Merrill Creek Reservoir Recognized for Environmental Excellence in New Jersey
On December 10, 2024, New Jersey's Merrill Creek Reservoir (MCR) was honored with the prestigious 2024 Governor's Environmental Excellence Award in the category of 'Healthy Ecosystems and Habitats.' Spanning a remarkable 2,700 acres, MCR is not only a vital water supply source but also a significant environmental preserve co-owned by FirstEnergy's Jersey Central Power & Light and FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, known locally as Met-Ed.
The award ceremony highlighted the collaborative efforts between MCR and various local communities and organizations, including Terra Engineers, New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg, and New Jersey Audubon. According to John Parke, an Environmental Specialist at FirstEnergy and Ecologist at MCR, the projects undertaken at the reservoir aim to offer substantial benefits for both wildlife and the adjacent communities. Parke emphasized the value of collaborative efforts for restoration and stewardship of natural resources.
Over 173 acres of voluntary conservation practices and environmental restoration efforts were recognized, showcasing significant habitat enhancement projects. These initiatives include the improvement of 75 acres of forest stands and habitat, the management of nearly 98 acres of native grasslands, and even the creation of enhanced pollinator gardens covering one acre.
Further enhancing its ecological impact, MCR has innovatively repurposed autumn olive, an invasive woody species removed during grassland restoration, into underwater structures. This included 78 underwater spider blocks and 17 fish cribs, designed to provide essential shelter and nursery areas for various aquatic organisms. Unlike typical fish habitats made from PVC, these new creations address environmental concerns by minimizing the risk of microplastic pollution.
Located in Washington Township, Warren County, Merrill Creek Reservoir encompasses a 650-acre reservoir, alongside 290 acres of environmental preserve, rich forests, and fields. The diverse habitat supports over 380 species, including multiple endangered and threatened species, underscoring its importance as a biodiversity hotspot in New Jersey.
As a significant utility provider, Jersey Central Power & Light serves over 1.1 million customers across several New Jersey counties. The recognition of the Merrill Creek Reservoir reflects FirstEnergy’s commitment to operational excellence and environmental sustainability. The company operates one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the U.S., underscoring its commitment to safety, reliability, and community engagement on matters of environmental protection.
This award serves as a testament not only to the collaborative initiatives undertaken by MCR but also to the importance of sustainable practices in preserving ecosystems for future generations. It plays a crucial role in motivating other organizations to recognize the value of ecological stewardship and to engage in proactive environmental management.
As accolades such as the Governor's Environmental Excellence Award bring awareness to successful environmental initiatives, it becomes increasingly essential for communities to participate in collaborative efforts. This enhances not just local wildlife and habitats, but contributes to a holistic appreciation of nature's vital roles in our ecosystems and daily lives.
The award ceremony highlighted the collaborative efforts between MCR and various local communities and organizations, including Terra Engineers, New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg, and New Jersey Audubon. According to John Parke, an Environmental Specialist at FirstEnergy and Ecologist at MCR, the projects undertaken at the reservoir aim to offer substantial benefits for both wildlife and the adjacent communities. Parke emphasized the value of collaborative efforts for restoration and stewardship of natural resources.
Over 173 acres of voluntary conservation practices and environmental restoration efforts were recognized, showcasing significant habitat enhancement projects. These initiatives include the improvement of 75 acres of forest stands and habitat, the management of nearly 98 acres of native grasslands, and even the creation of enhanced pollinator gardens covering one acre.
Further enhancing its ecological impact, MCR has innovatively repurposed autumn olive, an invasive woody species removed during grassland restoration, into underwater structures. This included 78 underwater spider blocks and 17 fish cribs, designed to provide essential shelter and nursery areas for various aquatic organisms. Unlike typical fish habitats made from PVC, these new creations address environmental concerns by minimizing the risk of microplastic pollution.
Located in Washington Township, Warren County, Merrill Creek Reservoir encompasses a 650-acre reservoir, alongside 290 acres of environmental preserve, rich forests, and fields. The diverse habitat supports over 380 species, including multiple endangered and threatened species, underscoring its importance as a biodiversity hotspot in New Jersey.
As a significant utility provider, Jersey Central Power & Light serves over 1.1 million customers across several New Jersey counties. The recognition of the Merrill Creek Reservoir reflects FirstEnergy’s commitment to operational excellence and environmental sustainability. The company operates one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the U.S., underscoring its commitment to safety, reliability, and community engagement on matters of environmental protection.
This award serves as a testament not only to the collaborative initiatives undertaken by MCR but also to the importance of sustainable practices in preserving ecosystems for future generations. It plays a crucial role in motivating other organizations to recognize the value of ecological stewardship and to engage in proactive environmental management.
As accolades such as the Governor's Environmental Excellence Award bring awareness to successful environmental initiatives, it becomes increasingly essential for communities to participate in collaborative efforts. This enhances not just local wildlife and habitats, but contributes to a holistic appreciation of nature's vital roles in our ecosystems and daily lives.
Topics Environment）
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