Wreck Pond habitat study starts Monday

Your chance to see our regional ecosystem in operation starts this Monday in Spring Lake. The American Littoral Society (ALS) invites you to take part in its stream habitat assessment of the Wreck Pond watershed.

Surveys on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, June 15, 16 and 18, are part of a $3.85 million-dollar culvert project that ALS manages with the aim of higher water quality, flood risk reduction, and repopulation of dwindling river herring. The fish breed in fresh water and then head out to the ocean, where they become nourishment for striped bass.

Volunteers will hike Hannabrand Brook and Black Creek, documenting blockages that would be potential obstacles for river herring during spawning.

Staffers embark at 7:30 AM Monday in Wall Township, at Bailey's Corner Road and Hannabrand Brook, between Garrett and Mako Drives. Start times and sites for the two subsequent treks will be determined by each day's progress.

If you're planning to join the hike, be aware beforehand that it likely involves crossing creeks, moving through thorny underbrush and traversing logs. Organizers say the Thursday hike takes place mostly in developed areas and would be the least physically taxing.

Hike organizers recommend waders, if you've got them, and appropriate clothes to wear under them, along with food, water, sunscreen, and head protection. You might want to toss in a little insect repellent, or apply some on the way.

ALS Habitat Restoration Coordinator Jenna Krug takes registrations: mail to jenna@littoralsociety.org or call 732-682-5159.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides the funds for the culvert project through a Post-Hurricane Sandy Resiliency Grant. Partners include the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Spring Lake Borough and Monmouth County.