Maximizing Recycling Success in Camden County
Plastics are so integral to our daily lives that it’s almost impossible to think of not using them for even a single day. They’re everywhere, and in everything: medical equipment, building materials, automobiles, and groceries. Whether in a state like New Jersey, with robust recycling infrastructure, or in a bottle bill state, where residents deliver their bottles and jugs to a redemption center, most of the plastics we encounter daily will unfortunately end up in the trash. The best thing each of us can do right now is focus on understanding and prioritizing maximum participation in our existing recycling programs. New Jersey is a national leader in recycling. However, education and increased participation in our existing recycling programs remain the keys to our success.
To succeed, we must understand the basic curbside recycling categories and ensure that items in those categories never go into the trash. Disposing of recyclables in the trash ensures that they will be lost forever, leading to more virgin material being mined from the Earth to meet the demands of the marketplace.
Single stream recycling is convenient because all of the bottles, cans and paper items we place in our curbside containers are delivered to facilities specifically designed to separate these items into different categories. Recyclables from each category are then sold and shipped to end markets to be used in the manufacturing of new products.
Placing the proper clean, and loose recyclables in our curbside containers is one of the most effective ways each of us can help ensure both the highest quality and the highest value for the recycled commodities being sold.
To ensure that all recyclables collected at the curb actually get recycled, we only recommend items that can be sorted efficiently, and that represent sustainable value. Camden County provides simple guidance and has eliminated complicated details to maximize recycling effectiveness for our residents. The County’s “What Goes in the Bin” recycling campaign (see Pg. 6), provides four simple categories of materials that can be recycled everywhere. In fact, this approach to simplifying recycling education is going statewide, so that all of our neighbors in New Jersey can better understand the basic categories of curbside recycling. This simplified messaging should yield greater recycling participation and an improvement to New Jersey’s already successful recycling programs.
Some materials that cannot be recycled at the curb are still recyclable in other ways. It’s important to identify these materials and participate in recycling programs that can accept them. For more information about recycling in our area, please visit recycling pages for both Camden County (camdencounty.com/recycling) and your municipality’s recycling webpage, and download the Recycle Coach app, available at the Apple App Store and Google Play Stores.
A Message From The Camden County Board Of Commissioners
By Commissioner Jeffrey Nash, Liaison to Environmental Commission
The Board of Commissioners is always prioritizing the health and well-being of Camden County’s environment and this year, several initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability have been launched or expanded upon. As summer has ended and fall is around the corner, this is the perfect time to update our residents on these different efforts.
One of our largest initiatives continues to be a $100 million plan to revitalize the county’s 24 parks, conservation areas and waterways. Since its launch more than two years ago, several projects have broken ground and have been completed including: the $1.2 million makeover of Jack Curtis Stadium in Cooper River Park; the development of the LINK Trail, a proposed 34-mile regional trail that will stretch from the Benjamin Franklin Bridge to the south end of Winslow Township; the construction of a brand-new dog park in Cooper River Park; and most recently, three projects to improve the William G. Rohrer Playground in Cooper River Park and the Newton Lake and Haddon Creek playgrounds in Newton Lake Park.
In addition to improving our county’s green spaces and water ways, we are working to preserve and promote the growth of native plants through the Camden County Seed Library. Through the program, residents can simply order seeds at camdencounty.com and pick them up at all branches of the Camden County Library System, Camden County College Libraries – Blackwood and Camden Campuses and the Camden County Office of Sustainability in Blackwood on the Lakeland campus. This program, which is run through a partnership with the Camden County Certified Gardeners, aims to not only preserve and strengthen local biodiversity by offering heirloom
and locally adapted seeds, but to also encourage gardening and local food production, promote healthy lifestyles and community engagement, and educate the public.
Working side by side with the seed library is also the Commissioner’s Save the Monarch initiative, which was launched in August of 2023. Through this program, the county installed way stations equipped with milkweed, which are the only host plant for monarch caterpillars and nectar plants for the adult butterfly, for monarchs across the county. During an event to promote the program, hundreds of milkweed plants and milkweed seeds were available for residents to take home and plant in their own yards. The monarch is a small, but powerful player in the health of our ecosystem and agriculture, so protecting their population and promoting their expansion is a critical element to Camden County’s overall sustainability.
These initiatives work in tandem with other essential sustainability tools in Camden County, including our extensive network of 21 electric vehicle chargers and the state-of-theart sustainability center and complex in Blackwood, which are designed to support our goal of a greener and more sustainable future. Additionally, we are implementing several strategies focused on reducing food waste and enhancing food recovery efforts.
We are always looking to increase the span of our sustainability efforts here in Camden County to create a brighter and greener future. We encourage our residents to do their part and join in on these initiatives, programs, projects and events highlighted throughout The Recycler.
