The following is a list of significant milestones in the development and adoption of the Highlands Regional Master Plan.

  • 1992 – The U.S. Forest Service, in cooperation with New York and New Jersey representatives, issue a report on the Highlands, serving as an impetus to move forward efforts in protecting the natural resources of the New Jersey Highlands.
  • 2002 – The U.S. Forest Service study is updated, finding an 11 percent increase in population in from 1990 to 2000.
  • August 10, 2004 – The Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act was enacted by the State Legislature of New Jersey. The Act mandates the Highlands Council create a Regional Master Plan to, “protect and enhance the significant values of the resources” of the Highlands.
  • November 30, 2006 – The Highlands Council votes to release the Draft Regional Master Plan for public comment.
  • May 11, 2007 – The public comment on the Draft Regional Master Plan period closes.
  • November 19, 2007 – The Highlands Council votes to release the Final Draft of the Regional Master Plan for Public Comment.
  • November 30, 2007 – The 90-day public comment period for the Final Draft RMP begins.
  • February 28, 2008 – Public comment period closes.
  • July 17, 2008 – Regional Master Plan approved by Highlands Council.
  • September 8, 2008 - Regional Master Plan becomes effective.