Watershed rep David Bush speaks to our youth about creating a healthy environment.
By Geri Koblis, Earth & Climate Ministry
Did you know that UUCWC has earned a River-Friendly Certification through The Watershed Institute? Their River-Friendly Certification Program promotes clean water and a healthier environment for us all. The program educates and supports residents, businesses, golf courses, and schools in adopting practices that make them better land stewards by reducing pollution, restoring wildlife habitat, and conserving water resources.
Testing the water at Jacob’s Creek.
As part of the certification process, a Watershed representative, Davis Bush, visited UUCWC on Sunday, April 26th, 2026. He began by presenting a children’s faith engagement activity. The children were enthusiastic and actively participated in the lesson. Their questions showed their value for nature, aligning with our UU principle: respecting the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. They demonstrated how much they have learned about recycling and reusing, as well as other ways to work toward a healthy environment.
Davis describes the water testing process.
After Sunday service, Davis opened his work to the congregation and brought it outdoors. We collected a water sample from UUCWC’s “backyard,” Jacob’s Creek. Davis tested for pH, turbidity, salt content, and the presence of pollution intolerant and pollution tolerant aquatic animals that live on the bottom of the stream, called macroinvertebrates. The pH was found to be good, about 6.5. With the help of visual reference guides provided by Davis, the group identified some macroinvertebrates present in the water sample.
Based on these test results on a scale of Excellent, Good, Fair, and Poor, the water quality of the Jacob’s Creek sample is GOOD. Davis demonstrated to us how the State’s water quality is evaluated by the NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection, other government agencies, and watershed groups. The findings from Jacob’s Creek now contribute to a database used to monitor water quality.
UUCWC’s River Friendly Certification was initiated by UUCWC’s Earth and Climate Ministry as part of the ministry’s goals. The process began in 2017 and was awarded Gold Status in 2020. It has since been renewed and is being maintained.
This year, UUCWC youth members chose to focus on animal rights and care, especially on church grounds. They learned about the presence of bird and bat houses on our grounds and about planting pollinator-friendly natives.
Information brochures on becoming a River Friendly Steward have been placed in the upstairs lobby for our members and friends to take and read. Further information about the Watershed Institute is available at https://thewatershed.org/.
This is your Earth and Climate Ministry at work. If you are interested in participating, contact us at earthclimateministry@uucwc.org.