MUNICIPAL DEPARTMENT
OF
PUBLIC WORKS CONTACTS
MUNICIPALITY PHONE
Audubon (856) 547-1240
Audubon Park (856) 547-5236
Barrington (856) 547-2486
Bellmawr (856) 931-1111
Berlin Boro (856) 767-0056
Berlin Twp. (856) 767-5052
Brooklawn (856) 456-2638
Camden City (856) 757-7139
Cherry Hill (856) 424-4422
Chesilhurst (856) 767-4153 x9
Clementon (856) 784-0495
Collingswood (856) 858-0533
Gibbsboro (856) 783-6655 x170
Gloucester City (856) 456-0781
Gloucester Twp. (856) 228-3144
Haddon Hts. (856) 546-2580
Haddon Twp. (856) 883-6260
Haddonfield (856) 429-0183
Hi-Nella (856) 784-6237
Laurel Springs (856) 784-1477
Lawnside (856) 573-6212
Lindenwold (856) 783-1848
Magnolia (856) 784-6162
Merchantville (856) 662-2474
Mt. Ephraim (856) 931-2529
Oaklyn (856) 858-2457
Pennsauken (856) 663-0178
Pine Hill (856) 784-4697
Runnemede (856) 931-0646
Somerdale (856) 783-4648
Stratford (856) 783-0600
Voorhees Twp. (856) 428-5499
Waterford Twp. (856) 767-2359 x220
Winslow Twp. (856) 567-0700 x9001
Woodlynne (856) 962-8300
Al Dyer
Louis Cappelli, Jr., Director Edward T. McDonnell, Deputy Director
Jeffrey L. Nash, Parks Liaison
Jonathan L. Young, Sr., Sustainability Liaison
Melinda Kane
Virginia Betteridge
Better Recycling Habits Matter
Download the Recycle Coach App Today
We’ve all heard the advice that it’s better to recycle everything, but not everything belongs in your curbside recycling bin. If you’re ready to become a better recycler and reduce household waste, it’s time to build smarter recycling habits with the Recycle Coach App.
Recycle Coach makes it easy to find the information you need, when you need it. You can search for household items via the free mobile app, or via the handy web widget available at CamdenCounty.com/recycle-coach. You can also discover recycling tips and best practices within the Discovery Zone!
Camden County is proud to be part of the Recycle Coach network. Thanks to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and its ongoing commitment to educating residents statewide, we are on our way to becoming a greener, more sustainable community.
With Recycle Coach, You Can:
• Find the closest recycling and disposal facility for any household item based on your zip code
• Become a recycling expert with the “What Goes Where?” search tool, which provides collection requirements for both common and unique household items
• Test your knowledge with weekly ‘We Wanted to Know’ quizzes
• Stay organized with a customized curbside collection and events calendar
• Receive collection reminders and real-time updates on service disruptions
• Use the problem reporting tool, equipped with geolocation, to notify municipal customer service representatives about issues like a missed collection
Recycle Coach takes the guesswork out of recycling, so you can reduce your household waste. For Camden County, this means higher recycling rates and less contamination in the waste stream – a win-win for everyone!
Become a better recycler by downloading Recycle Coach for free in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Contact your municipal public works department for more information.
Donate Your Reusable Bags
Reusable Bag Donation Program
Two years into the statewide ban of single-use bags, and with the need for emergency food assistance remaining high, our statewide network of hunger relief organizations are still looking for sustainable, eco-friendly ways to distribute food to neighbors in need.
Early in the ban, the Food Bank of South Jersey launched a reusable bag collection campaign, diverting new and gently used bags from people’s homes, cars, and trash cans into the hands of the food pantry coordinators who desperately needed them. The challenge was to make it easily accessible and convenient for people to donate.
The Camden County Library System and other libraries across the Food Bank of South Jersey’s four-county service area joined forces to establish 22 library-based collection sites. To date, thousands of reusable bags have been rescued from waste bins and the forgotten corners of homes, finding new life in South Jersey’s emergency food network.
While the official campaign has concluded, the following Camden County locations continue to collect new and gently used reusable bags for the Food Bank of South Jersey and its 300+ program partners, ensuring that every bag finds its way to those in need.
1000s of bags rescued from landfills 22 Library-based collection sites
Battery Identification Guide for
Common Household Batteries
Ni-MH
Type: Rechargeable
Name on battery: Ni-Cd
Seal color: Orange
Nickel Metal Hydride
Performs well in high drain devices and can be recharged up to 1,000 times
Products that may use or contain nickel cadmium batteries
Proper disposal:
Two-Way Radios Digital Cameras Cordless Phones
1. Individually bag or tape the battery terminals
2. Visit call2recycle.org to find a drop-off location or bring to your local County Household Hazardous Waste program (njhazwaste.com)
Ni-Cd
Type: Rechargeable
Name on battery: Ni-Cd Seal color: Green
Nickel Cadmium
Can be recharged up to 1,000 times and contains Cadmium, which can be toxic to the environment and should be recycled.
Products that may use or contain nickel cadmium batteries:
Power Tools Two-Way Radios Digital Cameras Cordless Phones
Proper disposal:
1. Individually bag or tape the battery terminals
2. Visit call2recycle.org to find a drop-off location or bring to your local County Household Hazardous Waste program (njhazwaste.com)
SSLA/Pb
Type: Rechargeable
Name on battery: Ni-Cd Seal color: Green
Small Sealed Lead Acid
Simple to manufacture and have one of the lowest discharge rates of any rechargeable battery.
