reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-22 - Oaths; witnesses; subpenas

13:1L-22. Oaths; witnesses; subpenas
For the purpose of this amendatory and supplementary act, the department may administer oaths, examine witnesses under oath, and issue subpenas for the production of written material or requiring personal attendance before the department.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 22, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-24 - Programs for providing job opportunities for youth and disadvantaged persons

13:1L-24. Programs for providing job opportunities for youth and disadvantaged persons
The department is authorized and directed to implement and administer comprehensive programs for the purpose of providing employment opportunities for youth or for disadvantaged persons in the improvement, maintenance and conservation of State parks and forests, public lands, recreation facilities and natural resources. The department is authorized and directed to seek the assistance and cooperation of any other federal, State or municipal department or agency in providing such employment opportunities.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 24, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-25 - Disadvantaged youth; agreements or grants to provide transportation or camping experiences

13:1L-25. Disadvantaged youth; agreements or grants to provide transportation or camping experiences
Upon proper application to the department by a nonprofit association or corporation, or municipality, the department is authorized to enter into agreements with, and make grants of money to, the applicant for the purpose of providing to disadvantaged youth up to age 18:
a. Transportation to and from State parks and forests, recreation areas and other recreational facilities, or
b. Camping experiences at day or overnight camps approved by the department.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 25, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-27 - Forest Health Advisory Council; membership.

13:1L-27 Forest Health Advisory Council; membership.
2. a. There is established within the Department of Environmental Protection the Forest Health Advisory Council. The council shall be composed of 10 members, as follows: the Commissioner of Environmental Protection, or a designee, who shall serve ex-officio; the Secretary of Agriculture, or a designee, who shall serve ex-officio; the Director of the Division of Parks and Forestry in the Department of Environmental Protection, or a designee, who shall serve ex-officio; the chairperson of the Department of Plant Biology and Pathology at Cook College, Rutgers, the State University, or a designee, who shall serve ex-officio; and six public members, who shall be residents of the State, appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. Of the public members appointed by the Governor: one shall be a representative from the New Jersey Forestry Association; one shall be a representative from the New Jersey Tree Foundation; one shall be a representative from the Community Forestry Council established pursuant to section 5 of P.L.1996, c.135 (C.13:1L-17.5); one shall be a New Jersey certified tree expert; one shall be a plant pathologist; and one shall be a biologist.
b. The Governor shall appoint each public member for a term of three years, except that of the members first appointed, two shall serve for terms of three years, two shall serve for terms of two years, and two shall serve for terms of one year. Each member shall hold office for the term of appointment and until their successor is appointed and qualified.
c. Any vacancy in the membership of the council shall be filled for the unexpired term in the manner provided for the original appointment. Members are eligible for reappointment to the council.
d. The council shall organize as soon as possible after the appointment of its members and shall annually elect a chairperson and vice-chairperson from among its members, and a secretary who need not be a member of the council. The council shall meet at least four times a year and may hold additional meetings as necessary to discharge its duties. In addition to such meetings, the council shall meet at the call of the chairperson or the Commissioner of Environmental Protection.
e. A majority of the membership of the council shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of council business.
f. Members of the council shall serve without compensation, but shall be compensated and reimbursed for actual expenses reasonably incurred in the performance of their official duties, and provided with office and meeting facilities required for the proper conduct of the council's business.
L.2007,c.44,s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-28 - Duties of council.

13:1L-28 Duties of council.
3. a. The council shall act in an advisory capacity to the Department of Environmental Protection, through the Division of Parks and Forestry, in making public policy to minimize the threat of forest health issues to New Jersey's forests and community trees. The council shall: (1) study and track the eastward spread of Sudden Oak Death and the impact and spread of Bacterial Leaf Scorch and other potential forest health issues; (2) evaluate New Jersey's susceptibility to these forest health issues and their impact on New Jersey's forests and community trees; (3) make recommendations to the Commissioner of Environmental Protection and officials of other appropriate State departments and agencies regarding prevention, management, treatment, control and spread of forest health issues; (4) conduct research, as necessary, on forest health issues, and seek advice, counsel and resources from State and federal sources to address them; and (5) conduct a public outreach and education program to inform the public about forest health issues.
b. The council shall annually submit a written report of its findings and recommendations, including any recommended legislation, to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the General Assembly, and to the chairpersons of the Senate Environment Committee and the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, or their successor committees.
L.2007,c.44,s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-29 - Findings, declarations relative to forest stewardship.

