Raritan Headwaters Association 2019 Annual Report A YEAR IN REVIEW WOW, WHAT A YEAR IT WAS! Raritan Headwaters celebrated its 60th anniversary in September, with a fabulous party bringing together longtime supporters and energized new members. It was a time for recounting our history and thanking the many amazing individuals—including founders Hermia Lechner and Helen Woodman—who brought us to where we are today.
But it wasn’t just a year for looking back - it was also a year of great But we can’t afford to be complacent. The abundance of natural accomplishment. We held our biggest Stream Cleanup day ever, successfully treasures that we all enjoy also makes us more vulnerable to growing removed an obsolete dam along the Lamington River, trained new citizen environmental threats. scientists to support our stream monitoring program, advocated on all major Extreme weather is flushing polluted runoff into our waterways and there environmental legislation in Trenton, planted 3,800 trees, conducted 5,600 are alarming reports of lead in our pipes, toxic algae in our lakes, arsenic in our well tests for drinking water contaminates, and engaged over 15,000 children wells, and plastic in our rivers and oceans. New and emerging contaminants are in our nature camp and school programs. being identified in drinking water supplies. Our mission to protect our natural Energized by our 2019 successes, we launched into 2020 with renewed resources and the well-being of watershed residents is more vital than ever – energy and robust workplans in place. But it turned out not to be the year anyone made evident by the increase in demand for our services. expected. No one escaped the effects of COVID-19 and like so many others, our With 60 remarkable years of sound conservation work behind us, we move offices closed and most of our education and outreach programs came to a halt. forward in a changing world. Whether we are referring to protecting clean But our clean water mission stayed the course, and we adapted. Our educa- water, addressing climate change, or preserving open spaces – our vision is that tion staff created a robust learning hub as a resource for the thousands of fami- “everyone within our reach has access to safe, clean water.” We take respon- lies stuck at home with no school or extracurricular activities. Our well testing sibility for the protection and well-being of those we serve now and future program adapted, with no-contact pickups and drop-offs of water testing kits. generations. We look forward to working together with each of you to make Our policy director attended legislative meetings remotely and our science sure we are contributing to a just and healthy future. team trained citizen scientists online. We are fortunate to live in an area so rich in natural beauty and biodiversity. The headwaters region of the Raritan River Basin is home to precious water supplies, diverse wildlife, and residents who value their quality of life in this Stew Brunhouse Cindy Ehrenclou beautiful part of New Jersey. President, Board of Trustees Executive Director MORE STREAMS PROTECTED IN THE UPPER RARITAN WATERSHED! We’re very pleased that the Department of Environmental Protection used Raritan “ In March 2019, the New Jersey Department of Headwaters’ data in its decision to upgrade Environmental Protection (NJDEP) announced stream protections in our watershed.” plans to designate 749 additional miles of rivers and —Bill Kibler, Policy Director streams as Category One (C1) waterways.
In addition to using its own data to support upgrading stream designations, the NJDEP used data generated by only one outside source – Raritan Head- waters! Following NJDEP protocols, staff and citizen scientists in our stream monitoring program collected high quality data to support the assessment of surface waters and the overall health of the Raritan River watershed. Of the 749 miles of streams proposed for upgrading due to their exceptional ecological value and/or fishery resources, over 200 are in the upper Raritan River watershed. This includes stretches of the South Branch, North Branch, Lamington/Black River, Neshanic River, Pleasant Run and McVickers Brook. It was quite an endorsement of our Water Quality program and the work of our watershed scientists under the leadership of Dr. Kristi MacDonald. Kudos to Bill Kibler for representing Raritan Headwaters in NJDEP stakeholder meetings to move the process along and advocate for our waterways. This is another example of how RHA’s science informs decision-making. Photo credit: Nick Romanenko ECOLOGICAL HEALTH FOR THE LAMINGTON RIVER
The waters of the Lamington River flow freely through Somerset County, thanks to Raritan Headwaters’ successful removal of a derelict grist mill dam in October 2019.
The project improves habitat for fish and other The dam removal was done in partnership with the aquatic creatures. U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Dr. Kristi MacDonald, RHA’s science director is very Conservation Service (NRCS) and the U.S. Fish and pleased with how it turned out. Now that the river Wildlife Service. has been moved back to its original channel we As part of the dam removal, the river was realigned are going to see the ecological health of the river to its historical configuration to reduce erosion greatly improved. and flooding in the Milnor Road-Cowperthwaite The old Burnt Mills dam held sediment, creating Road neighborhood - including an 11-acre nature unhealthy conditions for most aquatic wildlife. In preserve owned by Raritan Headwaters. addition, the shallow pooled water behind the dam The project will continue in 2020 with the This improves habitat for heated up in summer, depleting oxygen levels. restoration of the floodplain and the planting of Most aquatic life needs cool, clear, oxygen-rich willow trees along the riverbank. “ migratory fish and imperiled water. mussels, while potentially Removing the old concrete dam allows free reducing the risk of flooding passage of migrating fish. The project also added to nearby residents.” riffles and pools to the river to improve fish habitat. —Eric Schrading, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service EDUCATING COMMUNITY LEADERS
Our Watershed Tools for Local Leaders workshops are designed to give local governments the requisite knowledge and tools they need to better protect our drinking water sources. We understand that the most impactful change happens at the local level.
