NJ Famland Preservation Bills Sponsored By Oroho

Two bills sponsored by New Jersey State Senator Steve Oroho (R-Sussex, Morris, Hunterdon) that help local governments purchase farmland for preservation purposes were recently signed into law.

"These lands are integral to maintaining the beauty and character of our state, maintaining jobs in the farming and agri-tourism sectors as well as supplying healthy, locally grown food options for families," Oroho stated. "This legislation will protect valuable open space while ensuring property owners receive fair market value for their land."

Senate Bill 2895 appropriates $23 million for planning incentive grants to municipalities and Senate Bill 2896 appropriates $39 million in incentive grants to counties to be used for farmland preservation purposes through the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC). The money appropriated was approved by voters on past statewide ballot initiatives. "Even in difficult economic times, New Jersey residents still appreciate the importance of preserving farmland and open space," Oroho continued.