This bill amends Section 17 of P.L.1983, c.32 (C.4:1C-24) to include the construction of potable water wells on preserved farms as eligible projects for soil and water conservation grants from the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC). The new legal language specifies that eligible soil and water conservation projects shall include, but are not limited to, projects to construct potable water wells. This addition expands the current list of eligible projects, which includes various systems for erosion control, drainage, and animal waste management.

The bill aims to support landowners within municipally approved farmland preservation programs by allowing them to apply for grants for these new eligible projects. The process for obtaining grants remains the same, where landowners work with local Soil Conservation Districts to develop conservation plans, and applications are then submitted to the State Soil Conservation Committee for funding recommendations to the SADC. This change is intended to enhance the sustainability and viability of preserved farmland by facilitating access to necessary water resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:1C-24