Empowering officials in the 38 municipalities within the climate resilient communities, stream buffer restoration, upper Raritan River watershed with knowledge to make restoring balance to our public forests, and assessing the best possible decisions and forming partnerships impervious coverage. to implement plans for environmental protection are the goals of the series. Through brief seminars and workshops, RHA provides practical guidance on sci- entific principles, useful tools, government regulations and funding sources for a variety of needed watershed THINK protection initiatives. Workshops are presented by Rar- itan Headwaters scientists and policy experts, as well GLOBALLY, as visitors from regulatory agencies, universities, and other non-profit organizations. In addition, participants ACT and presenters learn from one another’s experiences LOCALLY and find ways to partner on projects to protect and restore water resources. Since 2017, these popular workshops have addressed such topics as well water testing and treatment, storm- water pollution and harmful algal blooms, creating PEOPLE POWER: 1,700 VOLUNTEERS REMOVE 18 TONS OF TRASH
What can a motivated, energetic group of Raritan Headwaters volunteers accomplish in just three hours? A lot!
It was our best year yet, and we have our fantastic volunteers to thank. From Cub Scouts to local businesses, everyone put tremendous energy and enthusiasm into the cleanup. We are so proud of what they accomplished. In one morning, we logged over 5,000 volunteer hours! The 29th annual cleanup improved water quality downstream, all the way to where the Raritan River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. By collecting plastic bottles, bags, straws and other objects during the Stream Cleanup, we’re preventing them from becoming pollution. Cleaning up streams helps prevent plastics from breaking down into microplastics, an emerging threat to both wildlife and human health. In a pilot study released in early 2019, RHA found plastic fragments the size of poppy seeds or smaller in samples taken at 10 sites along the South Branch. A large percentage of these microplastics originated as larger plastic items At 9 a.m. on April 13, 2019, more than 1,700 volunteers of all ages fanned out such as bags, bottles, wrappers and other single-use plastics. across the upper Raritan River watershed in Hunterdon, Somerset and Morris counties. By noon, they had removed 18 tons of trash, litter and recyclables from The Raritan River is a source of drinking water for millions of New Jersey almost 80 miles of river, stream and lakefront. homes and businesses, so every piece of trash removed helps keep water supplies healthy and prevents debris from eventually entering the ocean, The day’s haul included 9,133 plastic bottles, 3,039 plastic bags and 53 car and threatening wildlife. truck tires. Unusual items included a kitchen sink, a mannequin, a massage table, several televisions, a child’s riding Jeep, bicycles, a rusted meat grinder, a PlayStation console and a couch. A YEAR IN REVIEW THE GO FUND: GET OUTSIDE & EXPLORE!
In 1967, fourteen-year-old Cindy Doggett (Ehrenclou), won an essay contest on “The Effects of a North Jersey Jetport” sponsored by the Upper Raritan Watershed Association.
Hanging in her office at Fairview Farm, is the certificate signed by URWA’s James Casey, President, and Richard Goodenough, Executive Director, recog- nizing her “demonstrated concern for the future environment of this region”. Perhaps Cindy’s 25-year career at Raritan Headwaters Association was meant to be, a destiny of sorts. Experiencing and connecting with nature is a path to the care and stewardship of our precious natural resources. Cindy believes this to her core and has led the organization to develop nature education for all ages – Nature Day Camp, school field trips, and family programs. Cindy always says: “If I can get them to Fairview Farm, they will get it!” In 2019, Cindy celebrated her 25th year with Raritan Headwaters! To honor her legacy, our trustees launched the Get Outside Fund, or GO Fund for short. The campaign raised over $35,000 to provide outdoor experiences to those who don’t have meaningful opportunities to connect with nature.
Beyond building a foundation for responsible environmental stewardship, RHA believes that outdoor time in nature is important for mental and physical health. THE GO FUND: GET OUTSIDE & EXPLORE! Being out in nature helps form a sense of belonging to the world and offers a CITIZEN SCIENTISTS AND INTERNS wealth of sights, sounds, smells, and colors. It piques a sense of curiosity, exploration and interest in all that nature has to offer. It reconnects each person Volunteer citizen scientists and interns to their surroundings, raises awareness about the importance of nurturing their environment and ultimately prompts one to be the protector of that environment. help out with RHA’s stream monitoring With the help of the GO Fund, children from New Jersey’s urban communities program in 2019. will also be able to enjoy visits to Fairview Farm and enjoy nature in our beautiful outdoor classroom. Many thanks to the RHA’s trustees for establishing the GO Fund and a special thanks to all the friends and supporters for helping Raritan Headwaters and Cindy extend the organization’s mission beyond the watershed!
