Watershed Matters

How does our Physical and Mental Health get impacted by our environment, and the state of the outdoors? In this episode of Watershed Matters, our hosts Lucia Middleton and Jim Waltman sit down with Dr. Denise Anderson, Executive Director of The Center for Health Equity and Wellbeing to discuss what we can do to improve the health of the environment, as well as the health of our communities.

What does it mean for nature to be accessible, and how can we ensure that everyone feels welcome, included, and able to enjoy the outdoors?In this episode of Watershed Matters, our host Lucia Middleton sits down with Pri Oliveira, Outreach and Inclusion Manager at The Watershed Institute, and our guest Sean Kane-Holland, Access Nature Disability Advocate at the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, to explore what inclusive access to nature looks like in practice.

What if one of the best ways to support clean water, birds, butterflies, and local ecosystems started right in your own backyard?In this episode of Watershed Matters, hosts Lucia Middleton and Sophie Glovier sit down with landscape designer Brittany O'Donnell to explore how native plants can transform your garden into a thriving habitat while helping protect local waterways.

Episode 3: NJ PACT REAL Rules - A Discussion with Former NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette. How are environmental regulations shaping New Jersey’s future in the face of climate change? In this episode, our hosts Jim Waltman and Lucia Middleton speak with former NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette about the NJ PACT REAL Rules, flood resilience, environmental justice, and the role of state leadership in climate action.

Episode 2: The Impact of Road Salt On Our Water | Watershed Matters Podcast by The Watershed Institute - Winter salt keeps roads safe—but where does it go when the snow melts? In this episode of Watershed Matters, host Lucia Middleton speaks with Erin Stretz, Assistant Director of Science at The Watershed Institute, and Shealynn O’Toole, Senior Source Water Protection Program Manager at New Jersey American Water, about how road salt pollution affects streams, wildlife, and drinking water - and how you can help reduce salt pollution.

Episode 1: Why Water Matters | Watershed Matters Podcast by The Watershed InstituteHow is climate change reshaping New Jersey’s waters - and what can we do about it together?In our first episode, host Lucia Middleton speaks with Jim Waltman of The Watershed Institute and Chief Meteorologist Bernadette Woods Placky of Climate Central about the science behind heavier rainfall, intensifying floods, rising sea levels, and how communities across New Jersey are building resilience in a changing climate.

Watershed Matters by The Watershed Institute informs and inspires action through expert conversations, local stories, and practical solutions - all rooted in our mission to keep water clean, safe, and healthy.

We explore how climate change is reshaping New Jersey’s waterways and share clear, actionable steps individuals and communities can take to protect and restore their local environment.