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  • MERI – Spatial Distribution of Contaminants in Lower Raritan Sediments

MERI – Spatial Distribution of Contaminants in Lower Raritan Sediments

This research study by the Meadowlands Environmental Research Institute (MERI) at Rutgers – Newark, aimed to fill in data gaps in river and marsh sediment contamination in the Lower Raritan River. The main tasks of this study were: (1) Measure trace metal and organic contaminant levels in surficial sediments along 20 km of the Lower Raritan River; (2) Visualize the spatial distribution of trace metal and organic pollutants in surficial sediments using spatial interpolation techniques; (3) Extract cores from three marsh sites (a) proximal, (b) central and (c) distal to traditional industrial and agricultural sites; and (4) Reconstruct pre-industrial environmental reference conditions.

To assess the river’s environmental past and present we used a multidisciplinary approach where biology, chemistry, statistics, and computer modelling were combined to gain a greater understanding into the spatial and temporal distribution of priority pollutants and contaminants in the Lower Raritan River. Sediment samples from 40 unique sampling locations were analyzed for metal and organic pollutants. Core samples were retrieved and analyzed at three marsh locations to assess the historical environmental context of the region.

MERI Raritan Data Package

  • MERI Raritan Data Package (in zip file)

Links to Lightning Talks and Posters at annual Sustainable Raritan River Conference and Awards Ceremony

  • Lightning Talk and Poster at Micro to Macro: Future of the Raritan Conference – June 8, 2018
  • Lightning Talk and Poster at State of the Raritan Conference – June 9, 2017

For more information, contact:

  • Dr. Francisco Artigas, (201) 460-2801, fjartiga@newark.rutgers.edu – PI on the project and MERI director
  • Cheryl Yao, (201) 460-4604, Ying.yao@rutgers.edu – Lead environmental chemist

 

This research was supported by the Mushett Family Foundation

MERI is an environmental research group that has recently joined Rutgers University – Newark in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. Our mission is to generate the knowledge and predictive understanding necessary to sustain and conserve the Hackensack Meadowlands Estuary and through scientific endeavor foster the next generation of earth and environmental scientists. Through our mission MERI aims to train environmental scientists by addressing the environmental problems of the Hackensack Estuary, apply and develop new technologies to address the legacy of environmental problems in the Meadowlands, and promote regional gathering and sharing of information.
 
MERI utilizes a network of long term environmental monitoring equipment, certified lab analytical equipment, GIS, and drone technology to address the various environmental issues in the Hackensack Meadowlands Estuary. MERI’s resources and location allow for environmental research and internship opportunities from high school through college levels.

News

  • Save the Date – June 12, 2020 – Annual Sustainable Raritan Conference

  • Real-Time Hydrological Observatory and ERDDAP Interface

  • MERI – Spatial Distribution of Contaminants in Lower Raritan Sediments

  • ArcGIS StoryMaps of Key Raritan Indicators

  • Ten Mini-Grants Awarded for Research on the Raritan River, Basin and Bay

  • Congratulations to 2019 Sustainable Raritan Award Recipients

Click here for more news! and be sure to check out the Calendar for upcoming activities.

December 2019

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  • Middlesex County Destination 2040 Workshop
    Middlesex County Destination 2040 Workshop
    Starts: 1:00 pm
    Ends: December 2, 2019 - 4:00 pm


    Description:

    Give us your input on Destination 2040: Middlesex County's Strategic Plan at our Stakeholder Engagement Workshop on December 2 at 1pm.

    About this Event

    Dear Middlesex County Partner,

    I am writing to invite you to attend an interactive workshop to be held on Monday, December 2, 2019 from 1-4 pm at Middlesex County College, West Hall, located at 2600 Woodbridge Avenue in Edison, NJ. This workshop, which is part of Middlesex County’s Destination 2040 strategic planning process, is the first in a series of stakeholder events that will occur over the next six months. These events will engage local elected and appointed officials, business owners, developers, and other civic leaders in a series of discussions intended to help chart a course for a dynamic and prosperous Middlesex County in the decades to come.

