Latest news with #DEP
Yahoo
17 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Black bear sightings in New Jersey are down so far in 2025. A breakdown by the numbers
Have you encountered any black bears yet this season? According to a report from the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, bear sightings and overall incidents are down so far in 2025. The NJDEP's most recent report details 257 reported bear incidents in the state between Jan. 1 and May 21. During the same period last year, New Jersey saw 358 reported incidents, marking a year-to-year decrease of 28.21%. NJ Fish and Wildlife's Black Bear Activity Reports split black bear activity into three categories to help dictate how the agency and local law enforcement should respond. Category I applies to incidents where a bear was a threat to public safety and property. Category II applies to nuisance bears, which are not a threat to public safety or property, and Category III is for normal, non-threatening bear behavior. These reports include sightings and complaints reported to the DEP and do not include incidents handled by local police departments without the DEP's assistance. Per the most recent report, between Jan. 1 and May 21, there were 63 reported bear sightings in New Jersey. This number is down 32.98% from last year when there were 94 sightings in the same time period. Damage and nuisance incidents are also down in 2025. According to the NJDEP, there have been 194 reported incidents of black bear damage and nuisance this year. In 2024, between Jan. 1 and May 21, the state saw 264 damage and nuisance incidents. Sussex County has had the highest number of black bear reports so far this year with 103, followed by Warren County with 65 and Morris County with 36. In its most recent monthly report, which ranged from April 20 through May 21, the NJDEP reported that bear sightings, damage and nuisance incidents, and the total number of reported incidents were all down by nearly 50% from the year prior. While the number of reported black bear incidents are down, Larry Hajna, an NJDEP spokesperson, said in an emailed statement that it is difficult to discern any trends in such a short period of time. "It is difficult to draw any conclusions as to short-term, seasonal changes in black bear incidents reported to the DEP because bear activity and the number of reports made by the public are influenced by many factors, including food, availability, weather, and harvest rates during the preceding hunting season," said Hajna on May 29. "DEP Fish and Wildlife will continue to monitor incident reports and assess longer term trends as the season progresses." To view the NJDEP's most recent Black Bear Activity Reports, visit Black bears are not true hibernators and may be active all year long, according to NJ Fish and Wildlife. However, during the winter they enter a state of dormancy called torpor. While in this state, their heart rate and respiratory rate slow down and their body temperature drops slightly. Bears can be easily awakened if they are disturbed while in torpor and may leave their dens in search of food on mild winter days. Once the spring arrives, black bears emerge from their dens to actively forage for food. They are also active throughout the summer breeding season and in the fall while they prepare for the winter den period. New Jersey's black bears are most commonly found in the northwest region of the state, particularly in Sussex, Passaic, Warren and Morris counties, according to NJ Fish and Wildlife. However, as the bear population increases, they are expanding both east and south. Black bears have been spotted in all 21 counties. Although reported incidents are down, black bears are still around. Police are warning residents to use caution and remain aware of their surroundings. "Early this morning a resident of First Avenue reported a bear in their back yard eating from the bird feeders," wrote the Westwood Police Department in a post on Facebook. "This is not an uncommon phenomenon in the early spring. A check of the area during daylight hours did not determine the bear's location." Westwood police urged residents to "use caution and be cognizant" of their surroundings. Hajna echoed this warning, stating, "DEP Fish and Wildlife urges the public to always be aware of bears and take steps to avoid unwanted interactions with them, especially in the spring when they have emerged from their dens and are searching for food following the winter denning season, by removing access to unnatural food sources, such as trash, and using bear resistant trash receptacles." For many North Jersey residents, especially those who live in peak bear country, these practices have become habitual. The DEP recommends that property owners practice the following safety tips to minimize black bear encounters and conflicts: Secure trash and eliminate obvious food sources such as pet food bowls, bird feeders and food residue left on grills. Clean outdoor grills and utensils to remove food and grease residue and store grills securely Use certified bear-resistant garbage containers if possible. Otherwise, store all garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids and place them along the inside walls of your garage, basement, a sturdy shed, or another secure area Wash garbage containers frequently to remove odors and put out garbage on collection day, not the night before Avoid feeding birds when bears are active. If you choose to feed birds, do so only from Dec. 1 to April 1 during daylight hours, bringing the feeders indoors at night. Feeders should be suspended from a free-hanging wire at least 10 feet off the ground and 10 feet away from any objects a bear could climb. Clean spilled seeds and shells daily Immediately remove all uneaten food and food bowls used by pets fed outdoors. If you live in bear country, walk your dog on a leash and keep them indoors or in a secure kennel overnight Do not place meat, dairy or any sweet foods in compost piles Remove fruits or nuts that fall from trees in your yard Properly install electric fencing as an effective way to protect crops, beehives and livestock If you encounter a black bear, the NJDEP says to follow these safety tips: Remain calm. Never run from a bear as this may trigger its predatory instinct. Instead, slowly back away. Avoid direct eye contact as it may be perceived by the bear as a challenge. Always make sure the bear has an escape route. Scare the bear away by making loud noises such as yelling, using a whistle, banging pots and pans or blowing an air horn. Make yourself look as big as possible by waiving your arms. If you are with someone else, stand