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Sustainable Jersey Certification Report

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This is the Sustainable Jersey Certification Report of Fair Haven Boro, a Sustainable Jersey silver certified applicant.

Fair Haven Boro was certified on September 24, 2025 with 365 points. Listed below is information regarding Fair Haven Boro’s Sustainable Jersey efforts and materials associated with the applicant’s certified actions.

Contact Information

The designated Sustainable Jersey contact for Fair Haven Boro is:

Name:Kelly Flanagan
Title/Position:GT Chair / Environmental Commission
Address:223 3rd Street
Fair Haven, New Jersey 07704
Phone:732-219-0005

Actions Implemented

Each approved action and supporting documentation for which Fair Haven Boro was approved for in 2025 appears below. Note: Standards for the actions below may have changed and the documentation listed may no longer satisfy requirements for that action.

  • Arts & Creative Culture

    Establish a Creative Team

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Borough of Fair Haven is lucky to posses an abundance of creative spirit, and the FH Creative Team continues to work with residents, groups and businesses to harness that creativity and foster output. The Creative Team partners with the Borough of Fair Haven, the Governing Body, Boro Committees, local non-profits like the Historic Association, the Education Foundation of Fair Haven and the FH Farmers Market, the FH School District and the FH Business Association to engage the community with a focus on the arts, economic development, social justice, community, history and of course sustainability. The team was formalized in 2022 and it remains intact and energized, with no signs of slowing down. Some of the events and initiatives that the team collaborated on in 2024 and 2025 are listed below, with some self explanatory graphics and photos attached. - Love Where You Live Day - this year was the 4th annual LWYLD fair focused on sustainability, the environment and building community - The Estuary Art Show and the Estuary Art Walk exceeded expectations and brought the community together to celebrate local artists and local causes - The launch of the Fair Haven Farmer's Market - three hours each month (summer and fall) of sustainable food, fun and community - The Foundation of Fair Haven's Buoy Holiday Tree fundraiser - allowed residents to put their talents on display - The Blooming Buddies school beautification/native plant education program - allowed the first and second grade classes to get their hands dirty, learn about natives and spruce up the school grounds

    Utilizing Your Creative Assets

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Last year, the Creative Team collaborated on a major event in the Fair Haven community. Newly added member of the team, Elise Casey, is also the Chair of the Historic Association of Fair Haven - a non-profit dedicated to the stewardship of Historic Fisk Chapel, as well as the Fair Haven's rich history. The creative team worked in conjunction with the HAoFH, the Borough of Fair Haven and members of Fair Haven's vibrant art community to launch the Estuary Art Show - a platform for the convergence of the artistic soul and historic culture of Fair Haven's community. The founding event was a multi-media art exhibit featuring work and performances by local artists - including a slam poetry performance by FH's own Mannikka Rosa. The Estuary Art Show took place on April 19th, 2024 at Historic Fisk Chapel - providing the perfect backdrop for meaningful connections and conversations. In addition to loaning the chapel for the event and assisting with promotions, the Borough also provided access to precious historic artifacts - like the original chapel pews - to be featured in the exhibit as an example of the convergence of FH's rich history and it's modern-day residents. All of Fair Haven's governing body was in attendance at the event, in unanimous show of support for the movement. The Estuary is a cultural happening honoring the creative and generous spirit of the FH community. In a true example of the tight collaborative nature of our community, and always embracing the old and the new, proceeds from the event went to the restoration of the 142-year-old Historic Fisk Chapel, a designated Historic Landmark, along with the establishment of the now wildly successful Fair Haven Farmer's Market. Report on second event - the Estuary Art Walk - is attached.

  • Community Partnership & Outreach

    Green Team

    10 Points
    Bronze Required Silver Required

    Program Summary: On February 22, 2021, the Council of the Borough of Fair Haven passed a Resolution (No. 2021-46) to continue to support our Borough's participation in the Sustainable Jersey Program. The Resolution identified the members of the Green Team, which consists of residents, members of the Environmental and Shade Tree Commissions, as well as two council members. Since its inception, the Green Team focused its tasks on maintaining the Bronze Certification under the Sustainable Jersey program through the completion of Actions and preparation of documentation necessary to obtain this certification, and further striving towards Silver Certification. This has been done in very close coordination with the broader Environmental Commission, members of the Council and of the Borough Administration. This past year, the scope of the Green Team has grown to reach a broader audience. It has worked closely with Fair Haven Public Schools and has helped initiate the Knollwood School Green Team. The FHGT has also worked with Safe Routes to School to assist with our Boro obtaining gold-level status. Other initiatives have been partnering with local businesses to support the plastic bag ban, hosting a composting workshop for residents and local businesses, a park clean-up, and our most recent, Love Where You Live Day, to highlight the importance of community, sustainability, and protecting our natural environment and resources.

