This spring, DRBC staff has participated in several partner events throughout the Delaware River Basin.

Creating connections with stakeholders and partners is an important strategic goal of the DRBC. In addition to sharing information about the Basin and Commission programs, DRBC staff is also interested in listening to and learning from our partners and community members about their successes, challenges and needs regarding water resources. A sustainable, clean water supply for all is achievable if we work together!

In April, DRBC Manager of Water Resource Modeling Tom Amidon joined the Wildlands Conservancy on two walks in the Lehigh Valley. The walks were part of their Get Out! For Wellness Program, which is a partnership of the Wildlands Conservancy and the Lehigh Valley Health Network.

One walk was in Northampton County's Louise Moore Park; Tom introduced the group to the DRBC & our connection to/work in the Lehigh River Watershed.

The second walk was along the John M. Mauser Nature Education Trail System and featured gorgeous views of the Delaware River. Tom spoke about the DRBC's Special Protection Waters Program, which protects the existing high water quality of the entire non-tidal Delaware River. Since the Lehigh River is a tributary to the Delaware, the entire Lehigh River Watershed is part of the drainage area to DRBC's Special Protection Waters.

The Get Out! for Wellness Program has walks scheduled throughout the year. Visit https://www.wildlandspa.org/gowellness/ to learn more & visit their events calendar.

DRBC's Tom Amidon (far R) gives a brief intro about the DRBC to the walking group. Photo courtesy of Wildlands Conservancy.	The walking crew grabs a pic before heading out on the John M. Mauser Nature Education Trail. Photo courtesy of Wildlands Conservancy.	The John M. Mauser Nature Education Trail System includes a viewing platform of the Delaware River. Photo by the DRBC.

In April, DRBC's Director of External Affairs and Communications Beth Brown presented at the Camden Environmental Summit.

Hosted by the Camden Community Partnership, this event focused on environmental justice, needs and programs affecting Camden communities.

Beth presented on the DRBC & our ongoing work to improve Delaware River Estuary water quality, access and connections in our urban communities.

View Presentation (pdf)

Other speakers and special guests included Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen, NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette, U.S. EPA Region II Administrator Lisa Garcia, U.S. EPA Region II Senior Advisor for Equity Olivia Glenn and N.J. American Water President Mark McDonough.

Learn more about the Camden Community Partnership

People gather for the start of the Camden Environmental Summit. Photo by the DRBC.	The intersection of art and the outdoors, helping create beautiful, revitalized spaces. Photo by the DRBC.	A person uses a map to highlight neighborhood priorities in Camden. Photo by the DRBC.

The DRBC is participating in the steering committee that is working to develop the Neversink Watershed Management Plan.

Focused on the Neversink River Watershed, the plan will evaluate impacts from existing and planned development and other land uses, flooding concerns, water quality and quantity issues and economic and recreational opportunities.

This effort is being led by Sullivan County, Trout Unlimited, Friends of the Upper Delaware River and Natural Lands and includes input from conservation partners and community members.

The committee is hosting public meetings to engage community members to learn about their priority places in the watershed and to develop a vision statement for the watershed.

The next meeting is Monday, June 12, 2023 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Learn more about the Neversink Watershed Management Plan and how to provide input