The project aims to prevent erosion and restore wildlife habitat using bioengineering techniques like riparian zone planting and live staking. 10,985 native trees and shrubs will be planted in the riparian area, and 10,910 trees will be planted as live stakes along the streambank. Recently, this project was expanded to include the stabilization and restoration of stormwater outfalls and headwater tributaries.
Working with Prince George’s County Department of the Environment and coordinating with the Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission, this full-delivery project is designed to meet the County’s Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) total maximum daily load (TMDL) requirements and its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Discharge Permit conditions.
Prince George’s County borders the eastern portion of Washington, D.C and is the second-most populous county in Maryland. Tinkers Creek is located on a five-mile stretch of stream valley, from Old Branch Avenue to Temple Hills Road, in Clinton and Temple Hills, Maryland. The tributary system of Tinkers Creek is described as "flashy," meaning there is a quick rise in stream level due to rainfall as a result of its high proportion of directly connected urbanized impervious areas. Its streams have storm flow rates many times higher than that from the rural and forested sub-watersheds in the southeast.
This stream restoration project was identified as a priority due to the significant levels of channel incision and the severity of erosion and its impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. Additionally, the project’s proximity to the headwater reaches located on Joint Base Andrews (JBA), so the ability to improve water quality and wildlife habitat made this project a high priority. It provides an important opportunity to create a safe, sustainable, and resilient stream valley in the community.
The design for the stream, and all of the tributaries within the restoration area, will restore these channels to their naturally-stable form. During the preliminary assessment of onsite conditions, the stream and tributaries within the restoration area were classified using geomorphic assessments and hydrologic and hydraulic analysis.
Once the stream types and conditions were identified, a series of restoration approaches were designed, including floodplain creation, bank stabilization using natural materials and plantings, re-aligning straightened stream channels to have a more natural sinuosity, stormwater conveyance, and natural material grade control structures. These changes will help to reduce channel flow velocities and shear stress for flows greater than bankfull; reduce bank erosion and maintain bank stability; treat and attenuate stormwater flows; stabilize outfalls and the receiving stream channels; and stabilize vertically unstable channels.
The project area contained various subsurface utilities like sanitary sewer along the entire reach and fiber-optics and natural gas lines crossing the corridor. Once constructed, the project will improve hydraulic, geomorphic, physicochemical, and biological stream functions. It will also increase floodplain connectivity, improve bedform diversity, restore riparian buffers, and protect public subsurface utilities. In addition to water quality benefits, this project will preserve and enhance the forested floodplain and provide ecological uplift throughout the entire stream corridor.
Planning and design for Tinkers Creek Stream Restoration began in early 2018 and construction is expected to finish ahead of schedule in Spring of 2022. Princeton Hydro is providing construction oversight of all critical structures, such as grade controls, headwater step-pool grade controls, bank stabilization structures, and stormwater outfalls.
The below photos, taken during a site visit in January, showcase some of the exciting progress made by the project team thus far.
Stay tuned for more project updates!
Princeton Hydro specializes in the planning, design, permitting, implementing, and maintenance of ecological rehabilitation projects. To learn more about our watershed restoration services, click here. We have partnered with GreenVest on a number of projects, including the award-winning Pin Oak Forest Conservation Area freshwater wetland restoration project and the Mattawoman Creek Mitigation Site wetland enhancement and restoration initiative. To learn more about GreenVest, click here.
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