The Health of the Upper Raritan
2024 Watershed Report Card: Grade C-
Every year, Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA) checks the health of local streams by collecting water data with the help of staff and community volunteers. In 2024, we tested 80 stream sites. The results show a mixed picture: some streams are doing well, but others need help.
The good news: many streams still support fish that need cool, clean water.
The bad news: some problems are showing up. Levels of phosphorus (from fertilizers and wastewater) and road salts are too high in many places. Also, the natural habitat around streams needs improvement.
Why does this matter?
Because the Upper Raritan is the source of drinking water for over 1.8 million people in New Jersey. We want our streams to be clean and healthy — and we believe it’s possible to bring our grade up.
What’s Hurting Our Streams?
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Suburban Development
Too much development (paved surfaces like roads and parking lots stop water from soaking into the ground).
- Stormwater runoff (rainwater picks up pollutants like fertilizers, pesticides, and pet waste).
- Septic system leaks, road salt, and harmful chemicals.
- Climate change, which brings heavier rains and more flooding.
What Can We Do?
There’s hope! Most of the pollution in our streams doesn’t come from one big source — it comes from everyday activities all over the region. That means everyone can help.
Simple ways to protect our water:
- Plant trees and shrubs near streams
- Use less fertilizer and skip pesticides
- Install a rain garden to soak up rainwater
- Fix septic system problems
- Support green infrastructure (like rain barrels and permeable driveways)
- Get involved with RHA!
Clean Water Needs All of Us
We all need safe, clean water — for drinking, swimming, fishing, and more. But it doesn’t happen on its own. RHA works every day to protect our watershed, but we can’t do it without you.
Join us. Take action. Protect the water we all depend on.