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The vegetative target for the middle zone is mature native vegetation adapted to the region.

Zone 3 Outer Zone

The function of the outer zone is to prevent encroachment into the forest buffer and to filter runoff from residential and commercial development. The outer zone will begin at the outward edge of the middle zone and provide a minimum width of 25 feet between Zone 2 and the nearest permanent structure. There shall be no septic systems, permanent structures or impervious cover, with the exception of paths, within the outer zone.

The vegetative target for the outer zone may vary, although the planting of native vegetation should be encouraged to increase the total width of the buffer.

G. Buffer Management and Maintenance

The forest buffer, including wetlands and floodplains, shall be managed to enhance and maximize the unique value of these resources. Management includes specific limitations on alteration of the natural conditions of these resources. The following practices and activities are restricted within Zones 1 and 2 of the forest buffer, except with approval by the reviewing Board.

Clearing of existing vegetation.

  • Soil disturbance by grading, stripping, or other practices.
  • Filling or dumping.
  • Drainage by ditching, underdrains, or other systems
  • Use, storage, or application of pesticides, except for the spot spraying of noxious weeds or nonnative species.
  • Housing, grazing, or other maintenance of livestock.
  • Storage or operation of motorized vehicles, except for maintenance and emergency use.
  • The following structures, practices, and activities are permitted in the forest buffer, with specific design or maintenance features, subject to the review of the approving Board and the NJDEP.

Roads, bridges, paths, and utilities:

) An analysis needs to be conducted to ensure that no economically feasible alternative is available.

The right of way should be the minimum width needed to allow for maintenance access and installation.

The angle of the crossing shall be perpendicular to the stream or buffer in order to minimize clearing requirements

The minimum number of road crossings should be used within each development.

Permitted utilities shall include wastewater pumping stations.

Stormwater management:

An analysis needs to be conducted to ensure that no economically feasible alternative is available, and that the project is either necessary for flood control, or significantly improves the water quality or habitat in the stream.

In new developments, onsite and nonstructural alternatives will be preferred over larger facilities