Borough and enviro groups join efforts to safeguard lake

STANHOPE - The Stanhope Environmental Commission took a giant step last week in its efforts to enhance and protect the shoreline of Lake Musconetcong. Working with several groups that include the Morris Land Conservancy and volunteer workers from the borough and corporate sponsors, the commission coordinated the planting of 270 shrubs and trees covering the 1 1/2 acres of the park. According to Grace Messinger, who represents the North Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Division of the Department of Environmental Protection, the plantings represent the last defense for the waterway by helping reduce the amount of pollutants that reach the lake from run-off on a daily basis and during storms. The plants, which have been specifically chosen for their “flood tolerance,” include white pine, river birch, red maple, arrow wood and button bush. John Rogalo, a member of the environmental commission, credits Stanhope resident, Janice Hunts, for initiating the process that will help ensure a protected embankment for the lake and for pursuing the $10,000 grant to finance the project. In addition to preserving the land, the plants and their designed layout will discourage geese from coming up onto the shore. Rogalo said that the new environment will become a habitat for songbirds and other small creatures. The conservancy solicited corporate volunteers, and 14 Pfizer employees are donating their time and efforts to the project. The Borough Department of Public Works and New Jersey Department of Corrections Community Assistance Program will also participate. Volunteers will be needed in the future to maintain and upkeep the site. “This is a positive accomplishment for the future of the people of Stanhope,” said Rogala.