NJ A6279

Establishes an annual grant program through the Division of Plant Industry to provide funding to municipalities, counties, and other local governments for invasive species control and management

Appropriates $3 million from the General Fund to the Department of Agriculture, with annual grant awards capped at $3 million total

Grants reimburse local governments for up to 50% of project costs for activities including building inspections, extermination services, aerial and ground surveys, early detection efforts, and treatment monitoring

Prioritizes grants for local governments that have incurred damages from invasive species, experienced widespread infestations on public infrastructure, managed incipient infestations with eradication potential, or have threatened native vegetation

Requires the division to publish an online clearinghouse listing known invasive species in New Jersey along with best practices for prevention, control, and eradication