13:1L-29 Findings, declarations relative to forest stewardship.
1. a. The Legislature finds and declares that forest lands are critical to the environmental welfare of the State; that forest lands help clean and refresh the air by filtering dust and particulates; that forest lands absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping to reduce global warming; that forest lands help clean and protect the waters of the State, promote replenishment of aquifers, stabilize soils, provide shade, and provide habitat essential to sustaining New Jersey's native biodiversity, including habitat critical for endangered and threatened species and species of special concern; and that it is proper to consider the management of forests in a sustainable manner as an agricultural or horticultural use which yields public benefits.
b. The Legislature further finds and declares that forest lands are critical to the social welfare of the State; that forest lands are a necessary and important part of community and urban environments, and are essential to the maintenance of quality of life in the State; that forest lands afford outdoor recreational opportunities and irreplaceable aesthetic benefits; and that forest lands promote the health of the citizenry by contributing to the availability of clean air and water.
c. The Legislature further finds and declares that forest lands contribute to the economic well being of the State through increased property values, ecotourism, business opportunities, and forest products, and through helping to preserve New Jersey as a place where both employers and skilled and talented employees choose to reside.
d. The Legislature further finds and declares that forest lands are an irreplaceable component of the environment worthy of conservation and stewardship and that they must be nurtured to guarantee sustained and improved yields of forest benefits; that the State's publicly and privately owned forest lands are now seldom managed effectively due to a lack of guidance, resources, and incentives for improved forest stewardship; and that care and management of forest lands could be enhanced through the establishment of a forest stewardship program.
e. The Legislature therefore determines that it is in the public interest to establish a forest stewardship program to develop and promote the long-term active management of the State's forest resources in order to preserve and enhance those resources and realize the benefits thereof.
L.2009, c.256, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-30 - Definitions relative to forest stewardship.

13:1L-30 Definitions relative to forest stewardship.
2. As used in sections 1 through 8 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-29 through C.13:1L-36):
"Department" means the Department of Environmental Protection.
"Forest stewardship plan" means a plan prepared and implemented by an owner of forest land, and approved by the department, pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31).
"Local government unit" means a municipality, county, or other political subdivision of the State, or any agency, board, commission, utilities authority or other authority, or other entity thereof.
"Owner" means an owner of forest land.
"Sustainability" means, with respect to forest land, having the ability to: (1) maintain its ecological processes, biodiversity, resource productivity, regeneration capacity, and vitality; and promote forest health, preclude the spread of invasive non-native species, maintain forest integrity and contiguity, preserve New Jersey's native biodiversity, and protect endangered and threatened species and species of special concern and the habitat that sustains them; and (2) realize the potential to fulfill now and for future generations, relevant ecological, environmental, economic, and social functions, including but not limited to protection and improvement of air quality and of water supply and water quality, stabilization of soils, prevention and suppression of uncontrolled wildfires, service of markets for forest products, provision of recreational opportunities, and improvement of quality of life.
"Sustainable manner" means employing practices for the use and care of forest land that promote sustainability and do not cause damage to other ecosystems, and avoiding acts and omissions that undermine sustainability.
L.2009, c.256, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-32 - Forest certification program.

