What does the State Plan do?

• Recommends identification and protection of the habitats of threatened and endangered species.
• Calls for municipalities to adopt construction standards and performance standards for new development that reduce soil disturbance.
• Calls for expansion and maintenance of the existing urban tree canopy.
• Calls for acquisition of forest resources that serve an overriding public purpose for public use and preservation.
• Calls for the design of forest management practices to protect watersheds, wetlands, and stream corridors from pollution that threatens water quality and aquatic habitat.
• Calls for the identification and restoration of streams that have been buried in culverts.

Why it matters:

• Centuries of farming, the use of wood for construction, industrial activities such as mining and quarrying, and urbanization have reduced the tree cover and forested landscape and destroyed natural habitats and ecosystems.
• To protect and conserve remaining ecosystems, the State Plan encourages biodiversity to protect wildlife and waterways.

What does the State Plan do?

The State Plan endeavors to ensure that agriculture continues to be a viable industry in the face of a changing climate and an onslaught of invasive species. Some of the objectives include:

• Continuing to allocate and leverage funds for farmland preservation.
• Promoting local regulations, state building codes, and fee criteria which are fair and understanding of agricultural construction and seasonal uses.
• Using creative land planning and design to accommodate future growth and development that aids the agriculture industry.

Why it matters:

• Access to fresh, local food improves health and addresses food shortages.
• Preserving farmland enhances the environment and creates jobs.
• Aids in the conservation of biodiversity.
• Protects natural water resources.
• Promotes tourism opportunities.
• Enhances the overall quality of life for residents.

What does the State Plan do?

• Recommends that the State coordinate with agencies and planning partners to engage in research, regulatory initiatives, land use planning, and transportation planning initiatives to meet air quality standards.
• Recommends that the State identify “hotspots” where air quality is particularly poor, and determine actions to address them (prioritizing natural and nature-based solutions).

Why it matters:

• Reduces the state's overall carbon footprint by transitioning to cleaner, zero-emission transportation.
• Benefits both public health and the environment by addressing harmful pollutants such as ground-level ozone, particulate matter, and carbon dioxide.
• Improves mobility options and encourages sustainable travel methods, decreasing traffic congestion and enhancing quality of life.
• Aligns New Jersey with federal standards for air quality, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and contributing to global climate goals.
• Prioritizes environmentally friendly solutions to combat air pollution, especially in areas with the highest pollution levels, promoting the restoration of natural ecosystems.

What does the State Plan do?

• Calls for the coordination of planning efforts of agencies managing land, water, and environmental resources to protect water quality and supply from the cumulative impacts of development.
• Proposes a watershed-based resource planning and permitting program to ensure the sustainability of water resources, addressing water quality, supply, and wastewater management.
• Prescribes integration of county and municipal planning with natural systems’ carrying capacity, focusing on hydrological systems and climate change resilience.
• Promotes protection of water quality through the proper design and installation of stormwater and wastewater management systems, considering local geology and water systems.
• Encourages regional flood and stormwater management, with an emphasis on natural solutions such as increased infiltration and the creation of regional control facilities.

Why it matters:

• Protects New Jersey’s vital water resources, ensuring that development does not compromise water quality or supply.
• Prepares the state for climate change impacts, such as seasonal droughts, by enhancing water supply management and improving water infrastructure.
• Reduces the risk of flooding and stormwater damage by integrating natural systems and best management practices into stormwater designs.
• Safeguards sensitive water resources, such as aquifers and headwaters, from the effects of development, ensuring long-term sustainability.
• Supports water conservation through innovative practices, reducing consumption and enhancing resource efficiency for future generations.