Montville Reveals Updated Natural Resources Inventory

Montville Township has completed an update of its Natural Resources Inventory (NRI), which is a compilation of text and visual information about the natural resource characteristics and environmental features of an area.

The Montville Environmental Commission and Planning Board announced the final adoption of an updated Natural Resources Inventory (NRI). 

“The Planning Board incorporated the document, which was previously adopted by the Environmental Commission in July, into the Master Plan on Aug. 8,” said Meghan M. Hunscher PP AICP, Montville Principal Planner/Zoning Officer/Housing Director. “This update is the first in over 20 years. The NRI will serve as a dynamic reference document that may be used by all Township Boards, Committees, Commissions, and residents.” 

The document includes the following features:

• geology
• hydrology
• soils
• wetlands
• vegetation
• contaminated sites
• historic and cultural features 

“Public participation was welcomed and encouraged at all public hearings,” said Hunscher. “Burgis Associates prepared the document, which was partially funded by a grant from the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC).  ANJEC also provided review and comment of the document.” 

The NRI is an important tool for environmental commissions, open space committees, planning boards and zoning boards of adjustment. According to the NRI, Its purposes are wide-ranging and include the following:

• As a tool to increase the understanding of natural systems, and their limitations and opportunities for use;
• To help identify priority areas for open space, historic and farmland preservation; 
• As a basis for a land capacity analysis, for determining the intensity and location of development;
• As a factual basis for municipal land use planning, including preparation of the land use element of the municipal master plan;
• As a comprehensive guide in the site plan review process;
• As a reference for developing municipal ordinances and establishing management practices for public lands and infrastructure; and
• As an educational tool for residents to learn more about their community and its environment.

The NRI is available online or printed copies may be purchased at the Land Use Office.  For more information, contact the Land Use Office at (973) 331-3319.