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Peapack Brook Stream Monitoring Sites
The purpose of URWA's stream monitoring program is to conserve water quality by evaluating both
biological and chemical parameters of collected samples. Benthic macroinvertebrate communities are analyzed to determine species composition and relative richness which can be used as an indicator of water quality. Chemical analyses offer insight into factors that lead to impairment. In addition to degrading potable water supplies, excessive contaminants, including fecal coliform, as well as high temperatures and low oxygen content reduce the quality of aquatic habitats and recreational opportunities provided by the resource. If degradation is detected, URWA can pursue remedies to address the identified factors to restore the quality of water in the Upper Raritan Watershed.The Peapack Brook, which originates in Chester Borough and flows through Chester Township, the Borough of Peapack-Gladstone, and Bedminster before emptying into the North Branch of the Raritan River, is a Trout Production stream. This waterway suffers from non-point source pollution, unshaded banks, erosion, and the effects of increasing development. Since 2001, support from a NJDEP 319h grant entitled "Design and Implementation of Non-point Source Pollution Control Measures in the Peapack Brook Subwatershed" has allowed URWA and trained volunteers to conduct biological and chemical monitoring of sites on Peapack Brook. The sampling results allow us to assess trends and identify locations of potential impairment. This information was used to recommend best management practices to local landowners and to design a restoration project located in Rockabye Meadow Park in Peapack-Gladstone.
Click on monitoring sites below to view detailed information
