2014 Annual Report

New Jersey Meadowlands Commission 45 Years of Service to the Meadowlands Region AGENCY OVERVIEW

The New Jersey Meadowlands Commission (NJMC) is Today the Meadowlands District boasts a completely different take NJMC pontoon boat and canoe tours of the Hackensack the planning and zoning authority for the 30.4-square- landscape, both economically and environmentally. Over the River, walk nature trails in District parks, participate in guided mile Meadowlands District, which consists of portions of 14 past four decades, the NJMC has built a thriving economic bird walks, and attend special nature-themed events. municipalities in Bergen and Hudson counties. The District engine in the District and brought about an extraordinary municipalities in Bergen County are Carlstadt, East Rutherford, environmental revival. Through its Meadowlands Environment Center, the Commission Little Ferry, Lyndhurst, Moonachie, North Arlington, Ridgefield, provides environmental science programs to schoolchildren Rutherford, South Hackensack and Teterboro. Hudson County By closing landfills and planning for appropriate growth, the through a contract with Ramapo college. The NJMC also municipalities are Jersey City, Kearny, North Bergen and Commission has attracted billions of dollars in economic offers nature education programs for the general public. Both Secaucus. development while being sensitive to environmentally important initiatives help to raise awareness of the critical importance of wetlands. Today, the Commission continues to promote environmental protection and stewardship in the Meadowlands The NJMC was created by an Act of the State Legislature in economic growth, development and investment in the region District and beyond. 1968 (N.J.S.A. 13:17-1 et seq) and tasked with a three-fold through its redevelopment plans that turn underutilized and mandate: to provide for orderly development of the region, to abandoned properties into thriving homes for industry. Thanks to its hard work, the NJMC has proven that economic provide facilities for the sanitary disposal of solid waste and to growth and environmental preservation are not mutually protect the delicate balance of nature. Simultaneously, the Commission has preserved thousands of exclusive. Moving forward, the NJMC stands committed acres of wetlands and conducted scientific research that has to building upon its solid foundation of success to ensure At the time of its creation, the Meadowlands District was defined helped improve air, soil and water quality. The NJMC’s work a prosperous economic and environmental future for the by dozens of orphaned landfills that were the site of rampant in cleaning up the Hackensack River estuary has fostered a Meadowlands District. illegal dumping. The Hackensack River, which runs throughout significant rebound in the region’s wildlife. The NJMC’s efforts the District, was so polluted that even barnacles, among the have also made the Meadowlands District a premier ecotourism hardiest of invertebrates, could not survive. destination. Thousands of people visit the area each year to

Carlstadt • East Rutherford • Jersey City • Kearny • Little Ferry • Lyndhurst • Moonachie • North Arlington • North Bergen • Ridgefield • Rutherford • Secaucus • South Hackensack • Teterboro Table of Contents MESSAGE FROM During 2014 the New Jersey has upgraded 107 signals THE CHAIRMAN Meadowlands Commission overall. The fifth and final Agency Overview ...... 2 (NJMC) continued its phase of the project, which commitment to fostering includes updating 21 signals, Message from the Chairman ...... 3 economic growth in the is expected to be completed Meadowlands District while at in 2015. Board of Commissioners ...... 5 the same time protecting the area’s critical natural resources. NJMC staff continued in Message from the Executive Director ...... 6 I commend the NJMC for 2014 to carry out important its hard work that has made scientific research on the Executive Team ...... 7 the Meadowlands region an District’s wildlife and natural economic and environmental resources. Ongoing studies Economic Growth ...... 8 success. examining fish species and Diamondback Terrapins in Landfill Management ...... 12 Over the past year several the region’s waterways will Richard E. constable, III businesses made the wise help the Commission gauge Floodplain Management ...... 13 Commissioner, NJ Department of Community Affairs decision to move to the the health of the Hackensack Chairman, NJ Meadowlands Commission Meadowlands District from River and its surrounding Transportation ...... 14 wetlands. Manhattan and other locations. Municipal GIS Mapping Assistance ...... 16 These companies know that The NJMC fostered the the Meadowlands is an ideal Meadowlands Research ...... 18 location to do business given importance of environmental stewardship in young people its close proximity to New Education ...... 21 York City and major roadways, through its educational airports, rail lines, and seaports. programs. More than 15,000 Parks ...... 22 Businesses also have the students participated in support of the NJMC. The the NJMC’s Meadowlands Ecotourism ...... 24 Commission is a customer- Environment Center school service oriented agency that programs during the 2013- Public Programs and Community Education ...... 26 promotes a business-friendly 14 school year. Classes climate by offering staff cover a wide array of Intermunicipal Tax Sharing ...... 28 assistance at no charge to scientific disciplines including companies and developers ecology, chemistry, biology, Financial Report ...... 29 as they move through the physics, natural history and development application astronomy. process. These are just a few The Commission also made of the NJMC’s many great strides to fully implement accomplishments in its innovative Meadowlands 2014. The Commission’s Adaptive Signal System for outstanding record of Traffic Reduction project achievement continues (MASSTR). This program to be the result of the benefits both commerce and vision of the NJMC Board the environment by modernizing of Commissioners and 128 traffic signals to reduce the tireless efforts of our traffic delays, congestion and dedicated professional staff. air pollution. In 2014, the The Commission looks NJMC completed work on 33 forward to continuing to signalized intersections and position the Meadowlands District as an economic driver and environmental jewel.

