A Natural Resource Management Guide for the County of Morris A ...

and chemical spills have resulted in severe siltation and an overall degradation of the river's water quality,
manifested by fish populations limited to pollution-tolerant forms, as well as fish kills. Though phosphorus
loadings have decreased from point sources, levels continue to increase due to “nonpoint sources such as
fertilizers, groundwater discharges, wildlife populations, surface runoff, the re-suspension of bottom material
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and ineffective stormwater management.”
Subsheds
Troy Brook is assessed as moderately impaired, and partially supports the “aquatic life” designated use.
Watnong Brook is mostly moderately impaired with one station found to be non-impaired. It partially
supports the “aquatic life” designated use.
Waterbodies
Clyde Potts Reservoir, Speedwell Lake, and Pocahontas Lake are the major water bodies within the Whippany
watershed. Speedwell Lake is heavily impacted from construction-related runoff, as well as local storm
sewers. Clyde Potts Reservoir, a water supply source, has chronically experienced water quality degradation.
Wetland Complexes
Wetlands within the Whippany basin
are EPA Priority Wetlands by virtue
of their inclusion within the larger
Passaic River Basin. Washington
Valley, located in the upper reaches
of the Whippany watershed, in
Morris Township, was identified as a
Priority wetland due to its
environmentally sensitive features.
This area comprises a mix of
wetlands and uplands creating
diverse habitat for wildlife, including
threatened and endangered species
(e.g., wood turtles, red-shouldered
hawk). The tract remains a potential
candidate for water supply (ground
water) and is considered vulnerable
to upland development pressure.
Downstream, Black and Troy
Meadows are receiving severe and
increasing runoff from construction
activity and from local storm sewers.
Figure 5 - Priority Wetlands Within Washington Valley
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NJ DEP, 1996 Inventory 69.
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Surface Water