We’re committed to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better.
Our passion and commitment to the integration of innovative science and engineering drive us to exceed on behalf of every client.
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The program hopes to enrich young participants, who may not have the opportunity to explore open spaces in their community, with hands-on environmental field experience under the tutelage of NJDEP professionals and mentors. This year’s participants consisted of youths from several different community-based organizations. These partners include Neighborhood Improvement Association (Trenton), Rutgers-Camden, The Work Group (Camden), Ranch Hope (Salem), Boys and Girls Club of Garfield, Groundwork Elizabeth, Ironbound Community Corporation (Newark), and United Community Corporation (Newark). Over six weeks, eight community organizations guided participants as they engaged with professionals to explore careers in water and air monitoring, natural resource management, wildlife conservation, and other related fields. Additionally, a new component of the program introduces "community project days," where participants actively contribute to environmental projects within their neighborhoods. These projects enable participants to make a positive impact on their communities, fostering a sense of civic pride and environmental stewardship. Activities may include park cleanups, installing educational exhibits, and establishing community gardens. [caption id="attachment_13546" align="aligncenter" width="1230"] The youth program participants gather together with their certificates for a final group photo at NJDEP.[/caption] The program has been expanded to include a full day of rehearsal, with a focus on public speaking abilities and mock interviews, regarded as integral components of professional development. Throughout the summer, participants will engage in resume and cover letter writing sessions and attend presentations led by guest speakers. In addition to fostering personal and professional growth, participants devoted a substantial amount of their time to honing technical skills through hands-on activities. These activities included simulating environmental impact investigations, collecting macroinvertebrates from a stream to gauge water quality, interacting with fish at a state trout hatchery, and designing a park in collaboration with Green Acres staff. To further enrich their understanding, the program also incorporates a visit to the regional headquarters of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As part of this initiative for the third year in a row, the NJDEP's Division of Land Resource Protection Mitigation Unit invited Princeton Hydro and Mercer County Park Commission to host three sessions at John A. Roebling Park. Under the guidance of Princeton Hydro mentors Mark Gallagher, Dana Patterson Grear, and Mike McGraw, the team educated young participants about invasive species and the importance of restoring native landscapes. The initiative exposed attendees to the varied roles of environmental scientists, water resource engineers, geologists, restoration ecologists, wildlife biologist, pesticide applicators, regulatory compliance specialists, and communications professionals, thereby enhancing their understanding of these professions and sparking a fascination for the natural world. The Abbott Marshlands in Trenton, New Jersey The program began at Tulpehaking Nature Center like in previous years. After representatives from Mercer County Park Commission and Friends of the Abbott Marshlands introduced the site's history, Princeton Hydro discussed career opportunities in conservation and gave a brief overview of ongoing restoration efforts in the park to eliminate the invasive Common Reed (Phragmites australis), and NJDEP representative, Jessica Klein, gave a presentation about her work in wetland mitigation. Before venturing into the Abbott Marshlands, the northernmost freshwater tidal wetlands along the Delaware River, the Princeton Hydro team conducted a health and safety briefing. They highlighted potential risks and exposures to ensure everyone's awareness. This briefing is a crucial part of prioritizing the safety of all participants in our work. [gallery link="none" ids="15638,15639,15629,15633,15634,15630,15632,15631,15637"] Shortly after setting out on the road to the site, the students received an additional lesson. Mark directed their attention to a nearby tree where poison ivy - a native plant - had stealthily climbed up the trunk. To their surprise, the young participants had mistaken the trailing vines for branches of the tree. This observation highlighted the remarkable ability of poison ivy to adapt to its surroundings, finding innovative ways to persist and thrive in its environment. As the second group continued their journey down the path, they encountered a Fowler’s toad. Initially, its slippery texture startled them, but they quickly realized the frog's harmless nature. Through gentle pats on its head, they gained a newfound appreciation for these fascinating creatures, transforming their initial fear into a sense of wonder and respect. Venturing through the marshland, the young explorers gained insights into wetland delineation. They witnessed the fascinating process of using a hand auger and a Munsell Soil Color Book to identify and understand the unique characteristics of wetland soils. In a delightful exploration of local flora, participants delved into the art of species identification using a specialized field guide. They learned to distinguish invasive plant species from their native counterparts, such as sensitive fern, which they were able to see during a short nature walk on a trail back to the nature center. In a seemingly unremarkable area of the riverbank, the third group stumbled upon a startling discovery. Amidst the lush vegetation, a highly toxic plant known as poison hemlock flourished. The students were taken aback by its presence in an otherwise ordinary location. They had never encountered such a hazardous plant in their