    Community Education & Outreach

    15 Points

    Program Summary: On November 20th of 2024, the Fair Haven Green Team hosted the first chapter of its Clean Energy talk series. The event was titled ‘Our Home Clean Energy Journey’ and it was presented by Sarah and David Fischell - long time FH residents and clean energy early adopters. With a very informative slide show, they talked about their family’s implementation and financial experience with rooftop solar, heat pumps, induction cooking and an EV, and why these changes are so important. They provided advice on how to prepare a home for a clean energy future, and how to access rebates and incentives. The event was well attended and reviewed, and refreshments afterwards provided the opportunity for further conversation. -------- On April 23rd, 2025, Robbyn O’Neill of the FHGT hosted a community book talk to discuss Robin Wall Kimmerer’s "Braiding Sweetgrass". The talk took place at the Fair Haven Public Library at 2pm and was moderately attended, but very well liked. The FHGT will consider dates in the future as many were not able to attend due to Earth Week volunteer commitments. The book talk was planned in conjunction with the local high school’s Environmental Club as a way to help promote and provide discourse leading up their Earth Fair, capped off by a presentation and Q&A with author Robin Wall Kimmerer. We loved the model and hope to replicate again in the near future. -------- This past spring, the Fair Haven Green Team worked with two local plant experts in our community, to pilot a native plant program with Kindergarteners at Sickles School in Fair Haven, called Blooming Buddies. The Blooming Buddies team met with teachers and administrators and designed a program that enhanced their existing seed study with hands-on activities, including planting native plants from seeds that would eventually be used in the Sickles School Garden. Kindergarteners watched their seeds grow over the course of 8 weeks, with narrated updates and videos from the farmer who cared for them. On Earth Day, these plants were brought back to school and students helped to plant them in the school garden. Over the course of this program, students learned how plants grow from seeds, how to take care of them, and how pollinators depend on native plants.

    Green Challenges

    10 Points

    Program Summary: This year, the Fair Haven Green Team launched a new Green Challenge at Love Where You Live Day on May 4, 2025. Once again, the FHGT created a QR code that linked to a Google form, and local families were encouraged to visit the Green Challenge pledge via the code on the poster display. This year, members of the FH Junior Green Team also circulated the event looking for participation. The second 'launch' of the GC was on the FH Moms and Dads Facebook page in July. The third phase will promote the GC on the FHGT Instagram page. This will give the FHGT an opportunity to gauge reach and 'ROI' on in person and social media channels. Further, the involvement this year of the Junior Green Team gave our high school members an opportunity to engage with their peers on how to create sustainability in their households. The Green Challenge was created by members of the FHGT as a list of sustainable actions - some easily achievable, some requiring a little more work. The format includes images and helpful links, and the tone is easy and fun! Each family that takes the challenge selects 3-5 actions/changes that they can make in their household. The actions include activities like: ditching single-use plastic; composting; signing up for community clean-ups; and reducing stormwater run-off. This year, additional actions were added to the challenge to appeal to a broader audience. FH is home to appx 2000 households. In 2022, 72 families had completed the challenge. At 3.6%, exceeding the target 2.5% of households. In 2025 thus far, we have added 22 new families to the list of respondents, 1.1% of hh, and we expect to double that by end of summer with our social media push. The new GC is available at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSee5eIE232vG1rEuwYIptM1KnvUxxpR0gZThd9RVmG_dTFGsQ/viewform?pli=1

