There is a long-standing problem of water infrastructure management in New Jersey.  Water supply, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure systems have not received adequate investment for decades in most parts of the state.  Many of our existing pipelines were put in place during two growth spurts – the city-building era of 1890-1930 and the suburban growth boom of 1950-1970. These pipes are aging to the point of frequent failure.  Treatment plants were built or upgraded more recently, in response to the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act of the 1970s, but are also aging and will need significant investment.  Dr. Van Abs will discuss the coming collision between the public interest in sound water infrastructure and the public’s interest in low costs.      

GSWA is looking for volunteers ages 15 and up to help remove invasive plants and re-plant native trees and shrubs around Loantaka Brook Reservation’s Kitchell Pond. Our volunteer team will improve a strip of vegetation (also known as a vegetated buffer) around the pond that reduces the amount of pollution-laden stormwater flowing into it and helps stem the tide of erosion in the area. Since Loantaka Brook runs into and out of Kitchell Pond, the buffer also improves the health of water running downstream into the Great Swamp and the Passaic River. All tools and supplies will be provided. To register, please contact Sandra LaVigne at [email protected] or 973-538-3500.    

Find inspiration for your spring planting and decorating while supporting Great Swamp Watershed Association on June 1, 2016, during during our  3rd Annual Home & Garden Tour. The tour will be a celebration of charming, historic homes; enchanting gardens; and elegant estates inhabiting the Great Swamp region. Registration required.      

Join Blaine Rothauser for a fascinating introduction to moth ecology at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (32 Pleasant Plains Road, Harding). For this hands-on, outdoor workshop, Blaine will set up a sodium vapor lamp in the parking area. After a few minutes, an astounding array of moths will appear for you to observe, identify, and photograph. What you see will surprise and amaze you!    

Join GSWA and Chatham Citizens Opposing the Oil Pipeline for a night of fun with a purpose at the new Twin Elephant Brewing Company in Chatham. $40 admission includes a taster flight, pint, and delicious hors d’oeuvres Proceeds from this event will be used for an independent, objective environmental study to counter any biased environmental claims made by Pilgrim Pipeline about the effect of their “hazardous liquids” pipelines on NJ’s fresh water supply. This effort is critical to help protect our water and our health.  

Join us for a sunset hike as we explore the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. We’ll be listening to and identifying the sounds of a summer night – crickets, tree frogs, and maybe even some owls – as we traverse the boardwalk at the Wildlife Observation Center.