Bill > S2859

Introduced Session

This bill would prohibit the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) from planting non-native plant species as part of the landscaping of a State park or forest. The bill would also direct the DEP to establish a grant program to provide funds to local governments that seek to plant native plants at local parks and forests during landscaping, land management, reforestation, and habitat restoration projects. As used in the bill, "native plant" means a plant species that occurs naturally in New Jersey or the greater Mid-Atlantic region, either because it evolved here or because it established itself here without human assistance. The injunction on the use of non-native plants would take effect three months after the bill's enactment, in order to allow the DEP to utilize any remaining nursery stock it has acquired or contracted for. Each grant awarded under the grant program would be for a maximum of $5,000, although a local government could apply for more than one grant per year. Under the bill, the DEP would determine the eligibility conditions, priority ranking of projects, and application procedures for the program. The bill would require the DEP to report to Governor and the Legislature on the progress of the program in achieving its goals, and would require the DEP Commissioner to request sufficient funds in the DEP's annual budget request to execute the program. The intent of the bill is to encourage State parks and forests, as well as residents of the State, to use more native plants in their landscaping. Planting more native plants in State and local natural areas would lead to significant benefits, including reducing erosion, improving water quality, reducing irrigation costs, and providing nectar, pollen, seeds, and habitats for birds, bees, butterflies, and other insects. In addition, because native plants are adapted to local climates and soil conditions, they require less maintenance and soil preparation than non-native species. The bill would not require the DEP to take any actions with respect to invasive plant species.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Linda Greenstein (D)*, 

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee (on 03/04/2024)

Official Document