    Green Fair

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Fair Haven Green Team hosted its third annual green fair, "Love Where You Live Day," on May 19th, 2024 – a fun and interactive community event for all ages. The focus was on the importance of community, sustainability and protecting our natural environment and resources. This year's event was held at the Third Street Tail, a newly reclaimed open space trail that connects 3rd Street with Fair Haven Fields. Various outlets were utilized to promote the event including the borough newsletter and website, school district email updates, town electronic message board, Green Team Instagram and Facebook pages, local social pages, community partners social media pages, large banners around town and posters in local businesses. The event was covered in "Fair Haven Living", our local monthly magazine. LWYLD highlighted available opportunities and information to residents through partnerships with the Borough of Fair Haven, town committees and commissions. Members of the community also took the green pledge which was available digitally through a QR code. Kids and adults enjoyed fun and creative activities including: making fairy houses, and enjoying crafts and story time with the FH Library. They also learned about town commissions and local environmental groups. The Borough of Fair Haven and council liaisons were integral in the efforts - promoting the event, getting the property ready, delivering tables and bike racks and so much more. So many volunteers came out from the community to help make the Love Where you Live Day a success! All in all, LWYLD was a feel good and informative community event that: raised awareness about preserving our natural resources, as well as our cultural heritage and historic buildings; the importance of pollinators and native plants, encouraged sustainable choices; provided practical solutions and information on eco-friendly living; and most importantly started many great conversations; and so much more. This is a great yearly event that continues to grow each year.

  • Emergency Management

    Emergency Communications Planning

    15 Points

    Program Summary: The Borough of Fair Haven has spent several years improving our ability to communicate with our residents, on both an individual and community-wide basis. We did so by upgrading hardware and software, as well as taking advantage of all available media options. The ability to effectively communicate with our residents is most important during times of potential or actual emergencies. The Borough's Emergency Public Information Plan was collaboratively compiled by our Emergency Management Coordinator and our Director of Communications, with support from various other departments.   The Borough’s Emergency Public Information Plan takes into consideration the various levels of technological awareness and expertise within our community, noting that the most vulnerable population during an emergency tends to be senior citizens, some of whom struggle with electronic media.  The Borough’s tech savvy population expects ongoing and regular information updates before, during and after an emergency event.  In terms of non-emergency related information, our Borough informs residents of town-related events, road closures, police updates, library information, weekly meetings, etc., through multiple information outlets. The Borough sends out a variety of information through our “Borough Buzz” which uses the Constant Contact platform for email generated newsletters. We send out a quarterly newsletter by both USPS and email. Other social media platforms used are the Borough's Facebook page, Borough website and Instagram. The Borough uses the NIXLE platform to send out emails and texts for emergency and non-emergency information, inclusive of a reverse 911 feature for residents who still have landlines.     The Borough will continue to reach out to residents who have yet to register with us so they can receive the full range of our communication platforms.  Through ongoing outreach, education, and neighbor to neighbor encouragement, we are confident in our ability to make sure all residents are fully informed, especially during an emergency.  

  • Energy

    Energy Tracking & Management

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Fair Haven began tracking energy usage using the Energy Star Portfolio Manager in December 2018. The Borough collects electricity and natural gas usage data for four buildings including: historic Bicentennial Hall, the Police Station, the Public Works Building, and Borough Hall. On a monthly basis, the Borough’s Administrative Assistant collects JCP&L and NJ Natural Gas bills from the Finance office for the aforementioned buildings and inputs the usage values into the Energy Start Performance Management system. The Environmental Commission/Green Team analyzes and presents this data annually to the Governing Body for review and assessment. The trajectory of data is also used in conjunction with building professionals as the Borough is evaluating changes to its infrastructure. The Borough of Fair Haven is applying for 20 points for our work with Energy Data Tracking and Analysis.

  • Food

    Community Gardens

    15 Points

    Program Summary: The Borough of Fair Haven created a community garden after the town acquired what is known as Fair Haven Fields in 1973 through Green Acres and municipal funding. The community garden is situated between the 40 acre Fair Haven Fields Natural Area to the east and the Recreation fields to the west within Fair Haven Fields. The community garden consists of 48 plots approximately 20’ x 20’ and has been supplied with water at 3 access points as well as a drinking fountain. Deer fencing was provided in 2013 through a loan from the Borough. The Borough also facilitates the payment of a plowing contractor prior to the growing season in May. The Borough posts notices on its website and Facebook as well as sending an email about the community garden. The Borough has utilized software since 2018 for signing up for a community garden plot (https://fairhavennj.leagueapps.com). The community garden has one volunteer day in the spring to open the community garden. This usually includes around 10 people working for 2-3 hours. A CEO is elected each year and puts in 30-40 unpaid hours in a year. The 2024 CEO indicated that surplus produce was donated. Local Boy Scout Troop 67 created a “Bee Hotel” adjacent to the garden as part of the pollinator pathway to further encourage environmentally friendly gardening.

