The monthly newsletter plugging New Jerseyans into water infrastructure issues across the state
November 2019
Photo of the Month
On Monday, Nov. 11, the Mall at Short Hills was evacuated due to a break on the water main for the mall's sprinkler system. The power was shut down to the complex, and the mall remained closed for the rest of the day on Monday.
Often overlooked, our water infrastructure isn’t noticed until something goes wrong. This section spotlights everyday consequences of not investing in New Jersey’s water systems.
Register today for the Jersey Water Works Conference!
Fees increase tomorrow, Nov. 22.
Join us at theJWW Conference on Dec. 13 to learn about what's new with water infrastructure and network with others in the water sector. The conference will bring together more than 300 stakeholders to explore innovative solutions and celebrate the Jersey Water Works collaborative as an effective, comprehensive approach to achieving statewide impact. Registration fees increase tomorrow, soregister today!
A new addition to the agenda is three afternoon breakout sessions, with discussions on lead in drinking water, DEP’s new green infrastructure requirements, and water equity in Camden. Check out the conference website to see the latest updates on theagendaandspeakers.
Congratulations to the 2019 New Jersey One Water Award winners!
This year’s New Jersey One Water Award winners were announced on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at the Association of Environmental Authorities Conference. They will receive their awards at the JWW Conference on Dec. 13. The winners are:
Amy S. Greene Environmental Consultants, Inc. for successfully restoring water quality to more than 90 acres of critical wetland along the Pequest River, which will be managed as part of the Kittatinny Valley State Park. Read the full profile here.
Western Monmouth Utilities Authority for involving the community to train and educate the next generation of the water workforce through establishing its Environmental Professional Development Academy. Read the full profile here.
American Water and the City of Camden for utilizing effective collaboration with Camden organizations and residents to improve the city’s water challenges.Read the full profile here.
Governor Murphy announces $13 million fund for initiative to combat harmful algal blooms
On November 18, Governor Murphy announced with the Department of Environmental Protection that over $13 million will be allocated for reducing and preventing harmful algal blooms. The funding will assist communities with infrastructure upgrades that will reduce nutrient runoff into waterways – a major cause of algal blooms.
The initiative also includes building upon the state’s scientific expertise and ability to respond, and the Department of Environmental Protection’s capacity to communicate with communities dealing with harmful algal blooms. Read more at this press release from the Governor’s office.
This report from the US Water Alliance, DigDeep, and Michigan State University analyzes water challenges throughout the country to propose a plan and highlight opportunities for achieving equitable water management practices. Closing the Water Access Gap in the United States: A National Action Plan outlines where over 2 million Americans lack adequate access to water services and showcases tried and true approaches that communities can take to close the water access gap.
The US EPA invited 38 new projects in 18 new states to apply for Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loans. After the initial review process, New Jersey Infrastructure Bank was selected as a prospective borrower to submit an application. This could potentially expand the reach of the New Jersey State Revolving Fund. Read more here.
Reduce your water bill through conservation
This blog post by Rinkesh Kukreja of NY/NJ Baykeeper discusses the importance of conserving water and practical tips for incorporating water conservation methods into day to day use.
Jersey Water Worksis a collaborative effort 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.
