Listen to understand.

 

We invite you to explore this collection of watershed stories through listening to how others view and value New Jersey water sources (from the tap, the community pool, to the Atlantic Ocean) in their own words and voices.  Close your eyes, sit back; whatever makes you most comfortable, attentive and curious.  

In our own experience listening to this collection of stories, we’ve observed four overarching themes about how people view and value water sources in New Jersey. Meaningful connections to water shape personal identity, livelihood, well-being and environment. 

Do you observe any of these themes while listening to watershed stories? What do you notice?

Does anything surprise you?

 

Marie Natale's watercolor painting of Lucy the Elephant

Identity.

  • Recreation
  • Childhood memories
  • Historical significance
An image of a watercolor painting showing aNew Jersey fishing boat

Livelihood.

  • Commercial industry
  • Tourism
  • Infrastructure
An image of a watercolor painting showing a New Jersey shell

Well-being.

  • Spirituality
  • Sociality
  • Sensuality
An image of a watercolor painting showing a New Jersey crane

Environment.

  • Wildlife conservation
  • Water quality and safety
  • Environmental change