Bernard M. Nangle maintaining its facility in 2001-2003. The previous Secaucus. In addition, studies showed a large Deputy Executive Director technology company increase in the abundance CEO, Meadowlands Conservation Trust FolioDynamix relocated of certain species in the Christine Sanz, Esq. to the region while river, indicating that efforts Chief Operating Officer / Chief Counsel Major League Baseball to clean the Hackensack significantly expanded its have been successful. e dward h. bulmer existing office space in The NJMC is hopeful Acting Director of Finance / CFO Secaucus. that the current research Accounting and Finance will continue this positive Purchasing In July 2014, the trend and help deepen our General Services Commission unveiled understanding of the health Escrow Operations the new West Riser Tide of the Hackensack River Municipal Shared Services Richard E. cONSTABLE, III J ames V. Bocchino Albert E. CAMERON, Jr. M auro DeGennaro Marcia A. Karrow Gate near Moonachie. watershed. A DAM LEVY, Esq. The state-of-the-art Commissioner, Commissioner Commissioner Commissioner Executive Director, Director of Legal Affairs / Chief of Renewable New Jersey Department structure replaced an In September, visitors to Energy Project Development New Jersey Meadowlands aging tide gate and DeKorte Park, the home of of Community Affairs Commission Legal Services Chairman, will help better protect the NJMC, were thrilled to Renewable Energy New Jersey Meadowlands residential, industrial and see the Marsh Discovery Commission I am pleased to Sara Sundell, P.E., P.P. present the New commercial properties Trail reopened. The half- in Moonachie, Carlstadt, mile boardwalk loop that Director of Land Use Management Jersey Meadowlands Chief Engineer Commission’s (NJMC) and Teterboro, including extends over the park’s Teterboro Airport, from marshes is DeKorte’s Site Plan Review 2014 Annual Report, Planning which details the agency’s daily tidal flooding from most popular trail and a the Hackensack River. great place to enjoy the Transportation many accomplishments Construction Code Meadowlands’ stunning over the past 12 months Over the past year, NJMC Plan Review/UCC Code Enforcement in areas including natural beauty and abundant scientists also began wildlife. The trail had been Thomas Marturano, P.E., P.P. economic growth and studying obstacles to damaged during Superstorm Director of Solid Waste and Natural Resources development, and improving wetland sites environmental protection. Sandy in 2012 and Landfill Operations in the District. The data Hurricane Irene in 2011. Enforcement The past year serves as collected in this wetlands Parks and Open Space a great example of how impediment study will The NJMC has been Stormwater help the Commission an ardent champion Wetlands / Natural Resources Robert J. DOWD Jay C. Nadel Thomas Quirico the Commission’s hard work promoting economic better manage the for establishing and Facility Maintenance Commissioner Commissioner, Vice Chair Commissioner, Treasurer growth while protecting critical marshes that growing a prosperous Francisco Artigas, Ph.D have helped to improve home for business in the the environment has Director of Meadowlands Environmental paid great dividends. As water quality in the Meadowlands District Hackensack River. The while being sensitive to its Research Institute (MERI) detailed in this report, GIS Programs major corporations research is funded by a environmentally important Laboratory created new facilities federal grant. In addition, wetlands and waterways. Library and expanded within and Commission naturalists The Commission’s actions Environmental Data Monitoring relocated to the District, in 2014 finished the in 2014 reflect the NJMC’s Information Technologies second year of a three- dedication to supporting this taking advantage of the BEVERLY SCHMIDT area’s many attributes that year fishery inventory of vibrant region as a great Director of Human Resources provide a solid foundation the lower Hackensack place to grow a business River. The fish count will and a raise a family. Chief Compliance Officer for economic success. Human Resources Goya Foods in 2014 compare the diversity of species and number of Ethics prepared to open a new Compliance 634,000-square-foot specimens collected to headquarters/distribution previous inventories taken center in the District during 1987-1988 and in Jersey City while

Carlstadt • East Rutherford • Jersey City • Kearny • Little Ferry • Lyndhurst • Moonachie • North Arlington • North Bergen • Ridgefield • Rutherford • Secaucus • South Hackensack • Teterboro ECONOMIC GROWTH In 2014, the NJMC’s ongoing commitment Many companies in 2014 moved to promoting economic growth, development to the Meadowlands District from and investment in the Meadowlands District other areas, realizing that the continued to produce great results. Over the region’s many unique attributes past 12 months, major corporations began best suit their business needs. construction or neared completion of projects DermaRite, which makes skin care on Meadowlands District properties and products, relocated its warehouse redevelopment areas. In addition, several and manufacturing operations from companies relocated to or expanded within Paterson to a 133,000-square-foot the District, taking advantage of its ideal location in North Bergen. location. The Meadowlands District lies within one of the nation’s busiest economic Christie Lites Enterprises, which corridors, with close proximity to New York provides theatrical and event City and major roadways, airports, rail lines lighting, moved across the Hudson and seaports. The Commission also made River to East Rutherford, while amendments to two of its redevelopment technology company FolioDynamix plans to expand the potential for economic also said goodbye to New York growth at each site. City and hello to Secaucus. FolioDynamix occupies space in the The Commission prides itself on being same office building with the Star- a customer service-oriented agency and Ledger newspaper, which in 2014 promotes a business-friendly atmosphere relocated parts of its operations from by offering staff assistance at no charge Newark. to businesses as they move throughout the development application process. In 2014, the NJMC’s Land Use Management Department (LUM) received 707 building and zoning applications. LUM has received an average of 757 applications over the past five years and closed 560 applications Redevelopment in 2014. There are 1,585 pending Work also progressed steadily at the applications. 54-acre Teterboro/Industrial Avenue In a significant move toward large-scale future economic development in Redevelopment Area located adjacent to Business Growth the Meadowlands District, the NJMC in May put a majority of the Kingsland Teterboro Airport. Walmart and Costco Redevelopment Area out to bid. The Commission accepted bid submissions in are confirmed tenants for the property Goya Foods is a recent example of the October and was evaluating proposals at the end of 2014. and Walmart began construction in 2014 robust economic growth taking place in the on a 159,311-square-foot retail store Meadowlands District. Goya will soon open There are a number of permitted commercial and industrial uses for the 718-acre that is scheduled to open in 2015. In its new 634,000-square-foot headquarters/ property, which straddles Lyndhurst, Rutherford, North Arlington and Kearny. These December, a development within the distribution center in Jersey City. The include warehouses and distribution centers, data centers, light industry, hotels, Kearny Redevelopment Area on Harrison company is also building an adjacent wholesale businesses and recreational facilities. The Kingsland Redevelopment Plan Avenue was completed. The tenants, 12,000-square-foot truck maintenance does not permit any housing on the site. Sally’s Beauty Supply, Verizon Wireless, facility that is set to be completed in 2015. Game Stop, GNC and Buy Rite Liquors, Goya is maintaining its 240,000-square- are all open for business. foot facility in Secaucus, also located within the District. The District is also pleased to The NJMC also in 2014 adopted welcome Ferguson Industries, the country’s amendments to both the Highland Cross largest plumbing supply distributor, which is Redevelopment Plan (Rutherford) and preparing to move into the newly-renovated the Kearny Area Redevelopment Plan. warehouse space located at the site of Amendments to the 30-acre, mixed-use the former Panasonic headquarters in Highland Cross Redevelopment Area Secaucus. include the expansion of permitted uses to include retail establishments, multi- The Major League Baseball Network, family and town home dwellings, personal which occupies 149,000 square feet of an services and health centers. Previously office building in Secaucus, is growing its permitted uses include office space and operation by expanding into 136,000 square hotels. The amendment to the Kearny feet in an adjacent building. The network Area Redevelopment Plan allows offices, is scheduled to be up and running in its truck repair facilities and billboards, additional space by mid-2015. among additional new permitted uses, within portions of the 445-acre area.

