In The Community

ACE Program

The Upper Montgomery Joint Authority partnered with Upper Perkiomen High School to provide an innovative 8-week after-school program that introduced students to careers within the wastewater industry. Through a series of weekly sessions led by industry professionals and program partners, students explored the fields of architecture, construction, and engineering through both classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences. The program provided more than 20 hours of educational opportunities for 25 students, while allowing them to interact directly with professionals who shared valuable career insights and real-world applications of their work. As the first partnership of its kind for the ACE Mentor Program of Greater Philadelphia, the UMJA and Upper Perkiomen High School collaboration has quickly become a model for future partnerships between community organizations, educators, and industry leaders. 

Stream Cleanup

Each year, the team at the Upper Montgomery Joint Authority dedicates time to improving the health and appearance of our local waterways through a community stream and creek cleanup effort. Working together, our staff removes litter, debris, and other materials that can negatively impact water quality, wildlife habitats, and the overall beauty of the area. During a typical cleanup, the crew collects approximately 10 bags of trash, along with larger items such as discarded tires, metal poles, and other debris that have found their way into the waterways. These efforts help protect local ecosystems, reduce pollution entering the watershed, and create a cleaner, more enjoyable environment for residents and visitors. By taking an active role in caring for our streams and creeks, UMJA continues its commitment to environmental stewardship and helping preserve the natural resources that make our community a great place to live.

Trout Release

 

The Upper Montgomery Joint Authority is committed to educating the next generation about the importance of wastewater treatment and environmental stewardship. Each year, UMJA staff visit local elementary schools to teach students what wastewater is, where it comes from, and why treating it is essential for protecting public health and the environment. Through engaging presentations and hands-on discussions, students learn how wastewater is collected, treated, and safely returned to the environment.

UMJA is also proud to participate in local Trout in the Classroom programs, helping students release trout raised in their classrooms into local waterways. These experiences provide a meaningful connection between clean water and healthy ecosystems, demonstrating how proper wastewater treatment helps protect fish, wildlife, and natural habitats. By fostering environmental awareness at an early age, UMJA hopes to inspire future stewards of our community’s water resources and encourage lifelong appreciation for the importance of clean water.

Plant-A-Thon

Members of the Upper Montgomery Joint Authority joined forces with the Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy and other community volunteers during the annual Plant-A-Thon, a multi-month environmental restoration initiative dedicated to planting more than 5,000 native trees, shrubs, and perennials throughout the Perkiomen Creek Watershed. This collaborative effort focuses on restoring natural habitats, improving water quality, and strengthening the health of local ecosystems for future generations.

Planting native vegetation provides numerous environmental benefits. Trees and shrubs help stabilize stream banks, reduce soil erosion, and filter pollutants before they can enter local waterways. Their root systems absorb excess stormwater, reducing runoff and helping to minimize flooding while naturally recharging groundwater supplies. Native plants also provide critical food sources and shelter for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife, supporting biodiversity throughout the watershed. In addition, growing trees help improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, contributing to a healthier environment for both wildlife and the community.

By participating in the Plant-A-Thon, UMJA continues its commitment to environmental stewardship beyond wastewater treatment, working alongside community partners to protect natural resources, enhance wildlife habitat, and preserve the beauty and ecological health of the Perkiomen Creek Watershed. Through these efforts, we are helping create a cleaner, greener, and more resilient environment for generations to come.

Educational Tours

At UMJA, we believe education is an important part of protecting our water resources and inspiring future generations. Through partnerships with the ACE Mentor Program and Mr. Graham’s classes at the Upper Perkiomen School District, we regularly open our doors to students and provide hands-on learning experiences at our wastewater treatment facility. These tours give students an inside look at the science, engineering, and technology involved in treating wastewater, while highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship and the many career opportunities available within the water and wastewater industry. By connecting with local students, UMJA is proud to help cultivate curiosity, promote sustainability, and strengthen our ties to the communities we serve.