Did you know that soil is classified into taxonomic groups? The soil classification system is similar to the way that living organisms, including plants and animals, are classified into groups based on physical, chemical and morphological properties. Soil scientists classify soils into hierarchical taxonomic categories including order, suborder, great group, subgroup, family and series. The … Read more
Senior Erosion Control Specialist, Ramon Mejia, and Inspector I, Ben Hayden, of Ocean County Soil Conservation District, shared their knowledge and expertise with students enrolled in Kean University’s Principles of Environmental Soil Science, at the Kean Ocean campus, in Toms River, NJ. On a field trip to several local construction sites in Ocean County, Mr. … Read more
The vibrant community of soil organisms that live beneath our feet are the unsung heroes of our yards and gardens. Below the soil surface, a bustling community of soil organisms tirelessly works to maintain the vitality of the living landscape above. These tiny creatures, including bacteria, fungi, earthworms and insects, play a pivotal role in … Read more
The Lakewood Township Stormwater Basin Retrofit Project had a productive 2023 spring seeding season. Five additional stormwater basin retrofit designs have been implemented throughout the municipality.
You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that New Jersey has a state soil, just as it has a state bird (American Goldfinch), a state flower (Purple Violet) and a state tree (Red Oak). Our state soil is called Downer.
The Jersey-Friendly Yards Certification Program engages individuals and communities in stewardship actions that help manage stormwater and reduce and prevent non-point source pollution, such as nutrient fertilizers that run off lawns and into our creeks, rivers and bay.
Show your colors this Independence Day by adding some red, white and blue to your summer garden! American native plants support local bees, butterflies and birds by providing nectar, pollen, seeds and nesting materials.
Native plants are perfectly adapted to our sandy south Jersey native soils and local climate. Support pollinators, birds and wildlife by adding a few spring blooming native plants to your yard.
Congratulations to our hometown team, MATES – Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science, for winning First Place at the New Jersey Envirothon on May 20.
Green leaves of summer are ablaze in scarlet, crimson and gold, as trees and shrubs begin to wind-down for winter. Through photosynthesis, these mini food factories provided an essential service in turning water and carbon dioxide into sugars for their host. But their job duties do not end there. Leaves take on a new role in the winter. These brown leafy blankets protect pupating caterpillars and provide habitat for moths and butterflies.