1. Proposed Warrant Article Regarding Improvement Dredging in the ACEC

2. Improvement dredging prohibited in ACEC
Concerns about access heightened by 2007 inlet formation
‘08 RMP Update: examine need, impacts & regulatory issues
Background report: results of 2 years of study & basis for recommendation

3. Evidence of Need:
-Hydrographic survey: channels passable but some areas worsened by lower low tides
-Inlet configuration study: southerly migration & continued dynamic change in the area around the inlet
-Allowed us to Identify area of greatest potential change within ACEC

4. Area of potential improvement dredging follows traditional channels
Limited to area that is most likely to be directly affected by inlet dynamics

5. Resource Impacts
Shellfish Resources: assessment during environmental permitting

6. Resource Impacts
Eelgrass Resources - assessment during environmental permitting

7. Regulatory Issues 3 areas of state regulation: Best options:
Chapter 91 prohibition
Wetlands Protection Act review
Water quality certification
Best options:
Variance from state regulations
Change in state regulations
Either requires RMP amendment

8. RMP Amendment Identify conditions under which permit could be sought:
Municipality/public purpose
Within designated zone
Maintain/restore historic navigation access
Minimum dredging necessary to maintain access
Amendment clears pathway (not a proposal)
All environmental reviews still needed

9. Process Outreach meetings Seeking TM approval in all four towns
Seeking Selectmen endorsement of the TM warrant article