On Thursday, the Senate Environment and Energy Committee favorably reported S-4690, which bypasses local authority and authorizes certain energy projects involving the installation of transmission and distribution wires that cross preserved farmland.
This legislation permits the State Agriculture Development Committee to authorize the construction of transmission wires on preserved farmland. The League opposes this measure.
Municipalities, by public vote, authorize taxes to preserve farmland and open space. When they do so, they do not cede their development authority on these properties and the League holds the opinion that this legislation bypasses the letter and spirit of the Farmland Preservation program, which states:
New Jersey's farmlands are the foundation for a strong agricultural industry and a way of life for generations of farm families. Scenic landscapes of green, productive fields are an important part of what makes New Jersey a desirable place to live and work. Farmland preservation clearly is an important investment in our economy, our farming heritage, and the overall quality of life for each and every New Jerseyan.
There are valuable incentives for landowners to participate in the Farmland Preservation Program. The program can help them meet their financial goals, providing them with the capital to expand their existing operations; eliminate or reduce their debt load; or further their estate or retirement planning. Participants in the program also are eligible to apply for cost-sharing grants to fund soil and water conservation projects. In addition, they enjoy limited protection from government acquisition of land through eminent domain; public and private nuisances; and emergency restrictions on the use of water and energy supplies.
Certainly, the transmission of power lines on preserved farmland conflicts with these goals. Landowners did not cede their development rights with municipal approval only to have the state permit construction on this property.
This legislation, along with the Assembly companion, has been favorably reported out of committees and await consideration from each chamber. We urge you to contact your Senator and Assembly representatives and ask them to oppose this legislation.
Contact: Lori Buckelew, Deputy Executive Director, lbuckelew@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x112.