Purpose

Environmental commissions work on many issues, including open space preservation, smart growth, wetlands and water resource protection, green infrastructure, recycling and litter, environmental cleanups, wildlife habitat, energy efficiency, conservation and transportation. A growing number of urban environmental commissions are working with local officials to help revitalize their communities.

Under New Jersey Law, a municipality can pass an ordinance to establish an environmental commission. Composed of five to seven residents who serve as volunteers, Environmental Commissions advise local governments and act as watchdogs for environmental opportunities and challenges. They inform elected officials and the public, serve on committees, research issues, develop educational programs and advocate for sound environmental policies.

Check out our Environmental Commissioners’ Handbook!

and our Environmental Commissions Resource Paper!

 ANJEC Open Space Stewardship Grant Application 2023

 Application deadline:  Monday, April 17, 2023

ANJEC is pleased to offer this grant program for NJ Municipal Environmental Commissions for stewardship projects on open space sites.

Grants of up to $1500 are available for 2023.  Application deadline is Monday, April 17, 2023.

Click here for application and instructions

Click here for application blank only (PDF)

Click here for application (word- .docx)

Suitable projects for the grant funding include, but are not limited to:

• pollinator gardens
• trail building, signage, maintenance
• printed or online guides, maps, inventories of open space, trails
• open space or trails assessments, plans, maps
• multi-town plans to link open space or trails
• conservation easement inventory, monitoring, outreach, education
• management of invasive species
• habitat enhancement on open lands
• restoration or maintenance of riparian areas within preserved public open space
• educational stormwater management projects on preserved public open space

Questions?  Email ANJEC for more information.

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