N.H. Code Admin. R. Env-Wq 2006.03

Current through Register No. 25, June 20, 2024

Section Env-Wq 2006.03 - Scoring Based on Benefits to Focus Area

(a) Each application shall be scored based on the anticipated benefit of the proposed project in one of the following NHCP project focus areas:

(1) Restoration of coastal habitats;

(2) Water quality and stormwater management;

(3) Land conservation;

(4) Climate change adaptation and coastal hazards; or

(5) Ocean and estuarine resources.

(b) The NHCP shall determine whether a project:

(1) Directly addresses one of the 5 focus areas set forth in (a), above, and, if so, whether the project directly qualifies as a high or medium priority project based on the criteria set forth in (c) and (d), below;

(2) Indirectly addresses one of the 5 focus areas set forth in (a), above; or

(3) Does not directly or indirectly address one of the 5 focus areas set forth in (a), above, but is otherwise eligible for funding pursuant to Env-Wq 2004.03 through 2004.08.

(c) The following types of projects that directly address one of the 5 focus areas shall qualify as high priority projects and receive 10 points:

(1) Restoration projects that:

a. Result in restoration of tidal and non-tidal coastal habitats, including, rivers, streams, and floodplains; or

b. Facilitate the control of invasive species;

(2) Water quality and stormwater management projects that:

a. Implement low impact development technologies and practices;

b. Create and promulgate water quality and stormwater ordinances; or

c. Monitor the effectiveness of water quality enhancement activities;

(3) Land conservation projects that:

a. Conserve coastal lands, including but not limited to buffers around tidal waters, tributary rivers, and tributary streams;

b. Protect floodplains;

c. Provide or increase public access to coastal resources; or

d. Conserve unique natural areas and habitats;

(4) Projects that promote climate change adaptation and mitigation of coastal hazards by:

a. Planning and modeling for sea level rise;

b. Implementing actions to protect coastal infrastructure and resources; or

c. Promulgating local regulations; or

(5) Projects that protect ocean and estuarine resources, including but not limited to:

a. Renewable energy siting research projects;

b. Dredged material management projects;

c. Development of offshore data sources such as bathymetry, benthic habitat and human uses; and

d. Projects that implement innovative or regional approaches to offshore issues.

(d) The following types of projects that directly address one of the 5 focus areas shall qualify as medium priority projects and receive 6 points:

(1) Feasibility studies, monitoring activities, and outreach associated with coastal habitat restoration;

(2) Research, ambient water quality monitoring, and outreach about the importance of good water quality;

(3) Land conservation outreach, planning, and stewardship;

(4) Research and outreach pertaining to climate change adaptation and coastal hazards; or

(5) Marine debris removal and prevention, and outreach on ocean and estuarine resources.

(e) A project that indirectly addresses one of the 5 focus areas shall receive 4 points.

(f) A project that does not directly or indirectly address one of the 5 focus areas but is otherwise eligible for funding pursuant to Env-Wq 2004.03 through Env-Wq 2004.08 shall receive 2 points.

N.H. Code Admin. R. Env-Wq 2006.03

(See Revision Note at chapter heading for Env-Wq 2000) #8411, eff 8-19-05; ss by #9570, eff 10-17-09