The New Jersey Pinelands Commission is a state agency established in 1979 to protect and manage the unique ecosystem of the Pinelands, a vast area of forests, wetlands, and rivers in southern New Jersey. The commission oversees land use and development within the Pinelands National Reserve, ensuring that any activities align with environmental conservation goals. The commission's responsibilities include reviewing development proposals, enforcing land use regulations, and promoting public awareness about the importance of the Pinelands. It works to balance ecological preservation with the needs of local communities, supporting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and residents.