13:1L-32 Forest certification program.
4. a. For the purposes of section 1 of P.L.2005, c.367 (C.52:32-45), the department shall establish a forest certification program under which the department may certify that forest land is managed in a sustainable manner, provided that:
(1) the owner has obtained a forest stewardship plan approved by the department pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31); and
(2) the owner and a forester or other professional selected by the owner from a list of foresters approved by the department, or from a list of other professionals authorized by the department in consultation with the forest stewardship advisory committee established pursuant to section 8 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-36), has annually attested to full compliance with the forest stewardship plan for at least two years.
b. Certification pursuant to subsection a. of this section, or renewal thereof, shall be in accordance with procedures established by the department and shall be valid for five years, except that the department may withdraw certification if the department determines that the owner has failed to maintain full implementation of the forest stewardship plan. To maintain in good standing the certification of forest land beyond the date that a forest stewardship plan expires, the owner shall obtain the department's approval of a new or revised forest stewardship plan pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31) prior to the expiration date of the current forest stewardship plan.
L.2009, c.256, s.4.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-33 - "Forest Stewardship Incentive Fund."

13:1L-33 "Forest Stewardship Incentive Fund."
5. a. There is established in the General Fund a special nonlapsing fund, to be known as the "Forest Stewardship Incentive Fund." Moneys in the fund shall be dedicated to:
(1) providing grants to persons for the purpose of developing and implementing a forest stewardship plan pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31);
(2) paying the costs of the department to develop, implement, and administer the provisions of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-29 et al.); and
(3) providing for the stewardship and management of State forests.
b. The fund shall be credited with:
(1) the amount allocated for programs that enhance the stewardship and restoration of the State's forests pursuant to section 7 of P.L.2007, c.340 (C.26:2C-51) from the "Global Warming Solutions Fund," established pursuant to section 6 of P.L.2007, c.340 (C.26:2C-50);
(2) any other moneys as may be appropriated to the fund by the Legislature or otherwise provided to the fund; and
(3) any return on the investment of moneys deposited in the fund.
c. In each State fiscal year, the amount credited to the Forest Stewardship Incentive Fund shall be appropriated to the fund for the purposes set forth in this section.
d. The department may award individual grants of up to $1,500 from the fund to pay for the cost of developing a forest stewardship plan pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31). If the cost of developing a forest stewardship plan exceeds $1,500, the department may also award 80 percent of the cost that exceeds $1,500 to the owner, up to a maximum grant of $2,500. Grants from the fund may be made to local government units, nonprofit organizations, and private owners of forest land. Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection to the contrary, the amount of the grants prescribed by this subsection may be adjusted annually by the department in direct proportion to the increase in the Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers in the New York City area as reported by the United States Department of Labor.
e. The department may award individual grants through a cost-sharing program established pursuant to subsection c. of section 8 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-36) to private owners who have obtained a forest stewardship plan approved by the department pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31). The department shall expend no more than $150,000 in any State fiscal year for grants awarded through the cost-sharing program.
L.2009, c.256, s.5.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-34 - Enactment of conflicting ordinance, rule, regulation prohibited.

13:1L-34 Enactment of conflicting ordinance, rule, regulation prohibited.
6. No local government unit may enact, on or after the date of enactment of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-29 et al.), any ordinance, rule, or resolution, as appropriate, that conflicts with, prevents or impedes the implementation of a forest stewardship plan approved pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31) or impose a fee in excess of $100 in any calendar year for the cutting of trees on any land that is the subject of an approved forest stewardship plan. The provisions of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-29 et al.) supersede any such ordinance, rule, or resolution, as appropriate, enacted or adopted on or prior to the date of enactment of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-29 et al.).
L.2009, c.256, s.6.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-35 - Forest sustainability criteria, indicators.

13:1L-35 Forest sustainability criteria, indicators.
7. a. The department, utilizing guidance provided by the United States Forest Service and in consultation with the forest stewardship advisory committee established pursuant to subsection d. of section 8 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-36), and with the benefit of public comment, shall develop and establish forest sustainability criteria and indicators appropriate to the circumstances encountered in New Jersey, as a basis for monitoring, recording, and assessing the extent, condition, and sustainability of all New Jersey forests, whether publicly or privately owned. The department shall prepare a report setting forth the findings and assessments based on these forest sustainability criteria and indicators by February 1 of the third year after the date of enactment of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-29 et al.), and every seven years thereafter, which report shall include any recommendations for legislative or administrative action. The Commissioner of Environmental Protection shall transmit the report to the Governor and, pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1), to the Legislature.
b. The department shall consider the findings and assessments set forth in the forest sustainability criteria and indicators report prepared pursuant to subsection a. of this section to determine how to adapt the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to section 8 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-36) to ensure the sustainability of forest lands, to set priorities for the management of State-owned forest lands, and to assist in establishing priorities for the use of State funds for the acquisition of forest lands.
L.2009, c.256, s.7.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-36 - Rules, regulations.