    Participants who attend the December 2nd workshop will have an opportunity to consider input and feedback gathered from county residents as part of the first phase of the Destination 2040 planning process. Participants will also explore data and information about existing conditions and trends across a myriad of topics, including: transportation; economic and workforce development; housing; land use; open space and parks; agriculture; arts and culture; the environment; sustainability and community resilience; creating healthy and inclusive communities; shared services, innovation and technology. In addition, participants will engage in a series of facilitated goal-setting discussions. Input collected during these discussions will be used to develop a long-term vision for Middlesex County’s future as well as a set of goals and objectives that will guide County decisions for the next 3-5 years as we work together toward our long-term vision.

    You have been identified as an individual who can contribute significantly to the workshop by providing your expertise, ideas and feedback on these topics. I hope that you are able to participate. Please register for the workshop here. For information about the Destination 2040 planning process, please visit our website at middlesexcountynj.gov/destination2040/.

    I look forward to seeing you on December 2.

    Sincerely yours,

    Freeholder Charles Kenny

    Chair of Infrastructure Management Committee

    More details...
  • Complying with NJ Stormwater Regulations
    Complying with NJ Stormwater Regulations
    Starts: 6:00 pm
    Ends: December 2, 2019 - 8:00 pm


    Description:

    Event Details

    Complying with NJ Stormwater Regulations:

    Asking the Right Questions in Stormwater Review

    Monday, December 2

    6:00pm – 8:00pm

    Via Webinar

     

    In Person webinar participation available:

    Pilesgrove Municipal Building – 1180 Route 40 East, Pilesgrove, NJ

     

    This program will highlight steps to guide you and your municipality to ensure that new development is in compliance with the New Jersey stormwater management regulations**.

    Presentation will include review of the Stormwater eLearning Tool.

     

    Presenters include:

    • Christopher C. Obropta, Ph.D., P.E., Director of Rutgers Cooperative Extension Water Resources Program
    • Cheryl Reardon, South Jersey Project Director, ANJEC

     

    This interactive training tool is designed for Municipal Board and Governing Body members to provide a general understanding of the post construction section of the permit so that they can “Ask the Right Questions” during their review.

     

    ** This Webinar meets standards for educational points for MS4 permits public education and outreach that must be completed by current municipal board and governing bodies

    within 6 months of commencing duties.

    Certificate of completion will be issued to participants.

     

    Participants will also receive:

    NJ Forest Service, Urban & Community Forestry Program (NJUCF) CEUs

     

    Registration Details:

    ANJEC Members: No charge to participate

    Non-members: $10

     

    To Register:

    Email ANJEC (info@anjec.org) with name and affiliation,  or call 973-539-7547

     

    More details...
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  • Seals of the Jersey Shore Talk
    Seals of the Jersey Shore Talk
    Starts: 7:00 pm
    Ends: December 5, 2019 - 8:00 pm

    Location: Bayshore Waterfront Park, 719 Port Monmouth Rd, Port Monmouth, NJ 07758, USA


    Description:

    Seals of the Jersey Shore Talk      

    Thursday, December 5
    7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
        

    Location: Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center. 
    719 Port Monmouth Road, Port Monmouth, NJ 07758 

    It’s seal season! Freezing water and cold winds keep many people away from the beach during the winter months. But not seals. There are more seals appearing on beaches than ever before. Find out why and discover the different species that call the Jersey shore home during the winter.

    For more information visit www.savecoastalwildlife.org.

    More details...
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  • NJ-AWRA Annual Luncheon & Seminar
    NJ-AWRA Annual Luncheon & Seminar
    Starts: 12:00 pm
    Ends: December 6, 2019 - 2:00 pm

    Location: Duke Farms, 1112 Dukes Pkwy W, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844, USA


    Description:

    Location:

    Duke Farms

    1112 Dukes Parkway West

    Hillsborough, New Jersey 08844


    12:00 pm - 12:30 pm - Welcome & Luncheon

    12:30 pm - 1:00 pm - NJ-AWRA Chapter Announcements

    1:00 pm - 2:00 pm - Presentation followed by discussion

    • Member Registration: Free (don't forget to renew for 2019!)
    • Non-member Registration: $15

    This talk qualifies for 1 NJ PE self reporting credit.

