We are stoked to announce the launch of the Jersey Shore Chapter’s new Blue Water Task Force (BWTF) program. The new program brings Surfrider’s water quality monitoring efforts to the Jersey Shore, creating new opportunities for volunteers and students to work together to monitor and protect local waterways.
The Jersey Shore Chapter is partnering with Monmouth University’s Phytoplankton and Harmful Algal Bloom Lab (PHAB Lab), led by Professor of Marine Science Jason Adolf, to process and analyze water samples collected by chapter volunteers. To officially kick off the partnership and celebrate World Oceans Day, they held a ceremony and press event in June with representatives from the Surfrider Foundation and Monmouth University.
Professor Jason Adolf speaks to the press in the lab during the partnership launch ceremony, alongside representatives from the Surfrider Foundation and Monmouth University. Photo Credit: Karl Vilacoba
The Chapter will initially monitor approximately seven beaches throughout Monmouth County, with plans to expand sampling efforts across both Monmouth and Ocean Counties over time. By providing year-round water quality monitoring, the program complements New Jersey’s seasonal state beach monitoring program and provides additional data to help communities track and respond to local water quality conditions.
The new BWTF program is now wrapping up its third week of sampling, with chapter volunteers collecting water samples and the Monmouth University team processing and analyzing them. Weekly water quality results are being uploaded to the BWTF database, helping the community stay informed about local water quality. Check out Monmouth University’s recent blog post to learn more about the results being posted.
Beyond collecting valuable water quality data, this partnership gives students the opportunity to get hands-on experience with scientific research and take an active role in protecting their local waterways. Through BWTF, students and volunteers can take part in water quality monitoring while contributing to a growing community effort to protect clean water.
A huge thank you to Monmouth University and all of the volunteers and community members who helped make this launch possible. Together, we’re taking an important step toward protecting clean water and strengthening our coastal communities along the Jersey Shore.
Jersey Shore Chapter volunteers and Monmouth University students and staff gathered in Asbury Park for the first Blue Water Task Force training session on July 29th. Photo credit: Monmouth University
To volunteer or find a BWTF lab testing near you, check out our online map at bwtf.surfrider.org.
As Blue Water Task Force Manager, Jaime is passionate about protecting the water. With a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, she has gained extensive experience addressing critical water quality issues through her previous roles with the National Park Service and various other environmental organizations.