13:1L-36 Rules, regulations.
8. The department shall adopt, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), rules and regulations necessary for the implementation of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-29 et al.), including rules and regulations:
a. setting forth policies, guidelines and best management practices that establish standards designed to ensure the sustainability of forest lands, which may be applicable to any publicly and privately owned forest land;
b. establishing, in consultation with the forest stewardship advisory committee established pursuant to subsection d. of this section, professional standards and requirements of persons in addition to foresters on the list approved by the department, authorized to prepare forest stewardship plans pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31);
c. establishing, in consultation with the forest stewardship advisory committee established pursuant to subsection d. of this section, a cost-sharing program modeled upon the federal forest land enhancement program established pursuant to 16 U.S.C. s.2103 to provide individual grants to private owners to assist with a portion of the costs associated with the implementation of forest stewardship plans approved by the department pursuant to section 3 of P.L.2009, c.256 (C.13:1L-31); and identifying eligibility criteria, establishing the reimbursement rate, and developing a priority ranking system for grant applications; and
d. establishing a forest stewardship advisory committee, consistent with the federal requirements for the establishment of a State Forest Stewardship Coordinating Committee pursuant to 16 U.S.C. s.2113, to advise the department (1) on issues related to forest stewardship and recommend programs, actions and standards, including rules and regulations, policies, guidelines and best management practices, for the conservation and stewardship of forest lands, and (2) with respect to the standards and requirements to be established pursuant to subsection b. of this section.
L.2009, c.256, s.8.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-1 - Findings, declarations

13:1M-1. Findings, declarations
The Legislature finds and declares that the production of oil and natural gas from sources within the State can provide substantial economic benefits to the public and private sectors of this State; that notwithstanding such potential, the exploratory, drilling and extraction operations incident to such production pose significant risks to the public health, safety and welfare, as well as the natural resources of the State; and that a strict regulatory framework is necessary to minimize the potentially adverse impact of oil and natural gas production operations without jeopardizing the benefits.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 1, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-3 - Written findings required

13:1M-3. Written findings required
A permit required by section 2 of this act shall be issued only upon a written finding by the department that the authorized activities will not result in:
a. Any adverse consequences to groundwater and surface water;
b. Any significant degradation of landscape;
c. Any threat to public health and safety; and
d. Any substantial air and noise pollution.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 3, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-4 - Permit fee; display

13:1M-4. Permit fee; display
Each application for the permit required by section 2 of this act, or renewal thereof, shall be accompanied by a fee, established in accordance with a fee schedule adopted by the department by rule or regulation, reflecting the costs of reviewing and processing the application, and monitoring permitted activities as deemed necessary by the department. The permit holder shall submit to the Department of Environmental Protection for approval any transfer or sale of well ownership.
The original permit, or photostatic copy thereof, shall be prominently displayed in a conspicuous location at the well site, together with a document providing the name, current address, and telephone number of the permit holder and the telephone numbers of fire and emergency medical services. The permit or copy and the emergency numbers shall remain prominently displayed at all times during the course of all work authorized or required by the permit.
The department may, by rule or regulation, establish a period of time during which, and the conditions under which, permits will be valid.
Prior to the approval of any permit or amended permit, the department shall provide timely and informative notice of the permit application to the public in the affected area. The public shall be afforded an opportunity to review the permit application. Any public comment submitted to the department shall be made part of the record and considered by the department in determining whether to approve the permit. The department shall hold a public hearing on a permit application upon request by any person.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 4, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-5 - Surety bond