Products that may use or contain small sealed lead acid batteries:
Ride-On Toys Security Systems Mobility Scooters UPS Back-Ups
1. Individually bag or tape the battery terminals
2. Visit call2recycle.org to find a drop-off location or bring to your local County Household Hazardous Waste program (njhazwaste.com)
Prevent battery fires and keep people and property safe. It’s also good for the planet as trashed batteries can leak potentially hazardous materials into the waste stream and increase the need to mine for virgin materials. Be battery safety smart by individually bagging or taping all used batteries before dropping off.
Li-Ion
Type: Rechargeable
Name on battery: Ni-Cd
Seal color: Green
Primary
Type: Non-Rechargeable
Name on battery: alkaline, lithium, zinc-air, zinc-carbon, zinc-chloride, CR/SR/LR (button batteries)
Lithium Ion
Has excellent performance in high drain devices, though it can be considered expensive.
Products that may use or contain nickel cadmium batteries
Proper disposal:
Two-Way Radios Digital Cameras Cordless Phones Toys
1. Individually bag or tape the battery terminals
2. Visit call2recycle.org to find a drop-off location or bring to your local County Household Hazardous Waste program (njhazwaste.com)
Primary/Single-Use
Primary/Single-Use batteries cannot be recharged and must be disposed of once they wear out.
Alkaline, lithium, silver oxide, zinc-air, zinc-carbon, and zinc-chloride are all types of primary batteries.
Products that may use or contain primary/single-use batteries: Flashlights Clocks & Watches Smoke Detectors Remote Controls Toys
Proper disposal: Lithium type or button cell primary/single use
1. Individually bag or tape the battery terminals
2. Visit call2recycle.org to find a drop-off location or bring to your local County Household Hazardous Waste program (njhazwaste.com)
Proper disposal: Alkaline, zinc-chloride, zinc-carbon, and other type primary/ single-use (nonhazardous waste) Can be disposed in regular trash.
1. Individually bag or tape the battery terminals
2. Purchase your battery recycling kit at call2recycle.org/store or visit Earth911.org for recycling locations near you.
3. Use the Recycle Coach app or contact your local County Hazardous Waste Program for more information.
Have questions?
Visit call2recycle.org, njhazwaste.com, anjr.com, or use the Recycle Coach app to learn more about how to safely manage your household batteries.
Not sure what type of battery you have?
When in doubt, bring your battery to a household hazardous waste program.
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
2024/25 COLLECTION EVENTS*
CAMDEN COUNTY RESIDENTS ONLY
NO BUSINESSES OR COMMERCIAL VEHICLES WILL BE ACCEPTED
HOURS: 8:30AM - 3:00PM - RAIN OR SHINE
*SEPTEMBER 28, 2024: PENNSAUKEN SANITARY LANDFILL 9600 N. RIVER ROAD
*OCTOBER 19, 2024: LIDENWOLD CAMDEN COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS COMPLEX 2311 EGG HARBOR ROAD
*MARCH 29, 2025: CHERRY HILL PUBLIC WORKS COMPLEX 1 PERINA BOULEVARD
*APRIL 26, 2025: COLLINGSWOOD PUBLIC WORKS COMPLEX 713 N. ATLANTIC AVE.
*MAY 17, 2025: ATCO PARKING AREA AT THE CORNER OF ATCO AVE. AND RARITAN AVE.
*JUNE 7, 2025: LINDENWOLD CAMDEN COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS COMPLEX 2311 EGG HARBOR ROAD
*SEPTEMBER 27, 2025: PENNSAUKEN SANITARY LANDFILL 9600 N. RIVER ROAD
*OCTOBER 18, 2025: LINDENWOLD CAMDEN COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS COMPLEX 2311 EGG HARBOR ROAD
WHAT TO BRING
Personal
Home/Hobby
Chemistry Kits
Cutting Oil
Fluorescent Bulbs
Glues and Adhesives
Gun Cleaning Solvents
Mercury Thermostats
Pool Chemicals
Propane Tanks (25 LB & under) WHAT NOT TO BRING
QUESTIONS?
Call (856) 858-5241 for more information
ACETYLENE/CO2 TANKS
AIR CONDITIONERS
CEMENT/CEMENT MIX
COOKING OIL
EMPTY CONTAINERS
FIBERGLASS INSULATION
HEATING OIL TANKS
HELIUM/OXYGEN TANKS
JOINT COMPOUND
LANDSCAPE TIMBERS
MEDICATIONS
SCRAP METAL
SMOKE DETECTORS
TIRES
An interactive, hands-on presentation We make the science of composting fun and easy for everyone. Get your hands dirty (in a good way!) as we demonstrate the process step-by-step.
Keep an eye out for more dates and locations coming in the spring.
Please note: There is space for 20 participants at each event, and a $10 registration fee.
Every attendee will receive a free composting bin to take home and start their composting journey.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE DAY(S) OF EVENT(S):
• All residents must show proof of residency.
