Project Description
Increased urbanization in recent decades has contributed to the loss of open space and wildlife habitat in southern New Jersey, especially near the Delaware River. Acquiring and holding undeveloped land in perpetuity ensures the preservation and conservation of New Jersey's natural resources and is more cost-effective today than it will be in the future. The Chemical Leaman Tank Lines (CLTL) Trustees used settlement funds to acquire several parcels adjoining lands currently owned by a local municipality or state or federal natural resource agency and managed as open space. The objective was to acquire properties containing wetlands similar to those injured as a result of the release of hazardous materials from the CLTL site, and protect these areas in perpetuity to ensure high quality groundwater recharge. The acquired lands were transferred to the appropriate natural resource agency, municipality, or non-government organization as a natural resource conservation area, and are managed to prevent future injury or degradation to the resources of concern.
Located adjacent to Raccoon Creek, the 97-acre Grand Sprute property was purchased by the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). It was incorporated into the Raccoon Creek Wildlife Management Area, and is managed by NJ Fish and Wildlife (NJFW). Former agriculture areas on the parcel are now maintained as grassland habitat and early successional forest for passerine birds and butterflies. The forested wetlands also provide foraging and roosting habitat for bald eagles.
Parties Implementing Restoration
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
DOI Project Representatives
Fish and Wildlife Service