previous studies. The poison hemlock, with its delicate white flowers and feathery leaves, belied its deadly nature. The students were captivated by its beauty, but the instructors cautioned them against touching. The encounter with poison hemlock and poison ivy served as a valuable lesson for the students. They realized that even in seemingly ordinary places, hidden dangers could lurk. They developed a newfound respect for the power of nature and the importance of exercising caution when exploring unfamiliar environments. [gallery link="none" columns="2" ids="15640,15641"] Ending the day, participants from the first group had the privilege of attending a lesson conducted by Wildlife Biologist Mike McGraw. With the assistance of the Nature Center's resident corn snake, Mike introduced the students to the fascinating world of reptiles. Overcoming their initial apprehension towards these slithery creatures, the students discovered that there was much more to snakes than they had previously imagined. Mike dispelled common misconceptions and fears, explaining that snakes are not inherently dangerous creatures but rather play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. The NJDEP Youth Inclusion Initiative began on July 8 and culminated on August 16 with a graduation and NJDEP Career Day where students had the opportunity to meet and discuss career options with various organizations who tabled at the event, including Princeton Hydro. To learn more about the NJDEP education program, click here. If you’re interested in learning more about Princeton Hydro’s ecological restoration services, click here. [post_title] => Empowering Youth Through Environmental Stewardship: NJDEP Youth Inclusion Initiative 2024 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => empowering-youth-through-environmental-stewardship-njdep-youth-inclusion-initiative-2024 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-28 13:48:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-28 13:48:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=15622 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 15203 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2024-06-25 11:33:04 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-06-25 11:33:04 [post_content] => By Mikhail Velez, Communications Coordinator On Saturday, June 15th, 2024, the Mercer County Park Festival Grounds brimmed with excitement as families, friends, merchants, musicians, and local organizations gathered to celebrate the upcoming Juneteenth holiday. Among them, Princeton Hydro proudly exhibited as a Stacey Abrams Sponsor, supporting the event hosted by the African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County. Composed of a diverse group of educators, executives, business representatives, and officials, the African American Cultural Collaborative strives to enhance the quality of life within their community through the mediums of arts, education, and culture. They create inclusive platforms for families from various backgrounds to gather in a safe and positive environment, fostering community bonds and cross-cultural collaboration. During this 4th Annual Juneteenth Celebration, community members mingled, immersed in the melodies flowing from the park stage. Artists, encompassing musical performers, dancers, and poets, shared their cultural heritage through captivating performances. "It’s an honor to be here today as a sponsor of this significant celebration of freedom and resilience. Juneteenth marks the triumph of the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of equality," said Geoffrey M. Goll, President of Princeton Hydro. "At Princeton Hydro, we are dedicated to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better through ecological restoration. Just as water sustains life, so does justice sustain our society. This Juneteenth, we reflect on the past, celebrate the progress, and commit to a future of environmental stewardship and social equity. Thank you for joining us in this vital journey." Among the vibrant crowd, a booth representing Princeton Hydro stood out, adorned with an array of free native plants from Pinelands Nursery & Supply. Dedicated to fostering appreciation for environmental stewardship, we enthusiastically shared our knowledge and passion with attendees. We were delighted in distributing Scarlet Beebalm (Monarda didyma), Dense Blazing Star (Liatris spicata), Orange Coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida), and Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) to visitors. Attendees were overjoyed by these gifts, their beaming smiles reflecting the simple joy of connecting with the earth. As the day drew to a close, with just one crate of plants remaining, the gathering had been an undeniable success, leaving hearts filled with happiness and a renewed appreciation for those who embraced the opportunity to bring a touch of nature into their lives. [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="medium" ids="15206,15212"] Remembering the Meaning of Juneteenth On June 19, 1865, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation and free all enslaved people. This event, known as Juneteenth or June Nineteenth, marks the end of slavery in the United States. It is the longest-running African American holiday. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in January 1863, it didn't immediately free anyone. It only applied to Confederate-controlled areas and excluded slave-holding border states and rebel areas under Union control. After the Civil War ended in 1865, General Granger's arrival in Galveston meant freedom for Texas's 250,000 enslaved people. Celebrations erupted among newly freed Black people, and Juneteenth was born. The 13th Amendment formally abolished slavery in America in December of the same year. In 1866, freedpeople in Texas held the first annual "Jubilee Day" celebration on June 19. In the following decades, Juneteenth commemorations spread as Black people migrated from Texas to other parts of the country. It was not until June 17, 2021, that Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday, recognizing its profound significance in American history. It’s important to recognize Juneteenth, not only as a reminder of the historical injustices faced by Black Americans, but also as a symbol of the ongoing fight for racial equality. This day not only marks the triumph over adversity but also serves as a profound reminder of our immense capacity for healing and restoration. It underscores our ability to cling to hope during trying times and to emerge from the darkest depths with a reinvigorated sense of purpose and unwavering resolve. By comprehending the significance of Juneteenth, we can actively work towards creating a society where inclusivity and justice prevail for all. [post_title] => Celebrating Juneteenth 2024 at Mercer County Park [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => celebrating-juneteenth-2024-at-mercer-county-park [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-28 13:59:42 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-28 13:59:42 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=15203 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8736 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2021-05-31 17:55:01 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-05-31 17:55:01 [post_content] => In April, our Marketing Coordinator, Kelsey Mattison, attended the Westchester Parks Foundation's annual Pitch in for Parks event! This volunteer event, of which Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor, featured a full day of cleanup and park beautification across Westchester County in New York State. Throughout the day, 14 different park sites saw a total of 838 volunteers! That's a whole lot of impact. Exhibit tables for the event were stationed at the Kensico Dam Plaza, one of the many park sites in Westchester County, located in Valhalla, New York. This park is home to one of the historic Kensico Dam, a 307 foot high by 1,843 feet long dam that forms the Kensico Reservoir, one of the major reservoirs supplying water to New York City and the surrounding area. The dam was completed in 1917 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Bronx River Parkway Reservation. [caption id="attachment_8588" align="aligncenter" width="1230"] Kensico Dam[/caption] Princeton Hydro has been working with the Westchester Parks Foundation since 2019 managing one of their lakes in Tibbets Brook Park in the Bronx. Our Aquatics team has provided invasive species management for European Water Chestnut, which causes overall water quality issues and can impact human and ecological health. [gallery columns="2" size="medium" ids="8719,8717,8574,8718"] If you're in the area and interested in getting more involved, head over to Westchester Parks Foundation's website to learn more! They have several volunteer opportunities and programs to check out. [post_title] => Westchester Parks Foundation's "Pitch in for Parks" Volunteer Event [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => pitch-in-for-parks-volunteer-event [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-06-01 18:16:55 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-06-01 18:16:55 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://princetonhydro.com/?p=8736 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 7717 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2021-04-14 16:47:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-04-14 16:47:26 [post_content] => Earth Day and Arbor Day are right around the corner, and we've got a variety of upcoming events we're excited about. The Princeton Hydro team is pitching in at Westchester County's largest volunteer effort of 2021; presenting at virtual conferences; leading a professional education course on dam removal; and participating in events that celebrate environmental stewardship. Here's a snapshot of what's to come: April 14: SAME Philadelphia Post Small Business Conference 2021 This year's SAME Philadelphia Post Small Business Conference 2021, which will be held virtually, includes presentations, interactive breakout sessions, an open forum networking session, and live capabilities introductions from each participating SAME member. The mission of SAME is to build leaders and lead collaboration among government and industry to develop multidisciplinary solutions to national security infrastructure challenges. Princeton Hydro joined SAME as a sustaining member in 2018. Get more info & Register April 19-24: Pitch in for Parks Volunteer Event Westchester Parks Foundation and the Westchester County Parks Department will host its largest volunteer event of the year: “Pitch in for Parks.” Adhering to all COVID guidelines, volunteers will come together to celebrate Earth Day and pitch in to help paint, rake, prepare and plant native flower beds, clear trails and shorelines, clean rivers, restore wildlife habitats, and remove invasive vines in parks throughout Westchester County. Princeton Hydro's Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Mattison participated in the event and exhibited with a variety of other event sponsors at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla, NY on April 24th. Get more info & Register April 19-23: North American Lake Management Society's National Monitoring Conference North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) is hosting its 12th Annual National Water Quality Monitoring Conference. This year's conference, which will be held virtually, invites all water stakeholders to participate, including federal, state, tribal, and local water professionals, non-profits, academia, volunteer citizen scientists, and industry experts. Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the event, and three of our team members are giving presentations:
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) launched its fourth annual Youth Inclusion Initiative. The program hopes to enrich young participants, who may not have the opportunity to explore open spaces in their community, with hands-on environmental field experience under the tutelage of NJDEP professionals and mentors.
