LRWP Board Member Nandini Checko sat down to chat with a great friend of the Lower Raritan, Gregg Bucino, to ask him about cleaning up litter in New Jersey’s streams and his role as Clean Stream Advocate and Paddle Coordinator for the LRWP. We are so grateful for all Gregg does to keep the waterways of New Jersey clean, and to get folks out recreating on the state’s blueways!

Can you find Gregg Bucino in amongst the litter on the Green Brook?

Gregg has been a lifelong nature lover and advocate. Growing up in Nutley, NJ, he spent his childhood exploring the Third River tributary, which feeds into the Passaic River. For the past four years, he has dedicated his skills, knowledge, and passion to the LRWP, working to protect and restore local waterways.

NC: What was the first litter clean-up you organized?

GB: About twenty years ago, I worked at a health food store near the eastern branch of Brandywine Creek in Pennsylvania. The area was in terrible shape—completely trashed. A customer and I decided to take action, and together we organized a cleanup. That was my first, but definitely not my last.

NC: You’ve led over a hundred clean-ups over the years. What keeps you coming back?

GB: It’s incredibly satisfying—especially when I return to a spot we’ve cleaned multiple times and see that it’s finally free of litter. That’s when I know the work is making a difference. Plus, these clean-ups aren’t just about the environment. I get to spend time outdoors, exercise, and connect with friends who share the same passion. It’s rewarding on so many levels.

NC: What are some of the craziest things you’ve come across during litter cleanups?

GB: I’ve seen a lot over the years, but one of the wildest was a massive metal safe that was so heavy, we couldn’t even budge it. It really makes you wonder how it ended up there in the first place!

Another unforgettable experience was during a cleanup at Lake Hopatcong’s drawdown event. In just one day, we pulled 600 tires from the lake. People use old tires as bumpers for boats and docks, but over time, they end up sinking and littering the water. It was shocking to see just how many were hiding beneath the surface. 

NC: Before joining with LRWP, you were involved with Hackensack Riverkeeper. Can you tell me about that experience?

GB: After moving back to NJ, I settled near the Hackensack River and quickly connected with the incredible team at Hackensack Riverkeeper, including Caitlin Duran and Bill Meyer. Through this group, I also built strong friendships with Anton Getz, an LRWP board member, and Jens Riedel from the Central Jersey Stream Team, a key LRWP partner.

One of my biggest roles there was managing the paddle center on weekends. When I first took over, it wasn’t generating any profit. Within a year, I helped turn things around, raising $60,000 through a combination of new initiatives. I developed a guided paddle program and launched an advertising campaign to attract more visitors. It was an amazing experience—seeing the impact of our work and helping more people connect with the river.

NC: What has helped you be successful in your work?

GB: Building strong relationships and celebrating victories—both big and small. Every win, no matter how minor, keeps the momentum going and inspires people to stay engaged.

NC: What are you excited about in 2025? Where is your happy place?

GB: I’m working on my certification as an international backpacking guide, which is an exciting new challenge. And, of course, my happy place will always be on the water—any chance I get, that’s where you’ll find me.

NC: Do you have a favorite spot in the Lower Raritan River Watershed?

GB: Absolutely—there’s a creek in the tidal waters near the NJ Turnpike. You’d never guess it was so close to a fast, noisy highway, but once you’re out on the water, it’s peaceful. It’s a reminder of how unexpectedly beautiful NJ can be.

NC: What do you appreciate most about LRWP?

GB: I admire the organization’s long-term commitment to its mission. Their focus on environmental monitoring, watershed restoration, diversity, and, of course, cleanups is clear and unwavering. But what really stands out is the integrity and friendship with the board and members—being part of this community is truly special.