New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act - Summer

Team Members: Kate Zabinsky, Lauren Farmer, Eirlys Chui, Gan Sylvia, Pauline Jozefiak, Hailey Moll, Christine Ow, Qu Songze, Yueyue Yu

The New York–New Jersey Watershed Protection Act aims to restore and protect one of the most economically and ecologically significant watershed systems in the United States, serving over 15 million people and generating approximately $60 billion annually through recreation, tourism, and commercial activity. The watershed faces major threats from water pollution, climate-driven flooding, habitat loss, and environmental injustice, which have degraded ecosystems and limited community access to clean water and natural resources. The legislation would establish a coordinated restoration program led by the Department of the Interior and supported by federal grants, technical assistance, and collaboration among federal, state, tribal, and local stakeholders. The program would focus on improving water quality, restoring habitats, and expanding access to ecosystem benefits.

Restoration efforts would prioritize nature-based solutions such as wetland restoration, green infrastructure, and pollution mitigation, which can improve ecosystem health while reducing climate risks. These approaches also offer economic benefits by supporting fisheries, recreation, and tourism. However, long-term success depends on sustained funding, intergovernmental coordination, and equitable implementation that addresses historic underinvestment in vulnerable communities. Strengthening watershed resilience would protect biodiversity, improve public health, and support economic stability while helping communities adapt to climate change. The legislation represents a comprehensive strategy for restoring ecological integrity and ensuring sustainable management of critical water resources.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Workshop in Applied Earth Systems Management.