13:1M-5. Surety bond
As a precondition to the issuance of a permit under section 2 of this act, the applicant shall execute and file with the department a surety bond guaranteeing compliance with all provisions of this act and all rules and regulations adopted pursuant thereto and all provisions and conditions of the permit. The bond shall be in an amount established by rule or regulation by the department. The surety bond required by this section shall be executed by a surety company authorized to do business in this State. The department shall not approve any bond until it is personally signed and acknowledged by both principal and surety, or as to either, by his attorney in fact, with a certified copy of the power of attorney attached thereto. The department shall not approve a bond unless there is attached a certificate of the Commissioner of Insurance that the company is authorized to transact a fidelity and surety business in this State.
All bonds shall be given in a form to be prescribed by the department and shall run to the State as obligee.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 5, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-6 - Suspension order

13:1M-6. Suspension order
The department may order the immediate suspension of any exploration, drilling, or plugging activities if it finds that the activity poses an imminent danger to public health or safety or results in, or is likely to result in, substantial damage to natural resources. Within five calendar days after the issuance of the order the department shall provide the permittee an opportunity to be heard and to present evidence that the allegedly dangerous condition or activity is not likely to result in substantial damage to natural resources and does not present an imminent danger to public health or safety. After the hearing, the department shall make a final determination.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 6, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-7 - Forfeiture of bond

13:1M-7. Forfeiture of bond
If the department finds that a holder of a permit issued under section 2 of this act has violated a provision or condition of his permit or a rule or regulation adopted pursuant to this act, the department may declare the surety bond filed to guarantee compliance forfeited. The department shall certify the forfeiture to the Attorney General, who shall proceed to collect the amount thereof, and forward it to the department.
Forfeiture moneys shall be expended by the department only to plug wells, to properly restore the land surface as required in section 8 of this act, or to purify contaminated ground or surface water in the event contamination occurs.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 7, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-8 - Restoration of surface

13:1M-8. Restoration of surface
A holder of a permit issued under section 2 of this act shall restore, or cause to be restored, the land surface within the area disturbed in siting, drilling and plugging and abandonment of the well, in accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the department.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 8, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-9 - Location change

13:1M-9. Location change
The location of a well drilling operation may be changed after the issuance of a permit under section 2 of this act only with the approval of the department. Requests for a change of location shall be accompanied by an amended application.
Drilling shall not be commenced at a new location until the amended permit, approved by the department, is posted at the well site.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 9, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-10 - Report after completion

13:1M-10. Report after completion
A person drilling an oil or gas well within this State shall, within 30 days after the conclusion of drilling or after the plugging and abandonment of the well, file with the Department of Environmental Protection in a form and manner prescribed by the department an accurate report designating:
a. The purpose for which the well was drilled;
b. The character, depth, and thickness of geological formations encountered, including freshwater, mineral beds, brine and oil and gas bearing formations;
c. The length in feet of the various sizes of casing and tubing used in drilling the well, the amount removed after completion, the type and setting depth of each packer, and all other data relating to mudding in the annular space behind the casing or tubing, indicating completion as a dry, gas, oil, combination oil and gas, brine, or artificial brine well; and
d. The elevation above mean sea level of the point from which the depth measurements were made, stating also the height of the point above ground level at the well.
Upon request in writing by the department prior to the commencement of drilling of the well, the person performing the drilling operation shall make available a complete set of cuttings accurately identified as to depth. The department may, at its discretion, conduct geophysical borehole logs independently of the applicant before plugging a productive well.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 10, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-11 - Permit for plugging, abandonment