    For more information or to register:  https://njawra.org/event-3581280

    Abstract: 

    Executive Director Steve Tambini will describe how the Delaware River Basin Commission is using sophisticated hydrodynamic and water quality modeling tools to drive water resource management. Two significant efforts will be highlighted:

    1. evaluation of impacts of climate changes on salt front and salinity gradients in the estuary; and

    2. evaluation of highest attainable aquatic life uses and associated dissolved oxygen improvements in the tidal river and estuary.

    Bio:

    Steve Tambini is the fourth executive director of the Delaware River Basin Commission. As Executive Director, Mr. Tambini develops and implements plans, policies, and projects adopted by the five-member commission relating to the water resources of the Delaware River Basin. He has over 30 years of experience in water supply engineering and water resource planning, management, and operations to the DRBC. Over his career, Mr. Tambini has held various leadership posts and contributed to several water-related organizations, including the American Water Works Association, the National Association of Water Companies, and the Water Resources Association of the Delaware River Basin. He is currently a member of the American Water Resources Association and the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary, and serves on the board of directors for the Rancocas Conservancy.

    More details...
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  • Green Brook Clean-up
    Green Brook Clean-up
    Starts: 10:00 am
    Ends: December 8, 2019 - 1:00 pm

    Location: Green Brook Regional Center, 275 Greenbrook Rd, Green Brook Township, NJ 08812, USA


    Description:

    Dec 8 – Green Brook clean-up!

    December 8 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

    Join the Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership and Central Jersey Stream Team for a clean-up of the Green Brook!

    WHAT: a clean-up of the Green Brook on Sunday December 8 from 10AM to 1PM

    WHERE: Green Brook Regional Center, 275 Greenbrook Rd, Green Brook Township, NJ 08812

    This Event is Co-coordinated by the Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership and Central Jersey Stream Team. With special thanks to the Green Brook Department of Public Works for cartage and supplies.

    Please wear closed toe shoes and clothes you are willing to get dirty. Gloves and bags will be provided!

    Registration requested.

    *** For more information contact Heather hfenyk@lowerraritanwatershed.org, or #908.349.0281 ***

    More details...
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  • NJ Statewide Dam Removal Partnership Workshop
    NJ Statewide Dam Removal Partnership Workshop
    Starts: 9:30 am
    Ends: December 9, 2019 - 4:30 pm

    Location: The Watershed Institute, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington, NJ 08534, USA


    Description:

    A free workshop sponsored by the SDRP and facilitated by American Rivers will bring together dam owners, municipalities, state and federal agencies, and dam removal practitioners to discuss the specific factors that limit the expansion of dam removals in New Jersey.

    The free workshop will be held on December 9, 2019 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The Watershed Institute located at 31 Titus Mill Road in Pennington. Registration is mandatory. Sign up at NJDams.org, or by contacting Beth Styler Barry at beth.stylerbarry@tnc.org.

    About the SDRP: The New Jersey Statewide Dam Removal Partnership is a collaboration of nonprofits and government agencies that seeks to advance the removal of antiquated, dangerous or ecologically detrimental dams. Its members meet quarterly to discuss beneficial dam removal projects and to exchange information regarding policy, regulatory issues, funding and the practical considerations of dam removal. The SDRP also provides information to the public about how dams and dam removal may affect their communities and their lives.

    More details...
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  • CJTU - Annual Holiday Gathering & Fly Tying
    CJTU - Annual Holiday Gathering & Fly Tying
    Starts: 7:30 pm
    Ends: December 10, 2019 - 10:30 pm


    Description:

    Central Jersey Trout Unlimited

    Tuesday, December 10th, 2019

    Annual Holiday Gathering with Fly Tying

    www.cjtu.org

    Please join us at our next General Membership meeting on Tuesday, December 10th featuring our annual Holiday Gathering with Fly Tying. The action starts at 7:30 pm at the American Legion Hall, 137 New Market Road in Dunellen, NJ.

    As in past December meetings, we invite our talented CJTU fly tiers to demonstrate their patterns, techniques and general prowess to other attendees. So if you are one of these tiers, bring you materials and tools and be prepared to show off.

    First, we want to encourage those who have never tied a fly to get started. So please invite any friends, neighbors, spouses, family members, significant others or whatever that fit this category to the meeting or come yourself and one of our excellent instructors will provide guidance in tying a first fly. Tools and materials will be provided. And if you are inspired by what you see, sign up for the fly tying courses that CJTU will be sponsoring starting February 2020.

