About Me
​My name is John and the idea for Clean Jersey Waterways started with my Youtube Channel Fishing The 08. Around September 2025 I chose 4 lakes in South Jersey and decided I was going to clean them while making videos about it. I took 20 trips at the end of 2025 and was able to remove over 20 tires, 8 trash cans, 430 golf balls, and over 25 bags of trash. I began researching the impact I was having on my local lakes and how it can effect the Delaware Watershed. I found that removing items that biofilm can develop and grow on will help increase the oxygen levels of our lakes.
Our Mission
Our mission is to clean out local freshwater systems attached the the Delaware Watershed to restore ecological health and the ecosystem. I want to make sure to document this process through social media videos to ensure complete transparency and with the hope to inspire community-wide stewardship. We are aiming to support the native wildlife while providing a better experience for our communities.
New Jersey Waterways
​The Problem: New Jersey's freshwater ecosystems are degraded by plastics, submerged debris, and chemical runoff. This pollution, particularly heavy sunken debris and litter, physically smother vital lakebed habitat leading to lower Dissolved Oxygen (DO) levels threatening aquatic life. Existing solutions are insufficient, lacking the systematic, year-round access needed to reach contaminated hotspots.
The Solution: Clean Jersey Waterways utilizes kayaks for a low-impact removal strategy, We access hard-to-reach areas for trash removal across New Jersey lakes that are apart of the Delaware Watershed. Our model is built on physical action paired with data collection to measure the positive ecological impact on oxygen levels.
The Goal: Use systematic clean up efforts aiming for 10 lakes annually with a 10 trip rotation to decrease the amount of debris. This will lead to lower microplastic concentration, higher Dissolved Oxygen levels, and the restoration of a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
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Latest News
Starting
Clean Jersey Waterways
To start Clean Jersey Waterways we are looking for funding. The initial funding will go towards:
-Dissolved Oxygen reader
-Test kits and lab testing
-Supplies i.e. gloves and trash bags
-Recycling larger items like tires
-Filing fees to start the non-profit Clean Jersey Waterways
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I am planning on continuing my proof of concept of cleaning lakes until I find the right board members to help Clean Jersey Waterways succeed. ​
Please contact me for any interest in being a Board Member or seeing the business plan. JohnCasalnova@gmail.com or any socials.
Initiatives
Cleanup
Organizing regular lake cleanups to reduce physical contaminants. We are aiming for 10 lakes throughout New Jersey with the goal of decreasing litter/plastics and increasing dissolved oxygen levels .
Education
Releasing two videos per week documenting the cleanup efforts. Once per month hold an interview with experts in the fields of science and wildlife. Lastly, measure the water quality to show the environmental impact.
Restoration
Restoring natural habitats to support local wildlife.
Research
Monitoring water quality for dissolved oxygen and temperature.
Community
Building partnerships with local organizations for greater impact. Use our online platform to grow awareness.