Testing. Collaboration. Action.
Objective #1: 2024 Program Summary
Our work continued in 2024, sampling at storm water pipe outfalls that empty into the Shark River inlet/estuary, and testing for the presence of fecal indicator bacteria. Testing in 2023 and 2024 utilized upgraded analysis method at an NJ DEP Certified Laboratory.
Quality Assurance Project Plan
We created a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) - a detailed plan to generate clear and quantifiable data by following consistent and scientifically valid process. The QAPP was reviewed by experts at US EPA and NJ DEP.
Testing sites were selected based on historical sampling data by the NJ DEP Bureau of Marine Water Monitoring.
Sampling Process
Samples collected directly into sterile bottles using a dip pole.
Sampling at low tide to help isolate direct effluent water from the stormwater pipe.
Data recorded: temperature, smell, appearance.
Cleaning steps to prevent cross contamination.
Samples put on ice during transport to prevent bacteria growth before analysis.
Analysis 2023 & 2024 - Program Expansion
Water samples analyzed at an NJ DEP certified lab for for Fecal Indicator Bacteria – enterococcus.
Addition of 2 new sampling locations in 2024; removal of 3 stations.
Pilot program testing at two upstream freshwater locations in Jumping Brook for e. Coli bacteria.
Objective #1: 2024 Results
As we collected data in the Spring and Summer of 2024, we began to share results in real-time with our partners at NJ DEP Bureau of Marine Water Monitoring and stakeholders in Neptune City. The results indicated consistently high fecal indicator bacteria readings [see below] at the “F2” Station “Boston & Steiner ‘small pipe’” (near Riverview Ave.), where storm water empties into Shark River.
Neptune City, in partnership with NJ DEP Bureau of Marine Water Monitoring, and Neptune Township, conducted multiple additional investigations “upstream” from the outfall pipe to identify the source of the issue. Steps have been taken to address the issue, and work was ongoing at the time of our last update in December 2024.
