Recap: February 5, 2025 WRWAC Meeting
Unity Charter School Students Shine
Posted on March 20, 2025 by Webmaster@WRWAC.org
On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, the Whippany River Watershed Action Committee (WRWAC) hosted its monthly Action Committee Meeting at the Morris County Library, 30 East Hanover Ave, Whippany, NJ 07981. The evening kicked off at 5:45 PM with doors opening for pizza and networking, followed by the meeting at 6:00 PM. For those who couldn’t attend in person, a Zoom option ensured broad participation. The highlight of the night? A captivating Water Quality Presentation by middle school students from Unity Charter School, led by their science teacher, Jeffrey Mrozak.
Spotlight on Water Quality: Road Salt’s Impact
The Unity Charter School students delivered an impressive presentation, sharing findings from their ongoing water quality studies of the Whippany River. As part of their science curriculum, they’ve been investigating the effects of road salt on this vital waterway. Their research revealed how winter road salt runoff can alter the river’s chemistry, potentially harming aquatic life and water quality—a pressing concern for the 69.3-square-mile watershed that supplies drinking water to over 1 million people in northern New Jersey.
You can watch the full presentation on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/-wJB5h1J_fU. The students’ work not only showcased their scientific skills but also underscored the importance of youth involvement in environmental stewardship—values at the heart of both WRWAC and Unity Charter School (www.unitycharterschool.org).
A Community Effort
The meeting brought together WRWAC members, local residents, and environmental enthusiasts to discuss ongoing efforts to protect the Whippany River Watershed. From addressing stormwater runoff to tackling pollution, WRWAC’s mission to preserve this critical ecosystem was palpable. The students’ findings on road salt will help inform future initiatives, proving that every voice—even the youngest—can make a difference.
Get Involved with WRWAC!
Loved what you saw in the recap? There’s plenty more where that came from! WRWAC hosts monthly Action Committee Meetings on the first Wednesday of each month (except January, July, and August) at the Morris County Library. Doors open at 5:45 PM, with meetings starting at 6:00 PM, and Zoom access is always available. These gatherings feature guest speakers, project updates, and a chance to enjoy some pizza while connecting with like-minded folks. Check the WRWAC calendar for upcoming dates and Zoom details.
Looking for more ways to participate? Join us for these exciting opportunities:
- Annual Whippany River Clean-Up: Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Partnering with Bethel Church of Morristown, this event is a hands-on way to keep our river pristine. Details at www.wrwac.org.
- Executive Committee Meetings: Held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Hanover Township Municipal Building, these sessions dive into the operational side of WRWAC. Open to members and interested volunteers!
- Volunteer Projects: From river plantings to water sampling, there’s always a way to pitch in. Visit www.wrwac.org to learn more and sign up.
Why It Matters
The Whippany River isn’t just a waterway—it’s a lifeline. WRWAC, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, has been its steward since 1999, working tirelessly to combat threats like erosion, flooding, and pollutants. Whether you’re inspired by the Unity Charter students or eager to roll up your sleeves, your involvement can help safeguard this resource for generations to come.
Missed the February meeting? Watch the presentation (https://youtu.be/-wJB5h1J_fU) and join us next time. Together, we can keep the Whippany River flowing strong!
Learn more about WRWAC’s mission and projects at www.wrwac.org.