Volunteer Naturalist, Alan Rennie, above right, walks and inventories birds sighted at Fairview Farm CELEBRATING 60 YEARS! CELEBRATING
250 Raritan Headwaters members and friends gathered at the Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve on a beautiful September night to celebrate 60 years of protecting clean water in local rivers, streams, and homes. Guests enjoyed live music, delicious food, and live and silent auctions. The event also included a special toast to Executive Director Cindy Ehrenclou for her 25 years with the organization.
Some of our nearest and dearest friends shared their time and artistic talents with Raritan Head- waters to create a festive and fun evening. Our deep thanks and appreciation to Wende Dasteel, Julie Goetz, Gretchen Jaeckle, Edward Jaeckle, and Catherine and Paul Norbury for adding magic to our memorable evening.
RIDING AND BIKING FOR THE RIVER: TWO-WHEELS
Raritan Headwaters was on a roll in 2019, with two fun “events on wheels” raising funds to support our clean water mission!
In June RHA held our 16th annual “Ride for the River,” a 70-mile motor- cycle run along our watershed’s scenic backroads through Hunterdon, Somerset, and Morris counties.
Started by avid motorcycle owners, devoted environmentalists, and dear RHA friends, John Belle and Amy Greene, “Ride for the River” has raised over $160,000 in support of our mission and work. Sadly, John left us in April after a year-long battle with cancer. John will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. RHA will continue to honor his legacy through future “Ride for the River” events. John Belle
John Belle and Amy Greene RARITAN Budd Lake HEADWATERS REGION South Branch Raritan River MORRIS
North Branch Raritan River HUNTERDON Dallas Hetherington Spruce Run Reservoir SOMERSET John Parker and John Lee Round Valley Reservoir
“Garden State Fondo”, founded in 2011 by the late Morristown native Marty Epstein, is an annual cycling event that raises funds for local nonprofit organizations. Starting in Morristown, the different routes take riders through our beautiful watershed region. This personal riding challenge welcomes over 2,500 cyclists each year and in 2019 Raritan Headwaters was chosen as one of the beneficiaries! RHA’S COMMUNITY WELL TESTING PROGRAM
Working with our dedicated municipal partners, we are able to positively influence public health in our watershed communities. The RHA well testing program served over 1,550 households in 2019. Residents throughout the watershed and beyond, across 43 municipalities and 5 counties, utilized our convenient and affordable testing program to ensure that their drinking water is safe to consume. Tests were conducted for contaminants including coliform bacteria, nitrates, arsenic, lead, radon, uranium, and volatile organic compounds. In addition to RHA’s spring and fall Community Well Testing events, residents can test their water at their convenience anytime during the year through our individual well testing program. RHA’s website includes online Toolkits which provide a wealth of information on a variety of contaminants to help residents decide what to test for.
RHA’s Community Well Test event
Participate in a Community Well Pick up a testing kit at a On public Water? Testing event in your town. Raritan Headwaters office. Test for lead and copper. GET THE LEAD OUT CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED In 2019, Raritan Headwaters launched a “Get the Lead Out” campaign to encourage local residents—especially those with older homes either with a private well or connected to public 550 taps were tested in 2019 drinking water systems—to get their tap water tested for lead. Lead in drinking water can come from your pipes, plumbing fixtures and solder. Raritan Head- waters has offered lead testing for years, but in light of the recent news about lead contamination in Newark’s drinking water, we want people to know that they can easily and affordably get their water tested. If lead is found, it is easy to treat. Lead in drinking water is colorless, odorless and tasteless. Lead contamination endangers the health of anyone who drinks it and is especially detrimental to brain development in young children. The only way to know if you’re being exposed to lead in your drinking water is to test it. Raritan Headwaters contracts with a certified lab to provide lead tests at a discounted price. If lead is found in drinking water, homeowners have several options, including installing an under-the- sink water filter, a faucet-mounted filter, a system that reduces water acidity, or using a drinking water pitcher with a filter. Raritan Headwaters is a member of the state’s Lead in Drinking Water Task Force, which presented a report with recommendations for reducing the danger of lead contamination throughout New Jersey. RARITAN HEADWATERS BY THE NUMBERS 2019 Our region, about us, and our impact
