Legislation Supports Renewed Land Preservation Funding

The Garden State Preservation Trust (GSPT), New Jersey's primary land preservation funding source, is nearly out of funds. NJCF is working with a large coalition of groups through the "Keep It Green" campaign to demonstrate the tremendous need and public support for the GSPT, and to galvanize the Corzine Administration and key legislators to ensure passage of a funding initiative this year.

State funding is critical to protecting preserved lands like the Franklin Parker Preserve in Chatsworth, Burlington County (Photo: hoganphoto.com) Click for Full Photo

In January, the Governor noted the importance of GSPT renewal in the State of the State address. "Nothing could be more important to the success of land conservation in New Jersey right now than the refinancing of the Garden State Preservation Trust," said Alison Mitchell, NJCF Policy Director.

All New Jerseyans from urban, suburban and rural areas deserve high-quality, accessible neighborhood parks, natural areas and historic sites to enjoy with their families. New Jersey communities rely on these areas for a high quality of life, livable neighborhoods and sustainable economies.

The Garden State Preservation Trust was established in 1998 as a financing authority that receives funds through a constitutionally dedicated funding source. One of the nation's largest publicly-funded land preservation efforts, the Trust has preserved hundreds of thousands of acres of valuable natural lands in partnership with nonprofit organizations and local and county open space programs.

The funding is scheduled to run out sometime this year and renewal of funding for continued open space and farmland preservation is critical. Creating and maintaining urban parks, natural areas and historic sites is part of our state's urban revitalization strategy. Recently introduced legislation (ACR229/SCR131), spearheaded by Senators Bob Smith and Leonard Lance and Assemblyman John McKeon, would dedicate additional revenue from the existing sales tax to replenish GSPT. The success of any legislation renewing funds for preservation will require a groundswell of support from a broad constituency including environmental organizations, local governments and citizens.

Amy Hansen [About] Policy Analyst NJ Conservation Foundation 1 (800) LAND-SAVE amy@njconservation.org

New Jersey must renew and strengthen the Garden State Preservation Trust now in order to ensure a high quality of life in all New Jersey communities and our children's futures. Please contact your legislators and the Governor and let them know you support for renewing the GSPT this year.