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Natural Lands Trust Program



The Ocean County Natural Lands Trust Program was established to acquire and maintain environmentally sensitive lands, natural areas or open spaces. For over 20 years, the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust has provided residents and visitors with natural open spaces intended for the enjoyment of nature, protection of our natural resources, and preservation of our important farming industry. The objective of the program, is to establish of a system of protected lands which, in combination with the Farmland Preservation Program, enhance the quality of life in Ocean County by:

  • Helping to maintain the County’s rural characteristics;
  • Protecting critical environmental resources and water supply;
  • Maintaining and enhancing active agriculture;
  • Buffering areas that are not compatible with development.
In 1997, the residents of Ocean County, overwhelmingly voted to establish the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust Program. The approval of a 1.2 cent dedicated tax provides the Board of Commissioners with the funds to acquire lands in Ocean County for conservation and farmland preservation. On February 18, 1998, the Ocean County Board of Commissioners established a nine member Natural Lands Trust Fund Advisory Committee to advise on the preparation of the required open space plan and the nomination of properties to be acquired through the Natural Lands Trust Fund. The committee’s purpose is to review nominations for the Trust Fund and to forward recommendations to the Board of Commissioners for consideration.

The program generates over $10 million per year for natural lands acquisitions and farmland preservation. Several important parcels have been preserved and acquired through partnerships with non-profits, municipalities and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

For an interactive overview of the Natural Lands Trust Fund Program, see our Story Map.
Direct County Acquisition of Natural Land Parcels

  • Parcel nominations submitted to Natural Lands Trust Fund (NLTF) Advisory Committee are reviewed by staff for eligibility.
  • The NLTF Committee reviews preliminary ranking on nominations and is informed of any special circumstances surrounding any of the parcels.
  • The Committee establishes a working list of priority nominations. The staff obtain additional information on the priority nominations, including municipal approvals, environmental audits and appraisal reports. In most cases, two professional appraisal reports will be obtained to determine the fair market value of the parcel. Administrative costs are absorbed through the Natural Lands Trust Fund.
  • The Committee will conduct a final review of nominations. Taken into account are the preliminary rankings, appraised values and any cost sharing, restoration and/or property management issues.
  • If a tentative agreement is reached on an acquisition price, the Committee will make an approval recommendation to the Board of Commissioners.
  • The Commissioners will hold a public hearing prior to acting on the recommendation.
  • If approved, a property survey and all required closing documentswill be prepared and the parcel will be acquired.
Cost Share Nominations
Proposals for providing NLTF cost share funds for acquisition by another organization will be reviewed on a case by case basis, and will only be pursued for parcels eligible under the NLTF program.
With over 30,000 acres of preserved open space, Ocean County's Natural Lands Trust Fund (NLTF) offers incredible opportunities to explore and enjoy nature. Whether you're hiking, birdwatching, or just soaking up the outdoors, we've made it easier to find the perfect spot. Keep in mind, though, that some properties may be better suited for certain activities, so be sure to check before heading out!

To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, our properties are managed in partnership with the County Parks Department, and we kindly ask all visitors to follow a few important guidelines:

Protect the landscape: Please don't cut, trim, or remove any plants unless it's part of an approved activity.
No fires or camping: Help us keep the areas safe and clean for all.
Fireworks, paintball, and firearms are prohibited, except in areas where hunting is allowed under specific regulations. (Heads up: Deer driving is only permitted in certain areas during the Six-Day Firearm Season. Check our interactive map for more details.
Motor vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and dirt bikes are NOT ALLOWED. These vehicles can harm the environment, and violators may face fines or impoundment.

Dumping of any materials, including yard waste, is strictly prohibited. If you see illegal dumping, please report it to 1-800-535-DUMP (3867) -- it's quick and easy!
Remember, the primary goal of the NLTF is to preserve and protect sensitve natural areas.

Our properties are open to the public from dawn to dusk, and walkers are always welcome. Enjoy the fresh air, and thank you for respecting the land!
Hunting is permitted consistent with the Parks and Natural Lands Trust Rules (PDF) on designated properties. It is the responsibility of hunters to follow State and Local regulations including any ordinances governing discharge of firearms in any municipality. All hunters are required to have current hunting licenses and must observe safety zones. No Hunting on Sundays.

Hunters using tree stands can keep their temporary stands on NLT property two weeks prior and up to two weeks after the season. If stands are not removed after this period they become County property. Please note that the practice of deer driving is prohibited except whereas designated by the Director. The use of slugs is prohibited.

**Please use the interactive map to determine whether hunting is allowed on a property. Click for a full size map.**
For assistance you can also contact the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation at (732) 506-9090 or Ocean County Department of Planning at (732) 929-2054.
 Are lands purchased by the Natural Lands Trust Fund Program open to public access?
 How are farms preserved through this program?
 How does the County decide which lands to purchase?
 What lands are eligible for purchase under the Natural Lands program?
 What will the County do with the property once it is acquired?
 Can residents nominate a property for the program if they do not own it?

2025 Advisory Committee Meetings

Location:
3rd Floor, Engineering Conference Room
129 Hooper Ave, Toms River, NJ

All meetings will be held in person unless otherwise noted.

Previous copies of Meeting Minutes can be requested with the Planning Department at 732-929-2054.

Time: 5:30pm, unless otherwise noted
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Meetings are subject to change, please contact the Ocean County Planning Department to confirm dates at 732-929-2054.

Meeting Minutes & Agenda


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COUNTY OF OCEAN

101 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08753
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