• All residents must remain in their vehicles throughout the event.
•
10 WAYS to Minimize Air Pollution from Vehicles
According to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, motor vehicles contribute the largest amount of mobile source air pollution. Here are 10 tips to reduce pollution from cars.
1 Do not idle vehicles
2 Drive less by combining trips, telecommuting, carpooling, or car sharing
3 Maintain even speeds and do not drive aggressively – these actions produce more emissions
4 Avoid driving during rush hours
5 When buying a new car, consider vehicle emissions tests
6 Avoid diesel vehicles as they typically emit more pollutants than gas cars
7 Buy hybrid or all-electric cars
8 Keep cars tuned and maintained
9 Keep tires properly inflated
10 Avoid driving cars whenever possible
Camden County Forms Air Quality Committee
According to the American Lung Association’s 2024 State of the Air report, air quality in Camden County has improved in the last year. However, we need to make more progress in reducing the number of days that we are above the national standard for ground-level ozone. Ground-level ozone is a pollutant that causes respiratory problems and ailments associated with asthma, particularly among young children and the elderly.
The Camden County Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce their support for the newly established Camden County Air Quality Committee (CCAQ). The CCAQ is an advisory panel of subject experts and community advocates who provide strategic guidance to the Board of Commissioners, municipalities, and regional partners, with the goal of improving health by reducing particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful contaminants in our air.
Although many complex factors contribute to poor air quality, Commissioner Jeffrey Nash expressed his commitment to improving conditions through the committee.
"There are actions that we can take here in Camden County through the CCAQ," Commissioner Jeffrey Nash said. "These include education, electrification, monitoring, and thinking outside the box when it comes to addressing issues such as food waste."
The CCAQ is focused on working with our municipalities, schools, hospitals, businesses, state agencies, institutions, and regional partners across the following pillars:
• Fleet Electrification & Charging Infrastructure
• Solid Waste Operations
• Regional Engagement
• Green Space
• Indoor Air Quality
• Finance & Funding Mechanisms
For more information on the 2024 State of the Air Report, visit State of the Air | American Lung Association https://www.lung.org/research/sota
Commissioner Nash and Mayor Bezich at the Arbor Day Event in Haddonfield
Tick & Mosquito Control and Prevention
Ticks are small arachnids that go through four life stages: the egg, six-legged larva, eight-legged nymph, and adult. After hatching from eggs, the ticks must have a blood meal at every stage to survive. Ticks can feed on mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians and prefer to have a different host animal at each stage of life. Tick life cycles take years, depending on the species, meaning that they are active year-round. They are found in or near wooded or grassy areas and do not fly or jump.
Common Tick Species in NJ and Associated Diseases
Tick-borne diseases are illnesses that can be spread to humans by the bite of an infected tick. Ticks become infected when feeding on small mammals such as the white-footed mouse and vole and are then capable of infecting humans.
• Blacklegged (Deer) Tick (lxodes scapularis) can transmit Lyme Disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Powassan Disease.
• Lone Star Tick (Dermacentor variabilis) can transmit ehrlichiosis and tularemia.
• American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis) can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia.
• It is possible to be infected with more than one tick-borne disease at the same time.
Prevention
1. Apply insecticides before entering potential tick habitat: DEET on skin, permethrin on clothing, boots, and other gear.
2. Dress appropriately: light colored long sleeves and long pants.
3. When on a trail, ensure that you walk in the center to avoid ticks.
4. Showering within two hours after being outside can help find and wash off unattached ticks.
Tick Removal
What to Do if You Find a Tick? Using fine-tipped tweezers, grab the tick close to the skin. Do not twist or jerk the tick, as this may cause the mouth parts to break off and remain in the skin. Then with a steady motion, gently pull straight up until all parts of the tick are removed. After removing the tick, clean your skin with soap and warm water. Contact a healthcare provider if you develop symptoms of tick-borne disease. Do not use petroleum jelly, hot matches, nail polish remover, or other products to remove a tick.
Mosquito Lifecycle
All mosquito species go through four stages of development: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water where they develop into larva and then pupa before emerging as an active flying adult insect. The development from egg to adult takes between 7 to 10 days to complete.
Common Mosquito Habitats
Mosquitoes need standing water to go through their lifecycle. Check your property regularly for anything that holds water for more than a few days. These include trash cans/lids, flowerpots, bird baths, buckets, tires, rain gutters, unused or draped tarps, kids' toys, tire swings, kiddie pools, and even things as small as bottle caps.
What You Can Do:
Homeowners can help control mosquitoes by eliminating standing water on their property after every rain.
• Keep gutters clean and free flowing.
• Remove or overturn containers that may collect water.
• Remove water from swimming pool covers. If pools are not covered, make sure the water is clean/treated.
• If you wish to collect rainwater, tightly screen the tops of the containers to prevent mosquitoes from depositing their eggs on the water surface.
• Items such as pet water bowls and birdbaths should be emptied and refilled at least once a week.
