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From the NJ Highlands Region to the Sourland Mountains, Somerset County has a great diversity of natural resources, highlighted in preservation and open space planning efforts, tourism marketing, and sustainability efforts from the single backyard to the headwaters of the Raritan River Watershed. Forests, fields, lakes, streams, grass ways, and trails are interspersed with urban and suburban development and a growing population seeking to enjoy these natural resources. Increased stormwater runoff, invasive or destructive pests, vector-borne diseases, and wildlife management are just a few of the challenges we face.
There are many opportunities for residents to have a positive impact on the sustainability of our natural resources, from their own yards and out into the community.
Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program
This Rutgers Environmental Stewards program trains volunteers on how they can take action to help solve environmental problems in their communities.
Green Infrastructure Champions Program
http://water.rutgers.edu/Projects/GreenInfrastructureChampions/GIC.html
This program, offered by the Rutgers Water Resources Program, trains community members on green infrastructure planning and implementation, how to engage with community leaders, local NGOs, and schools to increase green infrastructure for stormwater management, and publicize implementation through social media and other outlets.
Raritan River Rain Barrel Rebate Program (PDF)
https://somerset.njaes.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/2020-Rain-Barrel-Rebate-Program.pdf
The New Jersey Water Supply Authority is partnering with The Regional Center Partnership and Manville Borough to offer rebates for residents in Manville, Bridgewater, Raritan, and Somerville to install rain barrels at their homes.
Stormwater Management in our Backyard
https://njaes.rutgers.edu/environment/rain-garden-manual.php
A suite of resources to empower volunteers to educate their communities about the benefits of rain gardens, with materials for audiences of all ages.
NJ Woodland Stewards Program
https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/forest/privatelands/foreststewardshipprogram.html
The New Jersey Woodland Stewards Program promotes sustainable stewardship of our natural resources through individuals trained on the forest and wildlife stewardship principles.
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Contact Information
Rutgers Cooperative Extension
310 Milltown Rd.
Bridgewater, NJ 08807-3587
Phone: 908-526-6293
Email: Ashley Higgins Administrative Assistant
Email: Kate Brown County Agent