    Farmers Markets

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Fair Haven Farmers Market has significantly enriched the local community by providing a platform for New Jersey farmers and artisans to showcase their products. By emphasizing sustainability and supporting healthy communities, the market plays a crucial role in preserving rural livelihoods and stimulating the local economy. The market's commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated through its partnership with Un-Waste, a local organics recycling business. Attendees can bring their food scraps to the market's drop-off site, where Un-Waste collects and recycles them, thereby reducing landfill waste and promoting eco-friendly practices. The market is organized by a dedicated team of three Fair Haven residents who are passionate about enhancing the prosperity of their small town and supporting local small businesses. Their efforts ensure a seamless and elevated experience for all market visitors. The Fair Haven Farmers Market operates once a month from May through November on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with vendor setup beginning at 6:30 AM at 25 Willow Street (Sickles School). Three Fair Haven residents organize and manage the market as a nonprofit initiative. Operational costs for the season total approximately $$2,800, covering insurance, signage, police presence and necessary supplies. The Borough of Fair Haven provides support through the Fair Haven Police Department, who assist with traffic management. We do not make money on the market - we charge $40 for out of town vendors and $25 for any vendors from fair haven. Any money earned goes directly back to the market.

  • Health & Wellness

    Safe Routes to School

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Borough of Fair Haven was awarded the Gold Safe Routes to School Award. The link to the NJ SRTS website where this recognition is noted is https://www.saferoutesnj.org/current-safe-routes-to-school-recognition-program-winners/. Fair Haven's Green Team partnered with Safe Routes to School, as well as our local police department and school administrators to implement activities such as Bike to School Day in May 2024. Fair Haven hosts "Transition Day" every spring for our rising 4th graders. This is a biking event to celebrate our student's transition to our middle school, and requires the coordination of our police department and school administrators. Our police department also comes in at least once a year to both of our schools (Sickles and Knollwood) to discuss bike safety for students.

  • Innovative Projects

    Innovative Community Project 1

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Homegrown Oaks project is project between the Fair Haven Green Team, the FH Borough and the School District that began in the fall of 2023. Created by FHGT members Bonnie Torcivia and Mark Olson, the initiative was inspired by Doug Tallamy, professor, oak guru and founder of Homegrown National Parks, and by the Borough’s planting of Salem Oaks at its McCarter Park. The first part of the Homegrown Oaks project involved kindergarten students collecting acorns from mature oak trees at McCarter Park across from their school. These acorns were gifted to the 7th grade students who placed acorns in glass receptacles so that they could observe the root growth. Once rooted, acorns were planted in pots and placed in the 7th grade science classrooms to grow. Once a mature enough, seedlings were transferred to a greenhouse to grow. In 8th grade, around graduation, students would be able to take home their oaks, grown from acorns from the park where they played in kindergarten. They could participate in the Borough and Shade Tree Commission plan to plant oak trees around town, or plant their oak at home or another location. Homegrown Oaks, with its premise of kids and oaks growing together, is a hands-on, one-of-a-kind learning experience. The pilot program, however, had uneven success due to unanticipated constraints: high classroom temps stressing young seedlings, storm damage to the donated greenhouse, and hungry squirrels and chipmunks! But lessons were learned and plans are underway for a second program – this time following a proven design of protected outdoor air-pruning boxes outlined by Basil Camu in his book ‘Wasteland to Wonder’. The program has gained an additional teacher volunteer and the principals of both schools and students are looking forward to the next round! More information on the projects is available at: https://sites.google.com/view/fairhaventrees/home-grown-oak-project?authuser=0