close together with your arms raised above your head Make bears aware of your presence by speaking in an assertive voice, singing, clapping your hands or making other noises. If hiking through bear country, always make your presence known. Hike in a group when possible If a bear utters a series of huffs, makes popping sounds by snapping its jaws or swats at the ground, these are warning signs that you are too close. Slowly back away, avoiding eye contact. Do not run If a bear stands on its hind legs or moves closer, it may be trying to get a better view or detect scents in the air. This is usually non-threatening behavior Black bears will sometimes "bluff charge" when cornered, threatened, or attempting to steal food. Stand your ground, avoid eye contact, back away slowly and do not run If the bear does not leave, move to a secure area such as a vehicle or a building Families who live in areas that are frequented by black bears should have a "bear plan" in place for children with an escape route and planned use of whistles and air horns, according to the NJDEP. While attacks are rare, if a black bear attacks, fight back. Black bear damage or aggressive bears can be reported to your local police department or to NJDEP Fish and Wildlife at 1-877-927-6337. This article originally appeared on Black bear sightings in NJ down so far in 2025, DEP reports
Yahoo
a day ago
- General
- Yahoo
Florida DOH advisory warns of toxic algal bloom in Blue Cypress Lake, Indian River County
A toxic algae bloom in Blue Cypress Lake prompted a May 22 health advisory warning people to avoid contact with the water. Cyanobacteria, commonly called blue-green algae, was detected in the center of the lake on May 15 — seven days before the Florida Department of Health issued a public health advisory. The level of the toxin microcystin was 0.86, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The toxin is harmful to people, pets and wildlife to touch, ingest or inhale when the level is 8 parts per billion, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. None of that information was included in the DOH health advisory. It's the second such advisory in as many days. Potentially toxic algae was found in a canal on the Martin County side of Lake Okeechobee near Port Mayaca, state officials warned in a May 21 health advisory. DEP is awaiting test results to determine whether the algae is toxic. Blue Cypress Lake has experienced toxic algae outbreaks in previous years, including 2018 and 2016. Biosolids were suspected of causing the latter. Pressley Ranch, which lies southwest of the lake, had spread partially treated human sewage sludge over 3,059 acres of pastureland to help grow Bahia grass for cattle grazing. Toxic algae is most common in the hotter, wetter, summer months. Blooms can appear as scum, foam or paint on the surface of the water in various colors. Some environmental factors that contribute to blooms are sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions, and excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. They come predominately from agricultural runoff but also urban development. Blooms can appear year-round, but are more frequent in summer and fall. Toxins can be harmful to the ecosystem, including fish and other aquatic animals, as well as people. Children, the elderly and those who are immunocompromised may be at risk even at low concentrations, DOH stated. Blue Cypress Lake: Is phosphorus pollution from Pressley Ranch's biosolids? Algae advisory: Florida DOH warns of algae in Martin County on C-44 Canal side of Lake Okeechobee The DOH advises residents and visitors to take these precautions: Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercrafts, or come into contact with waters where there is a visible bloom. Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have any contact with algae or discolored or water that smells unpleasant. Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate toxins. Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts, and cook fish thoroughly. Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms. Report a bloom to DEP online or via its toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903. Report fish kills to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute at 800-636-0511. Tim O'Hara is TCPalm's environment reporter. Contact him at This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Florida DOH advisory warns of toxic algal bloom in Blue Cypress Lake
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Earth Conservancy secures $6.7M grant for land reclamation and park development
May 28—HANOVER TWP. — A former strip mine once used for debris disposal from Hurricane Agnes in 1972 will be transformed into a vibrant community park, thanks to a $6.7 million grant from the PA Department of Environmental Protection, Terry Ostrowski, president/CEO at Earth Conservancy, announced Wednesday. Ostrowski said Earth Conservancy will use the grant to reclaim its 30-acre Hanover 7A site and transform it into a new community park serving the Lower South Valley. Funded through DEP's highly-competitive Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program, Ostrowski said the project highlights the power of partnerships in returning long-abandoned mine lands into valuable community assets — promoting both economic growth and environmental renewal. Located in Hanover Township directly off State Route 29, Ostrowski said the site's accessibility makes it especially well-positioned to serve as a regional hub for outdoor recreation and community engagement. "Earth Conservancy is incredibly grateful for the continued support from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, as well as from our local representatives," Ostrowski said. "The site's accessibility and size make it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. We genuinely believe it will not only provide a wonderful resource for residents, but also attract regional athletic tournaments, boosting our economy and fostering community engagement." Project overview Ostrowski said the history of Hanover 7A (H7A) is like many mine-scarred properties in EC's portfolio. Once owned by the Glen Alden Coal Company, the land was heavily strip-mined and left unrestored, with large open pits dominating the landscape. Its condition worsened after the Agnes Flood in 1972, when Pennsylvania designated non-operating strip mine sites — including 38 acres of H7A — for disposal of storm debris. Following Glen Alden bankruptcy in the mid-1970s, Ostrowski said the land remained neglected until EC acquired it in 1994. At that time, he said no formal closure had occurred. EC worked