In January, then-Governor Phil Murphy signed the Invasive Species Management Act into law—an important step forward in protecting New Jersey’s forests, waterways, wildlife habitat, and agricultural lands.

Across the state, invasive plant species continue to outcompete native vegetation, alter soil chemistry, reduce biodiversity, and destabilize ecosystems. They also carry real economic costs, impacting property values, stormwater systems, and long-term land management budgets. This new legislation strengthens New Jersey’s ability to respond with science-based tools and coordinated oversight.

What the New Law Does

The Invasive Species Management Act introduces several meaningful reforms:

• Restricts the sale of certain invasive plants, including widely distributed species like English ivy and wisteria.

• Restores the New Jersey Invasive Species Council, ensuring expert guidance on policy and plant classification within the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

• Directs the DEP to create an online resource hub to help residents identify invasive species, manage them effectively, and select appropriate native alternatives.

The law reflects years of advocacy and collaboration among environmental organizations, conservation professionals, and community leaders statewide.

We extend our gratitude to the Monmouth Conservation Foundation for advancing awareness around this issue and for helping educate communities about the ecological and economic risks posed by invasive species in their latest newsletter which you can read here.