Water Quality Canvassing Project Addresses Environmental Concerns

Matthew Hersh

Student volunteers from the Princeton University chapter of New Jersey Community Water Watch took part in a canvassing project that spread water quality information throughout Princeton Borough last Sunday.

Those who participated in the campaign distributed pamphlets to residents hoping to spread information about the quality of New Jersey's water supply, including problems with elevated levels of debris, mercury, and other pollutants.

Borough Mayor Joe O'Neill took part in the campaign designed to raise awareness of environmental problems and promote Water Watch's visibility in the Princeton area.

Mayor O'Neill said in a press conference in Tiger Park that Princeton's environmentally-conscious mentality has already led to the improved water quality of Lake Carnegie.

The Mayor added that because of Princeton's aged infrastructure and layout, and frequent reconstruction projects, the area's waterways are prone to pesticides, sewage, and motor oil.

The campaign comes in light of what is viewed by many as the most sweeping effort by the state in 20 years to protect water quality and preserve drinking water supplies. In January, Gov. James McGreevey enacted regulations that require municipalities to adopt and enforce stringent ordinances and stormwater management plans that will not only ensure an improvement in the quality of water, but will effectively curb development sprawl.

Water Watch representatives have expressed hope that its organization can serve as a vehicle for the community's involvement in actively improving its water quality and additionally serve as an environmental liaison between the town and the Princeton University.

The organization was founded in 1994 as part of a project led by the New Jersey Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) and AmeriCorps whose mission involved stream cleanups and the monitoring of local waterways for pollutants.