    Second, for existing tiers who have questions about a particular pattern or technique, bring the relevant hook and materials and your own vice and tools and our instructors will guide you in answering your questions. Could it be that none can help? We doubt it. But maybe you can wipe the smug confidence off their faces to the delight of all attendees.

    Finally, for those who never have or never will tie flies, we invite you to share social interactions with other Chapter Members. A few surprises may be in store too (I think that RSVP from Santa arrived ;)), so come on down and have a great time.

    Fly Tying Materials Sale

    In addition to our fly tying activities, we will be hosting an estate sale of sorts for long-time member Harvey Roberson who past away recently. His family donated his fishing and fly tying equipment, allowing us to use it as a fundraiser for the chapter. Please consider coming out to the meeting and perhaps make a purchase. You will be paying tribute to a great friend of Trout Unlimited and helping out your chapter at the same time!

    Meeting Location

    American Legion Hall
    137 New Market Road
    Dunellen, NJ
    Meeting starts at 7:30 PM - Non Members are always welcome!

    More details...
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  • Bayshore Regional Watershed Meeting
    Bayshore Regional Watershed Meeting
    Starts: 8:00 am
    Ends: December 12, 2019 - 9:00 am


    Description:

    Bayshore Watershed Meeting

    • Thursday, December 12, 2019
    • 8:00 PM 9:00 PM
    • Keyport Borough Hall (map)

    JOIN US FOR A BAYSHORE REGIONAL WATERSHED MEETING. MEETINGS ARE ALWAYS INFORMAL AND A GREAT WAY TO LEARN ABOUT THE RARITAN BAY & SANDY HOOK BAY WATERSHED.

    learn more:  https://www.savecoastalwildlife.org/calendar

    More details...
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  • 5th Annual Jersey Water Works Conference
    5th Annual Jersey Water Works Conference
    Starts: 9:00 am
    Ends: December 13, 2019 - 2:30 pm

    Location: Hyatt Regency New Brunswick, 2 Albany St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA


    Description:

    About the Conference

    The fifth annual Jersey Water Works Conference is a day-long event that will bring together more than 300 state and local decision-makers, practitioners and stakeholders to amplify the importance of addressing New Jersey’s water infrastructure, explore innovative solutions and celebrate the Jersey Water Works collaborative as an effective, comprehensive approach to achieving statewide impact.

    Previous conferences have featured national and local speakers, the announcement of commitments to action by the members of Jersey Water Works, and panel discussions about local water infrastructure challenges and opportunities. More information about the 2015, 2016, 2017 and  2018 conferences. Click here to see which organizations have attended the conference.

    Use #njwater19 to follow and spread conference news on social media!

    Location: Hyatt Regency, New Brunswick

    Date and time: Friday, Dec. 13, 2019; 9:00 am – 2:30 pm

    The conference is presented by Jersey Water Works, a collaborative of diverse individuals and organizations working to transform New Jersey’s inadequate water infrastructure through sustainable, cost-effective solutions that provide communities with clean water and waterways; healthier, safer neighborhoods; local jobs; flood and climate resilience; and economic growth.

    For more information visit the conference website at:  https://conference.jerseywaterworks.org/

    More details...
  • Holiday Potluck with LRWP & Friends
    Holiday Potluck with LRWP & Friends
    Starts: 6:00 pm
    Ends: December 13, 2019 - 8:00 pm


    Description:

    Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership

    SAVE THE DATE!

    The LRWP and EARTH Center of Middlesex County invite you to join us for our annual holiday potluck!

    We will enjoy a meal and TBD Special Presentation. We will also discuss current status of the watershed, and our plans for 2020.

    6-8 PM (or later) at the Milltown Senior Center / 60 Violet Terrace / Milltown, NJ 08850

    Families welcome! Please bring a dish to share. And please try to bring reusable cutlery, plates, cups, etc.

    Registration will open on November 1.