9 9 Residential Sustainability Development Incentives

In East Rutherford, the 316-unit The NJMC promotes the Monarch development located use of renewable energy within the NJMC’s Route 3 and other energy efficiency East Redevelopment Area was measures by offering completed. Also last year, two incentives to companies rental complexes were built in and developers whose Lyndhurst: the 296-unit Vermella projects include aspects on Orient Avenue and the 192-unit of sustainable building Station at Lyndhurst on Chubb practices, such as solar Avenue. power, recycled materials Green Restaurant and energy-efficient Initiative heating and lighting systems. Benefits include With the assistance of the NJMC’s reduced fees for zoning Green Restaurant Initiative, Terre certificate and plan review à Terre in Carlstadt became the applications as well as first Meadowlands area eatery to priority reviews. To date, be named a Green Restaurant approved solar installations Association Certified Green within the District will Restaurant.® The NJMC Green generate approximately 33 Restaurant Initiative is funded by megawatts of renewable a federal grant and administered energy upon completion of by the Commission in partnership construction. with the national Green Restaurant In addition, the NJMC Association (GRA). The program has a 120 kilowatt solar educates restaurateurs through carport canopy that covers free workshops, training and part of the Commission’s environmental audits about administration building strategies to green their parking lot. In 2014, the businesses. These measures, 504 solar panels provided which can cut operating approximately 20 percent of costs along with helping the the electricity needs of the environment, include conserving facility. The adjacent NJMC water, upgrading HVAC systems, Center for Environmental and switching to energy-efficient and Scientific Education cooking, cleaning and holding includes 165 rooftop solar units. panels. More than 200 food The Commission also establishments have made sponsored the creation sustainability related improvements of the first solar farm under the NJMC’s Green constructed on a State- Restaurant Initiative, utilizing owned landfill. The NJMC incentives of the New Jersey Clean 1A Landfill in Kearny is Energy Program and the GRA home to a 3-megawatt Green Restaurant Certification installation that includes process. 12,506 photovoltaic panels mounted on 13 acres atop the 35-acre landfill. The solar farm is owned and operated by PSE&G under a 20-year lease agreement with the NJMC that expires in 2031.

10 11 West Riser Tide Gate, Moonachie LANDFILL MANAGEMENT FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT

When the NJMC was formed in 1969, dozens The Commission also leases a trash transfer facility in The NJMC monitors 33 flood control York and New Jersey (PANYNJ). built to one foot above the 25-year flood elevation of orphaned landfills tarnished the Meadowlands North Arlington and a vegetative waste transfer facil- structures in the Meadowlands The NJMC funded the remaining to add additional storage capacity for storms. A District, polluting air, soil and water. By cleaning up ity at its 1E Landfill in Kearny. The trash transfer station District. The Commission has $697,000. Bergen County will corrosion-resistant trash rack system was installed these landfills and providing facilities for solid waste is used to move municipal solid wastes out-of-state. occasionally, when funding has maintain the new tide gate, which upstream to prevent debris from flowing through disposal, the NJMC has provided the foundation for the County, municipal and commercial entities use the veg- become available, undertaken will play a key role in helping to the openings. region’s environmental transformation and economic etative waste transfer facility. They deposit leaves, grass specific flood control projects to reduce the effects of tidal flooding Flood Insurance Discounts development. and brush that are transferred and eventually composted assist residents and businesses in in the Meadowlands region. at a separate location. This local transfer site enables the District. The project is a prime example Through the Commission’s participation in the Today, the NJMC operates one landfill – the Keegan public and commercial entities to drive a short distance West Riser Tide Gate of the benefits that government Landfill in Kearny. The Landfill takes in construction and to dispose of their vegetative waste, saving thousands of collaboration can bring to District Federal Emergency Management Agency’s demolition debris and certain non-hazardous industrial dollars in fuel costs and reducing associated pollution. residents and businesses. (FEMA) voluntary Community Rating System waste. Hundreds of public and private entities in Northern In July, the NJMC unveiled its (CRS) program, property owners, businesses and New Jersey use the Landfill, including Hudson, Essex The NJMC continues to maintain a much lower than new West Riser Tide Gate near The original West Riser Tide Gate tenants located in Special Flood Hazard Areas and Union counties. The Commission also continues average tipping fee at the Keegan Landfill that saves Moonachie. The state-of-the-art was constructed in 1977 by Bergen within the Meadowlands District are eligible for 15 to collect leachate at Keegan and the seven closed thousands of dollars for New Jersey municipalities and structure will help better protect County to prevent high tides from percent discounts on National Flood Insurance Meadowlands District landfills, preventing the release of counties. The landfill’s operation also helps to keep residential, commercial and reaching upstream properties. The Program policies issued through FEMA. The contaminates into the area’s waterways. trucks off New Jersey roadways that would otherwise industrial properties in Moonachie, all metal structure was in need discounts are applicable when property owners haul waste to other states, reducing fuel usage and Carlstadt, Wood-Ridge and of replacement. The new West purchase or renew their policies. pollution. Teterboro, including Teterboro Riser Tide Gate is comprised of Airport, from daily tidal flooding from The NJMC has participated in the CRS program corrosion-resistant sheet piling with since 2005. In order to qualify for the discount, the Hackensack River. The tide four (4) 6-feet-wide by 7-feet-long gate is located along the West Riser the NJMC must implement certain activities that openings with composite flap valves meet or exceed the point system established Ditch on the border of Moonachie attached on the downstream side. and Wood-Ridge. as part of the CRS. The Commission has been The new openings are larger than recognized by FEMA for its actions in areas The $1,249,800 project was the old structure’s to allow for better including flood data maintenance, open space partially funded by a $551,800 flow release at low tide. preservation, stormwater management standards grant from the Port Authority of New Additionally, the new structure was and drainage system maintenance. 12 13 TRANSPORTATION

The Meadowlands District is home to a vital transportation network responsible for moving people and goods throughout one of the East Coast’s busiest economic centers, making the smooth and steady flow of traffic and commerce crucial to keeping the District’s economic engine humming. More than 700,000 private, public and commercial vehicles travel daily through the Meadowlands’ transportation corridors, including the New Jersey Turnpike and Routes 1&9, 3, 17, 46 and 120. The Meadowlands is also home to regional and international transportation hubs such as Newark Liberty International Airport, Teterboro Airport and the Port Newark/Elizabeth Port Authority Marine Terminal.