13:1M-11. Permit for plugging, abandonment
No person shall plug and abandon an oil or gas well except in accordance with a permit issued therefor by the Department of Environmental Protection pursuant to this section. An application for this permit shall be made on forms prescribed and supplied by the department and shall contain at least the following information:
a. The name and address of the owner;
b. The signature of the owner or his authorized agent and when an authorized agent signs an application it shall be accompanied by a certified copy of his appointment as an agent of the owner;
c. The location of the well, as identified by the municipal tax map by lot and block;
d. Designation of well by name and number;
e. The total depth of the well to be plugged;
f. The date and amount of last production from the well; and
g. Any other data the department may require.
An application for a permit to plug and abandon a well shall be accompanied by a fee, established in accordance with a fee schedule adopted by the department by rule or regulation, reflecting the costs of reviewing and processing the application. No well plugging or abandonment operation shall commence unless the holder of a permit provides at least five days' notice to the State Geologist, to the owner of the land upon which the well is located, to the owners or agents of adjoining land, and to adjoining well owners or agents of his intention to abandon the well, and of the time when plugging operations will commence.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 11, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-12 - Contents of report

13:1M-12. Contents of report
Subsequent to the plugging and abandonment of each well, the holder of a permit therefor shall make a written report to the department. The report shall include at least the following:
a. The date of abandonment;
b. The name of the owner or operator of the well at the time of abandonment and his post-office address;
c. The location of the well as to township and county and the name of the owner of the surface upon which the well is drilled, with the address thereof;
d. The date of the permit to drill;
e. The date when drilled;
f. Whether the well has been logged;
g. The depth of the well;
h. The depth of the top of the formation to which the well was drilled; and
i. A report detailing how the well was plugged, and the date of the plugging of the well, including the names of those who witnessed the plugging of the well.
This report shall be signed by the owner or operator agent thereof who abandons and plugs the well and verified by the oath of the party so signing.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 12, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-13 - Order to plug well

13:1M-13. Order to plug well
A well drilled for the production of oil or gas which is incapable of producing oil or gas in commercial quantities shall be plugged unless written permission is granted by the department to do otherwise. If the department finds that a well should be plugged or repaired, it shall notify the permittee to that effect by order in writing and shall specify in the order a reasonable time for compliance.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 13, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-14 - Report on producible quantity

13:1M-14. Report on producible quantity
Within seven days of determining that the well will yield a commercially producible quantity of oil or natural gas, the holder of a permit issued under section 2 of this act shall file a written report to the department providing, in addition to any other information required by the department, the location and depth of the well, the estimated quantity of oil or natural gas producible from the well and any plans for its extraction.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 14, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-15 - Permit for commercial operations

13:1M-15. Permit for commercial operations
No person shall commence commercial operations to extract or produce oil or natural gas without receiving a permit therefor from the Department of Environmental Protection. The application for this permit shall include information the department deems necessary and shall be accompanied by a fee and other surety as the department may require.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 15, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1M-16 - Rules, regulations

13:1M-16. Rules, regulations
The Department of Environmental Protection, within 180 days of the effective date of this act and pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L. 1968, c. 410 (C. 52:14B-1 et seq.), shall adopt rules and regulations necessary to carry out the purposes of this act.
L. 1985, c. 432, s. 16, eff. Jan. 13, 1986.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-23 - Adjunct state forest reserves; agreements with owners of lakes or ponds for use by public; tax exemption

13:8-23. Adjunct state forest reserves; agreements with owners of lakes or ponds for use by public; tax exemption
Any owner of a fresh water lake or pond which is subject to acquisition by the state as provided by section 13:8-22 of this title, may propose an agreement with the board, by which he shall retain title to the property, but grant to the citizens of this state access to and the free use of the waters of such lake or pond for boating and fishing subject to a reasonable charge to be made for the use of boats belonging to the owner of such lake or pond.
If, after making an investigation, the board shall be satisfied that the public interest will be as well served by the freedom to use the lake or pond for boating or fishing, as it would be if the property were conveyed to the state, the board shall enter into an agreement with the owner of such lake or pond, which agreement shall provide that, in consideration of the free use by the public of the waters of such lake or pond for boating and fishing, the property shall be exempt from taxation so long as the agreement remains in force, the same as it would be if the state acquired title thereto.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-24 - Contents of agreement; certification of tax exemption

