New Jersey § 13:8-49

§ 13:8-49.

In order to determine the suitability of any river for inclusion in the system, the

department shall: a. Complete the delineation of the flood hazard area for such river as required by

section 3 of P.L.1962, c. 19 ( C. 58:16A-52 ). b. Conduct such studies as are necessary in order to prepare a report containing the

following information concerning the proposed river area: a map portraying the location

and boundaries of such area; a summary of the current and potential ownership and

uses of such lands; a discussion of the environmental and economic impact upon local

communities and the State which would result from the inclusion of such area in the

system; a recommendation concerning the proper classification and use of such proposed

river area; and, an estimation of the cost which would be incurred by the State in

designating such area as a component of the system. Such report shall be made available to the Assembly Agriculture and Environment

Committee, the Senate Energy and Environment Committee and to the public at least

30 days prior to the public hearing required by this section. c. Conduct a public hearing in a location convenient to all interested parties at

least 30 days prior to designating any river area as a component of the system. Public notices of such hearings shall be published in at least two newspapers circulating

within the affected counties not less than 3 weeks prior to the hearings. At least 2 weeks prior to the date set for such hearing, a copy of the public notice

shall be sent by certified mail to each owner having a recorded interest in the lands

within the proposed river area as shown in the municipal tax office wherein such land

is located. Such notice shall be mailed to the address shown in the records of the municipal

tax office. Following any such public hearing, the commissioner shall consider the testimony

presented thereat and evaluate any reasonable alternative to, or revision of, the

designation of such proposed river area. d. Subsequent to the fulfillment of the above requirements, the commissioner may designate

such river area as a component of the system. Upon such designation, the commissioner shall cause notice thereof, including a

map portraying the boundaries of the river area, to be published in the New Jersey

Register.