Hello Coalition members!
We are thrilled to introduce Jay Weisbond as our new NJ State Lead. To help you get to know Jay better, we asked him a few questions. Check out his insightful responses below!
WHAT LED YOU TO NEW JERSEY LEAGUE OF CONSERVATION VOTERS?
My passion for policy and research led me to NJLCV. I am proud of the work they have done in advocating for a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment for New Jersey, which I experienced firsthand when I was initially an intern there. Initially, the environment was not my main focus, but my experience working for New Jersey Assemblyman Sterley Stanley exposed me to the state's environmental issues and their daily impact. I realized how these issues intersect with public health and social justice, and I appreciate NJLCV's focus on environmental justice and addressing environmental racism. Now, the environment is my primary cause, and I believe it is crucial to support and protect our natural resources. I am excited about the opportunity to advocate for environmental champions and be a pivotal voice in environmental policy in the state. I admire the work that NJLCV has done and continues to do, and I am honored to be a part of it.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT NEW JERSEY’S WATERWAYS?
There are many reasons why I cherish New Jersey’s waterways. First of all, the Delaware River and many other waterways in the state have significant historical importance, such as when George Washington crossed the Delaware River. In other words, New Jersey's waterways are not just part of the state's culture and history, but also the history of the United States. I love that New Jersey waterways offer amazing outdoor and recreational opportunities, such as kayaking, which enhance the state's natural beauty. Additionally, these waterways provide us with safe drinking water, making it essential to protect them. They also play a crucial role in protecting us from storms and flooding. All this underscores the importance of preserving New Jersey's waterways.
WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU SEE FOR PROTECTING AND RESTORING NJ’S RIVERS AND STREAMS?
One of the primary challenges in protecting and restoring New Jersey’s rivers and streams is inadequate funding for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). This lack of funding has led to reduced capacity and long wait times for permits, hindering timely conservation efforts. Although the DEP's funding situation fared somewhat alright this year, staffing capacity remains a significant problem and will need close monitoring in future budgets.
Another challenge is the recent cut to the State Revolving Fund for water infrastructure. This reduction jeopardizes critical projects aimed at maintaining and improving water quality. Additionally, the presence of PFAs in the waters and fertilizer runoff are ongoing issues that pose significant risks to both environmental and public health. The Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) is another critical component in managing New Jersey’s waterways, funded by contributions from four states—Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York—as well as the federal government. While New Jersey has consistently contributed its full fair-share funding of $895,000 to the DRBC for the past three years, other statesand the federal government have not. Ensuring full fair-share funding from all parties is essential for the DRBC to effectively regulate, manage, and protect the Delaware River and its associated watersheds, which are vital for drinking water, commercial use, recreation, and ecological habitat.
Overall, these funding and resource challenges require coordinated advocacy and strategic planning to ensure that New Jersey’s rivers and streams are protected and restored effectively.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PROJECTS YOU'RE EXCITED ABOUT TACKLING IN YOUR NEW ROLE AS THE COALITION'S NJ STATE LEAD?
I’m particularly excited about several key projects in my new role as the Coalition's NJ State Lead. One of the most significant initiatives is the implementation of the Resilient Environment and Landscape (REAL) rules, which are part of Governor Phil Murphy’s NJPACT initiative. These reforms will enhance water quality, protect natural resources, and streamline permitting processes, facilitating resilient investments in our communities and economy. I am eager to contribute to these efforts and help advocate for these critical changes.
Another crucial project I’m excited about is advocating for the restoration of State Revolving Fund (SRF) to $60 million. This funding is essential for matching federal water infrastructure funds, supporting planning and design grants, and providing principal forgiveness for capital improvement projects, especially in disadvantaged communities. Given the EPA’s estimate that New Jersey will need over $30 billion over the next 20 years to address outdated water systems, maintaining robust funding is vital. I look forward to working on this initiative to secure the necessary resources for these critical projects.
I am excited to be involved in these initiatives, as they are essential for advancing our environmental goals and ensuring that New Jersey is well-prepared to face the challenges of climate change.
LASTLY, A FUN QUESTION! WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY TO DO IN THE NJ PORTION OF THE WATERSHED?
My favorite activity in the New Jersey portion of the Watershed is hiking in the Delaware River Water Gap. Last fall, I went there with my family to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and hike the scenic trails overlooking the mountains and the river. It was a stunning experience that really highlighted the importance of protecting these natural resources. This appreciation for the area's beauty and significance makes me even more excited to start my work as the state lead for CDRW.