13:8-24. Contents of agreement; certification of tax exemption
As a preliminary to the agreement mentioned in section 13:8-23 of this title, the board shall require that the waters of the fresh water lake or pond mentioned in said section 13:8-23 be actually free to all citizens for a period of at least six months and notices thereof conspicuously posted on the shores of such lake or pond. The board shall also require a covenant that the lake or pond will not be closed to the public without notice given to the board and by signs posted at least six months in advance of such intended closing. When the board shall be satisfied that the waters of such lake or pond are actually free for the use of the public, subject to the provision made in said section 13:8-23, it shall certify to the assessor of the township or other municipality in which such lake or pond is taxable, that, by virtue of the agreement made between the owner and the board, the property has become an adjunct state forest reserve, and by the provisions of this section and said section 13:8-23, is exempt from taxation.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-25 - Rules and regulations; powers of board

13:8-25. Rules and regulations; powers of board
The board shall have power to make reasonable and proper regulations for the use of adjunct state forest reserves created under authority of sections 13:8-23 and 13:8-24 of this title, and shall exercise the same powers over them as it does over the state forest reserves established by law.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-26 - Lakes or ponds used for water power excepted

13:8-26. Lakes or ponds used for water power excepted
Nothing in sections 13:8-23 to 13:8-25 of this title shall warrant the owner of a pond or lake used solely or chiefly as a source of water power for a mill or factory in active operation to apply for exemption of taxes.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-29 - Easements; acquisition

13:8-29. Easements; acquisition
The Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection is hereby authorized to acquire by gift, purchase or appropriation, in the name of the State and in consultation with the Appalachian Trail Conference and the United States Secretary of the Interior, title to easements over, or controlled use agreements relating to, sections lying within the State of the hiking trail commonly known as the Appalachian Trail which are not in public ownership; to construct thereon suitable shelters or other facilities for use by hikers; and to enter into cooperative agreements with the conference or secretary regarding the operation, maintenance and supervision thereof.
L.1973, c. 54, s. 1, eff. March 7, 1973.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-31 - Legislative findings and declaration

13:8-31. Legislative findings and declaration
a. The Legislature hereby finds that in order to provide for the ever-increasing outdoor recreation needs of an expanding population, and in order to promote public access to, travel within, and enjoyment and appreciation of the outdoor, natural and remote areas of this State trails should be established both in natural and scenic areas of New Jersey, and in and near the urban areas of this State.
b. The Legislature, therefore, declares that it is the policy of this State to provide the means for attaining these objectives by instituting a Statewide system of recreation and scenic trails, by designating the Appalachian trail as the initial component of that system, and by prescribing the methods by which, and standards according to which, additional components may be added to the system.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 2, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-32 - Definitions

13:8-32. Definitions
As used in this act, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
a. "Department" means the Department of Environmental Protection.
b. "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Environmental Protection.
c. "Scenic easement" means a perpetual easement in land which (1) is held for the benefit of the public (2) is specifically enforceable by its holder or beneficiary, and (3) limits or obligates the holder of the servient estate, his heirs, and assigns with respect to their use and management of activities conducted thereon, the object of such limitations and obligations being the maintenance or enhancement of the natural beauty of the land in question or of areas affected by it.
d. "Scenic trail" means an extended trail so located as to provide for maximum outdoor recreation potential and for the conservation and enjoyment of the significant scenic, historic, natural or cultural qualities of the areas through which such trails may pass.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 3, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-33 - Classes of trails

13:8-33. Classes of trails
The State trails system shall be composed of the following classes of trails:
a. State scenic trails, which will be extended trails so located as to provide maximum potential for the appreciation of natural areas and for the conservation and enjoyment of the significant scenic, historic, natural, ecological, geological, or cultural qualities of the areas through which such trails may pass. Each of these trails will be limited exclusively to foot use, except that the use by horses or nonmotorized bicycles may also be permitted on segments of scenic trails where deemed appropriate by the department.
b. State recreation trails, which will provide a variety of outdoor recreation uses in or reasonably accessible to urban areas.
c. Connecting or side trails, which will provide additional points of public access to State scenic or recreation trails or which will provide connections between such trails. They shall be of the nature of the trails they serve.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 4, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-34 - Establishment of system; uniform markers; coordination with national trails system