    Innovative Community Project 3

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Three years ago, the FHGT created a Sustainable Jersey Innovative Action to create awareness on the importance of pollinators, their dependence on native plants and the need for Pollinator Pathways. Understanding that the best way to increase pollinator health is to increase their habitat, the team introduced Pollinator Pathways (PP) at Love Where You Live Day with a cheerful yellow Pollinator Pop Up tent. The tent provided educational materials, conversation and hands on opportunities for planting native plants to create small PP gardens. The FHGT also started exploring the idea of planting a PP natives garden in town, and a request was submitted to the Borough Council for space. Eventually a sunny spot with lots of potential was chosen at the ongoing reclamation project at the Third Street Trail. With the help of a $2K grant from Sustainable Jersey and PSEG, and lots of donations and volunteer hours, Fair Haven’s first Pollinator Pathway Garden was installed, along with an educational sign. The garden has proven immensely popular with residents – young and old – and its central location allows residents to monitor the garden through all of its growth and bloom stages. The PP garden, and the educational opportunities it provides, has been especially popular with students and scouting groups. So much so, that over the last couple of years, two Eagle Scouts chose to expand the Pollinator Pathway Garden for their final Community Project. The most recent scout was Charlie Ern who, like his predecessor Alex Arhanic, raised money and secured native plants and dirt donations, and with the help of the FHGT and FH DPW organized clean-ups of the area along with the planting, watering and weeding. The FHGT also stepped in and donated temporary fencing to help keep out the deer while the plants established. The Pollinator Pathway Garden is now three times the size of the original plan, covering almost a half-acre and is a thriving example of ingenuity, creativity and a real commitment by FH residents to help protect our pollinators and restore biodiversity and balance to our ecosystems. The FHGT could not be more thrilled or proud of how one yellow tent turned into a wildly successful natural jewel in the center of our town.

  • Local Economies

    Green Business Recognition Program

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The Fair Haven Green Team (FHGT) is continuously working to strengthen our relationship with local Fair Haven businesses. The business community has seen some turnover since the last submission period. One of the original participants declined to participate because he is selling his business, but two renewed their applications. The last couple of years have been particularly challenging for small businesses and for recognizing their key role in the overall development of a sustainable community. The FHGT approached the Fair Haven Business Association with a bullet pointed letter explaining the benefits of participating in the Green Business Recognition Program and a copy of the application with a request to distribute it to their members. The Green Team also asked to be a speaker at their annual meeting to further explain the program. The application was edited to be more inclusive to those business owners who rent instead of own their place of business and encourage their participation. Because not all businesses are members of the FHBA, volunteers visited local businesses to distribute the application and explain it. The FHGT will introduce the participants and acknowledge them as members of the Green Business Recognition Program at Love Where You Live Day scheduled for the Spring of 2025.where we introduced to them to the concept of our Green Business Seal Program and how it can help FH businesses stand out, find ways to lower costs, improve their bottom line, and ultimately make Fair Haven a greener, more sustainable community. However, with many local businesses still rebounding from COVID and the after effects, some didn’t seem ready for the program. Therefore, we launched the program as a pilot that will evolve over 3 phases. We also offer assistance to businesses interested in joining the New Jersey Sustainable Business Program - but will not make it mandatory at this time. Our strategy involves sending the application to a business for review and then scheduling an in person meeting with a member of the green team to answer questions or receive feedback. The process is more time consuming, but more conducive to building relationships. The pilot phase was successful, and we now have 3 local businesses certified with the Green Business Seal. The latest two are recognized on the municipal website as well as FHGT social media. The application is finalized and Phase 2 starts mid October. Once we have completed all three phases of the program - targeting all eligible business in the Borough - we will hold a recognition event for all recipients at next year’s Love Where You Live Day in May 2023.

    Buy Local Campaign

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Each year, the Fair Haven Business Association, in partnership with the Borough of Fair Haven, puts on two events that promote town businesses and the buying of local products, creating a more sustainable local economy. The first event is held every Saturday after Thanksgiving, called "Fair Haven's Small Business Saturday." On this day, residents are invited to browse local businesses and stores and support the local economy with their purchases. The event graciously provides free public transportation in the form of a trolley, offering rides and stops to shoppers up and down River Road, the main commercial street in town. Maps of trolley stops are provided, as well as reusable canvas shopping bags from participating businesses. Businesses open their doors to the public with complimentary brunch treats, creating a fun, sustainable head start to holiday shopping. The most recent Fair Haven Small Business Saturday took place on November 27, 2022, from 10 AM -2 PM. This year's date is not yet scheduled. This second event is held each year in early December, called the "Fair Haven Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting." On this evening, local businesses provide holiday treats, games for kids, and extended hours for shoppers. Last year's event was held on Friday, December 10, 2022, from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM. Businesses sponsored events such as live music, a Santa sighting, and arts and crafts for kids. It is a festive night for residents and families to explore the wealth of their local economy and support the Fair Haven Business Association. The date for this year's Fair Haven Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting is not yet set. Each event is advertised on the Fair Haven Business Association website (fairhavenbusiness.com), the Fair Haven Business Association Facebook Page, the Borough of Fair Haven's website (www.fairhavennj.org), on individual business' websites, and in local papers and social calendars.

