New Jersey Senate Bill S1686

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Provides for no net loss of DEP lands for fishing, hunting, and trapping purposes.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will have significant implications for state land management practices. It requires the DEP to conduct an inventory of lands available for public recreational use and to ensure no net loss of acreage designated for fishing, hunting, and trapping. This measure intends to safeguard these recreational activities from potential reductions caused by competing land use priorities, thereby reinforcing the state’s commitment to outdoor recreational activities. The bill also mandates inclusive participation of various stakeholders, such as conservation groups and sportsmen, to foster community engagement in maintaining these outdoor activities.

Summary

Senate Bill 1686 aims to protect public recreational opportunities related to fishing, hunting, and trapping by establishing a policy of no net loss of State lands administered for these purposes. The bill mandates that the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recognize fishing, hunting, and trapping as primary uses of state land and to manage such areas without reducing the acreage available for these activities. The legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining access to these lands for recreational purposes and promotes the acquisition of new areas to expand opportunities for users.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding Bill S1686 relate primarily to balancing recreational interests with other uses of State lands. Proponents argue that protecting these recreational areas is crucial for both environmental conservation and community heritage, while opponents may express concerns about possible constraints on land development and other state priorities. Additionally, the bill does not require the Commissioner of Environmental Protection to prioritize fishing, hunting, and trapping over other land uses, which may lead to criticisms about the adequacy of protections for these activities in the face of urbanization or other competing interests in land management.