Bill > A5477

This bill establishes a program in the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for the acquisition of development easements, conservation restrictions or easements, or other perpetual restrictions on privately-owned woodlands. To be eligible, the woodlands must be at least 5 contiguous acres and managed under an approved forest stewardship or woodland management plan. The bill creates the "Woodlands Protection Fund" to fund the program, which can receive federal, state, local, and private funding. The State Forester must adopt rules and regulations to implement the program, including application procedures, project evaluation criteria, and management requirements for participating landowners. Any acquired easements or restrictions must be filed with the municipal tax assessor and county clerk, and landowners are not required to provide public access.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2022/A5477