3. a. There is established, within the Department of Transportation, an “Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management Program” to:

(1) Assess the conditions existing along roadsides in the State;

(2) Develop and adopt a comprehensive integrated roadside vegetation management plan for cost effective maintenance and planting along roadsides, with an emphasis on adaptable vegetation with long life cycles, native vegetation, and wildflowers , and incorporating any requirements pursuant to any other law, or rule or regulation adopted pursuant thereto, concerning the planting of native vegetation ;

(3) Conduct research and feasibility studies for the comprehensive integrated roadside vegetation management plan and for future integrated roadside management projects;

(4) Implement the comprehensive integrated roadside vegetation management plan to improve roadsides in a way that will serve a variety of purposes, including climate control, erosion control, weed control, scenic quality, wildlife habitats, and utility easements;

(5) Incorporate integrated roadside management best practices for the long-term control of damaging insects, invasive plant species, and weeds while preserving valuable vegetation and habitats;

(6) Expand or create public education programs about the importance of integrated roadside vegetation management in the State, the scenic and environmental value of land adjoining roadsides, and other information consistent with the program goals; and

(7) Coordinate with other private entities and government entities, including the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, the South Jersey Transportation Authority, and county and municipal governments concerning initiatives to improve roadsides in the State.

b. The Commissioner of Transportation shall appoint an Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management Coordinator to administer the program. The coordinator shall be responsible for implementing the program goals as established by subsection a. of this section.

L.2017, c.44, s.3.