Park Commission Partners With Raritan Headwaters Association To Protect The Raritan River

by Rich Reitman

The Somerset County Park Commission, led by the Ranger Division, has entered into a collaborative arrangement with the Raritan Headwaters Association to promote an educational initiative to protect the Raritan River from the introduction of invasive species.

The Headwaters project is funded by an Audubon Toyota TogetherGreen fellowship and focuses on spreading awareness about the nuisance alga, didymo, and the importance of leaving no trace of visits to the streams and rivers enjoyed by fisherman, kayakers and boaters.

The basic “Leave No Trace” principle being promoted is to have fishermen, kayakers, boaters, and other stream recreationalists regularly inspect their gear including removal of rocks, mud, plants, moss and other materials; thoroughly cleaning equipment to remove any attached materials; and completely dry equipment in the sun following use.

Aquatic equipment is vulnerable to transferring known aquatic invasives including whirling disease, zebra mussels, water chestnut, New Zealand mud snail and future unknown threats.

Aquatic invasive species are not native to an ecosystem and when introduced can cause economic and/or environmental harm or threaten human health.Park Commission Rangers will serve as a positive presence at parks and Commission events to educate visitors on the importance of taking personal responsibility for keeping the Raritan River healthy, clean, and safe.

In addition, “Leave No Trace” flyers will be posted at Park Commission facilities along the river.

For more information on the “Leave No Trace” program contact Angela Gorczyca at agorczyca@raritanheadwaters.org or call (908) 234-1852 x315. Information on all Somerset County Park Commission activities may be found on the Internet at www.somersetcountyparks.org.

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