    Support Local Businesses

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Last year, at the end of the summer (8/23- 8/24/2024), the Fair Haven Business Association, in conjunction with the Borough of Fair Haven, held their annual Sidewalk Sale. The event encouraged residents to support Fair Haven’s wonderful business district as well as a way for businesses to unload summer inventory. The Sale was held on the first weekend of the Fair Haven Fireman’s Fair, in order to draw in additional walk-up customers who might not normally be in town. The Fair Haven Borough helped promote the Sale through the Borough website, Constant Contact system and Boro Buzz weekly emails, as well as Nixle and on the Borough’s digital billboard. Events like the Sidewalk Sale help to build partnership among local businesses, community members and residents; reduces the municipality's carbon footprint; drives sustainability and healthier lifestyles; and promotes a thriving local economy.

  • Natural Resources

    Natural Resource Inventory

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Fair Haven completed a revised ERI in October 2017. The ERI was completed entirely by the voluntary efforts of the Fair Haven Environmental Commission. During its November 13, 2017 meeting, the Fair Haven Mayor and Council designated the Environmental Commission as the body to review the newly revised Environmental Resource Inventory and provide annual updates and reviews. Fair haven council members read this document and praised its clarity and completeness. During its January 9, 2018 meeting, the Planning Board held a public hearing and approved the inclusion of the October 2017 Environmental Resource Inventory as part of the Borough's Master Plan. The ERI is posted along with Master Plan documents on the Borough’s website at this link: http://www.fairhavennj.org/content/master-plan.html. It is also listed on the Fair Haven Environmental Commission website link: http://fairhavennj.org/content/environment.html

    Environmental Commission

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Fair Haven Environmental Commission has been in place since 1969. Please see the 2024 annual report for details on accomplishments by the Commission from that year as well as membership from 2024-2025.

    Community Forestry Management Plan & NJUCF Accreditation

    20 Points

    Program Summary: Fair Haven has a five- year Community Forestry Management Plan in place that runs from 2014 to 2019 (Plan attached). NJUCF modified their guidelines and extended plan expirations. Fair Haven received a grant in January 2025 to update its CFMP. Please see attached NJUCF Core Accreditation and CEU credits, Annual Accreditation Report which shows the Borough of Fair Haven is in good standing. In addition, Fair Haven just celebrated 20 years as a Tree City USA, annual report attached.

    Tree Hazard Inventory

    10 Points

    Program Summary: In October 2023, Fair Haven was awarded an NJUCF Stewardship Grant to perform a tree inventory. The Borough and Shade Tree Commission members worked with ArborPro, Inc. to conduct the inventory of its 2,600 street trees and public park trees. This tree inventory data is the basis for Fair Haven’s urban forest management. The inventory data includes various fields to help determine Fair Haven’s urban forest structure, composition and trends: where the Borough’s landscape is now and planning for the future. Multiple Shade Tree Commission members and Borough employees are trained in the inventory software program, so are able to utilize the filtering, reporting and mapping tools to analyze and manage the data. Shade Tree Commission works with the Borough DPW to utilize the inventory data to identify and plan tree hazard removals and replacements. From the large inventory database (attached), filtering by “Tree Condition” and “Risk Rating” pulls data for our Hazard tree list. The dynamic software program allows for real-time updates in the field so the data is relied upon by staff.

