Directs Department of Environmental Protection to develop and provide motor vehicle driving maps for State forests.
Impact
The bill, once enacted, is expected to positively influence outdoor tourism and recreational activities in New Jersey's State forests. By making driving maps readily available, it enhances the experience for visitors and could potentially increase foot traffic in these areas. This initiative aligns with broader objectives to promote state parks and forests, encouraging residents and tourists alike to engage with the state's natural resources while ensuring their safety through informed navigation.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4383, introduced by Assemblyman William F. Moen, Jr., aims to enhance navigational support for visitors to New Jersey's State forests. The bill mandates the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to create and provide detailed motor vehicle driving maps for each State forest, delineating roads that are accessible by motor vehicle. This initiative comes in response to the need for clear guidance for drivers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore these natural areas safely and legally. The maps will be available for download on the DEP's website, facilitating easier access for the public.
Contention
While the bill does not appear to have significant points of contention highlighted in available discussions, considerations about resource allocation for the DEP may arise. The successful implementation of this mandate will depend on the department's capacity to produce these maps within the stipulated timeframe of 180 days post-enactment. As with many legislative measures concerning environmental management, discussions around funding and priorities within the DEP may emerge as challenges to be addressed in the bill's implementation phase.
Creates a new motor vehicle registration for "forestry vehicles" also provides that forest product operations are permitted uses within all zoning districts of a municipality except where prohibited.
Creates the Old Growth Forest Protection Act to provide protection for state-owned forestland in their natural state prohibiting extractive logging and clearcutting in any forest on state-owned land.
Creates the Old Growth Forest Protection Act to provide protection for state-owned forestland in their natural state prohibiting extractive logging and clearcutting in any forest on state-owned land.