New Jersey Assembly Bill A2810

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22
• Report Pass: 5/18/23
• Engrossed: 5/25/23
• Refer: 6/1/23

Caption

Directs DEP to establish leasing program for State-owned land to be used and managed as pollinator habitat.

Impact

The provisions of A2810 would require the DEP, in consultation with the Department of Agriculture, to create rules regarding the identification of suitable State-owned lands for pollinator habitat and establish criteria for selecting potential lessees. This structured approach aims to ensure that lands are not only managed effectively to support pollinator species but also align with broader environmental and agricultural policies. The bill is expected to promote better understanding and appreciation of ecological health, potentially influencing future land management practices throughout the State.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2810, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, aims to enhance pollinator habitats by establishing a leasing program for the management of State-owned lands designated as suitable for this purpose. Sponsored by Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese, the bill directs the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to identify and lease suitable lands to individuals, local government units, nonprofit organizations, or other qualified entities interested in developing pollinator habitats. This initiative reflects growing concerns over declining pollinator populations and the essential role they play in ecosystems and agriculture.

Contention

As the bill progresses, discussions around A2810 may focus on issues such as land use priorities and the balance between development and ecological conservation. Supporters often highlight the importance of maintaining biodiversity as a vital component of environmental sustainability, while critics may question the appropriateness of designating State-owned lands for specific ecological purposes, possibly at the expense of other developmental needs. The success of the bill could also hinge on its implementation strategies and the overall engagement of stakeholders, including local governments and community organizations.