NomdePlume
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In its most recent session, the NH Legislature substantially weakened the Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act (in the process renaming it the Shoreland Water Quality Protection Act). Some of the most significant changes weaken the requirements for a shoreline buffer and allow for more intensive development of a property back from the water. The effect is to remove some of the most important defenses against stormwater runoff into lakes and streams. As we all know, with that runoff comes additional phosphorus loading and all the damage that does to a water body’s health — increased algae blooms, more weeds, and a slimy feel to rocks and bottom sands.
In response to the Legislature’s action, the Wolfeboro Planning Board has drafted an amended zoning regulation that would re-establish, within the town, the safeguards previously afforded by the CSPA. These include requirements for tree and shrub plantings to prevent erosion of the shoreline as well as limitations on how much a property can be developed. In the end, the changes merely restore the protections that were in place until last year’s legislative action.
The zoning amendment will be on the town warrant on March 13. A full copy can be found on the town web site here: http://www.wolfeboronh.us/Pages/WolfeboroNH_Planning/Zoning%20Changes/2012%20Shore%20Front%20Residential.pdf
The amendment deserves the support of all of us who love this town’s lakes and want to see them well protected into the future.
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