In a time when environmental protection can feel like an uphill battle, New Jersey is demonstrating the power of state leadership and showing other states what's possible when it comes to preserving our natural treasures.

The Garden State has emerged as a beacon of hope for wetland conservation, maintaining robust protections that go above and beyond federal requirements. These vital ecosystems, which cover 17 percent of New Jersey's landscape, are thriving under the state's thoughtful stewardship.

"We in New Jersey are really fortunate because, at the state level, we have some really strong environmental protections," said Alison Mitchell, executive director of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, capturing the pride many residents feel about their state's environmental commitment.

What makes New Jersey special is that it's one of only two states in the nation, alongside Michigan, that has chosen to implement stricter wetland regulations than federal standards require. This proactive approach means New Jersey's wetlands remain well-protected regardless of changes to federal policy.

"States can't lower protections below that which is afforded by the Clean Water Act, but they can be more protective. So New Jersey is one of two states that has done that," explained Christopher Miller, executive director of the Eastern Environmental Law Center.

The state's comprehensive framework includes innovative features like "transition areas" or buffer zones up to 150 feet wide surrounding wetlands. These buffers provide wildlife refuge during high water, create habitat for countless species, and naturally filter sediment and stormwater from development—nature's own water treatment system.

New Jersey's commitment didn't happen overnight. It grew from decades of learning and environmental stewardship. After losing about 39 percent of its wetlands between the 1780s and 1980s, the state made a conscious decision to change course. In the 1970s and 1980s, forward-thinking legislators enacted laws that would protect these precious resources for generations to come.

Today, that vision is paying dividends. Miller notes that wetlands function as "a sponge" and are "essentially the engine that drives the health of our ecosystems." Beyond their ecological importance, wetlands also store carbon, making them valuable allies in addressing climate change.

Mitchell highlights another crucial benefit that's increasingly relevant as weather patterns shift: wetlands act as natural flood control systems, holding stormwater and protecting communities from flooding. In a densely populated state like New Jersey, this ecosystem service is invaluable.

The New Jersey model offers an inspiring roadmap for other states seeking to protect their natural resources. It demonstrates that state governments have the power to be environmental leaders, creating policies that benefit both nature and communities.

While advocates emphasize that state protections work best when complemented by strong federal standards, New Jersey's success story shows what's possible when lawmakers, environmental groups, and communities come together with a shared vision for protecting the natural world.

As other states watch New Jersey's example, there's hope that more will follow suit, creating a patchwork of strong protections across the country. After all, when it comes to environmental stewardship, leadership can come from anywhere—and right now, the Garden State is showing everyone how it's done.