This year’s participants consisted of youths from several different community-based organizations. These partners include Neighborhood Improvement Association (Trenton), Rutgers-Camden, The Work Group (Camden), Ranch Hope (Salem), Boys and Girls Club of Garfield, Groundwork Elizabeth, Ironbound Community Corporation (Newark), and United Community Corporation (Newark).
Over six weeks, eight community organizations guided participants as they engaged with professionals to explore careers in water and air monitoring, natural resource management, wildlife conservation, and other related fields. Additionally, a new component of the program introduces "community project days," where participants actively contribute to environmental projects within their neighborhoods. These projects enable participants to make a positive impact on their communities, fostering a sense of civic pride and environmental stewardship. Activities may include park cleanups, installing educational exhibits, and establishing community gardens.
The program has been expanded to include a full day of rehearsal, with a focus on public speaking abilities and mock interviews, regarded as integral components of professional development. Throughout the summer, participants will engage in resume and cover letter writing sessions and attend presentations led by guest speakers.
In addition to fostering personal and professional growth, participants devoted a substantial amount of their time to honing technical skills through hands-on activities. These activities included simulating environmental impact investigations, collecting macroinvertebrates from a stream to gauge water quality, interacting with fish at a state trout hatchery, and designing a park in collaboration with Green Acres staff. To further enrich their understanding, the program also incorporates a visit to the regional headquarters of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
As part of this initiative for the third year in a row, the NJDEP's Division of Land Resource Protection Mitigation Unit invited Princeton Hydro and Mercer County Park Commission to host three sessions at John A. Roebling Park. Under the guidance of Princeton Hydro mentors Mark Gallagher, Dana Patterson Grear, and Mike McGraw, the team educated young participants about invasive species and the importance of restoring native landscapes. The initiative exposed attendees to the varied roles of environmental scientists, water resource engineers, geologists, restoration ecologists, wildlife biologist, pesticide applicators, regulatory compliance specialists, and communications professionals, thereby enhancing their understanding of these professions and sparking a fascination for the natural world.
The program began at Tulpehaking Nature Center like in previous years. After representatives from Mercer County Park Commission and Friends of the Abbott Marshlands introduced the site's history, Princeton Hydro discussed career opportunities in conservation and gave a brief overview of ongoing restoration efforts in the park to eliminate the invasive Common Reed (Phragmites australis), and NJDEP representative, Jessica Klein, gave a presentation about her work in wetland mitigation.
Before venturing into the Abbott Marshlands, the northernmost freshwater tidal wetlands along the Delaware River, the Princeton Hydro team conducted a health and safety briefing. They highlighted potential risks and exposures to ensure everyone's awareness. This briefing is a crucial part of prioritizing the safety of all participants in our work.
Shortly after setting out on the road to the site, the students received an additional lesson. Mark directed their attention to a nearby tree where poison ivy - a native plant - had stealthily climbed up the trunk. To their surprise, the young participants had mistaken the trailing vines for branches of the tree. This observation highlighted the remarkable ability of poison ivy to adapt to its surroundings, finding innovative ways to persist and thrive in its environment.
As the second group continued their journey down the path, they encountered a Fowler’s toad. Initially, its slippery texture startled them, but they quickly realized the frog's harmless nature. Through gentle pats on its head, they gained a newfound appreciation for these fascinating creatures, transforming their initial fear into a sense of wonder and respect.
Venturing through the marshland, the young explorers gained insights into wetland delineation. They witnessed the fascinating process of using a hand auger and a Munsell Soil Color Book to identify and understand the unique characteristics of wetland soils. In a delightful exploration of local flora, participants delved into the art of species identification using a specialized field guide. They learned to distinguish invasive plant species from their native counterparts, such as sensitive fern, which they were able to see during a short nature walk on a trail back to the nature center.
In a seemingly unremarkable area of the riverbank, the third group stumbled upon a startling discovery. Amidst the lush vegetation, a highly toxic plant known as poison hemlock flourished. The students were taken aback by its presence in an otherwise ordinary location. They had never encountered such a hazardous plant in their previous studies. The poison hemlock, with its delicate white flowers and feathery leaves, belied its deadly nature. The students were captivated by its beauty, but the instructors cautioned them against touching.
The encounter with poison hemlock and poison ivy served as a valuable lesson for the students. They realized that even in seemingly ordinary places, hidden dangers could lurk. They developed a newfound respect for the power of nature and the importance of exercising caution when exploring unfamiliar environments.