Other Resources:
Camden County Mosquito Commission www.camdencounty.com/mosquitocommission
NJ Department of Environmental Protection https://www.nj.gov/dep/mosquito/
Parks Alive 2025 Update
Camden County Parks System
Camden County residents – 500,000 strong and counting – enjoy a diverse system of parks, thanks to the Camden County Parks System. Within over 2,000 acres of parkland, there is something for everyone in Camden County to enjoy; including natural settings, areas for picnics, family gatherings, sporting events, beautiful waterways for fishing and boating, a wealth of playgrounds and a variety of ball fields.
To reinvest in valuable park features and reimagine our spaces for everyone, the Camden County Board of Commissioners launched Parks Alive 2025. Beginning in 2022, Parks Alive 2025 funds priority park development projects. The plan’s broad scope provides improvements to critical environmental issues, ADA and Universal Design enhancements, improved safety and security measures, new equipment, and facility upgrades.
Upstream Alliance Kayak Tour with Congressman Norcross in 2024
Cooper River Water Trail Begins Installation
In March 2024, the newly formed Cooper River Water Trail oversaw the installation of seven navigational signs in the Cooper River. The signs, along with recent improvements to launch sites, will help residents get on the water and enjoy this hidden gem safely. Signs in the water will direct paddlers to boat launches, while signs on land will help paddlers plan their expeditions and educate them about fish, birds, insects and history. Installation of signs will continue over the next few months.
The water trail signage features art from local Camden City artist Adriana Amador-Chacon. Her vibrant artwork, featured on medium interpretive signs include birds, insects, fish and the Barnegat lightship.
Don Baugh, president of Upstream Alliance, the organization leading the Water Trail Project, is looking forward to opening the trail. Describing the river as
“A treasure hidden in an urban jungle. We’re excited to help residents get on the river safely.”
Investments from the William Penn Foundation, American Water, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and many state, local, and nonprofit organizations have transformed the Cooper River into a safe waterway once more. The river is now an inviting place to canoe and kayak, a place where paddlers can see bald eagles soar, blue herons wade and fish jump. Following its soft launch in 2023, the Water Trail will be complete by Fall 2025.
Upstream Alliance hosts free kayaking lessons at Cramer Hill Waterfront Park every Saturday this summer from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information, visit https://www.upstreamalliance.org
An Investment In Our Future
Infrastructure Projects
• ADA enhancements to Berlin Park (Under construction for $700K)
• Cooper River Subaru tree canopy picnic pavilion (Completed June 2024 for $330K)
• Berlin Park pedestrian bridges replacement project (Completed Summer ’24 for $599K)
• Haddon Lake pedestrian bridges project (Completed Summer ’24 for $290K)
• Wiggins Park path and lighting upgrades (Completed Spring ’24 for $500K)
Trails/Paving Projects
• Atco Lake conservation area trail and lake improvements (in progress)
• Newton Lake Park path improvements (Coming Fall ’24 for $184K)
• Haddon Lake Park trail improvements (Coming Fall ’24 for $154K)
• Berlin Park path improvements (Under construction)
Recreation Projects
• Jake’s Place at Challenge Grove upgrades (Completed for $584K)
• New dog park at Cooper River (Completed 2024 for $775K)
• Newton Lake Park new playgrounds (Coming in 2024)
• Cooper River Park softball field upgrades (Completed Summer ’24 for $900K)
• Von Neida Park field improvements (Coming in 2024)
• Haddon Lake Park pavilion (Under construction for $1M)
• Berlin Park playground upgrades (Under construction for $700K)
• Skateboard park at Cooper River (Under construction for $915K)
Waterway Projects
• Watershed management plan (In progress)
• Maintenance dredging at Cooper River (Coming in 2025)
• Kayak/canoe docks at Maria Barnaby Greenwald Park (In progress)
• Wiggins Park marina dock improvements (Under construction for $5.3M)
To See the complete Parks Alive 2025 Plan, scan the QR code or visit: www.CamdenCounty.com/parks2025
Everything Camden County at your Fingertips!
Recently, the Board of Commissioners launched the Camden County Mobile App, a free resource that serves as a one stop source for information about Camden County’s services, programs, and events. Available for iPhone and Android. Resident’s can use the mobile app to learn more about the Camden County Parks system, park amenities, and download a map.
Historic Preservation Projects Awarded by Commissioners:
Stella Farms
Camden County Open Space Trust Fund
In April 2024, the Camden County Board of Commissioners partnered with the State Agriculture Development Committee to purchase a development easement on the 53-acre Stella Farm on New Freedom Road in Winslow Township. The purchase of this easement ensures that the farm, famous for producing sweet corn, tomatoes, beans, and strawberries, will remain farmland forever.
Each year, the Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund furnishes funding for historic preservation and recreation improvement projects to municipalities across the county. The Camden County Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce the approval of all projects recommended by the Trust Fund’s Advisory Committee, and thanks committee members for their work in evaluating and making recommendations to fund historic preservation and recreation improvement projects for 2024. In total, the Commissioners awarded $418,309 to fund 10 historic preservation projects and $720,885 to fund 29 recreation improvement projects, listed in the Sustainability section on page 13. Each project is listed below, along with its sponsoring organization.
