New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act of 2025

The New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act of 2025 establishes the New York-New Jersey Watershed Restoration Program , a nonregulatory initiative to conserve and enhance the New York-New Jersey Watershed. This program, to be set up by the Secretary of the Interior, aims to coordinate restoration and protection activities among various governmental and conservation entities. Its core purposes include sustaining fish and wildlife habitat, improving water quality, and promoting public access and recreation consistent with ecological needs. A key component of the program is the establishment of a voluntary grant and technical assistance program , offering competitive matching grants to eligible entities like State, Tribal, and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. These grants will fund activities such as advancing natural climate solutions, engaging communities experiencing environmental injustice through outreach and workforce development, and increasing scientific capacity for restoration efforts. The Federal share for these projects is generally 50 percent, but can increase to 90 percent, or even 100 percent, for projects serving small, rural, or disadvantaged communities. The Secretary is required to adopt a Watershed-wide strategy that prioritizes cost-effective projects with measurable results and maximizes conservation outcomes, with a specific focus on the needs of communities experiencing environmental injustice. The bill authorizes an appropriation of $20,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2031, with at least 75 percent dedicated to the grant program. The Act is set to cease effect on October 1, 2031.