MASSTR

The NJMC in 2014 made great strides toward the full implementation of its multiple- Over the past year the Commission Upon completion, the MASSTR project is award-winning Meadowlands completed work on 33 traffic signals and expected to reduce vehicle delays by 1.2 Adaptive Signal System for has upgraded 107 intersections overall. The million hours per year, gasoline consumption Traffic Reduction (MASSTR) fifth and final phase of the project, which by more than 1.2 million gallons per year project. MASSTR entails the includes updating 21 signals, is scheduled and harmful greenhouse gas emissions by modernization of 128 signalized to be completed in 2015. These signals are more than 11,000 tons per year. intersections throughout the predominantly located along Route 46 in Little Meadowlands region to reduce Ferry, Teterboro, South Hackensack and MASSTR covers a number of key traffic delays, congestion and Ridgefield Park. Additional signals in Phase intersections in Bergen and Hudson airborne emissions. It is the first 5 are situated in Moonachie, North Bergen, counties, including U.S. Routes 1&9; N.J. adaptive signal system of its kind Secaucus and Lyndhurst. Routes 7, 17, 46 and 120; and County in New Jersey and the largest Avenue, County Road, Meadowlands system to be implemented at Additionally, the NJMC in 2014 expanded Parkway, Newark Turnpike, Paterson Plank one time in the country. MASSTR by updating 16 signalized Road, Secaucus Road, Schuyler Avenue, intersections in Jersey City and Kearny to Washington Avenue, and West Side Using an intricate network of reduce traffic delays expected on local roads Avenue. technology, including traffic during the reconstruction of the Pulaski signal controllers, detection Skyway. The Commission expanded the Implementation of the original $12.5 million devices, radio transmitters, scope of the regional project in April at the MASSTR project was made possible antennas and a mix of wireless request of the NJDOT, which funded the through a highly competitive $10 million and fiber-optic communication, upgrades. U.S. Department of Transportation TIGER NJMC transportation engineers 2 grant awarded to the NJMC in 2010. program traffic signals to In October 2014, the Intelligent Transportation The Commission is funding the remaining continuously adjust timings Society of New Jersey recognized the $2.5 million through its Meadowlands based upon the changing flows NJMC for its expansion of the MASSTR Tranportation Planning District and other of traffic in real-time. Staff is project by honoring the Commission with its resources. also able to make adjustments Outstanding Project Award in Recognition of from the Commission’s Traffic the Transportation System Management & To view an interactive map of all Management Center. Operations Strategies for the Pulaski Skyway intersections included in MASSTR and its Construction Project. expansion, visit www.masstr.com. 14 15 MUNICIPAL ASSISTANCE Wveater Le l Alert System and Flood pREDICTION Maps GIS MAPPING ASSISTANCE The GIS group provides a water level The NJMC provides important resources alert system and flood prediction maps to Meadowlands District municipalities to first responders and the public. The email through its digital mapping program. and text-based alerts for Meadowlands The Commission’s high-tech, web- District towns are sent when water levels based maps help first responders reach 5.5 feet above sea level and continue protect communities and assist local to be relayed as the levels rise. The governments in operating more interactive, web-based flood prediction maps efficiently. The Commission’s Geographic include the parts of Meadowlands District Information Systems (GIS) group uses municipalities that may flood from sea surge cutting-edge technology to create, levels of up to 8 feet. More information on maintain and update comprehensive, the maps and alerts can be found at web-based digital maps and mapping meri.njmeadowlands.gov/alerts/water-level tools for every property in each In October, the NJMC made upgrades Meadowlands District municipality. and updates to the sensors that monitor The maps provide emergency officials water levels to ensure that District first in District towns with immediate access responders and residents continue to to critical information, including data on receive timely warnings when levels hazardous materials stored in warehouse rise during tidal events, heavy rains and facilities, fire hydrant locations, incident storms. The sensors are solar-powered reports, floor plans, turn-around space and the information gathered is relayed for heavy firefighting equipment, and Municipal Equipment Pool to out-of-state servers to ensure that current and historical aerial imagery. This the data is available even during power potentially life-saving information can The NJMC provides and maintains Commission employees and available outages in the Meadowlands area. The easily be accessed from field computers, equipment to assist District municipalities to towns free of charge. Equipment is Commission updated hardware and tablets and smart phones. in addressing flooding and sewer-line available on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 software on its sensors at Kearny Point, issues, among other concerns. These p.m. The shared Municipal Equipment River Barge Park in Carlstadt and Saw The maps also save time for municipal include a jet vac-truck, root cutter, two Pool can potentially save District towns Mill Creek in North Arlington. officials who use property data to portable automatic self-priming pump thousands of dollars. For example, manage municipal assets and plan for systems and a trailer-mounted light renting a jet vac-truck typically would\ NJMC Mapping Team Takes infrastructure and other improvements. tower. Pool equipment is staffed by cost $2,000 per day. Top Honors in State Data stored on each facility or residential Competition property include owner, block and lot, easements, address, zoning and land use, acreage, and building footprint. In April, GIS staffers took first place Building code and tax officials can overall at the 27th Annual New Jersey generate precise property owner lists Department of Environmental Protection utilizing a buffer tool. GIS Mapping Contest. More than 40 posters detailing web-based, digital maps Emergency responders and were submitted by participants from state, municipal officials are kept informed county and local government agencies, of new capabilities and upgrades to and New Jersey public and private GIS programs through continuing colleges, universities, and high schools. comprehensive training sessions GIS team members took the top honor and technical support, and refresher for their map, “Using a Mobile Device to seminars. Collect and Retrieve Pre-Plan Information for Fire Emergencies.” The theme of the Two GIS training and refresher courses contest was “GIS-Keeping New Jersey were conducted in 2014 for the towns Safe.” of East Rutherford, Secaucus, North Bergen, Carlstadt, Little Ferry, Jersey City and Teterboro. Sixteen officials attended the classes.

16 17 of wetlands have experienced stunted growth and why some invasive species are successful in crowding out native vegetation. Over the past year a dozen academic papers by NJMC research staff were published in scientific journals. Several of the papers focused on ongoing studies measuring the amount of carbon both captured and emitted by Meadowlands District marshes. In October, the prestigious Journal of Agriculture and Forest Meteorology published the paper, “Carbon dioxide fluxes of an urban tidal marsh in the Hudson-Raritan Estuary.”

