An Independent Press Survey showed that local communities are putting more priority towards environmental issues. But some towns are doing more than others. Tune in all week to see how your town compares.
Today's community: Millburn/Short Hills, NJ
A subcommittee of the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment has decided this is a good time to bring green concepts into building regulations and municipal land use ordinances with the proposed redevelopment project for Millburn's downtown area. Ideas to extend this effort include designing a green streetscape, using recycled rainwater, installing high efficiency lights and traffic signals and solar operated pedestrian signs.
Millburn also was one of the original members of the Mayor's Committee for a Green Future where local leaders have been meeting with representatives from other municipalities to discuss ways they can incorporate green concepts. Some of the ideas have been to purchase environmentally friendly cleaning products for the schools and to establish a tree planting program.
One of these programs has been the forest buffer for the Cora Hartshorn Arboretum. This spring representatives from the arboretum, the township's Shade Tree Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service joined together to re-plant a forest buffer along the stream in the front of the arboretum. This buffer will be restored and maintained to protect the water quality and wildlife habitat. This project has been funded through a grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service which provides technical assistance, labor and materials.
The township has also purchased their first hybrid vehicle for forester, Tom Doty.
Tomorrow: Chatham Borough, NJ
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