New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules
Env - Department of Environmental Services
Subtitle Env-Wt - Wetlands Programs
Chapter Env-Wt 600 - COASTAL LANDS AND TIDAL WATERS/WETLANDS
Part Env-Wt 609 - TIDAL SHORELINE STABILIZATION
Section Env-Wt 609.09 - Tidal Shoreline Stabilization Using Walls

Universal Citation: NH Admin Rules Env-Wt 609.09

Current through Register No. 13, March 27, 2025

(a) Due to the loss of natural features, such as habitat and the ability of the shoreline to move and adapt naturally to coastal hazard events that results from constructing a wall in tidal waters/wetlands, and due to the reflection and redirection of wave energy that can have an adverse effect on surrounding properties and ecology, the department shall not approve the installation of a wall unless required to protect public infrastructure in situations where a softer stabilization technique is shown to be impracticable.

(b) The following shall apply to any application to install a wall to stabilize a tidal shoreline:

(1) Walls shall be permitted only if there is insufficient space to cut back slopes to eliminate the need for a wall;

(2) The applicant shall provide:
a. Cross-section and plan views of the proposed installation; and

b. Plans that clearly show the relationship of the project to fixed points of reference, abutting properties, and features of the natural shoreline;

(3) The face of a project shall be angular, not smooth, to minimize reflected wave energy;

(4) Fill shall be allowed only to the extent necessary to achieve structural stability;

(5) Weep holes shall be provided to allow seepage of groundwater and to promote slope stability; and

(6) Walls shall:
a. Not reflect or re-direct currents or wave energy towards adjacent wetlands, structures, or neighboring properties, or otherwise contribute to erosion; and

b. Be concave on the seaward side to reflect wave energy where practicable.

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