In a summer that has seen clear skies, hot temperatures, and cloudbursts, it is not surprising Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) have been appearing in bodies of water throughout the region. Ever since the summer of 2019, when Lake Hopatcong experienced a prolonged lake-wide HAB, local residents have been well aware of how impactful algal blooms can be. Since then, most regional bodies of water have witnessed HABs and even New York’s Lake George has not been immune. The significant recreational and economic impacts caused by HABS have caused concern for both our local, state, and federal officials.
Introducing our new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Intern, Emma Boxer!
12 Parks and Trails to Explore in the Delaware River Watershed
July is Parks and Recreation Month, so what better time to highlight some of the wonderful parks and trails that sit within the Delaware River Watershed? Exploring local parks and outdoor recreation areas are often our first experiences in nature when we’re young, and as we grow older these places continue to offer space to relax, enjoy our favorite hobbies, get our bodies moving, connect with the community, and to gather with friends and family.
House Passes the Delaware River Basin Conservation Reauthorization Act
Trenton, NJ (July 21, 2022) - Late last week in a 220-206 vote, the House passed the Delaware River Basin Conservation Reauthorization Act (DRBCA), included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Coalition applauds the made in order amendment that was offered by Rep Evans (PA), Rep Fitzpatrick (PA) and Rep Blunt Rochester (DE) to the NDAA.
Pennsylvania Falls Short of Their Funding Commitment to the DRBC
(Harrisburg, PA) - July 11, 2022 - Governor Tom Wolf signed Pennsylvania’s 2023 budget into law on Friday, notably falling short of the Commonwealth’s commitment to fully fund the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC). Despite the Governor’s initial budget proposal to fully fund the DRBC with more than the $893,000 that the Commonwealth agreed to, negotiations cut funding to $217,000, the same level that Pennsylvania has been funding the Commission at since 2014.
PENNSYLVANIA STATE BUDGET INCLUDES HISTORIC INVESTMENTS IN CLEAN WATER
(HARRISBURG, PA)—Today, Pennsylvania's General Assembly passed a new state budget that includes historic funding for the program formerly called Growing Greener, as well as the new Clean Streams Fund program. Collectively, these two programs will invest $696 million from the American Rescue Plan to protect and restore Pennsylvania's waterways.
New Jersey to Fully Fund Delaware River Basin Commission in 2023 Budget
On Behalf of Coalition Staff – Statement on SCOTUS Decision to Overturn Roe v. Wade
Statement on behalf of staff at the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed:
Together, we stand in solidarity against the reversal of Roe v. Wade, a violation against reproductive rights, which have been guaranteed to the American people for almost half a century. Our hearts and minds are with all those affected by this devastating blow to women and birthing people’s right to bodily autonomy – the human right to make decisions over one’s own life and future.