The Delaware & Raritan Canal and its towpath form a v-shaped linear park that crosses the center of New jersey, providing recreation, a respite from the tumult of the state's busy centers, a history lesson in the development of New Jersey, and drinking water for the million people who live near this 66-mile greenway in the heart of the nation's most densely populated state.

The Delaware & Raritan Canal Watch was established in 1988 as a non-profit volunteer citizen's advocacy group to help promote, enhance and preserve the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park. It was incorporated in 1989 as a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization.

Members write letters, make phone calls. And disseminate bulletins and other information on behalf of the Park. The Watch also receives (and deals appropriately with) individual criticisms, problems, comments, and questions concerning the canal, and cooperates with other relevant organizations.

2008 Annual 5K Fun Run
March 29, 2008
(click here for info)

The D&R Canal Watch 5K Fun Run which starts at Washington Crossing State Park (Titusville, NJ),  has become an annual event, attracting as many as 250 runners. Funds raised by the run have made possible a series of purchases for the Park that have included flat files for maps, a VCR, tractor trailer, saw, computer program and benches. In the last two years we have concentrated on interpretive signs for each lock and spillway. A Guide to the D&R Canal State Park will be published by the Watch in the nest future in conjunction with a commercial publisher.

The Canal Watch sponsors walks along the canal and holds a June annual meeting with a program, usually a slide lecture. It irregularly publishes a modest newsletter. Events sponsored by the Canal Watch have included picnics, lectures and night walks, bike trips, and canoe trips. Trail clearing and maintenance, help with the beautification and promotion of the Trenton sections of the canal, stream monitoring, nature education and participation in fairs, festivals and environmental events are other projects underway or being seriously considered.

Membership in the Canal Watch is $15 (individual) and $25 (family). Non-profit organization membership is $5.    Click here for a printable application form.