The Garden State Preservation Trust (GSPT), New Jersey’s funding mechanism for open space, farmland and historic preservation, is officially out of funds for local governments and non-profits grants.  

In the Winter 2007 magazine, our article was published entitled “Running Out of Funds to Protect Local Open Space.” It outlined the economic, quality of life and environmental benefits of GSPT and warning of its approaching bankruptcy. Now, for the first time since 1998, the state will no longer be able to provide matching funds, including Green Acres and State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) grants, to the over 225 municipalities and 21 counties that collect local open space taxes. 

In addition to providing matching grants, the GSPT also funds state-initiated preservation projects as part of its three programs, Green Acres, the New Jersey Historic Trust and the Farmland Preservation Program. While a small amount of money still remains for these state projects, this money will run out shortly as well. 

As a local government official, your help is critical to ensuring that GPST is renewed this year. This program plays a vital role in protecting our economy and the quality of life in communities across the state. (For detailed information on the benefits of GSPT, please visit www.outdoorrecreationalliance.org/getinvolved-government.htm.) Here is what you can do to support the renewal of GSPT: 

1. Urge the Governor and State Legislature to support legislation to renew and strengthen GSPT in 2007. Recently introduced resolutions ACR10/229 and SCR136 would replenish the Trust through a constitutional dedication of existing sales tax revenue in the amount of $175 million year. These resolutions would not require any new taxes and include funding for the acquisition of lands, including flood prone areas, as well as the improvement, operation and maintenance of acquired lands. In order to renew GSPT this year, the resolutions must be passed by the legislature this summer, which would place a question on the November 2007 ballot. Waiting any longer to renew the Trust would create an even larger gap in funding than already expected. 

2. Pass a resolution in support of renewing and strengthening GSPT. Recognizing the importance of GSPT to their communities, over 110 municipalities and 7 counties as well as the New Jersey Conference of Mayors and the New Jersey Association of Counties have passed resolutions in support of renewing and strengthening GSPT this year. Please join these organizations and local officials by passing a resolution in your municipality. A sample resolution is available at the website listed above. 

3.  Join the Keep It Green Campaign as a supporting member.  The Keep It Green Campaign is a coalition of over 85 environmental organizations, land trusts, sportsmen’s groups, faith-based groups, watershed associations, urban park advocates as well as businesses and local governments from across the state that are calling on the Governor and the State Legislature to renew and strengthen the GSPT in 2007. As a supporting member, you will receive period updates on our progress as well as information about upcoming presentations and other available resources.   

The renewal of GSPT is a critical investment in our economy and quality of life. To learn more about the campaign, please contact Joanna Wolaver, Keep It Green Campaign Coordinator at joanna.wolaver@njaudubon.org or 609-392-1181.  

Joanna Wolaver is the Conservation Project Coordinator for New Jersey Audubon Society. NJAS, a non-profit organization with over 23,000 members statewide, fosters environmental awareness and a conservation ethic among New Jersey citizen’s; protects birds, mammals, other animals, and plants; and promotes preservation of valuable natural habitats.