Ending the day, participants from the first group had the privilege of attending a lesson conducted by Wildlife Biologist Mike McGraw. With the assistance of the Nature Center's resident corn snake, Mike introduced the students to the fascinating world of reptiles. Overcoming their initial apprehension towards these slithery creatures, the students discovered that there was much more to snakes than they had previously imagined. Mike dispelled common misconceptions and fears, explaining that snakes are not inherently dangerous creatures but rather play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
The NJDEP Youth Inclusion Initiative began on July 8 and culminated on August 16 with a graduation and NJDEP Career Day where students had the opportunity to meet and discuss career options with various organizations who tabled at the event, including Princeton Hydro.
To learn more about the NJDEP education program, click here. If you’re interested in learning more about Princeton Hydro’s ecological restoration services, click here.
On Saturday, June 15th, 2024, the Mercer County Park Festival Grounds brimmed with excitement as families, friends, merchants, musicians, and local organizations gathered to celebrate the upcoming Juneteenth holiday. Among them, Princeton Hydro proudly exhibited as a Stacey Abrams Sponsor, supporting the event hosted by the African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County. Composed of a diverse group of educators, executives, business representatives, and officials, the African American Cultural Collaborative strives to enhance the quality of life within their community through the mediums of arts, education, and culture. They create inclusive platforms for families from various backgrounds to gather in a safe and positive environment, fostering community bonds and cross-cultural collaboration.
During this 4th Annual Juneteenth Celebration, community members mingled, immersed in the melodies flowing from the park stage. Artists, encompassing musical performers, dancers, and poets, shared their cultural heritage through captivating performances.
"It’s an honor to be here today as a sponsor of this significant celebration of freedom and resilience. Juneteenth marks the triumph of the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of equality," said Geoffrey M. Goll, President of Princeton Hydro. "At Princeton Hydro, we are dedicated to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better through ecological restoration. Just as water sustains life, so does justice sustain our society. This Juneteenth, we reflect on the past, celebrate the progress, and commit to a future of environmental stewardship and social equity. Thank you for joining us in this vital journey."
Among the vibrant crowd, a booth representing Princeton Hydro stood out, adorned with an array of free native plants from Pinelands Nursery & Supply. Dedicated to fostering appreciation for environmental stewardship, we enthusiastically shared our knowledge and passion with attendees. We were delighted in distributing Scarlet Beebalm (Monarda didyma), Dense Blazing Star (Liatris spicata), Orange Coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida), and Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) to visitors. Attendees were overjoyed by these gifts, their beaming smiles reflecting the simple joy of connecting with the earth.
As the day drew to a close, with just one crate of plants remaining, the gathering had been an undeniable success, leaving hearts filled with happiness and a renewed appreciation for those who embraced the opportunity to bring a touch of nature into their lives.
On June 19, 1865, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation and free all enslaved people. This event, known as Juneteenth or June Nineteenth, marks the end of slavery in the United States. It is the longest-running African American holiday.
Although the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in January 1863, it didn't immediately free anyone. It only applied to Confederate-controlled areas and excluded slave-holding border states and rebel areas under Union control. After the Civil War ended in 1865, General Granger's arrival in Galveston meant freedom for Texas's 250,000 enslaved people. Celebrations erupted among newly freed Black people, and Juneteenth was born. The 13th Amendment formally abolished slavery in America in December of the same year.
In 1866, freedpeople in Texas held the first annual "Jubilee Day" celebration on June 19. In the following decades, Juneteenth commemorations spread as Black people migrated from Texas to other parts of the country. It was not until June 17, 2021, that Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday, recognizing its profound significance in American history.
It’s important to recognize Juneteenth, not only as a reminder of the historical injustices faced by Black Americans, but also as a symbol of the ongoing fight for racial equality. This day not only marks the triumph over adversity but also serves as a profound reminder of our immense capacity for healing and restoration. It underscores our ability to cling to hope during trying times and to emerge from the darkest depths with a reinvigorated sense of purpose and unwavering resolve. By comprehending the significance of Juneteenth, we can actively work towards creating a society where inclusivity and justice prevail for all.
Earth Day and Arbor Day are right around the corner, and we've got a variety of upcoming events we're excited about. The Princeton Hydro team is pitching in at Westchester County's largest volunteer effort of 2021; presenting at virtual conferences; leading a professional education course on dam removal; and participating in events that celebrate environmental stewardship. Here's a snapshot of what's to come:
This year's SAME Philadelphia Post Small Business Conference 2021, which will be held virtually, includes presentations, interactive breakout sessions, an open forum networking session, and live capabilities introductions from each participating SAME member. The mission of SAME is to build leaders and lead collaboration among government and industry to develop multidisciplinary solutions to national security infrastructure challenges. Princeton Hydro joined SAME as a sustaining member in 2018.