Carbon Monitoring Station, Secaucus

The article detailed MERI’s findings that wetlands remove 297 grams of carbon per square meter from the atmosphere each year. This research is significant because it confirms that Meadowlands District ecosystems are providing valuable MEADOWLANDS RESEARCH ecological services by helping to remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. The NJMC’s Meadowlands Environmental include management of invasive plants clams that live at the bottom of wetlands Biodiversity data collected during this The Tidal Wetland Impairments study, Research Institute (MERI) and Natural such as Phragmites, or common reed; and waterways and provide food for fish study will be compared with NJMC which runs through the end of 2015, In the wake of Superstorm Sandy, NJMC Resources Management Department and Ailanthus, or Tree of Heaven. and birds. benthic research conducted on the involves staff examining the diversity of geographic Information Systems (GIS) perform critical studies that help the marshes in 1987, 2002 and 2014. plants, including invasive species, as staff in 2014 summarized real-time water Commission better understand and Natural Resources and MERI often work The study, “Benthic Biodiversity and The previous studies showed benthic indicators of the wetlands’ ecological elevation measurements taken during improve the Meadowlands District’s together to explore ways to improve Benthic Pollutant Loads in Emergent organisms making significant gains in function. As part of the study, scientists the storm and post-storm flood elevation unique urban ecosystem, including its and protect vital natural resources. Marshes of the NJ Meadowlands,” will biodiversity and abundance, indicating and naturalists over the past year measurements, among other factors, to critical wetlands. For instance, in October 2014, the equip the NJMC with new knowledge that the estuary system was getting assessed biological diversity, habitat compile a flood hazard map. The map NJMC was awarded a $215,000 U.S. about the ecological health of the cleaner. Samples will be collected during fragmentation, tidal restrictions, proximity shows high risk areas within the District MERI scientists’ work includes ongoing Environmental Protection Agency Hackensack River system, its surrounding the summer of 2015 and the study to landfills and other factors that could should a storm surge similar to Sandy monitoring and studies of the region’s (USEPA) grant to study benthic marshlands and the associated food web. should be completed by the end of 2016. prevent wetlands from functioning occur in the area again. GIS staff gave air, soils and water, and conducting organisms in wetlands surrounding the effectively. a presentation on the map in October at new research to assess environmental Hackensack River. Data collected will, for the first time, Another MERI-Natural Resources the annual meeting of the Mid-Atlantic conditions in the District. The Natural measure contaminant levels in joint study, “Measurement of Tidal The Commission used an array of Chapter of the Urban and Regional MERI and Natural Resources staff will Resources Management Department Meadowlands benthic organisms. The Wetland Impairments for Acquisition remote sensing technology as part of Information Systems Association. performs surveys on area habitats and research the biodiversity and pollutant findings will provide an assessment of and Enhancement in the New Jersey the study to capture aerial photographs, wildlife and looks for ways to preserve levels in benthic organisms as well as the kinds and levels of contaminants that Meadowlands,” is being funded by a elevation data and spectral information. The NJMC also continues to monitor and enhance natural habitats to protect the sediments in which they live. Benthic bird and fish species in the region may $235,000 USEPA grant that the NJMC The technology included LiDAR, which the Hackensack River estuary’s water native flora and fauna. These efforts organisms are macroinvertebrates be ingesting that might negatively affect received in late 2013. creates 3D topographical images that quality, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including crustaceans, snails, worms and them. help determine why plants in some areas at four water monitoring stations in the 18 19 NJMC because they are near the top EDUCATION of the food chain in the Meadowlands’ High school students conducted brackish marshes. Terrapins are relatively biodiversity surveys to estimate the health new to the District – they were first of the salt marsh habitat, used water observed in the 1970s – and have sampling techniques and problem-based experienced a recent rapid growth in learning strategies to solve a simulated population. fish kill, and were introduced to the concepts of positive energy, bioassays The NJMC’s bird-banding program and chemical reactions of heavy metals. provides an important look into the They participated in programs including number of avian species that can be “Balancing Act: Humans and Biodiversity,” found in the Meadowlands, either “Ecology of the Estuary” and “Heavy seasonally or year-round. Bird banding Metals.” entails briefly catching birds in delicate netting called mist nets, placing them Summer Camps in soft cotton bags and taking them to a makeshift bird-banding station. There Each year, children entering Grades the birds are weighed, measured, and K-6 from local recreational programs banded with a small aluminum ring that take part in hands-on, educational camp includes a unique serial number for experiences in DeKorte Park, exploring future reference. The bands do not cause the marsh and its food chains, animal discomfort to the birds or affect their adaptions and insects. The students also ability to fly. study the solar system. In a few short lower Hackensack River. This monitoring year included the initial sampling of weeks in the summer of 2014, nearly network enables the Commission to the marshes along the Cromakill and In 2014, Natural Resources banded 1,100 children participated in fun activities detect any acute water quality problems Mill creeks in Secaucus. Revisiting 6,070 birds, three new species were conducted by MEC educators. in a timely fashion. Information gathered these same locations in 2015 will allow added to this ongoing study: the by the monitoring stations is transmitted the NJMC to arrive at a population American Woodcock, Laughing Gull and MarshAccess by a cellular modem to the NJMC estimate for the terrapins in this area. Hairy Woodpecker. More than 32,000 laboratory, where results are updated Diamondback Terrapins captured during birds have been banded since the The MEC MarshAccess program is The NJMC’s Meadowlands Environment in Energy and Environmental Design) on the Internet. The stations monitor the study are marked and released, program began in 2008. The information dedicated to offering an extensive range Center (MEC) provides highly popular, Platinum Certification – the highest rating dissolved oxygen, water elevation, acidity, unharmed, where they were captured. helps researchers learn more about how of environmental education experiences hands-on physical and natural science – from the U.S. Green Building Council. electrical conductivity, turbidity, salinity the habitats in the Meadowlands benefit for children and adults with wide-ranging classes for Grades K-12. These The Science Center itself is used as and temperature. The turtle study, which includes migrating birds. In addition, a diversity disabilities. The pioneering program, school-based environmental education a teaching tool. Educators explain to collaboration with scientists and students and density survey of birds taken in 2014 which serves as a nationwide model, programs are administered through a students how its rooftop solar panels, The NJMC also maintains a weather from The Wetlands Institute in Stone at the Harrier Meadow natural area in provides hands-on and field-based contract with Ramapo College. Classes recycled building materials and other station in DeKorte Park in Lyndhurst. Harbor and Montclair State University, North Arlington and Mill Creek Marsh in learning for those with developmental, are held at the Commission’s Center for aspects of sustainable building benefit the In 2014, the station was included for will help the NJMC answer questions Secaucus will be compared to similar visual, hearing, mobility, learning/ Environmental and Scientific Education environment and make for classrooms the first time in the NJ Weather & about the life history of terrapins in the studies conducted in 1997 and 2001- cognitive and age-related disabilities. (Science Center) located in DeKorte that are conducive to learning. For Climate Network, which is managed Meadowlands, including population size, 2003 to evaluate the avian response to MarshAccess works with several county Park, the home of the NJMC. instance, all of the classrooms are located by Rutgers University. NJMC weather how far the turtles move within a marsh ecological enhancement and the change and municipal organizations, schools, and on the southern face of the building station data can be found at and their growth rate. Diamondback in bird communities at those sites over non-profits to provide these services. More than 15,000 students participated so that educators can choose to allow www.njweather.org/station/111. Terrapins are of particular interest to the time. in the MEC’s school programs during the natural daylight into the learning spaces Programs are centered on the 2013-14 school year. Classes cover a or use dimmable fluorescent lights to save In addition, Commission naturalists Meadowlands’ ecosystem. Participants wide array of scientific disciplines including energy. Each classroom also features in 2014 finished the second year of learn about nature by exploring DeKorte ecology, chemistry, biology, physics, operable windows to assist in ventilation a three-year fishery inventory of the Park. A sensory garden includes a natural history and astronomy. Educators and temperature control. lower Hackensack River. The fish count incorporate DeKorte Park and its marshes variety of native plants chosen for their tactile features. The plants are within will compare the diversity of species into their lesson plans, providing children Young children who participated in reach of visitors with limited mobility. and number of specimens collected to and teens with an up-close introduction school programs in 2014 visited the salt State-of-the-art assistive tactile, visual previous inventories taken during 1987- to nature and real-world examples of marshes in DeKorte Park, interacted and audio technologies are provided to 1988 and 2001-2003. The previous scientific concepts. The programs, which with live creatures, and learned about fit participants’ individual needs. studies showed a large increase in the meet New Jersey Core Curriculum animal adaptations in such programs as abundance of certain species in the Content Standards, teach students about “Marsh Muckers,” “Incredible Insects” river, indicating that efforts to clean the the importance of the Meadowlands’ and “Nature’s Choice.” Grade school and Hackensack have been successful. The wetlands and unique urban ecosystem. middle school students acted as field NJMC is hopeful that the current research biologists by collecting and identifying will continue this positive trend and help The Science Center, which includes live specimens, studied the solar system, deepen our understanding of the health of state-of-the-art classroom and lab space, participated in a bird survey and designed the Hackensack River watershed. was the first public building in New a model, sustainable home. Classes Jersey to be awarded LEED (Leadership included “Marsh Explorers,” “Starry Faces Natural Resource’s ongoing Diamondback in Faraway Places,” “Biodiversity Basics” Terrapin population study in the past 20 and “Eco-Engineers.” 21 PARKS New Plantings

