Watershed Protection
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Stormwater, resulting from rain and snow, is the source of fresh water that feeds our streams, lakes and aquifers. As a water source, stormwater must be clean and in good supply to protect our drinking water supplies, and preserve streams and lakes for recreation and wildlife habitat. How we use land affects the way stormwater flows. Under undisturbed conditions, over half of precipitation infiltrates the soil and only about ten percent runs off the surface. The natural vegetation acts like a sponge and a filter, slowing the flow and cleaning the water. Roads, pavement and buildings (impervious surfaces) reduce the area where stormwater can soak into the soils to replenish water supplies. This means less water recharges aquifers, making them unable to keep up with the amount wells pump out. Roadways and storm sewers act like highways for stormwater, speeding its flow causing erosion. Stormwater also carries pollution. As water flows across land, it picks up all sorts of contaminants - litter, pesticides, fertilizer, pet wastes, petroleum products, and road salts. The increased volume and speed of stormwater runoff from paved surfaces wash more of these pollutants into water bodies.

Pollution reduction tips
Run sprinkler systems in the very early morning before the sun comes up to limit evaporation. Test your soil to determine the need for fertilizer. Limit the use of pesticides and other chemicals. Use a mulching mower. Pick up and properly dispose of pet waste. Compost yard waste. Maintain your septic system (have it pumped every 3 years). Never pour paint, solvents, cleaners or oil into a storm-drain.


Township adopts stormwater regulations
In 2004 the State of New Jersey adopted regulations that mandates that municipalities adopt new regulations regarding stormwater run-off. These ordinances include a pet waste ordinance that requires that pet waste be picked up at any public park. A wildlife feeding ordinance that makes it illegal to feed wildlife on any public property. An illicit connection ordinance that makes it illegal to connect any non-clear water system to the storm sewer system, and yard waste ordinances that limit the time and location yard waste may be placed at the curb.


Save and Protect Your Ground Water
A large percentage of homes in the Township are dependent upon wells and ground water for there water supply. Help protect yourself and your neighbor’s health. Have your water tested on a regular basis. The Township Environmental Commission sponsors a yearly water test. Save water. Run sprinkler systems in the very early morning before the sun comes up to limit evaporation. Have your septic system maintained property by pumping it every 3 years. Report any potential pollution to the township. Remember any chemicals or other pollutants that are poured or dumped on the ground eventually end up in the ground water you and your family drink.


Ongoing Projects
The Township is undertaking a number of projects to aid in the cleansing of our waterways. All new roads projects are being retrofitted to provide additional pollution controls. All new developments are being designed to meet new guidelines that provide for aquifer recharge and stormwater pollution prevention. In addition, the entire stormwater system of the township will be mapped over the next 5 years to evaluate its condition and identify problem areas.