Historic Preservation Projects:
1. American Revolution Trail Signage and Mobile Audio App, Camden County Historical Society
2. American Revolution Museum of South Jersey, Camden County Historical Society
3. Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial, Home Port Alliance
4. Greenfield Hall, Historical Society of Haddonfield
5. Gabriel Davies Tavern Museum House, Township of Gloucester
6. Excelsior Scottish Rite Auditorium, Collingswood Foundation
7. Barclay Farmstead Spring House, Township of Cherry Hill
8. City Hall Camden Kiosk Project, City of Camden
9. Geodome Immersive Theater at Shipyard Museum, Camden Shipyard and Maritime Museum
10. Burrough-Dover House, Pennsauken Historical Society
Since its founding in 1921, five generations of the Stella family have worked tirelessly to make the Stella name the brand it is today. Stella’s is a renowned source of high quality local fruits and vegetables across South Jersey.
Through the Camden County Open Space Trust Fund, the county continues to preserve open space and farmland, preserve and restore historic sites, and enhance local recreation facilities. These efforts sustain the preserved areas for their scenic, environmental, recreational and economic benefits, and for the cultural enrichment of communities countywide for present and future generations.
Burrough-Dover House, Pennsauken Historical Society
Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial
Work Continues on Camden County LINK Trail
Design continues on the Camden County LINK Trail project with six segments in various stages of design.
The Camden County LINK Trail is a planned 34mile, multi-use trail that will take users through 17 county municipalities from the Benjamin Franklin Bridge to the Gloucester County border in Winslow Township. The trail will also serve as the spine of hundreds of miles of on-road bicycle facilities and off-road multi-use trails to be built by municipalities countywide.
In 2023, Camden County won a $19 million grant to build out 6.2 miles of the trail, from the base of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge to Cooper River Park. The generous funding is provided from the Federal Highway Administration through their Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. The county has secured a total of $32 million in state, federal, and Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission Regional Trails Program grant funding for design and construction of this ambitious project. Applications for an additional $7.3 million in grant funding are pending.
“Our success in securing grant funding for the LINK speaks to the confidence that these regional, state, and federal agencies have in the county’s commitment to making the LINK trail a reality,” said Commissioner Jeffrey Nash, who oversees the project.
The funding commitments the county has received and applied for have secured the future of the LINK Trail project, and our Commissioners are pleased to affirm that the entire project is alive and well. Six of the LINK Trail’s segments including six bicycle and pedestrian-specific bridges, are currently in design.
The county and its design consultant are working diligently in cooperation with our partners to put in place the various approvals, permits and agreements needed to begin construction of these individual trail segments. Our partners include: the New Jersey Department of Transportation, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the New Jersey State Historic Preservation Office, the Federal Highway Administration, the Army Corp of Engineers, Conrail and others. The LINK Trail segments currently in design will be under construction beginning in 2025 and continuing over the following two to three years.
The segments likely to be constructed first are a one-mile segment linking Audubon and Haddon Heights adjacent to East Atlantic Avenue and a 0.4-mile segment, also along East Atlantic Avenue in Hi-Nella. Both of these segments are in the final design phase.
For more information on the Camden County LINK, go to camdencounty.com/trails
Camden County Tool Library & Bike Share Your Local Tool Chest: The Camden County Initiative Making Home Improvement Accessible! Residents who need tools for occasional projects can rely on the free Sustainable Camden County Tool Library. The library offers hand and power tools, gardening equipment, and landscaping supplies, all available to borrow.
We're More Than Just Tools!
The Sustainable Camden County program also offers a bike share program. We repair used bikes and lend them at no charge. They’re perfect for a weekend trip down the shore or a vacation in the Poconos! We even partner with local organizations to provide bikes to those who need them for everyday transportation.
Do You Have Tools or Bikes to Donate?
The Tool Library accepts donations of gently used tools in good working condition. The Bike Share program can take bikes in almost any condition, because parts from unusable bikes can be used to repair others.
We look forward to helping you with your next project! To become a member of the Tool Library, visit the Tool Library during our open hours, or visit our website to learn more: sustainablecamdencounty.myturn.com
508 Lakeland Road, Blackwood, NJ 08012
Hours: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Monday - Friday
Commissioners Cappelli and Kane joined Mayor Carstarphen for a 2024 Community Cleanup in Camden
The Clean Communities Program
Funded through a New Jersey Clean Communities grant, the Camden County Board of Commissioners invites non profit organizations to contribute to the community in a meaningful way, while earning recognition and financial support.
How It Works
Nonprofits applying for a Clean Communities Mini Grant commit to cleaning and maintaining a designated area in Camden County for a period of one year. Locations can include parks, sidewalks, trails, community gardens, and other public spaces. Responsibilities include a minimum of three specified clean-ups per year. This program improves the local environment and fosters a sense of community and civic responsibility.
