New Jersey Assembly Bill A1253

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Prohibits planting of non-native species in landscaping at State parks and forests; establishes grant program to support use of native plants at local parks and forests; appropriates $250,000.

Impact

Upon enactment, the bill mandates the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to refrain from employing non-native plants for landscaping purposes in State parks and forests. Instead, the DEP is directed to collaborate with the Department of Agriculture and local nursery businesses to curate a list of recommended native plants for landscaping projects. This is intended to avert potential ecological harm caused by invasive species and to support natural habitats in the region.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1253 aims to enhance environmental conservation efforts by prohibiting the planting of non-native species in the landscaping of State parks and forests in New Jersey. The bill places a specific emphasis on promoting the ecological integrity of New Jersey's public lands by utilizing native plant species that are better suited for the local environment. This initiative is aligned with broader environmental goals of sustainability and biodiversity preservation within the state's natural landscapes.

Contention

A notable aspect of the bill is the establishment of a grant program that allocates $250,000 to help local government units incorporate native plants into their landscaping projects at municipal and county parks. Each grant can reach a maximum of $5,000, encouraging municipalities to participate actively in this initiative. However, potential points of contention could arise regarding the funding allocations, as well as the criteria for selecting projects that will receive grants, which could lead to debates on prioritizing environmental versus budgetary concerns.