New Jersey Resources Celebrates Earth Day With Pledge to Support Coastal Resilience and Healthy Ecosystems Through Monmouth University’s Urban Coast Institute

In celebration of Earth Day, New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR), the parent company of New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG), announced a $75,000 donation to Monmouth University’s Urban Coast Institute (UCI) to support the Clam Cove Living Shoreline Pilot Project – and the stabilization and restoration of coastal wetlands in the Barnegat Bay watershed.

“In recognition of Earth Day, New Jersey Resources is pleased to support the Clam Cove Living Shoreline project and the vital work of Monmouth University’s Urban Coast Institute, as well as its project partners,” said Steve Westhoven, president and CEO of New Jersey Resources. “Protecting New Jersey’s coastal ecosystems directly aligns with our efforts to enhance environmental stewardship through our Coastal Climate Initiative.”

The Clam Cove Living Shoreline Pilot Project was identified as a priority by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The primary goals of the pilot project are to stabilize a widening breach in the cove and reduce the loss of marshland. Additionally, the planned work will support carbon sequestration through the installation of a natural oyster reef breakwater. These efforts will help provide increased resiliency to the Long Beach Township community and improve habitats for fish, birds and other species.

"The township has been focused on restoration work at Clam Cove since we acquired the parcel and are happy to have the support from Monmouth’s UCI and NJR for this project. We have been working closely with UCI and other partners on this site for a couple of years and look forward to putting our recycled shell to good work protecting the shorelines of our critical bay islands," said Long Beach Township Mayor Joseph Mancini.

The UCI is one of Monmouth University’s Centers of Distinction. It advances research, education and collaboration in the development and implementation of science-based programs and policies that support the stewardship of healthy and resilient coastal ecosystems and communities. Once complete, the living shoreline will also serve as an outdoor laboratory for local educators, scientists and students to monitor and study oyster recruitment, sediment accretion, species diversity, as well as erosion and wave energy.