Local watershed watchdog Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA) will sponsor a free seminar from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, May 16, to help communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.
The seminar, “Climate Resilient Municipalities: Controlling Stormwater, Protecting Streams and Maintaining Water Quality,” will be held at the Clarence Dillon Public Library, 2336 Lamington Road, Bedminster.
Presenters include Bill Kibler and Dr. Kristi MacDonald, of Raritan Headwaters, and Dr. Chris Obropta of Rutgers Cooperative Extension’s Water Resources Program.
“New Jersey’s communities are already experiencing the effects of climate change, including higher average temperatures, increased annual precipitation, and increasing frequency of major weather events,” explained Dr. MacDonald. “Resilient communities will be able to adapt to and recover from these changing conditions.”
In the workshop, presenters will discuss how climatic conditions have changed in New Jersey over the last century. Participants will learn how problems like stormwater runoff, flooding and water quality are affected by climate change.
Presenters will explain how current regulations, green infrastructure and best management practices can help communities “weather the storm” of changes projected to become more common. They will also describe how the new stormwater utilities bill, recently passed by the state Legislature, will help municipalities fund projects to control stormwater runoff, protect streams, and recharge aquifers.
The seminar is part of Raritan Headwaters’ ongoing “Watershed Tools for Local Leaders” seminar series. For more information, email Dr. MacDonald.
About Raritan Headwaters
Raritan Headwaters has been working since 1959 to protect, preserve and improve water quality and other natural resources of the Raritan River headwaters region through efforts in science, education, advocacy, land preservation and stewardship. RHA’s 470-square-mile region provides clean drinking water to 300,000 residents of 38 municipalities in Somerset, Hunterdon and Morris counties and beyond to some 1.5 million homes and businesses in New Jersey’s densely populated urban areas.
Raritan Headwaters recently was accredited by the national Land Trust Accreditation Commission, meaning it has been recognized as a strong and effective organization committed to professional excellence and maintaining the public’s trust.