Four areas of DeKorte Park received new Since its formation in 1969, the NJMC plantings in the spring of 2014, thanks to has been a leader in developing and a grant from the Bergen County Audubon maintaining parks and natural areas within Society. More than 200 native New Jersey the Meadowlands District. As a result of plants were selected for their wildlife benefits. the Commission’s hard work, the District The three species of trees and seven species now includes 21 parks and eight miles of of shrubs will provide food and shelter for the walking trails, including DeKorte Park, the many types of song birds that visit DeKorte home of the NJMC. Park. Marsh Discovery Trail A special habitat was enhanced by expanding an existing mass of Eastern Red Cedar trees In September, to the delight of park in the hope that greater seclusion and a more visitors, the Commission reopened the dense cover will encourage Long-eared Owls to Marsh Discovery Trail in DeKorte Park. winter in the park. Additional funding came from The trail, DeKorte’s most popular walkway, donations raised by NJMC staff through their extends through a marsh and provides participation in The World Series of Birding, a great views of nature and the Manhattan competition in which teams identify as many skyline and is an ideal location for bird avian species as possible in a 24-hour period. watching. The boardwalk trail had incurred extensive damage during Hurricane Irene Gardens in 2011 and Superstorm Sandy in 2012. DeKorte Park in 2014 also became a member The half-mile loop includes four bird-blinds, of the Garden State Gardens, a consortium of two study docks, two shaded classrooms New Jersey’s public gardens. Garden State and two open classrooms. The Marsh Gardens works to raise public awareness Discovery Trail was one of the first of and appreciation for New Jersey’s public barrier-free nature trails constructed in gardens by promoting their horticultural, New Jersey. Maintaining the same level educational, historic and artistic value. DeKorte of accessibility was paramount during features several specialty gardens: the Jill Ann the renovation. Ziemkiewicz Memorial Butterfly Garden located The trail is a vital component of field-based outside the Meadowlands Environment Center; environmental education programs offered a Native Plant Garden, near the AMVETS by the NJMC’s Meadowlands Environment Carillon; and a Sensory Garden, near the Center (MEC) through a contract with entrance to the Marsh Discovery Trail. Ramapo College. It is also used in the School and Scout Assistance MEC’s MarshAccess Program. During the summer of 2014 the Commission received assistance from Hudson County School of Technology SAT/HSPA Summer Youth Program, which reached out to the NJMC to perform community service. Two- dozen students spent time in July and August at the Commission’s River Barge Park and Marina in Carlstadt. The students cleaned and maintained the NJMC’s pontoon boats and canoe fleet as well as the park’s boat docks, and performed general maintenance work. Scouts were also active in 2014. Tyler Maramba of North Arlington earned his Eagle Scout badge by building a compost bin in DeKorte Park and creating several log shelters for attracting beneficial insects. He also compiled a tree trail guide of the park, gathering information on a dozen species. Girl Scout Katelyn Wise of Allendale oversaw the construction of 45 tree swallow bird boxes to be used in the Hackensack River Watershed, including in the Meadowlands District, helping her earn a Girl Scout Gold Award. 22 23 ECOTOURISM Butterfly Day

