About Me
My name is John and I am trying to start Clean Jersey Waterways, a nonprofit that cleans lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water throughout New Jersey. I do not have an environmental background, but I do have an appreciation for nature, especially our bodies of water. This journey began as a fishing social media page, but it has evolved into a litter picking mission to clean New Jersey waterways.
Our Mission
Our mission is to clean our local lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water to help create a better future. We want to a community with a shared vision of helping support our wildlife and aquatic ecosystem.
Together we will be removing litter, plastics, and sunken debris to help increase dissolved oxygen levels and decreases E. Coli levels.
New Jersey Waterways
The Problem: Over 75% of New Jersey lakes are on the NJDEP list of impaired waterbodies. Submerged litter and large sunken debris decrease the dissolved oxygen levels of our waters putting more strain on our aquatic wildlife. The litter that is there may break down, creating microplastics and releasing chemicals. Sunken debris will stop the photosynthesis as the lakebed is no longer able to receive any sunlight (think about what happens when you leave a mat on your green lawn). Plastics floating in the water also create microbial biofilm which house E. Coli colonies. We need a dedicated, consistent, and thought out plan on how to remove decades of litter.
The Solution: Clean Jersey Waterways will take a systematic approach to cleaning out lakes throughout New Jersey. We will utilizes kayaks and waders to clean out litter and debris from hard to reach areas. The founder will spend the workweek cleaning lakes, sorting out the trash, creating engaging content, hosting events, and more.
The Goal: In 2026 I want to continue to create this proof of concept on my social media sites. I want to be able to build a board for this non-profit that shares the same vision and has the right expertise to make Clean Jersey Waterways the most impactful it can be.
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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
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 4 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.