On Nov. 4, New Jersey citizens will have an opportunity to vote to approve the dedication of muchneeded funds for open space, parks, farmland and historic preservation as well as other important environmental programs.
The funding would replenish the nowdepleted Green Acres, Blue Acres, farmland and historic preservation programs, and continue to support water protection, underground storage tank cleanup and removal, and cleanup of polluted sites.
There is no new money left for preservation programs in New Jersey, but tremendous needs remain. According to a report by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, more than 650,000 acres still need to be preserved to protect natural and water resources and to provide outdoor recreational opportunities to a growing population. At least 350,000 acres of additional farmland must be preserved to maintain a viable agriculture industry, according to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.
Among the many benefits of this measure is that it preserves our quality of life in New Jersey and ensures that future generations continue to have access to clean drinking water, beautiful open spaces and family farms.
Vote “yes” on public question No. 2 on Nov. 4 to keep our drinking water clean and protect our quality of life for today and future generations. Cory G. Wingerter Millstone Township