    Tree Maintenance Programs

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Borough of Fair Haven Department of Public Works consistently observes existing conditions of the Borough’s tree canopy during the course of normal operations. DPW trims trees in the parks and within public right-of-way every day as part of normal operations for sign visibility, sight distance, right-of-way clearances, trail maintenance, park maintenance, parking lot areas, playgrounds, etc. After storm events, DPW performs additional inspections to make sure public areas are safe. Areas that are beyond normal maintenance or operations or where special equipment was/is necessary (for example a crane or spider lift is needed to lift canopy or remove/trim dead or hazardous limbs), DPW enlists appropriate professionals to do that job. In 2024 Fair Haven completed an inventory of its street and public park trees. The work was performed by Arbor Pro who recorded 2600 trees and mapped out the inventory by species, health and location. To date several municipal employees and Shade Tree Commissioners have been trained to use and update the software so that our inventory report can be used at our monthly STC meetings to determine our maintenance and planting strategy. The inventory revealed that the non native, invasive Norway maple tops our tree population. One of Fair Haven’s management goals is to replace these trees when practical with native species with a focus on those species that are more disease resistant. The STC also tracks tree planting with other volunteer groups in town. The tree inventory aids the Department of Public Works in addressing high priority tree work in a more efficient manner. New tree planting locations will be determined from the software program without requiring constant field checks, which wastes time and money. In 2024 Fair Haven updated its tree ordinance to require tree replacement for removal of trees over 6” DBH or fees to fund tree planting in Fair Haven.

    Tree Planting *New 2026*

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Fair Haven Fields Natural Area Advisory Committee purchased 40 new native trees (River Birch, Eastern Cedar, Sassafras, and White Oak). The trees were paid for by money donated to FHFNAAC through the Fair Haven Community Appeal. Vendor Down to Earth delivered and planted these trees at an approximate cost of $4500. All trees were about 6 feet tall. Additionally, the FHFNAAC partnered with local Girl Scout troops who raised money, donated trees, helped plant them, and created a watering schedule to ensure they survived the late spring drought. Thanks to these Girl Scouts, 12 new native trees (Oak, Dogwood, and Blue Spruce) were planted in the Natural Area.

  • Public Information & Engagement

    Municipal Communications Strategy

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Borough of Fair Haven uses multiple forms of communication to keep residents informed in our community. There is a Communications Committee that meets monthly to continually improve communication tools including: the Borough Website, targeted emails via Constant Contact, Newsletters (mailed, emailed and on the Website), a Public electronic sign with direct messages, Municipal Bulletin Board, the Borough FaceBook page. The Borough is committed to being transparent and engaging with its residents.

    Improve Public Engagement in Municipal Government

    15 Points

    Program Summary: The Borough of Fair Haven uses multiple forms of communication to keep residents engaged in our Municipal Government. There is a Communications Committee that meets monthly to continually improve communication tools including: the Borough Website, targeted emails via Constant Contact, Newsletters (mailed, emailed and on the Website), a Public electronic sign with direct messages, Municipal Bulletin Board, the Borough FaceBook page. The Borough is committed to being transparent and engaging with its residents.

    Improve Public Engagement in Planning and Zoning

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Borough of Fair Haven strives to improve public engagement in Planning, Zoning and all Land Use matters. Meeting information and resources of the planning and zoning boards are available to the public on the Borough website, sent out in emails and meetings are open to the public.

    Digitizing Public Information

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Over recent years Fair Haven has placed significant efforts on digitizing all relevant information and placing it on the Borough’s website such as to provide residents and other constituents with easy access to information on the Borough. Information available on the website ranges from Important Notices to a full directory of municipal staff, information on office holders, schools, garbage/recycling, municipal code, tax information, the Borough’s history and community information. Agendas and minutes for Boards and Commissions, information on ordinances and resolutions as well as other relevant documents reflecting the Borough’s ongoing planning and governing activities such as the Borough’s Master Plan, Environmental Resource Inventory and Active Transportation Plan are also easily found on the website. This enables residents not only to remain informed but provides them with the understanding and ability to participate in key activities undertaken by the Borough. Communication of important borough information to our public is an important part of our program. A continuously changing digital electric billboard in front of the Borough Hall is updated daily. This is supplemented by the distribution of the weekly Catch the "Borough Buzz", a newsletter sent to residents by email as well as the bimonthly "Fair Haven Focus" newsletter sent via email and hard copy as requested. The website has been updated to reflect links to the list of members of Boards and Commissions and their respective terms, as well as to reflect any vacancies. The Borough also has a QR code, making even easier for residents to sign up for "Constant Contact" from the borough and to be added to the distribution list for emails.