with a range of agencies and community partners, including DEP, to evaluate and reclaim the 48-acre parcel. Basic reclamation, including capping and grading, was completed in 2006. The site sat idle until 2019, when 18 acres were sold to a local developer, which became the new home of the Pennsylvania State Police Troop P barracks and training facility. In January 2020, Ostrowski said EC convened a group of local stakeholders — including municipal leaders, elected officials, and representatives from area schools, colleges, and businesses — to discuss the site's potential. "The response was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees envisioning the land becoming a focal point for community recreation and engagement," Ostrowski said. In response, EC applied for and received a Community Conservation Partnership Program (C2P2) grant from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in 2021. Ostrowski said the funding supported site assessments, community outreach, and planning. Importantly, Ostrowski said the study confirmed that any reuse of the site — even for passive recreation — would require further reclamation. To continue progress, Ostrowski said EC applied to DEP for funding through the AMLER Program in 2023. In May 2025, Ostrowski said EC was awarded a $6.7 million AMLER grant to complete the next phase of the project. He said work will include bulk earthwork, grading, and subsurface stabilization; installation of basic utilities and parking areas; site revegetation; and construction of initial park amenities, including grass fields, a walking trail, and an inclusive playground. "Once complete, the H7A project will mark a significant milestone in EC's mission to foster environmental restoration, economic development, and improved quality of life in the region," Ostrowski said. "The transformation of this long-neglected site into a vibrant community space will expand green infrastructure, enhance outdoor recreational opportunities, and serve as a valuable resource for local schools and residents. Additionally, the project lays the groundwork for future phases of development, supporting a healthier, safer, and more connected Lower South Valley." Legislators offer comment Sen. Lisa Baker, R-Lehman Township, said the project represents a terrific combination of conservation and recreation. "We are fortunate to have a local group like the Earth Conservancy with the vision and energy to assemble and carry out a plan that contributes to the physical and mental health of area residents," Sen. Baker said. "This opens opportunities for those of all ages to enjoy the outdoors." Rep. Alec Ryncavage, R-Hanover Township, said the project marks a transformative investment for Hanover Township and the entire region. "Reclaiming abandoned mine land and turning it into a vibrant public space will not only improve our environment, but also create new recreational opportunities for families and support ongoing economic development," Rep. Ryncavage said. "I was proud to support this project and look forward to seeing it come to life." Hanover Township Manager Sam Guesto said the township is grateful to the Earth Conservancy for securing these funds for a large recreation park. "This park will benefit the community and region — fostering health, unity, and vibrant connections that enrich lives," Guesto said. "The township looks forward to supporting this very important project." To learn more, visit Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Top NYC engineer's welding may have sparked methane on sewage boat, killing him in blast
A top city Environmental Protection engineer killed in a weekend sewage-boat explosion may have accidentally blown himself up by welding near methane, sources told The Post on Monday. An investigation into the death of Raymond Feige, 59, preliminarily found he had been welding on the sludge vessel before the blast Saturday, sources said. Methane from sewage may have got trapped in a tightly enclosed space on the ship — and ignited when it came in contact with the welding torch's flame, according to the sources. The ensuing blast hurled Feige into the Hudson River, trapping him between the sludge boat and a pier outside the North River Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility near 135th Street in Upper Manhattan, authorities have said. Two other DEP employees were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment after the blast. The potential that the blast had been caused by a welding accident was first raised by the US Coast Guard, which tweeted the incident was 'linked to hot work aboard a dock boat.' Hot work involves processes that can produce a flame or spark, such as welding.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
‘Beloved' NYC engineer ID'd as man killed in freak sewage boat blast on the Hudson, DEP says
The city worker killed in a freak raw sewage boat explosion on the Hudson River has been identified as a 'beloved' veteran New York City Department of Environmental Protection engineer. Raymond Feige, 59, died when the sludge vessel blew up at the North River Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility near 135th Street in Upper Manhattan on Saturday morning. The blast threw Feige, a chief marine diesel engineer, into the water — trapping him between the boat and pier, authorities said. It's still not clear what caused the blast, and investigators are continuing to work the case. 'Ray was a respected engineer and a steady, beloved colleague who will be deeply missed,' DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala said in a statement. 'For more than three decades he worked at DEP in a job that is largely unseen by most New Yorkers but is critical to keeping the city running, and we are grateful for service. Please continue to keep Ray's family and colleagues in your thoughts during this difficult time.' Feige had spent his entire DEP career working in the marine section, department officials said, adding that it was 'his home away from home.' 'His bond with his shipmates and love of working on the water kept him committed to the fleet for more than three decades,' a DEP spokesperson said. Meanwhile, two other DEP employees who were working on the vessel with Feige were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment after Saturday's blast, authorities said. Their identities or conditions weren't immediately known. The boat, which was docked when the explosion ripped through its hull, had been hauling raw sewage from the city to treatment facility at the time. The US Coast Guard said there were no reports of pollution spilling into the river in the wake of the explosion.