counties
municipalities 1959 38 3 year incorporated the watershed is 1,404 miles of stream 470 sq miles 1.8 MILLION+ people depend on the water we protect
RARITAN HEADWATERS RHABY THE BY NUMBER THES NUMBERS stream sites are being monitored by 33 10 conservation preserves 2019 74 154 citizen scientists easements Our region, about us, and our impact (855 acres) (445 acres)
counties
municipalities 1959 38 3 year incorporated 2,200 the watershed is 3,800 volunteers making a difference trees planted miles of stream volunteer 1,404 470 sq miles 9,743 hours 15,227 18 1.8 MILLION+ tons of trash young people educated at people depend on the water we protect cleaned up at 45 stream sites camps, school and family programs by 1,745 volunteers
stream sites are being monitored by 33 10 5,7005 80% 385 watershed residents conservation preserves elected officials informemed 74 154 citizen scientists easements well tests rely on groundwater (855 acres) (445 acres)
2,200 Raritan Headwaters collects metrics all year round 3,800 volunteers making a difference so we can track our impact on the health of our trees planted volunteer “ 9,743 hours watershed and the communities we serve.” what—Blake Putnam, we’ve Director accomplished.” of Development 15,227 18 tons of trash young people educated at cleaned up at 45 stream sites camps, school and family programs by 1,745 volunteers 5,7005 80% 385 watershed residents elected officials informemed well tests rely on groundwater RARITAN HEADWATERS ASSOCIATION • Individuals YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2019 • Local Government • Interest Income • Foundations ACTUAL • Events INCOME • Corportations • Programs Individuals $1,115,054 Foundations $169,729 Corporations $38,938 Local Government Support $25,706 Events $177,987 Programs $273,508 Interest Income $20,124 • Program Services TOTAL INCOME $1,821,046 • Management and General EXPENSES • Fundraising Program Services $1,324,471 Management and General $159,978 Fundraising $336,597 TOTAL EXPENSES $1,821,046
—Blake Putnam, Director of Development Thank you to each of our generous supporters
25,000 and up Henry Patterson Deborah Callard 500 to 999 Stewart and Barbara Brunhouse Hilary Prouty Kathleen Campbell Frank and Janet Allocca Joseph and Jennifer Duke Maudie Shanley Charles and Jeanie Chapin Robert and Pamela Becker Robert Graff Estate Christopher and Mary Christie Joel and Barbara Bickell Gates and Mary Ellen Hawn 2,500 to 4,999 Sally Chubb James and Joan Brady Peter and Cynthia Kellogg Candace Ashmun Dexter and Carol Earle George and Patricia Cassa George and Adele Merck Julia Bishop Christopher Emmet Christina Chrobokowa Josephine Merck William and Karen Bruett Rilda Hone Neil Cuthbert and Wende Dasteel Judy and Andrew Tucker Thomas and Lauren Diemar Gretchen Jaeckle Mark and Lucy Engebretson Michael and Stephanie Glickman Ralph and Lynn Jones James Petty and Heather Gracie 10,000 to 24,999 Janice Haggerty Hon. Thomas Kean Russell and Deborah Hawkins Anonymous Kenneth and Lee Klipstein Robert and Kate Kean David Herbst Geoffrey Connor Dan and Gail Kopp Michael and Sandra Keegan William and Sally Hespe Dewey Family Joseph Metelski Paul and Anne Krump Robert and Diane Holtaway Molly Ellsworth Andrew and Kathryn Platt John and Ann Loughlin Pamela Hull Kirk Kellogg Charles and Teresa Reid Daniel and Robin Mathews J. Edward Jaeckle Daniel and Michele Logan Alan and Barbara Rennie Francis McAdoo Patrick and Jessica Keeley Gregory and Susan Palm Kathryn Serebrakian Peggy McDonnell Elysabeth Kleinhans John and Maja Parker Deborah Sole John and Patty Muchmore Stephanie Koven Ferrill and Belinda Roll Carol Tiffany Sassona Norton Louis and Betsy Matlack Elizabeth Wilkes Thomas and Linda Vollers Elizabeth Plum Dennis and Beth McConnell Harry and Joannah Wilmerding Stephen and Ann West Kevin and Anita Shearan William Meier Henry and Sarah Slack S. Clarke and Betsy Moody 5,000 to 9,999 1,000 TO 2,499 Patricia Stover Robert Morris Philip and Betsy Allen Anonymous James and Beverly Thomson Wayne Paglieri B. Danforth and Deborah Ely George and Grania Allport John and Kathi Thonet Robert and Stephanie Pangia Joseph and Janet Harvey Robert and Julie Aronson Susanne Tilney-Peyton Louis and Teri Pianconne Dallas and Lesley Hetherington Partha Bagchi Joe Urbani Andrew and Cynthia Richards Prudence Hostetter Nancy Bassett Erik and Megan Young W. Ryan and Dianne Rodman Skip Jonas and Tricia Deering John Belle and Amy Greene George and Margaret Schaberg Thank you to each of our generous supporters