Westchester Parks Foundation and the Westchester County Parks Department will host its largest volunteer event of the year: “Pitch in for Parks.” Adhering to all COVID guidelines, volunteers will come together to celebrate Earth Day and pitch in to help paint, rake, prepare and plant native flower beds, clear trails and shorelines, clean rivers, restore wildlife habitats, and remove invasive vines in parks throughout Westchester County. Princeton Hydro's Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Mattison participated in the event and exhibited with a variety of other event sponsors at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla, NY on April 24th.
North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) is hosting its 12th Annual National Water Quality Monitoring Conference. This year's conference, which will be held virtually, invites all water stakeholders to participate, including federal, state, tribal, and local water professionals, non-profits, academia, volunteer citizen scientists, and industry experts. Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the event, and three of our team members are giving presentations:
This year’s conference, which is titled, “Freshwater Ecosystems: Learning to Coexist,” will be held virtually via Zoom. Participants will enjoy a variety of interactive educational sessions, panel discussions and a NY lake trivia contest. Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of the event, and our Aquatics Director Dr. Fred Lubnow is giving a presentation on "Management Activities to Prevent, Mitigate and/or Control HABs at Lake Hopatcong, NJ."
During SAME's 2021 virtual North Atlantic Industry Day, participants will hear from government and industry professionals on procurement opportunities and current A/E/C trends in the North Atlantic Region. Experts from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Coast Guard and FEMA will present on a variety of topics including: COVID-19 related safety measures, sustainability in small business, government contracting evaluation and the latest trends and tips for landing government contracts.
The webinar series from the FEMA Region 2 Mitigation and National Preparedness Division explores how to expand the reach of mitigation activities by engaging more people and organizations from across the whole community beyond those typically involved in hazard mitigation. One webinar will be hosted each month on a variety of topics centered around "Guides to Expanding Mitigation." The next webinar, being held on May 5, will focus on how to partner with community artists to communicate hazard risks and build a culture of preparedness.
Princeton Hydro is a proud sponsor of Choose Clean Water Coalition's first-ever virtual Choose Clean Water Conference. The conference theme of A Changing Chesapeake will explore the ecological changes in the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed as well as the ways organizations are changing due to COVID-19. Along with a virtual exhibit hall, the conference includes a variety of breakout sessions covering topics like, "Empowering Diverse Communities to Take Action in Stormwater Management," "People-Powered Restoration for Clean Water," and "Driving Digital Change in 2021."
Register now for the Rutgers Office of Continuing Professional Education two-day virtual course: "Dam Removal: Design, Planning, and Implementation." Participants will learn about the technical aspects of dam removal, including the investigations and design of projects that both deregulate dams and provide river restoration and ecological uplift. This introductory, technical course includes presentations from Princeton Hydro team members: President Geoff Goll, P.E.; Director of Natural Resources Dr. Laura Craig; Director of Stormwater Management & Green Infrastructure Dr. Clay Emerson, P.E, CFM; Fluvial Geomorphologist Paul Woodworth, CERP; along with Dr. Steve Souza of Clean Waters Consulting, LLC and Beth Styler-Barry, Director of River Restoration, The Nature Conservancy.
"A New Global Trajectory: Catalyzing Change Through the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration" is the title of the Society for Ecological Restoration's 9th World Conference on Ecological Restoration. Held virtually this year, the conference will bring together from around the world scientists, academics, researchers and experts from the fields of rehabilitation and environmental restoration, alongside practitioners and industry leaders to tackle the vast environmental challenges that we face today. The conference also includes virtual field trips; workshops, keynote, and plenary sessions; live discussion sessions and poster presentations; and networking events. Princeton Hydro President Geoffrey Goll, P.E. is presenting on "Removing Dams of the American Industrial Revolution in the Northeastern U.S. to Restore Natural Capital Against Climate Change."
American Rivers and Stroud Water Research Center held a four-part webinar series celebrating the Delaware River, which was named "River of the Year 2020" by American Rivers for its progress in improving water quality, river restoration, and community revitalization. The fourth webinar, titled "Federal Protections for the Free-Flowing Delaware River," featured presentations from a variety of experts including Alan Hunt, Director of Policy and Grants at the Musconetcong Watershed Association. If you missed any of the webinars, have no fear! They were all recorded in full and are available for viewing anytime.
