Climate change is causing an increase in flooding, rising sea levels, and new weather patterns. These changes have a massive negative impact on older urban cities. In an urban environment, flooding is particularly an issue, especially if the sewer system is a Combined Sewer Outfall. Combined Sewer Outfalls, or CSOs, are outdated sewer systems that easily become overwhelmed during rain events. During dry conditions, sewage and rainwater make their way to the water treatment plant normally. However, when the system reaches capacity, especially when it rains, the sewer can only carry so much runoff and waste to the water treatment plant. The sewer will then fill up with excess sewage and storm water. This waste is then dumped untreated into the closest water body. CSOs contribute to flooded basements, homes, and streets. Children are often seen playing in contaminated water. This is an environmental justice issue for residents and families living in Camden.
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About Us
The NJ Tree Foundation is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees in New Jersey’s most urban neighborhoods, where the need is greatest. Through tree planting, volunteerism, and partnerships, we assist numerous communities in improving their environment and quality of
Volunteer
Every spring and fall, hundreds of volunteers join forces with the NJ Tree Foundation and our community partners to dig holes, plant trees, lay mulch, and have fun at tree planting events. Sign-up for our e-newsletter to be the first to know
Our latest news:
Christmas Tree Recycling
Looking for a way to dispose of your Christmas tree now that the holidays are over? Many towns and counties will collect the trees if left in front of your house; check with your local municipality to find out if there are specific restrictions or pickup times. Generally, trees collected by municipalities are chipped and then used as mulch where needed. For those of you who do not have access to curbside pickup, you may be able to drop off your tree at a specific location – Ocean County Parks is collecting Christmas trees through January 31st to be chipped and mulched for use throughout the parks. Read on for more ideas on how to dispose of or recycle your tree!
Read morePlanting Trees for a Living
Larry is a recent graduate of our Green Streets Program. Green Streets provides men under parole supervision with temporary jobs planting and maintaining trees, helping them increase their job skills and earn an income while they get back on their feet.
Read moreTrees Uniting Neighbors
The residents of Pomona Avenue in Newark were tired of seeing the long, empty, grass medians on their street filled with litter and causing an eyesore. Ready to take action, they reactivated the Pomona Avenue Block Association and adopted the grass medians from the City of Newark. Their first project was to plant trees there!
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