Watershed Guardian
Resident Action Guide
Every property in Fredon Township is connected to the Paulins Kill Watershed. Because our town sits directly at the headwaters where the river begins, the actions you take in your yard influence water quality downstream.
Manage Land and Lawn Care
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Eliminate Chemical Fertilizers:
Switch to natural compost to reduce phosphorus and nitrogen runoff. -
Mow Higher:
Keep lawn grass at least 3 inches tall to encourage deeper roots. -
Plant Native Species:
Replace portions of turf with native New Jersey plants.
Capture and Filter Stormwater
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Install a Rain Garden:
Create a shallow planted depression to collect runoff. -
Use Rain Barrels:
Capture rainwater from gutters for later use. -
Minimize Paved Surfaces:
Use permeable pavers, gravel, or stepping stones.
Protect Streams and Well Water (Farms & Large Lots)
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Maintain Vegetative Buffers:
Leave a 35-foot no-mow zone along streams. -
Manage Animal Waste:
Keep manure away from drainage paths. -
Pump Your Septic:
Inspect and pump every 3–5 years.
Engage in Community Science
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Report Pollution:
Report illegal dumping, erosion, or unusual discharges. -
Volunteer for Tree Plantings:
Support watershed restoration efforts.
Native Plant Guide
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Full Sun & Moist Soil:
Cardinal Flower, Blue Flag Iris, Swamp Milkweed. -
Part Shade to Full Sun:
Black-Eyed Susan, Wild Bergamot/Bee Balm, New England Aster. -
Shady Woodland Areas:
Christmas Fern, Arrowwood Viburnum, Wild Geranium.
