Green infrastructure is a trifecta, it: manages heavy rain and snow, improves water supplies, and enhances real estate development. Great news: the NJ Department of Environmental Protection is issuing new rules for stormwater management that mandate use of green infrastructure such as bioswales, rain gardens, pervious pavement, tree wells, etc. Learn about these elements of landscape architecture and how they enhance aesthetics, health, and safety from Marian Glenn, former Summit Environmental Commissioner, and President of the Trustees of the Rahway River Watershed Association. This free program is co-sponsored by GSWA and Summit Free Public Library.

Everyone still asks, “So, how’s the water?” Come out and learn about the water quality along your stretch of the Passaic River and get the answers. Great Swamp Watershed Association Director of Water Quality, Sandra LaVigne, will present the 2018 water quality year in review, with data from our in-depth sampling program that covers the Passaic River from its headwaters in Great Swamp through the Florham Park/Livingston region. GSWA’s new microplastics sampling program will also be reviewed. Registration is required.

Did you ever stop to think about what it is you’re really spraying on your counter tops and floors? It’s possible that the residue left behind may actually be harmful to our family, pets, our local environment, and our regional water supply. Some super effective, eco-friendly alternative solutions come from ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen; things like white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Believe it or not, it all really works! Come learn about the ingredients found in our personal and household cleaning products you may want to avoid, and how products labeled as “environmentally safe” are not all created equal – and why you should…

At this program Great Swamp Watershed Association Director of Education and Outreach, Hazel England, will explain just what gardening for the environment entails. She will share tips on how to use native plants to attract beneficial wildlife into your backyard, how to reduce your water use, and how to minimize gardening pollutants. You’ll learn about the value that wildlife brings, and leave the presentation armed with a trove of information about what you can to plant in order to support local bird, bee, and butterfly populations. This free event is co-sponsored by GSWA and Livingston Public Library.