The purpose of the ordinance is to retain mature woodlands, rather than replace them.
By: Linda Seida
WEST AMWELL The Township Committee will hold a public hearing Nov. 1 to discuss a proposed woodlands protection ordinance.
The purpose of the ordinance is to retain mature woodlands, rather than replace them, on properties subject to development, according to Committeeman Ron Shapella. The regulations would apply to land that is subject to subdivision or site plan approvals.
Applications for subdivision or site plan approval would have to include an environmental resources inventory that has been prepared by an engineer, forester, ecologist or landscape architect. The inventory would be required to include a natural resources inventory map, an aerial photograph and a written report.
The ordinance also calls for the appointment of a township woodlands adviser, who is an expert in woodlands management or forestry. The adviser’s salary would be paid by developers’ fees, Mr. Shapella said.
The committee introduced the ordinance Sept. 20 by a vote of 2-1. Mayor Tom Molnar and Mr. Shapella voted in favor of the ordinance and Deputy Mayor Gary Bleacher voted against it.
"I find it very oppressive to the average Joe landowner in this town," Mr. Bleacher said, adding the ordinance would infringe on property rights. "As it’s written, it’s a bit invasive and oppressive for my liking."
Mr. Bleacher said he is "kind of embarrassed and ashamed" by the ordinance.
"This doesn’t apply to the average Joe," Mr. Shapella said. The ordinance is "aimed at somebody with a bulldozer, not a chainsaw."
If an application is for a subdivision, a maximum of 10 percent of the woodlands may be removed for the construction of streets, utilities and stormwater management facilities.
Among its provisions, the ordinance proposes that on a 1-acre lot, up to 20,000 square feet of woodlands may be removed. On a 2-acre-lot, 30,000 square feet may be removed. On a 3-acre lot, a maximum of 40,000 square feet may be removed. On a 4-acre lot, a maximum of 50,000 square feet may be removed. For a lot of 5 acres or more, a maximum of 60,000 square feet may be removed.
Violations carry a maximum fine of $1,000 or up to 90 days imprisonment or community service, or both.

