Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA)

Biological, chemical and bacterial stream monitoring data collected from 72 sites located in the Raritan river Headwaters region were analyzed and prepared for an annual water quality report to be presented to the njdep, epa, municipalities and to the public through rha's online report card. Conducted 19 community well test events and thousands of individual household drinking water quality tests through rha's well testing program. Monitored, maintained, and collected data in real time from climate stations located at 5 stream sites. Student, corporate, and scout volunteers participated in hands-on conservation and stewardship activities including tree planting, trail clearing, and invasive plant removal. Planted 450 trees at 3 locations within the watershed- peapack & gladstone park, bamboo brook outdoor education center, and natirar parkalong the peapack brook, herzog brook, and north branch Raritan river with local partners.. rha's education team conducted "nature days" morning and after school programs for children ages 3-8 to explore wildlife and participate in fun, outdoor activities on the Association's fairview farm, in bedminster - a 170-acre preserve. High school students interested in environmental science and conservation attended "watershed university", a weeklong summer program hosted by rhawatershed tools for local leader's seminars educated citizens and decision-makers on topics including land preservation, watershed planning, stormwater management, and lead in drinking water,. Worked to advocate for water protection policies with partners including nj highlands coalition, nj league of conservation voters, lead in drinking water task force, the forestry task force, Association for nj environmental commissions, nj watershed council, the watershed institute, nj conservation foundation, and others. Worked with federal, state, and local partners to plan for the removal of 5 dams in the south branch watershed to enhance water quality and fish passage. Rha, an accreditated land trust, applied for renewal. Stewardship staff produced reports on the annual inspections of 33 conservation easements and 9 rha-owned preserves.