Assembly Bill A5333 would provide funding to nonprofit organizations working to conserve land, improve parks, and care for natural areas across New Jersey.
The bill directs more than $15.5 million through the Department of Environmental Protection to support projects focused on recreation, conservation, and long-term stewardship.
These grants help strengthen partnerships with nonprofit organizations that preserve the places where New Jerseyans hike, fish, explore, spend time with family, and enjoy the outdoors.
For Atlantic County, the bill includes funding opportunities connected to two regional conservation efforts.
The New Jersey Conservation Foundation is approved for up to $5.163 million for land acquisition projects that include several Atlantic County communities, including Egg Harbor City, Egg Harbor Township, Galloway Township, Hamilton Township, Buena Vista Township, Estell Manor, Folsom, Hammonton, Mullica Township, and Weymouth Township.
The bill also includes $519,000 for the South Jersey Land and Water Trust for watershed conservation work across all municipalities in Atlantic County, as well as communities in other parts of South Jersey.
These investments can help protect natural areas, preserve access to outdoor recreation, and support the long-term care of land and waterways that are important to communities across our region.
They also reflect the value of working with nonprofit partners experienced in preserving land, maintaining natural resources, and supporting public access to outdoor spaces.
For residents in Atlantic County, this kind of investment helps protect the character of our communities while making sure future generations can continue to enjoy the natural places that make South Jersey special.
I am proud to support legislation that strengthens these partnerships and helps preserve the outdoor spaces New Jersey families use and value.
— Maureen Rowan
Assemblywoman, New Jersey’s 2nd Legislative District