Department of Transportation proposing to readopt rules on soil erosion and sediment control standards

(Trenton) - The New Jersey Department of Transportation is proposing to readopt with amendments N.J.A.C. 16:50, the rules governing the Department’s regulations on Soil Erosion and Sediment Standards. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 4:24-39 et seq., the Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Act, the rules establish the Department’s soil erosion and sediment control standards. Construction projects are required by the Act to conform to standards established by, and contained in, the rules of the State Soil Conservation Committee. However, the Department’s construction projects require specific standards more particularly adapted to roadway construction. The Department certifies soil erosion and sediment control plans in conformance with vegetative and engineering standards developed jointly by the State Soil Conservation Committee and the Departments of Agriculture, Environmental Protection and Transportation. These standards are contained in a manual entitled “Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Standards.” A copy of these standards are available for review here. By using these standards as the technical basis for the Department’s certification, the Department ensures that the appropriate standards are included, and used, in each Department of Transportation construction project, and that proper steps are being taken to protect the environment from the effects of soil erosion and sedimentation. The proposed amendments correct erroneous titles and dates, add contact information and update the Standards table.

The proposed rule appears in the August 18, 2008 issue of the New Jersey Register. The public has until October 17, 2008 to comment on the proposal. Persons wishing to comment on the proposal must provide their comments in writing to Miriam Crum, Administrative Practice Officer, NJ Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, PO Box 600, Trenton, NJ 08625-0600. Fax: (609) 530-3841. Comments must be postmarked or sent by telefacsimile on or before October 17, 2008 which is the close of the 60-day public comment period.

Comments submitted to the Department on the proposed rulemaking are public records and are available for public inspection by prior appointment during normal Department business hours.