Philip and Stacy Skalski Alphonse and Bernie Briand Yves and Adele Dujardin Paulette Frank Richard and Chris Smith Jessie Browne Roger Edwards Gregg and Jean Frankel Jesenia Todd Peter and Caroline Browne Donald Eigenbauer Timothy and Terri Fraser Alan and Chris Willemsen Hank Brucker Oliver and Karen Elbert Robert and Sherry Frawley Michele Byers Kimberly Elkins Wilma Frey 100 to 499 Bob Carina Susan Ely Oscar and Antonina Furfaro Irwin and Loretta Abramson Cara Casciari James Engel Russell Furnari Justin and Samara Alboum Finn and Emily Caspersen Robert and Theodora Falcone Peter and Mary Ganzenmuller John Andrews and Elizabeth Lambert Catherine Cavanaugh William and Marge Fales Frederick and Gael Gardner Elizabeth Ansley Maria Cirillo Eugene and Mary Fazzini Whitney and Nancy Garlinghouse George and Nina Arnett C. D. and Tracey Clarke Randolph and Elizabeth Floyd James and Jill Gibson William and Tressa Baird Michael and Hilary Clayton Robert and Helen Ford Jonathan Gottscho Richard and Barbara Balak Geoffrey and Deborah Close Betty Fort Nick Gottscho Steve Bales Scott and Patty Clucas Sandra Ballentine Cort and Isabel Corbin Peggy Barbella Richard Cotter Richard and Wendy Barfuss Harden and Ailsa Crawford Nancy Baron Raymond Croot James and Patti Bellis Scott Daal and Tracy Cruise We are grateful to our members Barbara Bemelmans John and Margo Dana and donors whose support Noelle Berg Cara David “ Kenneth and Renate Bernard Debra Davis provides essential funding for Scott and Tracey Biedron Matthew Davis each of our programs—science, Kristina Binder John de Neufville Peter Birnbaum Katherine Deans education, advocacy, land Eugenia Bishop Michael and Marilyn Dee preservation and stewardship.” Lynn Blagden Sidney Dillon —Stew Brunhouse, Board of Trustees President Gary and Kara Bossert Nancy DiRienzo Georges and Marion Boyer Wood Huntley and Beirne Donaldson Justin and Cristine Boyer Robert and Juliana Drinane Stephen and Andrea Foster Alice Grebanier Thank you to each of our generous supporters
William and Joanne Grodkiewicz Thomas and Ahni Kruger Arden and Sydne Miller James and Susan Putman Alan Harwick David Kubler Virginia Moraweck Sumner and Blake Putnam Philip and Kerry Haselton Tomas LaCosta Timothy and Mina Moyer Sumner and Jane Putnam Peter Haugk Margaret Laffey Frederick Mueller Harold Quinn James Heck Chris Larkey Thomas and Tina Mulhare Joseph Race James and Sharon Hill Erik Larsen Francis Nelson Edward and Jean Rachofsky John and Ann Holt Gus and Nancy Larson Tom Nice Marianne Rampulla Keith Hone Brian and Meredith Lehman Harry and Myrtle Nissen Wendy Rodrigues James Hooper Benjamin Lennon Paul and Catherine Norbury Nick Romanenko and Debbie Goodsite Emily Houghton John and Janet Leonardi David Nothnagel Duncan and Juliette Rose Beth Hunton Robert and Karen Lewis Scott Noyes Laurence and Amelia Ross Hugh Hyde Agnes Louria Christopher Obropta Stephen and Sandy Roth Robert and Maryann Isham Gordon MacArthur James and Jane Oelkers Sarah Rowland Eric and Melanie Jacob Susie Mackay Joseph and Christine Olivo Louis Ruprecht Lawrence and Milena Jacobs John and Carol Magadini Millicent and Langdon Palmer Peter and Catarina Sandin Julia Jitkoff Guy and Mary Malaby Patrick and Susan Palmer Cynthia Schaefer Alison Johnson Kelly Martin Aria Pardilla Joseph and Mary Schwenkler Dan Crisci and Virginia Johnston Gregory and Janet Mas Jackie Parrinello and Ed Kolibas Carl Segal Eric Jung Paul and Amy Matinho Josephine Patti Bruce and Karen Seidmon Richard and Olga Kallok Mary Mauro Larry Perez George Shechtman and Nancy Hicks Pete and Eileen Keeler Wayne Nordberg and Janet Mavec Sage Perreault Allison Sigmund Steve and Jane Kimmel Mark Mazzatta Nicholas Platt and Lucy Shurtleff Sandra Simpson Matthew Kinnaird Colleen Mazzei J. Pollock and Barbara Woodhull Michael and Andraya Simpson Steve Kinsey and Sama Habibi Sharon McCann Christopher Porter Vijay and Meera Singh Peter and Evelyn Kissel Daniel McNabola David and Joan Powell Cathy Sipe Dennis Kluesener Terry and Leila McSweeney Claire and Eugene Preston Michael and Anne Smith Joyce Koch Clive and Cynthia Meanwell Chuck and Irene Preston John and Sarah Soden Kathryn Koch Shelby Mellick David and Nancy Price Mark and Sharon Sperber Sreeni Kota William and Annie Mesnard Jolynn Proctor Tracey Spriggs Henry Kreuter Susan Miller David Prugh Jane Steele Thank you to each of our generous supporters