13:8-34. Establishment of system; uniform markers; coordination with national trails system
a. The department is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to establish a State trails system of recreation trails, scenic trails and connecting or side trails in the State composed of (1) the Appalachian trail, and (2) such other trails that are established or designated from time to time by the department under the provisions of this act.
b. The department, in consultation with appropriate Federal, State, and local governmental agencies and public and private organizations, shall establish a uniform marker for the trails system, and shall coordinate the trails system with the National trails system established under applicable provisions of Federal law.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 5, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-35 - Establishment and designation; recreation and scenic trails; Appalachian trail; connecting or side trails

13:8-35. Establishment and designation; recreation and scenic trails; Appalachian trail; connecting or side trails
a. The department may establish and designate recreation and scenic trails over lands administered by it.
b. There is hereby established as the initial scenic trail the Appalachian trail, which shall be administered primarily as footpath by the department, provided however, that nothing herein contained shall be construed as amending, repealing or superseding the provisions of P.L.1973, c. 54 (C. 13:8-29), except as specifically provided herein.
c. Connecting or side trails within park, forest, and other recreation areas or natural areas may be established, designated and marked as components of a recreation or scenic trail.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 6, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-36 - Selection of routes and rights-of-way; criteria

13:8-36. Selection of routes and rights-of-way; criteria
a. The selected route shall be compatible with the preservation or enhancement of the environment it traverses, and the boundaries of the right-of-way shall be established in such a manner that they protect the scenic values of the trail.
b. In selecting rights-of-way, the department shall give full consideration to minimizing the adverse effects upon the adjacent landowner or user and his operation. Development and management of each segment of the trails system shall be designed to harmonize with and complement any established multiple-use plans for that specific area in order to insure continued maximum benefits from the land.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 7, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-37 - Use of state lands; acquisition of lands or interests in land

13:8-37. Use of state lands; acquisition of lands or interests in land
The department may use for trail purposes lands owned by the State, with the concurrence of the head of the administering agency, and may acquire lands or interests in land by scenic easements, written cooperative agreement, eminent domain, donation, purchase with donated or appropriated funds, or exchange. Acquisition of land or interest shall be accomplished with all possible speed.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 8, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-38 - Noninterference with nature and purposes by use of trail; maintenance of natural and scenic qualities

13:8-38. Noninterference with nature and purposes by use of trail; maintenance of natural and scenic qualities
Within the external boundaries of the right-of-way, the natural vegetation shall be kept undisturbed except for any clearing required for construction of the trail, occasional vistas, or trail-use facilities. The department shall make every effort to avoid any use of the right-of-way that is incompatible with the purposes for which the trails were established. Development and management of each segment of the State trails system shall be designed to harmonize with and complement any established multiple-use plans for that specific area in order to insure continual maximum benefits from the land. Other uses along the trail which will not substantially interfere with the nature and purposes of the trail may be permitted by the department.
State scenic trails shall be managed in such a way as to maintain their natural and scenic quality.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 9, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-39 - Development and maintenance of trails; written cooperative agreements

13:8-39. Development and maintenance of trails; written cooperative agreements
a. The department shall provide for the development and maintenance of trails established under this act and shall cooperate with and encourage other State agencies to operate, develop and maintain portions of such trails which are located in areas administered by such agencies.
b. When deemed to be in the public interest, the department may enter into written cooperative agreements with local governments, landowners, private organizations or individuals to operate, develop and maintain any portion of a recreation or scenic trail.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 10, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:8-40 - Studies for designation of additional trails

13:8-40. Studies for designation of additional trails
The department shall make studies for the purpose of determining the feasibility and desirability of designating additional trails as recreation or scenic trails.
L.1974, c. 159, s. 11, eff. Nov. 14, 1974.