The NJMC has worked hard to raise public More than 700 people attended the awareness of the Meadowlands District’s NJMC’s Fourth Annual Butterfly Day spectacular natural beauty and wildlife and the at DeKorte Park in July. Visitors old region’s continuing environmental revitalization. and young alike marveled at the The Commission’s efforts have paid off as delicate creatures seen at the Jill thousands of people flock to District parks, Ann Ziemkiewicz Memorial Butterfly programs and special events to experience this Garden and along the park’s trails. unique urban environmental jewel. Twenty butterfly species were spotted, including Red-spotted Pontoon Boat and Purple, Viceroy and Eastern Tiger Canoe Tours Swallowtail. The day also included slideshow talks, a scavenger hunt, a Nearly 1,000 visitors took in the beauty of the butterfly costume contest for kids, and Hackensack River and its marshes up-close in information tables. 2014 on NJMC guided pontoon boat cruises and canoe tours. The Commission conducted The Jill Ann Ziemkiewicz Memorial 40 tours between June and September. The Butterfly Garden honors the memory leisurely, two-to-three-hour excursions are led of a 23-year-old Rutherford resident by experienced NJMC staff who discuss the who was the youngest member of the region’s human and environmental history and flight crew on TWA Flight 800, which point out birds and other wildlife along the way. crashed into the Atlantic Ocean in The tours offer ideal opportunities to photograph July 1996. the scenic landscapes and wildlife found on and Also in 2014, DeKorte Park hosted along the river and its marshes. its third annual Moth Night as part Guided Nature Walks of National Moth Week. Several founders of National Moth Week The NJMC and the Bergen County Audubon were on hand -- as were some 100 Society (BCAS) offer twice-monthly, free nature lovers. Two of the highlights: a guided nature walks at locations throughout the beautiful Spotted Datana and a Dark Meadowlands District year-round. These sites Marathyssa. include DeKorte Park in Lyndhurst, Mill Creek Nature Blog Marsh in Secaucus, Losen Slote Creek Park in Little Ferry and Harrier Meadow in North Arlington, a natural area that is normally closed The Commission’s Nature Blog, to the public. Approximately 1,000 people in meadowblog.net, promotes 2014 participated in these walks. ecotourism and environmental conservation by providing the public The Meadowlands District in recent years has with daily news items about bird become a favorite destination for bird watchers. sightings, photos of the region’s DeKorte Park, the home of the NJMC, has breathtaking fauna and flora, and been listed by Birder’s World magazine, a information regarding NJMC nature national publication, as a birding hotspot. events. The blog is interactive, with In 2014, the wide array of birds seen in the residents sharing their photos and Meadowlands ranged from Bald Eagles and reporting observations from around migratory shorebirds in the spring and summer the region. The blog averages to Rough-legged Hawks and Canvasbacks in 21,000 page views per month. the winter. More than 280 avian species can Bald Eagle eBook be seen in the region, including 34 on New Jersey’s Endangered, Threatened or Species of Special Concern lists. To celebrate the return of this iconic American raptor to the Meadowlands, Bird watchers also glimpsed a number of rare the NJMC partnered with Conserve birds over the past 12 months that do not Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey to normally visit the area, including Cinnamon Teal produce a free downloadable eBook and an American White Pelican. When a rare that features 19 nature photographers, bird sighting is reported on the NJMC’s nature five illustrators and some of the blog, meadowblog.net, it is not unusual to see nation’s top Bald Eagle experts. For birders from all corners of the tri-state area more information, visit our website at descend upon the region, hoping to catch a www.njmeadowlands.gov. glimpse of these winged wonders. 24 25 PUBLIC PROGRAMS AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION William D. McDowell Observatory

Some 1,500 people in 2014 viewed planets, constellations and other celestial bodies at the NJMC’s William D. McDowell Observatory. The Observatory features a state-of-the-art, research grade telescope housed within a six-meter retractable dome. Observatory offerings included open public viewing nights and “Let’s Talk Astronomy” and “Refriend Your Telescope” learning sessions. In addition, the Observatory hosted several special programs for children to foster an interest in astronomy at a young age. These workshops included “An Overview of Our Solar System,” “Mercury, Venus and Mars,” and “Planets Orbiting Other Stars.” NJMC Flyway Gallery

The Flyway Gallery, located in the MEC, was established in 2002 to spotlight local artists whose diverse work brings new and unique perspectives to the environment in and around the Meadowlands. Exhibits include nature, wildlife, and landscape photography and paintings as well as multi-media works. Highlights in 2014 included an exhibit of plans and models by NJIT students of a conceptual transformation of a former trash transfer facility in the Meadowlands into an aviation museum; images from “The Nature In addition to its school-based education program, the NJMC’s of the Meadowlands,” a show of works from Meadowlands Environment Center (MEC) offers year-round the NJMC’s coffee-table book of the same environmentally-themed programs for the general public. These name; and “Nature Draws Itself,” the first programs help people of all ages better understand the issues digital art exhibit to be hosted at the gallery. that impact the Meadowlands District’s unique urban ecosystem, specific types of wildlife and the greater environment. More than New Jersey Meadowlands 1,000 people in 2014 attended presentations on raptors with Commission’s New Website live animal visits, and programs on aspects of the Meadowlands’ history and its vital marshes. These presentations, along with In April, the NJMC launched its new and the MEC’s school programs, serve the valuable role of instilling improved website, www.njmeadowlands. an appreciation of nature in children at a young age. gov. The comprehensive, user-friendly site has enhanced navigational tools including Highlights of 2014 public programming included raptor and owl pull-down menus. This gives the reader “one visits from the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center in Englewood, click” access to all of the content throughout a presentation on Meadowlands marshes by retired NJMC the site. The website takes advantage of the naturalist Don Smith and a wilderness survival program for latest technologies and has a modern, sleek all ages. In October, the NJMC held its popular annual look. Halloween in the Meadowlands event for area chilren. The program, which draws hundreds of people each year, includes One of the most noticeable visual changes an educationally-themed Spooky Walk, hayrides, a storyteller, are the spectacular photos throughout the games and crafts. The Commission’s Summer program, which site. The site also has a wider page format is geared towards seniors, featured a special pontoon boat trip and was designed to be easily accessible on and a hands-on workshop in which participants created potted both desktop and mobile devices. herbs to use in their gardens.

26 27 Intermunicipal Tax Sharing FINANCIAL REPORT 2014 Tax Sharing Installment Payments COMBINED STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES This is a report issued pursuant to the Act, N.J.S.A. 13:17-60 (b) relative GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS to the operation of the Intermunicipal In 2014, the New Jersey Legislature approved the FY 2015 State Budget, which December 31, 2013 contained a line item for “Meadowlands Adjustment Payments Aid,” in the amount of Tax Sharing program for calendar Revenues year 2013. N.J.S.A. 13:17-60 (b) $7.318 million to be credited to the amount payable into the intermunicipal account by requires that the Commission submit each paying municipality. This credit funded all payments due into the Intermunicipal Solid Waste Overhead Contribution $2,358,281 to both the Hackensack Meadowlands Account in calendar year 2014, while keeping the receiving towns fiscally stable and Property Sales 7,380,000 Municipal Committee (HMMC)1 and the whole. Grants 35,040 Fees & Charges 1,359,581 Legislature an annual report “relating As a result, none of the seven municipalities scheduled to make installment payments to the operation of the Intermunicipal Lease Payments 849,152 were required to do so (Carlstadt, Little Ferry, Lyndhurst, Moonachie, North Bergen, Mitigation Trust Reimbursements 150,038 Account in the prior year,” and shall Secaucus and South Hackensack). Six District municipalities continued to receive Interest Income 82,884 “recommend, when it deems necessary, payments from the tax sharing fund (East Rutherford, Jersey City, Kearny, North User Fees - NJMCEC 119,598 such amendments to the Tax Sharing Arlington, Ridgefield and Rutherford). Under the Act, the Borough of Teterboro does Revenues from Composting Operations 300,000 program as it may deem necessary, to not participate in the Tax Sharing program because its municipal equalized valuation Other Income 624,545 carry out the legislative intent” of the Act. per capita exceeds $1 million (see N.J.S.A. 13:17-67). Total Revenues $13,259,119

An Overview Operating Expenditures

The Tax Sharing Program requires Outlined below is a reporting of the certified Meadowlands Adjustment Commission Operations $8,916,901 towns within the Meadowlands District Payments each District town paid or received in the year 2014. Environment Center Operations 2,352,715 that have experienced economic growth Hurricane Sandy Repairs 196,287 and development to pay a portion of Adjustment State Aid Net NJDOT Pulaski Skyway Expense 123,877 their taxes into a fund that is distributed Payment Total Distribution Adjustment Grant Expenditures 111,886 (as adopted) CY2014 Payment Capital Expenditures 32,104 to towns that have restraints on CY2014 CY2014 development caused by, among other Solar Array 1-A 20,000 Other Expenditures 204,673 things, environmental issues, including the zoning of properties for open space, Carlstadt ($1,514,102) $1,514,102 $0 Total Operating Expenditures $11,958,443 landfills or other public uses. East Rutherford $20,047 $0 $20,047 Little Ferry ($547,802) $547,802 $0 Excess of Expenditures over Revenues prior to Non-Operating Costs $ 1,300,676 Each year, funds from the contributing Lyndhurst ($737,250) $737,250 $0 municipalities are collected and Moonachie ($412,084) $412,084 $0 Non-Operating Expenditures North Arlington $996,462 $0 $996,462 deposited into the Intermunicipal Account Ridgefield $1,282,046 $0 $1,282,046 MAGNET Grants $ 19,962 established and administered by the Rutherford $83,463 $0 $83,463 Amounts expended against prior year revenue allocations 1,000 NJMC. The collected funds are then South Hackensack ($382,629) $382,629 $0 redistributed in their entirety as per the Teterboro $0 $0 $0 Total Non-Operating Expenditures $ 20,962 Jersey City $1,155,705 $0 $1,155,705 computations of the statutorily created Net Excess of Expenditures over Revenues $ 1,279,714 Intermunicipal Tax Sharing formula as Kearny $3,779,980 $0 $3,779,980 North Bergen ($755,790) $755,790 $0 a Meadowlands Adjustment Payment. Secaucus ($2,968,045) $2,968,045 $0 The NJMC does not receive money from the Tax Sharing program and does not receive reimbursement or compensation Total Receivable (CY2014): $7,317,702 for its administration of the fund. Total Payable (CY2014): ($7,317,702)

Governmental Funds: Revenues Governmental Funds: Expenditures

Property Sales – 56% Commission Operations – 74% Solid Waste Overhead Contribution – 18% Environment Center Operations – 20% Fees and Charges – 10% Hurricane Sandy Repairs – 2% Lease Payments – 6% NJDOT Pulaski Skyway Expense – 1% Revenues from Composting Operations – 2% Grants Expenditures – 1% Mitigation Trust Reimbursements – 1% Other Expenditures – 2% Other Income – 7% • Amounts expended against prior year 1The HMMC, created as part of the Act establishing the NJMC, consists of the mayors or their representatives of the 14 Meadowlands District municipalities. The • Interest Income - (1%) revenue allocations - (<1%) HMMC is charged with reviewing all proposed codes and standards, master plans or amendments, development and redevelopment, improvement plans or other • User Fees - NJMCEC - (1%) • MAGNET Grants - (<1%) major decisions of the NJMC. It has the authority to veto proposed zoning or variances. • Miscellaneous - (5%) • Solar Array 1-A - (<1%) • Grants - (< 1%) • Capital Expenditures - (<1%) 28 • Miscellaneous - 1% 29 FINANCIAL REPORT Some UNUSUAL Sightings

SOLID WASTE OPERATIONS STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES December 31, 2013

Revenues:

Operating Revenue $26,412,560 Non-Operating Revenue 291,272 Total Revenues $26,703,832 Expenditures

General Operating Costs $ 7,954,457 Landfill Operations 5,775,601 Payments to County Utility Authorities 5,649,456 MERI/Laboratory/Parks & Open Space 3,041,501 Closure Expenditures 1,500,058 Other Expenditures 1,129,593

Total Operating Expenditures $25,050,666 Net Income $ 1,653,166

solid waste operations: REVENUES solid waste operations: expenditures

Fees for Service – 95% General Operating Costs – 32% Beneficial Reuse Materials – 4% Landfill Operations – 23% Non-operating Revenue – 1% Payments to County Utility Authorities – 23% MERI/Laboratory/ Parks & Open Space – 12% Closure Expenses – 6% Other Expenses – 4%

Top: American Pelican by Jim Wright, Snowy Owl by Mahammad Faizan Middle: Yellow-Billed Cuckoos by Patraick Carney, Yellow-headed Blackbird by Muhammad Faizan Bottom: Cinnamon Teal by Jim Wright, Godwit by Roy Woodford For updates on rare bird sightings and other Meadowlands nature news, visit meadowblog.net. 30 New Jersey Meadowlands Commission One DeKorte Park Plaza • Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 201.460.1700 • www.njmeadowlands.gov