George and Sheila Stephenson Bruce and Elizabeth Winter Charles Boschen Nolan Convery Penelope Strakhov Robert and Nancy Wintz Flo Boucher Carol Cummins Alan and Susan Stultz Johanna Wissinger Catherine Boyer Nancy Cunningham Eliza Sutte Ralph Wojtech Mike Brander J. Robert and Sara Cusimano Thompson and Susie Swayne Richard and Kathleen Wolfe Erin Brennan Richard Czop Mary Taggart Harry and Pat Woske Laurie Broderick Charles Dahms Christopher and Maureen Tauber Leo Wypych Dakota Brosseau Mimi Daly Michael and Kira Theesfeld David Yates Tricia and Edward Brown Elizabeth Dancer Walter Thomson Ted and Shannon Zeller William and Margaret Browne Charles and Noreen Daniel Vikas Tipnis George Budd Despina Danos Webster and Barbara Todd Up to 100 Heather Cahill Greg Davidson Jeffrey and Hally Toia Mary Ace Joseph and Loretta Calvet Nick Dawes John and Jill Turpin Thelma Achenbach Michael and Lisa Canale Lawrence and Carole Day Margery Turpin Wendy Allison John and Johanna Canary Gary Dean Justin and Veronica Ucko Joseph and Gloria Amari Glenn and Susan Carasoni Mario and Barbara DeFelice Louis Urban Mark and Gail Andrews Timothy Carley Terri and Greg DeMartin Roy and Diana Vagelos Myla Aronson Rebecca and Thomas Casey Anthony DiPasquale A. Markus and Anne van den Bergh Joseph and Kathy Arvay Maureen Chatfield Richard and Rosina Dixon Curtis and Cissy Viebranz Fred and Doris Aufschlager Robert Cherry James and Theresa Dixon Peter and Alison Villa Robert and Rosalie Baker Holly Chmil Sarah Dougan Nick and Marta Villa Kirby Baldwin Raymond Ciani Amalia Duarte John Violette Mia Baldwin Michael Citarelli Carol Durso Patricia Vogt Frank and Diane Banisch John Cleary Elsie Ehmann Tim Mulder and Linda Walker Geno Bataild Donald and Diane Close Lacey Elberg James and Betsy Walton Jennifer Becker Matthew Coffey Fenton Elmendorf Larry Wehr Robert Benz and Margaret Stephens Chris and Susan Collins Thomas and Betty Eng Peter Wester Daniel and Sheldia Bernstein Peggy Colucci Susan Eryan Hon. Christine Whitman Lee and Karen Bishop Dennis Concannon Diana Evans Suzanne Wilder and Joseph Dante Anne Booth Joan Contess John and Nancy Fearing Edith Williams Albert and Carolyn Booth Erika Convery Susanna Fitzgerald Thank you to each of our generous supporters
John Foran Georgia Holman John Saponara and Susan Paul and Donna Morris Matthew Frederick Sheila Holmes Lang-Saponara Lauren Morse Courtney Freeman Eileen Hopton Sharleen Leahey Jon and Kate Mortenson Donna Gabelmann Winchester Hotchkiss Jake Lewandowski Allison Murray Liz Gardiner Janet Howard Gary Lichtensteiger John Nadla Nancy Garrett Darren and Carla Hugo Paul Lucente Tim and Marie Newell Carol Gillick Patrick Immersi Heather MacDonald Susan Nicolich George Ginda Margarita Iosiphakis Warren Schumacher and Shirley Anita Nielsen Steve Girgus Nichole Jacquish MacLean Danielle Odom Mark Goggin Ed and Susan Jankiewicz Gavin and Kelly Macomber David and Patricia Olsen Nicole Goia Ken Johnson Gene and Missy Madden Mary O’Mealia Jennifer Goldschmidt Eric Kachorsky Jon and Casey Mahoney Laura Orbine Andrew and Brooke Goode Michael and Kathleen Katz Kevin Mahoney Sharon Orlando Larry Goodman Sheldon Kay Phillip Mandel Joseph and Kathe Palka Paul Gordon Garry Kenny Karen Marty Catherine Pane Hugh Gordon John and Emily Kershules Fred Mattrey Emma Parkinson Scott Griffin and Bethlyn Krakauer Nancy Kibler George and Marcia Maull Gregory and Karen Pasquale Robert Groff Bill and Susan Kibler Michael Mazepa Dennis Patch Ruhyak Gupta James Kirkaldy C.J. McAndrew Michael Santoro and Maureen Paterno Dale Haberle Eugene and Eileen Klauser Laura McAuliffe George and Anne Peterson Jeffery and Patty Haines Neil and Virlea Klingenburg Cristin McDermott George and Rosemary Pfreundschuh Mervyn and Eleanor Haines John and Beverly Klotz Valerie McEntee Stewart Pravda and Cathy Monblatt Jeffrey Hammond Jane Knight Peggy McFarland Rowena Pullan Charles and Nancy Hance Jessica Koster Ed McGee William and Sharon Rauschenberger William Harris W. Brace and Kristen Krag Andrea McGee Dennis Regenye Edward Haversang David Kristopovich Joan Millspaugh Jens Riedel Steven and Virginia Heller Arnold Kushnick Kevin Minogue Christina Rilke Peter and Beth Hersh James and Brigid Lamb Kieran and Sandra Moninghoff Luis Rivera Kurt and Karen Hilde Vince Lambrecht Robert and Susan More Jorge Rosas and Alicia Pelaez Christopher and Jennifer Holahan Leslie Mork-Geist Margaret Rubano Thank you to each of our generous supporters