  • Waste Management

    Prescription Drug Safety & Disposal

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: In October 2014 the Fair Haven Police Department entered into partnership with the Office of the Attorney General, Division of Consumer Affairs and was accepted into the "Project Medicine Drop” program. Since then, a Mailbox style drop box has been located in the lobby of FHPD at 35 Fisk Street, Fair Haven, NJ. The public can use the box to deposit expired, unwanted or unneeded medicines. Current access to the drop box in the lobby of the newly constructed FHPD HQ is Monday-Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm. Once the building in completed in Sept. 2025, the public will have 24-hour access to the lobby. In 2024, 107 pounds of prescription drugs were disposed of by the Fair Haven Police Department. The drop box is of easy access, at the entrance to the FHPD, and staff indicated that the drop box is frequently used, often by residents from neighboring towns that don't provide a permanent drop box. Contents are regularly collected and properly disposed of by the police. This avoids drugs from being added to sewer disposal plant loads, and discharged into area waterways. On May 31, 2018 the FHPD re-announced Project Medicine Drop to remind FH residents of this important program and to encourage its use. In April of 2022, Project Medicine Drop was posted on the town’s electronic billboard in front of Borough Hall, and it is regularly posted on the Boro FB page as a reminder to residents. Recently, the FH Green Team posted reminders on their FB and IG about Project Medicine Drop, and how using it protects the health of area waterways. They also posted the current and upcoming access hours. Once HQ is complete in September, the FHGT will post another reminder. Chief of Police confirmed (see attachment) that 107 lb of medications were collected in 2024. Information on the Borough's Project Medicine Drop can be found on their website under 'Important Notices' section, as well as in the Police Department section of the website, or at: https://www.fairhavennj.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif4411/f/uploads/project_medicine_drop-off_information.pdf

    Recycling Depot

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Fair Haven has a recycling depot in town where mixed paper, newspaper, cardboard, bottles and cans are accepted for residents and local businesses to drop off. The depot is located at our Borough's Department of Public Works at Allen Street, and is opened from Monday through Friday 8AM to dusk, Saturday 9AM to dusk , and closed on Sundays. More information can be found on our Boro Website (https://www.fairhavennj.org/recycling/news/fair-haven-recycling-drop-center-one-allen-street). The Borough also offers pick up of bulk items for residents. Bulk items and e-waste are free; appliances require a $15 fee. This collection occurs monthly from January through October.

    Grass - Cut It and Leave It Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Fair Haven Borough has had an on ongoing Grass Cut It and Leave It Program since 2012. In 2018 the Borough developed a flyer to describe the benefits of the program and to provide better guidance to residents as to how they should implement this practice. The brochure is posted on the Fair Haven's Environmental Commission Page and on the electronic board in front of Borough Hall, where it continues to be found and regularly posted. This flyer has been distributed to the residents at public events, such as Rally for the Two Rivers Ecofest, and was also available at our town Green Fairs, Love Where You Live Day, in May 2022, May 2023, May 2024, and April 2025. It is included on our extensive town's Recycling Guide, and continues to be regularly posted on our town's Facebook page to remind residents. As a result of the Borough’s Grass – Cut It and Leave It Program, over the last nine years virtually all of the grass clippings left by the curbs have been eliminated and kept out of stormwater streams. All information regarding the Grass- Cut It and Leave It program can be found on the Fair Haven Boro website: https://www.fairhavennj.org/environmental-commission/news/grass-clippings

    Materials Reuse Program

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Fair Haven Green Team, in conjunction with the Rumson Environmental Commission, Rumson Junior Green Team and the Knollwood Green Team, hosts a Fall and Spring Sports Swap each year. It began in the Fall of 2023, and continued Spring 2024, Fall of 2024, and our most recent one is scheduled for May 17, 2025. Residents are asked to drop off gently used sports equipment and clothing and are free to pick up something new for themselves. Any leftover equipment is then brought to various donation centers, including Monmouth Day Care, Vin Gopal Food Pantry, Goodwill and the Boys and Girls Club. Over the past four Sports Swaps, over 500 people have attended and approximately one ton of materials have been reused and saved from landfills. The event is held at Fair Haven Fields- a popular sports area for baseball, softball, soccer, and lacrosse teams. It is held from 9-12, and is staffed with volunteers from the organizations hosting it, as well as students in the town schools. It's always a lively and successful event with music, prizes, food, and good will. Information was sent out to town through NIXLE, posted on social media, sent out to schools, recreation teams and coaches, and hung in various storefronts and locations in town.