Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA), Rutgers Cooperative Extension – Water Resources Program and NJ Water Supply Authority are excited to announce that we have been awarded a grant from the NJ Highlands Council to develop a Regional Watershed Restoration & Protection Plan (WRPP) for the South and North Branches of the Raritan River and the Black/Lamington River.
These plans, following the nine essential elements mandated by the EPA and NJDEP, will provide a roadmap for improving water quality in the Raritan Headwaters Region. By identifying and prioritizing restoration projects, these plans will be the key to unlocking future funding opportunities. This is the first step towards implementing real-world solutions that will ensure clean water for our communities.
Public engagement is a cornerstone of this project. Municipalities and residents will have ample opportunities to provide input throughout the planning process. With its combined expertise and resources, the partnership anticipates completing these plans within 12 to 18 months. The RCE Water Resources Program will lead the initiative and keep the Highlands Council informed through monthly reports. We’ll continue to share updates on how you can get involved in safeguarding a healthy and vibrant watershed for our communities!
Updates:
Partners held a kickoff meeting of the Highlands Watershed Restoration and Protection Plan Advisory Committee on March 27, 2024. The presentation slides and recording are shared below.
The Advisory Committee consists of local representatives from the following 21 municipalities within the planning area:
Bedminster Township
Bernards Township
Bernardsville Borough
Califon Borough*
Chester Borough*
Chester Township
Clinton Township
Clinton Town
Far Hills Borough*
High Bridge Borough
Lebanon Township*
Mendham Borough
Mendham Township
Mine Hill Township
Mt. Arlington Borough*
Mt. Olive Township
Peapack-Gladstone
Randolph Township
Roxbury Township
Tewksbury Township*
Washington Township*
We are seeking additional members for the Advisory Committee, particularly from the towns marked with an asterisk in the list above. Please contact Tracy Gordon, RHA Municipal Outreach Coordinator at tgordon@raritanheadwaters.org if you’re interested in attending the quarterly update meetings and/or quarterly subcommittee meetings for each of the 3 subwatershed planning areas.
