Water is our most fragile and precious resource. Essential to all forms of life and to our economies, our water supplies face a myriad of threats from pollution to climate change. Keeping our water clean, safe and healthy in the face of these challenges is the heart of the Watershed’s mission. Our strategy for doing so involves scientific investigation, advocacy at the state and local level, enhanced land and water stewardship, and education to expand environmental literacy.
Our Core Issues
Polluted Stormwater Runoff
Cultivate knowledge about polluted stormwater runoff in local towns and cities and the impacts for water quality and ecosystems. We’ve developed a model ordinance that exceeds the state’s basic standards and continues to guide officials in crafting local ordinances to comply with the state rule that went into effect in March 2021.
Green Infrastructure
Educate and model the use of green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and swales, which mimic nature and filter pollutants with native plants and grasses. Our Watershed Center is a demonstration area for porous pavement, rain gardens, vegetated filter strips, and other green infrastructure. We offer certification and training to an array of professionals.
Unneeded Pipelines
Helped defeat the proposed PennEast pipeline and continue to fight against other unnecessary pipelines that expose New Jersey residents, private and public lands to the risks of transporting natural gas to benefit of private, for-profit companies.
Scientific Fixes for Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)
Design and adopt innovative ways to tackle harmful algal blooms (HABs) in local ponds, lakes and other waterways. We’ve built and deployed floating wetlands that grow hardy plants on a platform of soil/marine foam and absorb excess nutrients, such as pesticides and fertilizers, without the use of chemicals. These projects aim to make New Jersey waterways swimmable and fishable.
Removing Dams
Rid the region of antiquated and useless dams that impede natural spawning grounds, and contribute to sedimentation. Once removed, waterways such as the Millstone River have seen the return of historic shad runs as well as other anadromous fish. Getting rid of dams allows for the natural flow of waterways and improves recreational opportunities.
Find Out More
A Recent Visit From the East Trenton Collaborative
The Watershed Institute hosted visitors from the East Trenton Collaborative, offering tours of the Kate Gorrie Butterfly House, Watershed Center & Reserve.
Remembering the Rev. David McAlpin
The Rev. David McAlpin was a dedicated conservationist and philanthropist who helped shape The Watershed Institute during some pivotal years.
Former Campers Shape Summer Experiences
Former counselors and counselors-in-training lead activities at the Watershed Nature Camp.
Keeping Our Community Safe
Masks are mandatory for all Watershed programs, buildings, and campus. Please familiarize yourself and follow our COVID-19 policies for all indoor programs and events.
Watershed Institute Scientists Alarmed By New Harmful Algal Blooms
A serious public health risk caused by multiple harmful algal blooms (HABs) is currently present in waterways including parts of the Millstone River, Lake Carnegie, ...
Butterfly Festival – Aug. 6 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
We will have our Insect Zoo, Butterfly and Bug Parade, and tours of the Kate Gorrie Butterfly House and other fun activities!
Watershed Institute Ramps Up Engagement with Trenton Schools
The Watershed Institute has increased its engagement with Trenton schools, empowering students to create deeper connections with their waterways, understand the impact of human activities ...