The commission explored the Adopt a Catch Basin program extensively, considering the benefits of reducing localized flooding and enhancing water quality. The program’s framework was presented, drawing parallels with established practices in Newark and Princeton, where community engagement has led to the successful adoption and maintenance of catch basins. The commission examined the potential for grants and support from organizations such as The Watershed Institute and the Nature Conservancy, which could provide resources to complement the program. Discussions also revolved around the Department of Public Works’ (DPW) involvement and the logistics of getting residents to participate in the program.

There was a consensus on the need for clear communication regarding the expected labor and the importance of fostering community pride through such initiatives. The potential for the program to serve as a tool in addressing environmental challenges was a focal point of the discussion.

Additionally, the commission reported on the success of a recent stream cleanup event and expressed concerns over the accumulation of trash at certain preserves. This led to a proposal for a partnership with the Parks and Recreation Commission to tackle the issue. The need for effective trail maintenance and preserve management was also on the agenda, with updates provided on the mapping project of stormwater inlets. Difficulties faced in the mapping process, such as the lack of unique identifiers for stormwater inlets, were discussed. Furthermore, technological challenges such as poor Wi-Fi connectivity hindering the uploading of pictures were mentioned.

The meeting also touched upon the participation of a commission member in the science and watershed management committee of the Watershed Institute. The involvement opened avenues for potential partnerships, particularly for student projects that would contribute to the local environmental efforts. The commission welcomed the idea of leveraging these collaborations to encourage educational opportunities in the community.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Community Wildlife Habitat Certification proclamation. The proclamation stressed the importance of promoting wildlife-friendly practices among residents, which aligns with the commission’s broader environmental goals.

In other discussions, the topic of stormwater management took center stage, as the commission considered the benefits of a structured program to improve water quality and reduce waste in waterways. Interest was shown in developing a draft proposal for such a program, with the commission keen on involving private residents and businesses.

Public engagement during the meeting surfaced concerns about recent flooding during a storm, prompting discussions about methods to prevent such occurrences in the future. The commission deemed the event unusual and unprecedented.

Lastly, the “Me Award” was announced, an accolade for an eighth grader who creates a video or multimedia project about local preserves.