Interview by LRWP Board Member N.Dini Checko

LRWP is excited to share that David Tulloch, a longtime board member, has stepped into the role of Board President following our January reorganization meeting. I spoke with David about his new leadership position, LRWP’s evolution over the past decade, and where he sees the organization heading next. David invites you to join him at Thompson Park (Monroe) on Sunday April 26, 3-5pm for a “hidden stream” walk and talk about the LRWP vision for the watershed. Pre-registration required.

NC: What do you see as your goals as Board President?
DT: LRWP is, at its heart, a volunteer board. That shapes how I see this role. My primary goal is to support the work of our subcommittees and make sure they have what they need to thrive. If I can help remove administrative hurdles and keep us organized and focused, that’s a win. I also see my role as offering strong support to Heather Fenyk as she steps into her new position as Executive Director. Leadership works best when it’s collaborative, and I’m committed to making sure she has the partnership she needs.

NC: How has LRWP grown over the past ten years?
DT: We’ve grown from being a volunteer group to becoming THE volunteer group — “the Voice of the Watershed”. That reputation has been earned through consistency and credibility. Today, people are listening. Municipal leaders, residents, and partners recognize LRWP as a trusted resource. We’ve also become more strategic in our advocacy. For example, in 2020 we joined East Brunswick Township in litigation to protect a highly environmentally sensitive area from development. Actions like that aren’t taken lightly — they’re part of a broader effort to influence policy and strengthen protections across the watershed. We want our work to lead to systemic change.

NC: LRWP remains a relatively small organization, even as we welcome our first compensated Executive Director. How can we best serve the 50 municipalities within the watershed?
DT: Capacity is still a challenge. We can’t be everywhere at once, but we can model what partnership looks like. That means building strong relationships with local governments, community organizations, educators, and residents. Our strength has always been collaboration. If we continue to connect people, share resources, and amplify good work, we can have an impact far beyond our size.

NC: What advice would you give to someone who wants to better appreciate the Lower Raritan Watershed?
DT: Slow down. Pay attention. Listen carefully to what’s around you — the water, the landscape, the human communities. Ask questions and stay curious. The watershed isn’t just a physical place; it’s a living system we’re part of with a rich history and ever changing landscape. The more we practice that kind of attentive appreciation, the more motivated we become to protect it.

NC: Why should someone consider volunteering as an LRWP Board member?DT: Serving on the LRWP Board is a meaningful way to extend your commitment to your community, the environment and LRWP. It’s an opportunity to step back and look at the entire watershed — beyond municipal boundaries — and help shape its future. We welcome people who bring professional expertise, lived experience, and passion to the table. If you care about the Lower Raritan and want to make a tangible difference, we are actively looking for new board members to join us.