Engineering With Nature (EWN) is an initiative of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that enables more sustainable delivery of economic, social, and environmental benefits associated with water resources infrastructure. An Atlas, Volume 2, which is set to publish in early April, showcases 62 project examples from the US and around the world demonstrating what it means to partner with nature to deliver engineering solutions. The virtual book launch ceremony was held on April 7, 2021 and included messages from LTG Scott A. Spellmon, 55th Chief of Engineers and Commanding General, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other executives and leaders from organizations around the world.
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Volunteers recently gathered together at Clawson Park in Ringoes, NJ to install native plants in the park’s large stormwater basin and overhaul two of the park’s rain gardens, removing invasive weeds and planting beneficial native species.
By definition, a rain garden is a shallow depression that is planted with deep-rooted native plants and grasses and positioned near a runoff source to capture rainwater. Rain gardens temporarily store rainwater and runoff, and filter the water of hydrocarbons, oil, heavy metals, phosphorous, fertilizers and other pollutants that would normally find their way to the sewer and even our rivers and waterways. They are a cost effective, attractive, and sustainable way to minimize stormwater runoff. They also help to reduce erosion, promote groundwater recharge, and minimize flooding. Planting native plants helps to attract pollinators and birds and naturally reduces mosquitoes by removing standing water thus reducing mosquito breeding areas.
Once a rain garden has been established, it is low maintenance and typically only requires occasional weeding to remove any invasive species that may have cropped up. The recent volunteer effort, lead by Jack Szczepanski, PhD, Senior Aquatics Scientist, was an important step in maintaining the health and native diversity of Clawson Park’s rain gardens.
The park’s rain gardens and stormwater basins were originally designed and implemented by Princeton Hydro. Back in 2016, Eagle Scout Brandon Diacont had an idea to beautify Clawson Park and improve the park’s stormwater drainage issues. Princeton Hydro supported his vision by developing, permitting, and implementing a stormwater management project plan, which included the installation of multiple rain gardens throughout the park. In October of 2016, under the guidance of Princeton Hydro’s Landscape Designer Cory Speroff, MLA, ASLA, CBLP, a great group of volunteers gathered together and got to work bringing the project plan to life!
The Princeton Hydro team has designed and constructed countless stormwater management systems, including rain gardens in locations throughout the Eastern U.S. Click here for more information about our stormwater management services.
To prevent further erosion at the Slade Dale Sanctuary in Point Pleasant, dozens of volunteers helped stabilize the shoreline using a technique that has never been done before in New Jersey. On Saturday, American Littoral Society, in partnership with Princeton Hydro, Borough of Point Pleasant, New Jersey Nature Conservancy, New Jersey Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership, and the Point Pleasant Rotary Club, organized dozens of volunteers to restore the shoreline and prevent further erosion at the Slade Dale Sanctuary using recycled Christmas trees.
As one of only a few areas of open space left in Point Pleasant, the 13-acre Slade Dale Sanctuary is an important part of the local ecosystem and is home to a number of unique animals and plants. This waterfront preserve along the North Branch Beaver Dam Creek is predominantly tidal marsh, which provides habitat for various birds, including osprey, as well as passive recreation opportunities for the community.
Unfortunately, the Slade Dale Sanctuary is disappearing. Since 1930, the shoreline of Slade Dale Sanctuary has retreated approximately 300 feet, equal to the length of a football field, and the channels into the marsh have increased in number and size, according to a study we conducted on behalf of American Littoral Society, for which we provide engineering and natural resources management consulting services.
In order to stabilize the shoreline, restore the marsh, and enhance the ecological function and integrity of the preserve, Princeton Hydro developed a conceptual and engineering design using living shoreline features to enhance ecological value and reduce erosion. The final conceptual plan for restoration uses tree vane structures to attenuate wave action, foster sediment accretion, and reduce erosion along the coast.
To implement this vision and begin building back marsh, the project team is constructing several Christmas tree breakwaters and Christmas tree vanes that mimic naturally occurring debris structures in tidal systems and enhance habitat opportunity and shelter for aquatic life. Volunteers came together on Saturday, May 11 to help with the construction. The Mayor of Point Pleasant Robert A. Sabosik also attended the event, "The Barnegat Bay is an attribute that we all enjoy, and it's something we have to protect."
