Bill
Bill > S4034
NJ S4034
Provides that potable water well construction projects on preserved farms are eligible to receive soil and water conservation grants from SADC.
summary
Introduced
01/14/2025
01/14/2025
In Committee
01/14/2025
01/14/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill would provide that projects on preserved farmland to construct potable water wells would be eligible to receive soil and water conservation grants from the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) pursuant to section 17 of P.L.1983, c.32 (C.4:1C-24). Under the current program, eligible projects include: terrace systems; diversions; water impoundment reservoirs; irrigation systems; sediment retention, erosion or water control systems; drainage systems; animal waste control facilities; and land shaping and grading. This bill would expand the program to also allow for potable water well construction projects to be eligible. In order to obtain a soil and water conservation grant, landowners apply to local Soil Conservation Districts, which assist in developing farm conservation plans and ensure projects are necessary and feasible. Applications are then forwarded to the State Soil Conservation Committee, which recommends projects to the SADC for funding approvals.
AI Summary
This bill expands the existing soil and water conservation grant program administered by the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) to explicitly include potable water well construction projects on preserved farmland as an eligible project type. Currently, the program supports various agricultural conservation efforts such as terrace systems, irrigation systems, and erosion control projects. Under the proposed change, landowners within municipally approved farmland preservation programs or those who have conveyed development easements can apply to local Soil Conservation Districts for grants to construct potable water wells. The grant application process remains the same, requiring project approval by the local soil conservation district and the SADC, and mandating that approved projects be part of a farmland conservation plan and maintained for at least three years. If the landowner provides 50% of the project funding, the local soil conservation district will review and make a recommendation on the application. The bill aims to provide additional financial support for infrastructure improvements on preserved farmlands, specifically addressing water access needs for agricultural properties.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee (on 01/14/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4034 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S4500/4034_I1.HTM |
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