Official Site of The State of New Jersey
The New Jersey Highlands
The New Jersey Highlands region is a scenic and diverse area, encompassing 88 municipalities in parts of seven counties in northern New Jersey. More than 70% of New Jersey residents get some or all of their drinking water from the Highlands, including 8 out of every 10 people living in a designated Overburdened Community. For this reason, the region is protected by law. The 2004 New Jersey Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act safeguards the New Jersey Highlands from excessive development and environmental degradation. The New Jersey Highlands Council is the state agency responsible for overseeing implementation of the Act. The agency is staffed by a team of professional planners, environmental scientists, and GIS experts. Use the map to explore the region.
Spotlight
Read the most recent Highlands Council Update summarizing the Council's work in January.
Drought Conditions 2/12/26
New Jersey is STILL in a Statewide Drought Warning. The Highlands region specifically continues to be experiencing either moderate or severe drought. Additional information is available at the link below.
State of the New Jersey Highlands Report
The vision of the New Jersey Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act to safeguard the state’s water supply has not been met with a corresponding commitment to invest in the actions needed to realize that vision.
Highlands Region Brand Highlighted on Skylands Visitor Website
A new article all about the Highlands region branding effort has been featured on the Skylands Visitor website!
Seven New Members for the Highlands Council
At its first meeting of 2026 the Highlands Council welcomed seven new members, bringing the Council to full membership.
Highlands Council Tourism Expansion Grant Earns Industry Award
The NJ Highlands Council recently received the President's Award at the New Jersey Tourism Industry Association's annual Celebration of Tourism Luncheon.
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2026 Public Meetings
Access information and materials related to past, current, and upcoming public meetings the Highlands Council and Highlands Development Credit (HDC) Bank Board.
What’s the Weather in Chester?
Get the latest weather conditions and trend data from the Highlands Council weather station.
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