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• Complete an annual accomplishment report. To maintain NJUCF accreditation a local government must: • Update their plan every five years. • Maintain core training of at least two active representatives. • Earn eight or more continuing educational units by at least two individuals. • Submit an annual accomplishment report. Benefits of accreditation NJ Forest Stewardship Task Force The NJ Forest Stewardship Task Force was formed in 2022 to identify actions that the State Legislature should consider to better protect and manage NJ public forestlands. Some of the recommendations in their 2023 report (https://shorturl.at/LaBjd) include: • Conduct statewide planning and mapping of forested public lands. • Commence a rulemaking process for development of forest management plans and provide interim guidelines for forest management plans. • Identify areas where active management is needed to promote future carbon sequestration, maintain biodiversity and address threats to ecological health. • Identify areas where afforestation and reforestation should occur. • Amplify efforts to address invasive species. • Measure and reduce deer densities. • Continue to use fire as an important management tool. • Protect and manage public forestland to maintain and enhance carbon sequestration and storage to advance climate goals. The NJUCF program provides grants for the development and implementation of a municipal Urban and Community Forest Management Plan. Accreditation in the program also provides a basis for local governments to reduce or eliminate liability associated with local tree care programs and shade tree commissions. A healthy, safe and resilient urban and community forest can provide environmental, economic and social benefits now and for generations to come. More information about the NJUCF program can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ 584x6ayy. Fall is a time for thinking forward By Julie Lange Groth, ANJEC Report Editor When autumn leaves begin to fall, many Environmental Commissions (ECs) hold fall stream cleanups or host fall festivals. In addition to finishing up 2024 projects, ECs should also be planning for 2025. As the year draws to a close, it's a good time to reflect on what's working well and should be continued, how your commission can be SUSTAINABLY PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER more effective and whether you need to recruit new commission members

time to reflect on what's working well and should be continued, how your commission can be SUSTAINABLY PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER more effective and whether you need to recruit new commission members for appointment in the coming year. Setting goals for 2025 As you contemplate new projects you'd like to tackle in the New Year, first take continued, on next page ANJEC REPORT – Autumn 2024 23