H.R. 5762: New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act of 2025

Summary

The New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act of 2025 is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives that aims to protect and conserve the vital watershed that spans across New York and New Jersey. This watershed provides drinking water to over 15 million people in the region.

Key Provisions

• Establishes the New York-New Jersey Watershed Conservation Program to coordinate preservation and restoration efforts across the region.
• Provides $500 million in federal funding over 10 years to support the program's activities, including:
  • Acquiring land and easements to protect sensitive ecological areas
  • Upgrading aging water infrastructure to reduce pollution and water loss
  • Expanding recreational access and public education initiatives
• Requires the development of a comprehensive watershed management plan within 2 years, with input from state/local governments, tribes, and community stakeholders.
• Creates a new federal-state task force to oversee program implementation and ensure coordination between relevant agencies.
• Directs the U.S. Geological Survey to conduct a full assessment of the watershed's hydrology, ecology, and long-term climate resilience.

Impact

• Protects the drinking water supply for a densely populated metropolitan region that is increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
• Supports habitat restoration and public access improvements in a watershed that is home to diverse plant and wildlife.
• Provides federal resources to upgrade aging water infrastructure and mitigate pollution, reducing health and environmental risks.
• Establishes new mechanisms for collaborative, science-based management of the watershed across state and local jurisdictions.

Conclusion

The New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act aims to safeguard a vital natural resource that is critical for the region's communities, economy, and environment. By investing in conservation, infrastructure, and collaborative management, the bill seeks to ensure the long-term health and resilience of this important watershed.