Rewards and Recognition
Participating nonprofits will receive recognition throughout the year for their efforts. This recognition may include signs installed at the adopted space, mentions on the Camden County website and social media platforms, and acknowledgment during community events. At the end of the year, the Camden County Board of Commissioners presents each fully participating organization with a $500 award to support the nonprofit's ongoing initiatives.
Benefits for Non Profits
The Clean Communities Program provides a wealth of benefits for participating nonprofits, including:
• Community Engagement: The program is an excellent opportunity to engage with the community, increase visibility, and foster goodwill
• Team Building: The regular clean-up sessions can serve as team-building activities for volunteers and staff
• Environmental Impact: Nonprofits can make a tangible difference in their local environment, contributing to a cleaner and more attractive community
• Financial Support: The $500 given to participating organizations after their year of service can be a valuable addition to the organization's resources, helping to fund other projects or operations
How to Participate
Nonprofits interested in participating in the Clean Communities Mini Grant Program can use the web address below to fill out an application and upload required documents. Our Clean Communities Coordinator will guide participants through the process of selecting a location, outlining responsibilities, and setting expectations for the year-long commitment.
https://www.camdencounty.com/service/ environmental-affairs/clean-communities/ This is a fantastic opportunity for nonprofits to demonstrate their commitment to the community, build relationships with residents, and make a lasting impact on Camden County's public spaces. Don't miss out on this unique chance to contribute and be rewarded for your efforts!
Please email all applications and documents to Casey Baker at casey.baker@camdencounty.com
Recreation Facility Enhancement Grants Awarded
The Camden County Board of Commissioners congratulates the following 25 municipalities on their successful applications to the County’s Recreation Facility Enhancement Grants program: A total of $720,885 was distributed to subsidize 29 recreational facility enhancement projects, made possible by the Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historical Preservation Trust Fund.
• Family Park playground improvements, Audubon
• Bocce Ball court installation, Audubon Park
• Lost World Park playground rehabilitation, Barrington
• Braisington Avenue playground rehabilitation, Bellmawr
• Waterfront Park gazebo improvements, Brooklawn
• Barclay Farms playground improvements, Cherry Hill
• Brookfield playground installation, Cherry Hill
• Leanna Harris Park installation of fencing and appurtenances, Chesilhurst
• Bottoms Lake passive recreation area, Clementon
• Bikeway network amenities, Gibbsboro
• Proprietors Park installation of fencing, Gloucester City
• Erial Baseball League Complex installation of batting cages, Gloucester Township
• Timber Cover Park playground installation, Gloucester Township
• Fitzgerald Memorial Park improvements, Haddon Heights
• Robert Krupinski Sr. Memorial Park playground and ballfield improvements, Haddon Township
• Laurel Springs School new outdoor play area, Laurel Springs
• Albertson Memorial Park dog park installation, Magnolia
• Youth Athletic Association Fields paving improvements, Mt. Ephraim
• Swim Club improvements, Oaklyn
• Bethel Avenue playground installation, Pennsauken
• 6th Avenue playground improvements, Runnemede
• Perry Memorial Park pickleball court installation, Somerdale
• Saratoga Road Park improvements, Stratford
• Green Ridge Neighborhood bike path installation, Voorhees
• Lions Lake bike path and handicap pathway installation, Voorhees
• Tapper Field equipment enhancement, Waterford
• Carmelo Felix Park playground installation, Winslow
• Camelo Felix Park tot lot installation, Winslow
• 4th and Evergreen playground improvements, Woodlynne
Lakeland Campus: Where
Sustainability Blooms in Camden County
A haven for nature enthusiasts is blooming in Gloucester Township. Alongside local environmental stewards, Camden County is transforming a 10-acre plot into Lakeland Campus, a vibrant hub dedicated to sustainability and education. Imagine a place where greenhouses hum throughout the winter months, knowledge sprouts on every corner, and pollinator meadows buzz with life. Lakeland Campus isn't just a picturesque escape; it's a springboard for a greener future.
The Camden County Certified Gardener program is the beating heart of this ecopark. Certified Gardeners lead workshops and classes, sharing their knowledge on everything from organic growing techniques to cultivating the perfect native plants for our region. These experts have cultivated a dedicated demonstration garden to showcase best practices in sustainable gardening. Lakeland Campus goes beyond classrooms.
Step into the Education Gardens, a living laboratory where visitors can witness firsthand the power of sustainable practices including rainwater harvesting and beekeeping. The demonstration area includes a multitude of gardens including vegetable, pollinator, bog, water, shade, and flower gardens. These interactive spaces ignite curiosity and inspire visitors to embrace eco-conscious choices in their own backyards.
The story doesn't end there; Lakeland Campus boasts a Seed Saving Library, a treasure trove for plant enthusiasts. Here, residents can access a diverse selection of seeds, from vibrant flowers to hearty vegetables. This innovative program fosters self-sufficiency while encouraging the preservation of heirloom varieties and local biodiversity.
Lakeland Campus is a testament to Camden County's commitment to a sustainable future. Stay tuned for updates on the expansion and improvements to the campus. Get ready to learn, grow, and celebrate the wonders of nature – together.