    For more information or to RSVP please contact Heather: hfenyk@lowerraritanwatershed.org

    More details...
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  • Christmas Bird Count
    Christmas Bird Count
    Starts: 7:30 am
    Ends: December 15, 2019 - 4:30 pm

    Location: Locktenders House - Kingston NJ


    Description:

    Kingston Greenways Association

    CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT
    Sunday, December 15, 2019

    The Kingston segment of this year's Audubon Christmas Bird Count begins at 7:30AM at the Locktender's House in Kingston and goes until noon. After a break forlunch at Palace of Asia in Kingston, the count continues in the afternoon. Joinus for morning, afternoon, or both. Experienced birders and novices are equallywelcome to participate. Dress warmly, and bring binoculars if you have them. Ifinterested, give Karen Linder a call (609-683-0483) or an email(karen.e.linder@gmail.com) for more information and to register.

    www.kingstongreenways.org

    More details...
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  • Somerset Raritan Valley Sewerage Authority
    Somerset Raritan Valley Sewerage Authority
    Starts: 7:30 pm
    Ends: December 16, 2019 - 9:30 pm

    Location: 50 Polhemus Ln, Bridgewater, NJ 08807, USA


    Description:

    Meetings of the Somerset Raritan Valley Sewerage Authority are held the fourth Monday of each month. Meetings are held in the Authority conference room located in the Administrative Office. Open session meetings begin at 7:30 p.m. and there is an opportunity for public participation. Anyone from the public wishing to be heard should arrive promptly for the start of a meeting as the public participation portion is early on the agenda.

    http://srvsa.org/

    More details...
  • Stony Brook Regional Sewerage Authority Meeting
    Stony Brook Regional Sewerage Authority Meeting
    Starts: 7:30 pm
    Ends: December 16, 2019 - 9:30 pm

    Location: 290 River Road, Princeton, NJ


    Description:

    Authority Board Meeting Schedule

    ­A RESOLUTION SETTING REGULAR MEETING DATES FOR THE STONY BROOK REGIONAL SEWERAGE AUTHORITY FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2016
    IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT

    Resolution No. 2015-78

    BE IT RESOLVED by the Stony Brook Regional Sewerage Authority:

    That the regular meeting day of the Authority be held on the fourth Monday of each month, except in November, when it will be held on the second Monday, and June and December when the meeting will be held on the third Monday of the month.

    http://www.sbrsa.com/

    More details...
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  • Volunteer Day @ Schiff
    Volunteer Day @ Schiff
    Starts: 9:00 am
    Ends: December 21, 2019 - 11:00 am

    Location: Schiff Natural Lands Trust/Schiff Nature Preserve, 339 Pleasant Valley Rd, Mendham, NJ 07945, USA


    Description:

    December 21, 2019 (Saturday) 9-11 am
    Volunteer Day @Schiff
    Schiff Nature Center
    339 Pleasant Valley Road, Mendham, 07945
    Please join us for a day of land stewardship activities at 339 Pleasant Valley Drive. Each Volunteer Day provides the community an opportunity to work side by side with Schiff staff and Board members in a variety of hands-on projects. Depending on the weather, we may be removing brush and vines from trails, removing invasive species, restoring fences and bridges, building maintenance tasks, or doing a final raking out the Native Garden. Volunteers (16 and under with a parent, please) are encouraged to dress in weather appropriate attire, wear hard toes shoes, and bring a beverage and snack. Walk ins welcome.
    Contact: 973-543-6004
    https://generallibrary.mikulawebsolutions.com/registrationform/formfiles/SchiffRegistrationForm.cfm?eventid=140316&projectid=5

    More details...
  • Trees Talk at the Sourlands
    Trees Talk at the Sourlands
    Starts: 7:00 pm
    Ends: December 21, 2019 - 8:30 pm


    Description:

    Sourland Conservancy

    Trees

    Thursday, November 21, 7-8:30pm:
    New Jersey may be a small state in close proximity to major metropolitan areas, however it is still nearly 40% forested! “Conditions and Trends of New Jersey’s Forests” outlines the current state of our forests looking at data collected through time by the USDA Forest Service, Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program in partnership with the NJ Forest Service as well as data from a variety of other sources and gives a window into what the state’s forests might look like in the future.

    Click this link to register.

    More details...
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Get in Touch

  • 848.932.2720
  • 732.932.0934 fax
  • raritan@ejb.rutgers.edu

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