After the 2018 holiday season, the Good Sheppard Lutheran Church in Point Pleasant provided space to collect and store donated Christmas trees, which were then moved to the marsh a few days before the event. On the day of the event, recycled Christmas trees were transported from their staged locations on the marsh to the breakwater sections that were previously installed in the water. To transport them across the water to the pilings, volunteers used two methods: by walking a skiff boat loaded with trees through the water to the pilings or by forming assembly line from the shore to pilings to guide floating trees through the water (check out the album below!). Then, they stuffed the Christmas trees between the pilings, securely tied them down, and staked Christmas trees directly into the creek bottom. For extra assurance, the placed and tied heavy bags of used oyster shells on top of the tree line. Oyster shells were donated by local Monmouth County restaurants in an effort to reduce waste streams.
"We really enjoyed participating in this event with American Littoral Society and so many wonderful volunteers,” Christiana L. Pollack, GISP, CFM, Princeton Hydro's Project Manager for this restoration effort. “It is so wonderful to see this project coming to fruition. We’re so proud of our partnership with American Littoral Society and our combined efforts to revitalize and rehabilitate our precious coastal habitats.”
Many thanks to everyone who came out in support of this important restoration effort at Slade Dale Sanctuary American Littoral Society hosts volunteer events throughout the year. Go here to get involved.
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As a staff engineer specializing in water resources, Natalie Rodrigues, EIT, CPESC-IT works on a wide range of projects from stormwater management to ecosystem restoration to dam safety. Outside of the office, Natalie is an active volunteer with Engineers Without Borders (EWB), a nonprofit organization that works to build a better world through engineering projects that aid communities in meeting their basic needs.
EWB volunteers work with communities in the U.S. and throughout the world to find appropriate solutions for their infrastructure needs, including clean water supply; sanitation; sustainable energy; structures like bridges and buildings; and various agriculture essentials from irrigation systems to harvest processing. Natalie began volunteering for the organization six years ago while attending college at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Resources Engineering with a focus in water resources.
Her first big volunteer project, which was done in collaboration with EWB’s Syracuse Professionals Chapter, was designing and building a system of composting latrines for an elementary school in the small town of Las Majadas, Guatemala. Natalie provided assistance on several aspects of the project, including working on a Health and Safety Plan. The completion of this project helped to prevent the spread of disease, as well as treat waste without the need for a constant water supply/sewer system. The long-lasting design also increases the health practices and hygiene of the community, creating a safer place for education.
Natalie also served as secretary of the university’s EWB chapter for two years, then became the Regional Administrator for the Northeast Regional Committee, and is now starting her third year as a Co-President of the region.
In her current role with the regional committee, Natalie helps to provide resources for members and facilitates communication between EWB Headquarters and individual chapters. She assists with various mini-conferences and workshops throughout the region and provides opportunities for members to obtain Professional Development Hours and certifications. She is also a part of the EWB’s Diversity and Inclusion Task Force and the Council of Regional Presidents.
We’re so proud to have Natalie on our team and truly value the work she does inside and outside the office.
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A volunteer effort, lead by the Middlesex County, New Jersey Parks and Recreation Department and the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, recently took place at Thompson Park.
Despite the rainy weather, 78 volunteers and members of the Youth Conservation Corps removed litter from the shoreline of Manalapan Lake, repaired fencing, made improvements to the park’s walking trails, weeded and mulched the park’s rain garden and native plant garden, and installed new plants in the rain garden.
The park’s rain garden was originally designed by Princeton Hydro Senior Water Resource Engineer Dr. Clay Emerson, PE, CFM. Rain gardens are cost effective, attractive and sustainable means to minimize stormwater runoff. They also help to reduce erosion, promote groundwater recharge, minimize flooding and remove pollutants from runoff.
By definition, a rain garden is a shallow depression that is planted with deep-rooted native plants and grasses, and positioned near a runoff source to capture rainwater. Planting native plants also helps to attract pollinators and birds and naturally reduces mosquitos by removing standing water thus reducing mosquito breeding areas.
Rain gardens temporarily store rainwater and runoff, and filter the water of hydrocarbons, oil, heavy metals, phosphorous, fertilizers and other pollutants that would normally find their way to the sewer and even our rivers and waterways.
On the day of the volunteer event, Central New Jersey received 0.44 inches of rain. "We got to see the rain garden in action, which was really exciting," said Princeton Hydro Senior Project Manager Kelly Klein, who volunteered at the event.
Volunteers from the following organizations participated:
The Middlesex County Parks and Recreation Department’s next public volunteer event is tomorrow (June 2) in Davidson’s Mill Pond Park.
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