Moriarty Legislation to Preserve Farmland and Open Space Advance in Assembly

(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Paul Moriarty to help preserve farmland and open space throughout the 4th Legislative District has been approved by an Assembly panel.

“Preserving farmland and open space limits development, protects our water quality and maintains parks and recreation for our families for years to come, all while helping to sustain our reputation and tradition as the Garden State,” said Moriarty (D-Gloucester/Camden). “This is supported by voters and will bring benefits to Camden and Gloucester counties for years to come.”

The preservation funding was approved by voters in 2007.

The bills would provide

• $27.75 million for farmland preservation grants for municipalities (A-3891). It includes $750,000 for Franklin.

• $66 million to buy land for recreation and conservation. (A-3896). It includes money to preserve open space in each 4th District municipality - Franklin, Glassboro, Monroe, Newfield, Pitman, Washington, Clementon, Gloucester Township, Laurel Springs and Lindenwold.

The measures passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee and now go the Speaker, who decides if and when to post them for a vote.

Assemblyman Paul Moriarty represents the 4th legislative district, which includes Clementon Borough, Franklin Township, Gloucester Township, Monroe Township, and Washington Township among others.