Rule Will Increase Buffers Around Protected Wetlands Of NJ

(15 July 2002) Environmental Defense today praised the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) for publication of a rule amendment to the Fresh Water Protection Act (FWPA) that will increase the buffer zones around thousands of acres of protected wetlands in New Jersey Commissioner Bradley M. Campbell signed the final rule earlier this month.

“The NJDEP recognized that precious habitat was not getting the projection it deserved under the law and they acted,” said Jason Patrick, scientist at Environmental Defense. “Commissioner Campbell and the NJDEP deserve praise for following through and making this important rule final.”

Under the new rule, more wetlands statewide will now warrant a 150-foot buffer, rather than a 50-foot buffer that was previously the norm. The improved buffer zone regulation will not only increase the wetland acres protected but will also provide multiple environmental and economic benefits to the taxpayers of New Jersey.

“Wetlands are the cornerstone of a healthy environment,” said Jason Patrick. “They serve as spawning ground and home to a vast array of animals, act as a natural water filtration system and provide valuable open space.”

Environmental Defense used a Geographic Information System (GIS) to analyze the most critical wetland habitat areas in the state. The data concluded that many valuable areas were not being adequately protected under the FWPA. The new rule is the result of the work of Environmental Defense and the NJDEP to ensure that New Jersey’s unique habitat is preserved.