Shelley Ryan Gene and Aimeebertha Stull Jerome and Marianne Saladino Amy Suchanek , Robert and Tanya Sameth Edwin and Carol Sumner Remembering Candy Ashmun Randy and Janet Santoro Florence Szymanski New Jersey lost one of its staunch- Brooke Sauder Paul and Marie Taluba Lisa Saunders Robert Taylor est environmental advocates, and Milena Schaefer Adrea Tejada Raritan Headwaters lost a beloved Annette Schettino Anita Thomas trustee and friend when Candace Edward Schinarszbach Andrea Tyson McKee Ashmun passed away on May 23, 2020 at the age of 96. Todd Schoeps Anne Van Druff Brian Schorr Rogier van Helmond and Josephine Tsai Candy was a force of nature— one George Schultheis Alain and Claudia Van Loo of the most intelligent and accom- Reinhard and Helga Schwartz Matthew and Maria VanKirk plished women ever known, and Michael Sebetich Carey Vineis also one of the kindest and most Patricia Segal Gilbert Wald and Shealagh Gannon Candace McKee Ashmun nurturing. Andrew and Judith Serbinski Peter Lacoux and Mai Watts 1924-2020 Jerome and Maria Setzer Hedley and Barbara Weeks New Jersey and the upper Thomas Shea Tim Weiler Raritan River watershed are better places for having Candy as their Rajesuwer Singaravelu Lori Weinstein and John Ackerman defender for over 60 years. Paul Singlevich Ken Wendel David Skolnik Gretchen Wilcox RHA’s archives are full of Candy’s contributions as a water quality Thomas and Glenda Smillie Stephen Williams researcher and trustee. She was a catalyst for using scientific George and Amy Snider Ian Witt data to win environmental battles, for making the connection Mandar Soman Glenn and Susan Wolfe between land use and water quality, and for taking a regional Daniel and Julia Somers Christine Zamarra approach to watershed protection. She participated in our early Sara Sorenson Joseph and Lois Zarish battles and helped create our association’s and the state’s first Kathryn Spann and Kevin Rudolph Brian and Elana Zucker Natural Resource Inventory. William and Joan Stokes Thank you, Candy. Don Strickland Dave Stryker Thank you to each of our generous supporters
FOUNDATION SUPPORT CORPORATE PARTNERS & Brent Material Company Oldwick Animal Hospital Bassett Foundation SPONSORS Carroll Engineering Corporation PARS Environmental, Inc. E.J. Grassman Trust A.M. Best Company, Inc. Coach Stop Saddlery LLC Peapack-Gladstone Bank Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation AmazonSmile CocoLuxe Fine Pastries PK Environmental J.P. Morgan Chase Foundation Becton Dickinson College Hunks Hauling Prestige Environmental, Inc. Johanette Wallerstein Institute Chubb Junk-Central NJ Princetonian Graphics, Inc. L’Aiglon Foundation Dyson, Inc. Day Pitney LLP ProCare Rehabilitation, LLC M. Edward Morris Foundation, Inc. FirstEnergy Foundation Dean’s Natural Food Market Raritan Associates Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Goldman Sachs Dogwood Farms Richard Grubb & Associates, Inc. Stover Foundation Inc. Investors Bank Dr. Fuhrman Online, Inc. Rider Education of New Jersey The 1772 Foundation, Inc. Johnson & Johnson East Coast Associates Rider Insurance The Acorn Foundation NJ Water Supply Authority Flemington Auto Body RJR Solutions The Charles & Lucille King Family Prudential Financial, Inc. Flemington Chiropractic Center Robert L. Lapinski, D.M.D., P.C. Foundation PSEG Foundation Flemington Foreign Car Rollin Fast Cycle Sports/ The Frederick H. Gillmore Fund Royal Bank of Canada Frey Engineering, LLC Victory Motorcycles The Hyde and Watson Foundation USGA Garden State Laboratories, Inc. Simple Coffee The James C. Brady Foundation Wakefern Food Corp./ Gladstone Masonry & Stoneworks Somerset Grain & Feed The Koven Foundation ShopRite Stores Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. The Bernards Inn The Leavens Foundation Grotto Engineering Associates LLC The Doggett Corporation The Merrill G. & Emita E. Hastings ORGANIZATION & BUSINESS Hibernate Bedding LLC The Stable, LTD Foundation SUPPORTERS Hoffmans Supply, Inc. Thomas F. DiBianca, Esq. The Tyler Foundation Alpine Business Systems. Inc. James M. Wood Turpin Real Estate Union Foundation Amy S. Greene Environmental Jon Fellgraff Architect Van Doren Oil Co. Victoria Foundation, Inc. Consultants, Inc. Kienlen Lattmann Sotheby’s VS Land Data Water Resources Institute Arora and Associates, P.C. International Realty WilkinGuttenplan Wells Family Foundation, Inc. Basil Bandwagon Natural Market, LLC MRC/Game Time Bayshore Recycling Corp Normandy Real Estate Partners Black River Roasters Norris McLaughlin, P.A. O’Mealia Special Events Thank you to each of our generous supporters
LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNERS MATCHING GIFTS Hilary Clayton Patrick and Jessica Keeley Alexandria Township AT&T Scott Clucas Ken and Leslie Klipstein Bedminster Township Becton Dickinson College Hunks Hauling Junk-Central NJ Dennis and Beth McConnell Branchburg Township Chubb Richard Cotter Shelby Melick Califon Borough East Coast Associates Wende Dasteel Metropolitan Seafood Chester Borough Johnson & Johnson Matching Gifts Nick Dawes Catherine and Paul Norbury Chester Township Program Dean’s Natural Food Market Day Pitney LLC Delaware Township Prudential Financial, Inc. Mark Drabich Andrew Platt Far Hills Borough Verizon Foundation Louis Farrelly Stacey Rogers Flemington Borough J. C. Giordano Benjamin Schumeg High Bridge Borough GIFTS WERE RECEIVED IN Stephanie Glickman Simple Coffee Kingwood Township HONOR AND IN MEMORY OF Julia Goetz Richard and Chris Smith Mendham Borough OUR FRIENDS Hoffmans Supply, Inc. Somerset Grain & Feed Mendham Township Robert D. Graff Gretchen Jaeckle Ted Zeller Raritan Borough Wayne T. Hally J. E. Jaeckle Raritan Township Lia Jacobs Readington Township Peter S. Rohowsky Roxbury Township Philip Skalski TAKE A HIKE AND CHARGE YOUR CAR! Township of Bethlehem Union Township IN-KIND Thanks to a generous donor and a grant County of Hunterdon Thank you to the following donors and from the New Jersey Department of Morris County Municipal Utilities friends who graciously donated their Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Authority time, talent and treasures to benefit electric car owners are in luck!! Raritan Raritan Twp. Municipal Utilities and support RHA. Headwaters now has a dual-port electric Authority John Belle vehicle charging station at its Fairview Somerset County Solid Waste The Bernards Inn Management Bernie Briand Farm headquarters, meaning electric car BEX Eatry owners can now take a hike and enjoy nature while charging up. Raritan Headwaters Association
BOARD OF TRUSTEES STAFF Stew Brunhouse, President Cindy Ehrenclou, Executive Director Geoff Connor, 1st Vice President Debra Dolan, Director of Operations John Parker, 2nd Vice President Bill Kibler, Director of Policy Chad Reid, Secretary Kristi MacDonald, PhD, Jessica Keeley, Treasurer Director of Science Members Blake Putnam, Director of Development George Cassa Lauren Theis, Director of Education Kerry Haselton Maria Berezin, Watershed Scientist Dallas Hetherington Rebekah Buczynski, Stewardship Gretchen Jaeckle Linda Donnelly, Dev Database Robert Morris Deborah Hawkins, Program Admin Henry Patterson Beth McConnell, Dev Consultant Andrew Platt Trish McGuire, Volunteer and Hilary Prouty Outreach Program Manager Kevin Shearan Shealynn O’Toole, Americorps Sarah Soden Sandy Perry, Press/Media Coordinator Richard Smith Melissa Mitchell Thomas, GIS/IT Carol Tiffany Mara Tippett, Watershed Scientist Curt Viebranz Cole Williamson, Property Manager Elizabeth Wilkes
In Memoriam 2019 We lost three past trustees and longtime friends Ann West, Robert Graff and Kay Serebrakian. Their legacies will live on in our work to protect the watershed. Raritan Headwaters Association GET YOUR FEET WET
The COVID-19 outbreak derailed plans for a full schedule of RHA “Get Your Feet Wet” outdoor experiences—river paddles, hikes, family events and educational workshops.
But you can still stay connected with Raritan Headwaters! • Come to Fairview Farm and enjoy a hike on our trails, a stroll through our Bird and Butterfly Garden, or catch-and-release fishing in our pond.
• Learn remotely! Visit our website at www.raritanheadwaters.org/2020/05/22/river-friendly-webinar- recordings/ to view recorded webinars on organic lawn care, invasive species, protecting your groundwater and more!
• Engage your kids in nature! Check out our online Resource Hub at www.raritanheadwaters.org/education/learningresources/ for dozens of ideas for projects, crafts, backyard explorationsGET and YOUR FEET WET 2020 PROGRAMS learning opportunities.
HEADQUARTERS Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve 2121 Larger Cross Road Gladstone Low-key programs designed to get you outside and enjoying raritanheadwaters.org | [email protected] the watershed! You can find 908-234-1852 the complete list of events and registration information at
The Raritan Headwaters Association is a 501(c)(3) raritanheadwaters.org/calendar non-profit, member-supported conservation organization. Raritan Headwaters Association Post Office Box 273 Gladstone, NJ 07934 raritanheadwaters.org 908.234.1852
RHA’s mission is to protect water in our rivers, our streams, and our homes. Our vision is that everyone within our reach has access to safe, clean water that is swimmable, fishable, and above all, drinkable.
Front Cover Photo: Dallas Hetherington