O26 Michelle Byers NJ Environmental Foundation Presentation

WETLANDS

FUNDING FOR PRESERVATION New Jersey is blessed with a robust funding program for open space, parks and farmland preservation. Since 1960 New Jerseyans have affirmatively voted for more than 14 bond measures which generated over $4 billion and resulted in the preservation of almost 34% of the state. • New Jersey has a permanent stable source of funding for open space and farmland preservation through the State Corporate Business Tax, administered by the Green Acres and Farmland Preservation Programs. • Federal funding is available from the USDA Agricultural Land Easement Program, the Forest Legacy Program, the Highlands and Pinelands Programs, and the Land and Water Conservation Fund • All 21 of New Jersey’s counties have passed county -wide open space preservation measures, along with a majority of municipalities. • Private funds from individuals, family foundations and philanthropic institutions have contributed millions of matching funds to secure preservation successes. • Several leading NJ conservation organizations have expressed interest in leading a campaign to preserve this forest. • The funding is available. • All it takes now is a willing landowner.

CONCLUSION: PRESERVATION IS THE HIGHEST AND BEST USE Permanent preservation of the forest will: • • • • • • • • • • Prevent increased flooding and storm water runoff Protect and clean drinking water supplies Increase open space and recreational opportunities Sequester carbon Protect air quality Protect wildlife habitat and biodiversity Protect the ancestral lands of the Lenni Lenape Support human health, community and quality of life Increase resilience from climate change impacts Eliminate/reduce demand for costly municipal services Preservation of this forest exemplifies the type of project envisioned by the Nature for All report, and would create a lasting legacy for the residents of West Orange, Essex County, the region and the New Jersey. Funding for the purchase of this land for preservation is available. A capital expenditure to purchase the forest and secure its permanent preservation will provide multiple health, economic and environmental benefits in perpetuity and save the town countless dollars in municipal services.