Establishment There shall be a Woodlands Management Committee (Committee) for the purpose of maintaining and improving the health of the Borough woodlands (Woodlands). The Committee shall report to the Mountain Lakes Borough Council.

"Borough woodlands" refers to all Borough-owned wooded areas, including both large tracts designated as parks and the smaller, undeveloped public lots but excluding areas managed by the Shade Tree Commission.

The health of the woodlands refers to all those qualities that promote sustainable growth and appropriate diversity of flora and fauna in a natural, wild state.

Except as set forth below, the Committee shall function in conformance with the General Charter for Advisory Committees and Commissions of the Borough of Mountain Lakes.

Membership. The committee shall consist of seven members. The terms of office of the Committee members shall be for three years. The terms of approximately 1/3 of the members shall expire each year.

Officers. The Council shall appoint a chair for a term of one year.

Meetings. The Committee shall meet monthly, approximately ten times per year.

Powers. The Committee shall have the following powers:

1. Conduct research and analysis and consult with specialists hired by the Borough
   
   
2. Make recommendations to Borough officials concerning management of the Woodlands
   
   
3. Work with borough committees, commissions, and boards, as well as other groups and individuals on projects and research
   
   
4. Provide information to the public and to Borough officials on issues pertinent to the management of Woodlands
   
   
5. Review plans for activities and projects that may affect the Woodlands
   
   
6. Initiate plans and actions to protect the Woodlands and improve their health
   
   

Duties. The Committee shall have the following duties:

1. Evaluate the current conditions of the Woodlands
2. Identify factors that affect the health of the Woodlands
3. Develop recommendations for creating healthy and sustainable Woodlands
4. Develop a Woodlands management plan
5. Encourage stewardship of the Woodlands