Established in 1998, MERI is dedicated to the scientific study of the Meadowlands District, an urban area dominated by coastal wetlands in northeastern New Jersey.

MERI's environmental chemistry laboratory and its Geographical Information System use the most advanced instruments to detect and monitor environmental pollution. Remote sensors provide vast and varied information regarding land use, air and water quality. MERI's information technology component and scientific library integrates this mountain of satellite, sensor, biological and chemical data into usable visual formats.

MERI's scientists provide both basic science and develop practical technologies to monitor, protect, and ultimately improve the environment in the Meadowlands. Techniques that are successful in the District have broad practical application throughout similar areas in the United States.

MERI continuously reaches outside the laboratory to let citizens know what their scientists are learning and of the efforts underway to restore and protect the delicate Meadowlands ecosystem.

MERI Organization

 
1.- Chemical Analytical Laboratory

Provides instruments and skilled analytical chemists to determine concentrations of various chemicals in water, air, sediment, plant and animal tissues. The laboratory supports the environmental monitoring efforts in the District.

2.- Environmental Monitoring

MERI scientists collect Meadowlands environmental data through automatic monitoring stations and field studies. They analyze and organize this data into reports and presentations to inform the public about the environmental quality of Meadowlands ecosystems.

3.- Geographic Information System (GIS)

MERI's GIS laboratory manages and analyses all spatial data about the District. It uses digital technologies to bring remote sensing and digital maps together to monitor land use changes in the District. It also uses specialized software (CityViewTM) to track permit applications and makes up-to-date spatial information available to engineers, scientists, municipal officials and decision makers.

4.- Library and Environmental Information Management

Library
By serving as the main repository for NJMC documents and reports, the MERI Library houses the collective environmental and administrative memory of the NJMC. The library provides reference and research assistance to the public, including access to on-line catalogues and indexes.

Environmental Information Management

MERI organizes and disseminates Meadowlands District environmental data for use by researchers, the public and the "State of the Meadowlands Report". MERI organizes and validates these data collections and makes them accessible via reports and the World Wide Web to scientists and general users.

5.- Science Administration

Provides administrative support to MERI and coordinates research projects and technology transfers between MERI, collaborators and contractors.