To learn more visit: camdencounty.com/sustainability
County Commissioners Sponsor Local Shredding Events
Shredding your confidential documents has never been easier. In 2021, Camden County initiated the municipal shredding event sponsorship program. In the three years since the program’s inception, approximately 12 towns have applied annually for these convenient funding sponsorships. The county is hopeful more towns will participate and take advantage of this great opportunity.
The program was designed to reduce vehicle emissions, increase recycling, and provide additional convenience to residents. The county provides each participating municipality with New Jersey recycling grant funds to conduct a municipal shredding event. While Camden County still provides a regional shredding event of its own, the municipal shredding sponsorship program affords additional convenience to residents in participating towns. Some municipalities now provide two shredding events annually. Shorter driving distances and briefer wait times help reduce vehicle emissions, which will improve our region’s air quality. If you happen to miss the county’s annual spring event, check with your municipality to see if they participate in this unique program.
For more information:
please visit the Division of Environmental Affairs on the web, at camdencounty.com/service/environmental-affairs or email brian.constantino@camdencounty.com
CAMDEN COUNTY FARMERS MARKET
To support local farmers and help residents enjoy the bounty of the summer season, the Camden County Board of Commissioners, in collaboration with Triple Oaks Nursery, launched the Camden County Farmers Market this past summer. Shoppers stocked up on seasonal fruits and vegetables at peak flavor and freshness! Add a pop of color to your home next summer with locally grown blooms, enjoy fresh produce and spruce up your yard with healthy, locally sourced plants.
The Farmers Market is held at the Camden County Sustainability Center in Blackwood, New Jersey on Thursday afternoons in July and August.
Fresh Produce, Less Waste:
Greenhouse Grows Abundantly
The greenhouse at the Lakeland campus in Blackwood can grow over 600 heads of lettuce at a time by using no soil. How? By using hydroponics, an increasingly popular solution for growing fresh food in a sustainable way.
Our hydroponic greenhouse is bursting with fresh vegetables and lettuce. Hydroponics use much less water than traditional farming because the nutrient-rich water solution is delivered directly to the roots and recirculated. Some of our lettuce varieties are ready to eat in just four weeks!
Our greenhouse is a great example of how hydroponics can be used to:
• Grow more food with less space and water: This is especially important as our population grows, straining land and other resources. Hydroponic greenhouses can be set up almost anywhere, even in urban areas with limited space.
• Produce healthy food: The hydroponic solution provides plants with the exact nutrients they need to thrive, leading to plants that are often richer in vitamins and minerals than traditionally grown crops. The precise control of hydroponics also minimizes the risk of contamination from soil-borne diseases.
• Reduce food waste: Hydroponic systems can be controlled to minimize pests and diseases, leading to higher edible yields. Additionally, hydroponic greenhouses can be placed in controlled environments, protecting crops from unpredictable weather conditions that can damage plants grown outdoors.
Your Own! Free Seed Library Launched in Camden County
Commissioner Young Visits the New Seed Library During the 2024 Launch
We're proud that the fresh produce grown in our greenhouse is donated to local food banks, providing nutritious food to our community throughout the winter. The greenhouse is also a valuable educational tool, showcasing the potential of hydroponics for anyone interested in learning more about this innovative way to grow food. Visitors can see firsthand the different hydroponic systems we use, including NFT (nutrient film technique), dutch bucket, floating systems, and aeroponics towers.
Hydroponics is both a promising solution for large-scale agriculture and is becoming increasingly popular for home gardeners. Small hydroponic systems can be set up indoors, allowing anyone to grow fresh herbs and vegetables yearround, regardless of climate or available outdoor space. If you're interested in learning more about hydroponics and how to get started, the staff at our greenhouse are happy to answer your questions and provide guidance.
Calling all green thumbs! The Camden County Office of Sustainability and the Camden County Certified Gardeners have launched a new Seed-Saving Library program with great success. Thousands of seeds have been distributed to residents since the program’s April 2024 launch. The Seed Library offers a wide variety of free seeds to anyone interested in growing their own flowers, vegetables, and herbs.
The library’s seed selection is diverse, with some seeds donated by generous seed companies, and others grown locally at the Camden County Seed Saving Garden. You might even find seeds for Kille #7 heirloom tomatoes, a unique variety with Gloucester County roots!
Best of all, picking up your free seeds is incredibly convenient. The Camden County Library System and Camden County College are partnering with the program, allowing you to grab your seed packets at any branch library or campus.
This program is a fantastic opportunity to get involved in gardening, promote local biodiversity, and enjoy the fruits (and vegetables!) of your labor. Get ready to dig in and watch your garden grow!
Camden County Food Recovery
recycler
Camden County Board of Commissioners
1301 Park Blvd.
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli, Jr.
Commissioner Deputy Director Edward T. McDonnell
Jeffrey L. Nash
Jonathan L. Young, Sr.
Melinda Kane
Al Dyer
Virginia Betteridge
ROW OFFICERS
Surrogate Michelle Gentek-Mayer
County Clerk Joseph Ripa
Sheriff Gilbert “Whip” Wilson
Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay