Nonpoint Source Pollution

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Best Management Practices to Control Nonpoint Source Pollution A Guide for Citizens and Town Officials January 2004 Best Management Practices to Control Nonpoint Source Pollution A Guide for Citizens and Town Officials

Compiled and edited by Andrea Donlon and Barbara McMillan. Final review by Karen Diamond, Great Bay Coast Watch. Design and layout by Tricia Miller, MillerWorks. Icon art by Stephanie Bowser. Illustrations: page 3: Government of Western Australia Water and Rivers Commission; page 4: Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission; page 7: Heath., R.C. 1983. Basic Groundwater Hydrology, USGS Water Supply Paper 2220, DC; page 10: Maryland Department of the Environment Stormwater Manual; Page 12: Maryland Department of Environmental Resources, Low-Impact Development Design Strategies; page 50: New Hampshire Estuaries Project. All illustrations enhanced and updated by Tricia Miller for this publication. Photography by DES, except page 1 (top) by Steve Miller and page 7 by Steve Mirick. WD-03-42 Best Management Practices to Control Nonpoint Source Pollution

Prepared by:

The Watershed Assistance Section,

N.H. Department of Environmental Services

29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301

(603) 271-2457 www.des.nh.gov/wmb/was

Michael P. Nolin, Commissioner

Michael J. Walls, Assistant Commissioner

Harry Stewart, P. E., Director, Water Division

This guide is funded in part through a Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Program grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and a New Hampshire Coastal Program Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control Program grant as authorized by the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration grant award number NA170Z1129.

C Printed on Recycled Paper January, 2004

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION 1 1WATER RESOURCES AND NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION 3 The Water Cycle and Pollution 3 Lakes and Ponds 5 Rivers and Streams 6 Wetlands 6 Estuaries 7 Groundwater 7

2 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND 9 Areas of New Development 9 BMPs for Areas of New Development 10 Designing New Development 10 Locating New Development 12 Previously-Developed Areas 13 BMPs for Previously-Developed Areas 13 General Guidelines 13 Specific Structural BMPs 14 Laws and Regulations for Developed or Developing Land 15 Resources: BMPs for Developed or Developing Land 16

3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 19 Households 19 Reducing NPS Pollution Around Your Home 19 Septic Systems 19 Chemical Use, Storage and Disposal 20 Lawn and Garden Activities 20 Impervious Surfaces 21 Pets 21 Air Pollution - Acid Deposition 21 Laws and Regulations 22 Site Excavation and Road Construction 22 BMPs for Site Excavation and Road Construction 23 Laws and Regulations 23 Road Salting and Snow Dumping 24 BMPs for Road Salting and Snow Dumping 24 Laws and Regulations 25 Motor Vehicle Salvage and Storage Facilities 26 BMPs for Motor Vehicle Salvage and Storage Facilities 26 Laws and Regulations 26 Marinas 27 BMPs for Marinas 28 Laws and Regulations 28

i Agriculture and Golf Courses 28 BMPs for Agriculture and Golf Courses 29 Laws and Regulations 30 Timber Harvesting 31 BMPs for Timber Harvesting 31 Laws and Regulations 32 Sand and Gravel Excavation 33 BMPs for Sand and Gravel Operations 33 Laws and Regulations 33 Chemical and Petroleum Storage 34 BMPs for Chemical and Petroleum Storage 35 Laws and Regulations 35 Resources for Land Use/Activity BMPs 36

4 CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING 47 Watershed Organizations 47 Water Quality Monitoring 47 Water Quality Monitoring Programs 48 Exotic Weeds 48 Watershed Management Plans 49 Education and Outreach 51 Resources for Citizen Involvement and Watershed Planning 52

5 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES 55 Nonpoint Source (319) Grants 55 Sourcewater Protection Grants 56 Regional Planning Grants 57 Coastal Grants 58 Waste Reduction Grants 59 Other Grants 60

APPENDIX: CONTACTING THE AGENCIES IN THIS GUIDE 61 Agencies and Organizations Involved in Nonpoint Source Pollution 61

ii INTRODUCTION

Residents and visitors alike will attest that New Hampshire’s waters are an ideal place to swim, fish, and sail. Many people feel strongly that future generations should also have access to clean water. However, all freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams in New Hampshire are currently listed as “impaired” because of a fish consumption advisory for mercury the land is called nonpoint source or business, and sometimes even contamination. Additionally, the (NPS) pollution. It occurs when taking a pet for a walk. state has 10,505 acres of lakes and rain or snowmelt flows over land The purpose of this guide is to 1,178 miles of rivers classified as as runoff, or through the ground describe the causes of NPS pollu- threatened or impaired by other as groundwater, picks up pollution and to suggest ways that pollution sources. Fortunately,this tants, and eventually discharges to NPS pollution can be prevented is a small percentage of lakes and a body of water. or at least reduced. Best manage- rivers in New Hampshire. Urban and suburban land ment practices (BMPs), which are Although there have been great uses, construction, forestry, septic land treatment or operational advances in reducing pollution systems, recreational boating, techniques used to prevent or from industrial discharges and agriculture, and physical changes reduce pollution, are listed along sewage treatment plants in the last to stream channels are potential with references for more infor- 25 years, according to the EPA sources of NPS pollution. NPS mation. Section 1 provides back- about half the water quality prob- pollution is widespread and we ground information on water lems nationwide now are associ- all contribute to it by driving a resources and how they can be ated with nonpoint source car, applying fertilizer to a lawn, impacted by NPS pollution. pollution. Polluted runoff from converting land for a new home Section 2 describes water resource impacts from existing and new development, provides suggested BMPs, references applicable laws and regulations, and lists additional resources. Section 3 describes specific land use activities that could affect water resources, provides suggested BMPs, references applicable laws and regulations, and lists additional resources. Section 4 describes how to get involved in local watershed organizations and volunteer water monitoring

1 What is a BMP? activities. Funding opportunities for efforts to reduce NPS pollution are listed in Section 5. There are multiple terms asso- may vary regionally or depend- Finally, the appendix lists contact ciated with the control of non- ing on land use. information for agencies refer- point source pollution. This BMPs, in general, control the enced in this guide. document uses the term BMPs, delivery of NPS pollutants to The New Hampshire Depart- which are individual practices water bodies in the following ment of Environmental Services that serve specific functions. three ways: (DES) is working to reduce non- BMPs can be structural, such ■ source reduction by minimiz- point source pollution in New as a fence for excluding live- ing pollutants available in Hampshire in several ways. Many stock or a buffer strip to reduce the first place; of our efforts are linked to the sediment in runoff, or non-struc- ■ retarding the transport of New Hampshire Nonpoint Source tural such as street sweeping. pollutants by reducing water Management Plan, which was BMPs are designed to reduce transported or by retaining developed in October, 1999 and the pollutants that are gener- pollutants; and is available online at www.des. ated at and/or delivered from a nh.gov/wmb/npsplan.pdf. This source to a water body. ■ remediating or intercepting plan contains a five-year action It is important to acknowl- the pollutants before or after plan and lists NPS types in order edge that the term “best” is they are delivered to the of priority. Anyone with further highly subjective and the appro- water resource by chemical or questions should contact the priateness of certain practices biological transformation. ■ DES Watershed Assistance Section at (603) 271-2457. Many of the DES references listed in this guide can be accessed on our website at www.des.nh.gov.

2 1 WATER RESOURCES AND NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION

The Water Cycle and Pollution

Water in oceans, lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, wetlands, groundwater, ice sheets, and the atmos- Transpiration phere are all linked by the hydrologic cycle, the movement of water from one system to another. The atmosphere holds Rainfall large quantities of water vapor, which falls as rain or snow.This Evaporation precipitation falls directly into Runoff surface water bodies (such as a lake or river) or onto land sur- Groundwater Recharge faces, where much of it seeps into the ground and eventually Watertable Shallow Groundwater flows to becomes groundwater. Lakes, Groundwater wetlands, streams or ocean streams, and wetlands are formed where the slowly moving groundwater intercepts the ground surface. In fact, about 50 Confined Groundwater percent of the water in New England streams is groundwater tion. Pollutants follow the paths the earth with precipitation.This discharge. Eventually, all of this water takes in the hydrologic acid deposition can cause several water finds its way back to the cycle and affect the quality of our ecological problems, such as fish ocean, where it will evaporate waterbodies. For example, pollu- deaths. Similarly, tiny amounts of into the atmosphere, become tants from septic systems may mercury enter our atmosphere rain or snow, and continue impact the same groundwater from sources such as incinerators through the cycle. that is tapped for water supply and power plants; the mercury The term “water pollution” wells, or pollutants may move attaches to rain drops and dry often evokes an image of large with the groundwater before dis- particles and follows the path- pipes delivering unsightly waste- charging into a stream. Oil leak- ways of the water cycle. Mercury water from factories into rivers ing from cars is carried with concentrations increase up the and streams. Public awareness of surface runoff from parking lots food chain from water to plank- this problem and strict federal and is discharged into streams. ton to fish and to animals that eat laws enacted during the past 30 Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen fish. High concentrations of mer- years have made it rare today to oxides emitted into the air from cury in fish have caused many find such obvious examples of power plants and combustion states, including New Hampshire water pollution.Yet water pollu- engines are converted in the and all New England states, to tion remains a problem, due in atmosphere to sulfuric acid and issue health warnings about part to nonpoint source pollu- nitric acid and are deposited on freshwater fish consumption.

3 The Watershed Approach

A watershed is defined as the geographic area in which all water running off the land drains to a given stream, lake, wetland, or other waterbody. A watershed can be thought of as a funnel with the waterbody at the bottom of the funnel and the high points, such as moun- tains, at the top. The size of the drainage area can each of the rivers, lakes, ponds, waters. Moreover, good water be as small as your backyard and streams that feed into the quality is best protected by or as large as several thou- bigger rivers. It is most effective managing land use practices in sand square miles. Nonpoint and easiest to work in the the watershed. The challenge source problems can originate smallest watershed unit possi- of using a watershed approach anywhere in a watershed. ble when addressing water qual- to manage water quality, how- There are five major water- ity problems. ever, is that watershed bound- sheds in New Hampshire; these Tackling water quality issues aries do not typically follow include the Coastal/Piscataqua using a watershed perspective town, state, or international River, the Merrimack River, the makes a lot of sense because borders. Organizations and cit- Connecticut River, the Saco water quality problems often izens within a watershed must River, and the Androscoggin result from a number of often come together from River. These five watersheds smaller sources that cumula- across municipal boundaries are made up, in turn, of many tively have a measurable, neg- to design creative manage- smaller watersheds defined by ative impact on receiving ment solutions. ■

Another form of nonpoint forms of pollution, they neverthe- likely to occur. Channel modifica- source pollution is hydrologic less are considered to be part of tions frequently degrade instream modification. This term refers to the NPS pollution problem. and riparian habitat for fish and activities that affect the natural Many rivers and streams have nat- wildlife. Other impacts include pathways of surface water, such as ural flood control areas, such as erosion and the reduction of the stream channel modification and oxbows, adjacent wetlands, and system’s ability to filter pollutants. channelization, dam construction riparian zones. When these areas Similarly, increased development and operation, and streambank are modified or removed, signifi- around the perimeters of lakes and and shoreline erosion. Although cant changes in the ecological ponds can change surface hydrol- these activities don’t seem like functions of surrounding lands are ogy and reduce natural buffers.

4 WATER RESOURCES AND NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION Lakes and Ponds

Over one thousand lakes and ponds are scattered across New Hampshire’s scenic and diverse landscape. Many of these beau- tiful waterbodies are a result of glaciation that took place 10,000 years ago and earlier. As glaciers advanced and then receded, they carved pockets into the earth’s surface, and these filled with water as the glaciers melted. Limnologists distinguish between a lake and a pond roughly by their depth— a pond allows sunlight to penetrate down to the bottom, and a lake is deep enough to filter out the sunlight from at least a portion of its bottom. When it comes to shallow, mucky bottom. tain or restore the vegetation naming bodies of water in New Although eutrophication is natu- along the shore. Similar manage- Hampshire, though, there is no ral, fertilizers, eroded soil, and ment techniques are recom- official distinction between a lake failed septic systems accelerate mended for upland areas in the and a pond. New Hampshire the process. Phosphorus is the lake watershed. legally designates all natural lakes limiting nutrient for New Exotic aquatic plants such as and ponds that are equal to or Hampshire lakes and ponds.This milfoil and fanwort are also a greater than 10 acres as “public means that the concentration of problem in New Hampshire waters of the State” or “great phosphorus is the primary deter- lakes and ponds. These plants ponds.” minant of lake productivity.The flourish because they have no Water moves relatively slowly potential for algae blooms and established relationships with through lakes and ponds. This reduced water clarity increases as native predators or competitors allows time for aquatic plants, more phosphorus enters a lake. that would keep their growth in such as algae, to use nutrients for Lakes respond differently to check. When these exotic plants growth. It also allows time for nutrient loading, depending on grow without natural controls, decaying animal and plant mate- the physical characteristics of the they encroach into and replace rials to settle to the lake bottom. lake. Excessive weed growth can the habitats of native plants, Streams bring in sediment that be a nuisance for swimming and thereby disrupting the food add to the debris accumulating at boating; decay of these weeds by chain, stunting fish growth, and the bottom. Lakes eventually fill micro-organisms can use up oxy- degrading wildlife habitat. in through this natural aging gen in the lake and make it unin- Several exotic weeds thrive in process called eutrophication. The habitable for fish and other disturbed areas and sometimes characteristics of a eutrophic lake aquatic animals. To reduce the the growth of exotic plants is are an abundance of aquatic phosphorus loading, shoreland exacerbated by nutrient loading plants, nutrient-rich water, and a owners are encouraged to main- from NPS pollutants.

WATER RESOURCES AND NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION 5 Rivers and Streams

There are almost 10,000 miles affect water quality and habitat of rivers and streams in New (these pollution sources can also Hampshire.When one considers affect other types of waterbodies). rivers and streams as pollutant In New Hampshire the biggest carriers, often times the phrase sources include: “dilution is the solution to pol- ■ urban runoff, particularly in lution” is mentioned. To a mar- the southern part of the state ginal degree this is true, because where there are more urban rivers are good at assimilating centers and in areas where treated discharges from waste- large shopping centers, malls, water treatment facilities. But, or parking lots are located and runoff patterns you only have to look back 20 near rivers; after development; and years to remember what can ■ failed septic systems near happen to a river or stream if its ■ agricultural runoff rivers and streams; diluting capacity is overloaded With better management with pollutants. ■ poorly planned and managed practices for these and other non- As we have studied the dynamic construction sites where point source pollution problems nature of rivers, we have learned activities cause erosion and we can continue to protect our that there are several sources of sedimentation; rivers and streams for recreation, nonpoint source pollution that ■ changes to stream flows, aesthetic beauty, wildlife habitat, commonly occur and negatively groundwater recharge, water supply, and other purposes.

Wetlands

Wetlands is a collective term for swamps, and riparian areas. Some the flow of water and allowing the areas that are transition zones receive and produce surface sediment particles, which often between aquatic and terrestrial drainage, while others simply catch have other pollutants attached to and absorb precipitation. Wetlands them, to settle out of the water. provide critical habitat for many The dense vegetation in wetlands kinds of plants and animals, con- helps filter out excess nutrients dis- tribute to the aesthetic beauty of solved in the water, thus reducing the landscape, and provide many eutrophication problems in other recreational and educational waterbodies. Some wetlands act as opportunities. They also perform seasonal groundwater recharge many beneficial functions from a areas, which stabilize stream flow pollution control standpoint.Some rates and the drinking water sup- wetlands function as flood storage plies of towns reliant on ground- reservoirs, holding and slowly water.The protection of wetlands, releasing excess storm runoff, thus and the relatively inexpensive yet areas. They include areas such as preventing downstream flooding highly effective pollution control bogs and fens (peatlands), freshwa- and erosion. Wetlands also trap functions they provide, is critical to ter marshes, salt marshes, wooded eroded sediment by slowing down the protection of water quality.

6 WATER RESOURCES AND NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION Estuaries

Estuaries are coastal areas waters of estuarine areas are estuarine water quality,especially where there is at least one open- appealing to people and make in estuaries with poor tidal ing to the ocean, making for a them prime areas for develop- flushing. Loss of habitat, closure mix of fresh and salt water. In ment. The adverse effects of of shellfish beds, and degradation and around these embayments shoreline alteration, chemicals of water quality all point to the are many kinds of habitats and sewage from boats and need to wisely manage and including mud flats, beds of sub- shorefront homes, and the pol- guide the development around merged aquatic vegetation (e.g., luted runoff from intensely estuaries as well as the inland eelgrass beds), and open water. developed inland areas degrade areas that influence them. In addition, many estuaries are flanked by salt marshes and/or rocky intertidal areas.The influx of ocean water combined with nutrient-rich river runoff from inland areas helps create diverse habitats that are home to a myr- iad of plants, animals, birds, and fish. In fact, approximately two- thirds of the commercially harvested fish and shellfish (including clams, mussels, oys- ters, and scallops) live in estuaries for part or all of their lives. The scenic views and protected

Groundwater

Groundwater is defined as get our drinking water from can infiltrate directly into it. water that completely fills the groundwater. In general, ground- Groundwater pollution has spaces between soil and rock par- water is vulnerable to pollution resulted from human use, storage, ticles underground. Many of us because surface contamination handling, and disposal of contaminants including unlined landfills, underground fuel storage tanks, and septic systems. Proper management of human activities can prevent groundwater contamination in the future, but prevention is challenging because land associated with public water supplies is, on average, four times as developed as the rest of New Hampshire.

7 8 WATER RESOURCES AND NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION 2 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND

This section discusses water quality issues related to previously-developed areas and developing areas, and offers management practices to reduce nonpoint source pollution for both types of areas.

Areas of New Development

The rural character of New increases, the interest in New of chemicals on developed land Hampshire is something many Hampshire as a place to have a (e.g., fertilizer, pesticides, oil, people cherish and wish to pre- second home will likely continue detergents), the greater potential serve. Nevertheless, it is obvious to grow. New Hampshire will for erosion due to the distur- that the state is undergoing devel- have to accommodate new resi- bance and use of the site, and the opment and growth, particularly dents and vacationers with more increase in impervious cover, in the southern part and the houses, office buildings, shopping which results in more runoff. In Seacoast region. Between 1990 centers, schools, and roads.As land addition, development often and 2000, the population of New is converted from forests or farm reduces the amount of vegetated Hampshire increased by 11.4 per- fields to a house, road, or parking areas that buffer the impact of cent, which made it the fastest lot, there are inevitable effects on the increased runoff and higher growing state in New England. water quality and quantity. pollution levels. Vacation homes comprised 10 New residential, commercial Development can also impact percent of the residential units in and industrial development can the movement of water or the state in 2000, and as the increase NPS pollution for many hydrologic functions of a water- regional and national population reasons, including the greater use shed. Such impacts can include

Impact of Impervious Cover

Development involves the con- increased NPS pollution. exceeds just 10 percent. Land struction of hard surfaces, such Numerous studies have exam- use practices that reduce runoff as roofs, roads, sidewalks, and ined the relationship between or intercept runoff before it parking lots, that water cannot the amount of impervious cover reaches a waterbody help penetrate. These types of sur- in a watershed and the health of reduce the impacts associated faces are collectively referred to waterbodies in that watershed. with impervious cover. Allowing as “impervious cover.” Impervi- These studies find that the qual- water to infiltrate into the ous cover increases the amount ity of streams, wetlands, and ground helps clean the water of water that will run off land other waterbodies declines and restore groundwater levels, during a rainstorm or as snow sharply when the impervious which is especially important melts, which can lead to cover within the watershed during times of drought. ■

BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND 9 PREDEVELOPMENT POSTDEVELOPMENT

Canopy Interception

Evapo- Transpiration transpiration

Surface Runoff Surface Runoff

Interflow Interflow

Baseflow Baseflow

changes in the rate of flow of sive earthwork and installation of Municipalities can develop an water, reduced amount of materials. education program and use their recharge or infiltration, and Alternatively, a more innova- local planning and site plan and increased volume of water dur- tive stormwater management subdivision review processes to ing storm events. Alterations to approach can provide increased encourage the use of practices watershed hydrology can nega- opportunities for stormwater to that minimize nonpoint source tively affect aquatic habitat by infiltrate, better maintain natural pollution. lowering the water table, reduc- watershed hydrology, and limit BMPs for Areas of ing base flows, increasing water impacts to habitat.The alternative New Development temperatures, reducing shading approach uses open, grassed of streams and rivers, and reduc- channels to hold and convey Both designing and locating new ing the accumulation of natural water along with numerous development offer opportunities biomass in streams and rivers. smaller-scale BMPs and land- to use BMPs to minimize NPS Conventional stormwater scape features dispersed through- pollution. management systems, including out a developed area to regulate Designing New Development curbs, gutters, storm drains and water flow and remove pollu- piping, paired with a large struc- tants.Vegetation is recommended Conservation design minimizes tural BMP, such as a retention/ as part of any stormwater man- the amount of land disturbed for detention pond, can help control agement approach to stabilize development, maintains signifi- peak flows and reduce water soil, filter out pollutants, and cant ecological areas in a natural quality impacts. But, typically this reduce runoff volume; it can be as state, and reduces the amount of does little to maintain natural simple as vigorous plantings impervious surface created. hydrologic functions on the site, around new construction. Energy and water efficiency also including natural infiltration In addition to providing for are maximized. rates or direction of water flow. effective stormwater manage- Following these practices pro- Additionally, such traditional ment, new developments can also vides other benefits in addition to stormwater management systems be located and designed in ways protecting surface water quality. are expensive and involve exten- that minimize NPS pollution. For example, the practices listed

10 BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND below help maintain groundwa- from vehicle travel by encourag- engaging people in physical ter supplies by increasing infiltra- ing more compact development activity. Improved human health tion of water into the ground; that supports walking and biking in turn reduces medical costs help protect wildlife habitat by and reduces vehicle use. associated with bad air quality maintaining undisturbed land, Encouraging non-motorized (such as asthma) and inactivity especially along wetlands, transport through changes in (such as obesity and heart dis- streams, and other riparian areas; design improves human health by ease), which saves money for all and help reduce air pollution improving air quality and by of us.

Low-Impact Development Design

An alternative, more innova- lowing areas important to the dispersed in multiple directions, tive stormwater management natural hydrology of the site: using sheet flow when feasible. approach—called “low-impact streams and their buffers, flood- In addition to the above development (LID) design”—can plains, wetlands, steep slopes, design considerations, LID provide increased opportunities high-permeability soils, and involves micromanagement of for stormwater to infiltrate, bet- woodland conservation zones. stormwater using small-scale ter maintain natural watershed Future development is then integrated management prac- hydrology, and limit impacts to located in remaining areas that tices (IMPs) distributed through- habitat. LID focuses on: are less sensitive to disturbance out the site. Example IMPs 1 site design techniques that or have lower value in terms of include on-lot bioretention facili- reduce runoff and maintain hydrologic function. The develop- ties, dry wells, filter/buffer existing hydrologic features; ment is then designed to mini- strips, grassed swales, biore- and mize clearing and grading, tention swales, wet swales, rain minimize and disconnect imper- barrels, cisterns, and infiltration 2 site-level or “at-source” vious surfaces, minimize the trenches. These techniques are stormwater controls. quantity and velocity of surface used to control runoff at its The fundamental LID site plan- runoff, and provide for on- source. As with other BMPs, ning concepts include: site/on-lot management of IMPs also require monitoring ■ using hydrology as a runoff. Additionally, the existing and periodic upkeep, including basis for designing new topography and drainage pattern trash removal and maintenance development; is maintained to disperse flow of vegetation. But with educa- ■ thinking “micromanagement” paths. tion on the purpose and proper for stormwater control; Whenever possible, LID care for IMPs, private property designs use open, vegetated owners can often assume ■ controlling stormwater at the drainage systems in lieu of con- responsibility for maintaining source; ventional storm drains. LID flow IMPs located on their property. ■ using simplistic, nonstruc- and conveyance systems are Communities that wish to tural stormwater control designed to maximize overland benefit from the LID approach methods when feasible; and sheet flow, involve wider, may need to develop an over- ■ creating a multi-functional rougher, and longer flow paths, sight program and adopt flexible landscape and infrastructure. and include pockets of vegeta- zoning options in their subdivi- Hydrology is integrated into tion (trees and shrubs) in the sion and site plan ordinances to the site planning process by first flow path. In addition, flows facilitate the use of LID tech- identifying and protecting the fol- from large paved surfaces are niques by developers. ■

BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND 11 Woodland Conservation Natural Drainage Locating New Development Systems ■ Locate development close to existing developed areas. •Provide a greater chance of Transition Vegetated connecting to a sewer system, Zone Buffer Onlot which reduces the possibil- Bioretention ity of NPS pollution from individual septic systems. • Require less pipe to con-

nect to the sewer system, Transition which lowers the chance Zone for leakage of untreated wastewater, and lowers the bike.This can also reduce reduce the amount of cost of the project as well. NPS pollution from the impervious surface created • Shorten the distance to deposition of air pollutants. by the development. shopping and other services/ ■ Locate close to existing ■ Locate away from surface activities to reduce vehicle roadways. waters. travel, thereby reducing local • In addition to the above • Increase opportunities for air pollution, and increasing benefits, a shorter access treatment of runoff before opportunities to walk or road and/or driveway will it reaches surface water.

Principles of Conservation Design ■ Use narrower and shorter drought-tolerant species of ■ Integrate smaller-scale streets, driveways, and grass to reduce watering BMPs and landscape fea- rights-of-way. needs where grass is tures throughout the site to desired. manage stormwater and ■ Put sidewalks on only one control NPS pollution. side of the street. ■ Disconnect impervious surfaces (e.g., slope drive- ■ Require enhanced ■ Allow for smaller lots and ways towards lawns or other performance septic sys- narrower setbacks and vegetated areas rather than tems or regular septic frontages to reduce the the street). system inspections when amount of land “disturbed” a development is not by development, maximize ■ Maintain significant vege- served by sewer. the amount of land tated buffers for surface ■ retained in open space, waters and do not mow to Encourage onsite collection and require less roadway the edge of the water. or infiltration of rainfall/ runoff from individual and driveway. ■ Use open, grassed swales to homesites (e.g., install ■ Reduce the size of parking convey stormwater rather rain barrels and cisterns to areas and use permeable than a curb and gutter sys- collect roof runoff, incorpo- surfaces for overflow park- tem. rate small bioretention ing areas. ■ Use all available natural areas or ‘raingardens’ on ■ Reduce the amount of area resource information in home sites to manage rain- maintained as lawn, and use designing the development. water). ■

12 BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND Previously-Developed Areas

Many people think that urban DES has produced other BMP trenches and infiltration basins areas are found only in large manuals specifically for developed (or ponds), can be used. cities and towns, but many of areas, Best Management Practices for Planning boards may need to New Hampshire’s villages and Urban Stormwater Runoff and enlist professional engineering small towns also have areas that Stormwater Management and Erosion services to review development are densely developed. Pockets of and Sediment Control Handbook for proposals. Such services may be development in rural towns, such Urban and Developing Areas in New available through county conser- as shopping centers, have some of Hampshire. The first guide covers vation districts, regional planning the same water quality issues that the BMPs required by the DES agencies, and private consultants. cities do. The practices discussed Alteration of Terrain Permit BMPs for in this section apply to any Program.The second is a compre- Previously-Developed Areas developed area. hensive reference for structural Developed areas typically have and vegetative BMPs, such as The following practices and higher amounts of impervious detention basins, level spreaders, structural BMPs can reduce NPS surfaces and existing stormwater grassed waterways, and others. pollution from existing devel- drainage systems. Many older An additional guidance doc- oped areas: stormwater drainage systems col- ument, Managing Stormwater as a General Guidelines lect water and pollutants from Va luable Resource: A Message for impervious surfaces and dis- New Hampshire Municipalities and ■ Use vegetation extensively to charge them directly to a stream, Water Suppliers, provides infor- filter runoff before it enters river, or other surface water mation on managing stormwa- surface waterbodies. body. As a result, watershed ter to protect water supply ■ Divert runoff around sites hydrology is impacted and pollu- resources and the conditions where pollutants could be tant loads increase. under which artificial infiltra- picked up by surface flow To r educe NPS pollution, tion BMPs, such as infiltration (e.g., gas stations). management of developed areas can take steps to prevent pollutants from entering stormwater. Additionally, urban and developed areas can be retrofitted by installing structural BMPs to reduce, collect, and treat stormwater. Redevelopment and renovation of existing sites provides excellent opportunities for improving stormwater management and reducing NPS pollution. DES has written a guide summarizing innovative retrofit BMPs called Innovative Stormwater Treatment Technologies: Best Management Practices Manual.

BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND 13 Specific Structural BMPs

■ Bioretention Area allowing for infiltration. A practice to manage and Wet swales use retention treat stormwater runoff by time and natural growth of using a conditioned planting water-tolerant vegetation to soil bed and planting material regulate flow and quality of to filter runoff stored within stormwater before discharge. a shallow depression.The ■ Infiltration Trench ■ Inspect areas periodically to system can include the An excavated trench that is make sure that potential pol- following components: a pre- backfilled with stone to form lutants, such as raw materials treatment filter strip of grass a subsurface basin.Water is for an industrial process, are in an inlet channel, a shallow slowly infiltrated into the soil, not left in areas where they surface water ponding area, usually over several days. Most can be transported by runoff a bioretention planting area, effective when combined with into waterbodies. a soil zone, an underdrain some form of pretreatment, ■ Keep parking areas, outdoor system, and an overflow out- such as a filter strip, to reduce storage areas, and streets clean let structure. For example, the amount of sediment of debris. Street sweeping can vegetated islands in parking reaching the trench. be used to remove sediment, lots can be recessed, rather ■ Infiltration Basin or Pond than raised, and designed as debris and trash from streets A grassed, flat-bottomed bioretention areas. and parking areas. basin preceded by a sediment ■ Clean out catch basins and ■ Grassed Swale forebay or riprap apron to other flow control devices An engineered grassed chan- slow the flow of water and regularly to prevent backup nel to transport stormwater. trap sediment.Water is slowly and overflow of sediments Dry swales facilitate quality infiltrated into the soil, and pollutants. and quantity control by usually over several days. ■ Dry Well A small excavated pit backfilled with aggregate, usually pea gravel or stone. Used to infiltrate runoff from building rooftops and in modified catch basins, where the inflow is direct surface runoff. ■ Stormwater Treatment Chamber An underground, divided chamber used to remove sediment, oil and debris from stormwater. Such chambers are typically used in conjunction with a stormwater retention or infiltration BMP.

14 BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND Laws and Regulations For Developed or Developing Land

As of March, 2003, the National All state laws in New Hampshire can be searched online at Pollutant Discharge Elimination gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html System (NPDES) Stormwater Phase II rule (“Phase II”) requires more stringent than the Act. In the responsibility of the applicant operators of small municipal sep- addition to the standards of the to document these considerations arate storm sewer systems (called Act, development within the in the application for a permit. MS4s), operators of municipally- protected shoreland must always RSA 485-A gives DES the owned industrial activities, and comply with all applicable local, authority to regulate septic sys- operators of small construction state, and federal regulations. tems. Design, operating, and per- sites (one acre or more) to imple- Site excavation is governed by mit requirements are found in ment programs and practices to RSA 485-A:17, known as the Administrative Rule Env-Ws control polluted stormwater Alteration of Terrain or Site 1000. The regulations require all runoff. More information on Specific Permit Program. Devel- subdivisions creating lots smaller these regulations can be found at opment as well as redevelopment than five acres to obtain approval www.des.nh.gov/stormwater. activities may require a permit from DES. If the site lies within a Local planning boards are under this program. Please see protected shoreline area, all lots, authorized to regulate subdivi- page 23 for more information. regardless of size, require approval sions and nonresidential and RSA-482-A and the rules prom- from DES (RSA 483-B). Any multi-family residential site devel- ulgated under that law (Env-Wt developed waterfront property opment under RSA 674:35 and 100-700) require that projects be on great ponds and tidal waters 674:43,respectively.The require- designed to avoid and minimize with an on-site subsurface system ments for developing a local mas- impacts to wetlands and other must be assessed for compliance ter plan are found under RSA jurisdictional areas. The impacts with current standards prior to 674:1-4. Zoning ordinances are that are proposed must be only the execution of a purchase-and- covered under RSA 674:17-20. those that are unavoidable. It is sale agreement (RSA 485-A:39). Innovative land use controls are described under RSA 674:21. What the Implementation of Phase II Means The Comprehensive Shore- land Protection Act (RSA 483-B) For regulated MS4s, six mini- Six Minimum Control Measures mum control measures must be establishes minimum standards 1. Public education implemented within five years of for the future subdivision, use, and outreach and development of the shore- receiving the Phase II permit. lands within 250 feet of the Permittees must submit an 2. Public participation state’s public waters. When annual report to EPA summariz- and involvement repairs, improvements, or expan- ing their progress toward achiev- 3. Illicit discharge detection sions are proposed to existing ing specific measurable goals in and elimination development, the law requires the six categories. these alterations to be consistent EPA has issued guidance on 4. Construction site with the intent of the Act. DES is recommended BMPs and develop- runoff control responsible for enforcing the ing measurable goals and con- 5. Post-construction standards within the protected ducted a series of workshops on runoff control shoreland, unless a community the Phase II requirements. DES 6. Pollution prevention and adopts an ordinance or shoreland is providing technical and finan- good housekeeping provisions that are equal to or cial support whenever possible.

BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND 15 Resources: BMPs for Developed or Developing Land

For assistance with local land use planning and regulations, local officials are encouraged to contact their regional planning agency, county conservation district, the N.H. Office of State Planning and Energy Programs, or DES (many of these are listed in the Appendix). These organizations can also help identify other federal, state, and local technical assistance and educational programs.

DES Phase II Website www.des.nh.gov/stormwater/ DES Fact Sheets Federal Stormwater Permits.WD-WEB-8, 2002.Available online at: www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wwt/web-8.htm Impacts of Development Upon Stormwater Runoff.WD-WQE-7, 1996. Available online at: www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wqe/wqe-7.htm See page 38 for DES fact sheets describing the Alteration of Terrain Permit program. DES. For more information on the Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act, see www.des.nh.gov/cspa/ DES. Best Management Practices for Urban Stormwater Runoff. R-WSPCD-95- 3, January 1996. Copies ($5 each) can be ordered from DES by calling (603) 271-2975. DES Drinking Water Source Protection Program. Managing Stormwater as a Valuable Resource:A Message for New Hampshire Municipalities and Water Suppliers. DES-R-WD-01-13, September 2001. Online at www.des.nh.gov/dwspp/stormwater.pdf. DES Wetlands Bureau. Guidebook for Wetlands Permit. www.des.nh.gov/ wetlands/guidebook/ DES Watershed Management Bureau. Innovative Stormwater Treatment Te c hnologies: Best Management Practices Manual. DES-WD-02-2, May 2002. Online at www.des.nh.gov/wmb/was/manual. Rockingham County Conservation District and DES. Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook for Urban and Developing Areas in New Hampshire. August 1992. Copies ($25 each) can be ordered from DES by calling (603) 271-2975. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, NH office. Municipal Guide for Nonpoint Source Pollution. Fact sheet available by calling (603) 868-7581. USEPA Office of Water. Low Impact Development (LID):A Literature Review. Washington DC. EPA 841-B-00-005, October 2000. Online at www.epa.gov/owow/nps/lid.pdf. USEPA Websites Fact sheets on each of the minimum measures and other aspects of the Phase II rule are available on the EPA’s website, http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/swfinal.cfm

16 BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND Complete information on EPA’s stormwater program is online at http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/home.cfm?program_id=6 Te rrene Institute. Nonpoint Source News-Notes. An occasional bulletin. 4 Herbert St.,Alexandria,VA 22305. Online at www.epa.gov/owow/info/NewsNotes Center for Watershed Protection.“The Benefits of Better Site Design in Residential Subdivisions,” article #46 in The Practice of Watershed Protection, 2000, editors Thomas R. Schueler and Heather K. Holland, Ellicott City, MD.Available online at www.stormwatercenter.net/ Library/Practice/46.pdf or from the Center for Watershed Protection, 8391 Main Street, Ellicott City, MD 21043, (410) 461-8323. Center for Watershed Protection. Better Site Design:A Handbook for Changing Development Rules in Your Community. August 1998. See reference above for ordering information or go online at www.cwp.org/index.html.This handbook discusses 22 design principles to address NPS pollution and conserve natural areas. It provides detailed information on the current practice, preferred approach, and current perceptions regarding residential streets and parking areas, residential developments, conservation of natural areas, and open space. Center for Watershed Protection. Stormwater BMP Design Supplement for Cold Climates. 1997. See above reference for ordering information; publication is online at www.cwp.org/cold-climates.htm. Center for Watershed Protection. The Practice of Watershed Protection, 2000, editors Thomas R. Schueler and Heather K. Holland, Ellicott City, MD. Available online at www.stormwatercenter.net/Library/Practice/46.pdf or from the Center for Watershed Protection, 8391 Main Street, Ellicott City, MD 21043, (410) 461-8323. Center for Watershed Protection. Stormwater Manager’s Resource Center at www.stormwatercenter.net is a website designed for stormwater practi- tioners, local government officials, and others that need technical assistance on stormwater management issues. Metropolitan Council Environmental Services. Minnesota Urban Small Sites BMP Manual: Stormwater Best Management Practices for Cold Climates. Prepared by Barr Engineering Company, 2001. Metropolitan Council Environmental Services, Mears Park Center, 230 E. 5th St., St. Paul, MN 55101.Available at www.metrocouncil.org/environment/Watershed/ BMP/manual.htm Department of Environmental Resources, Prince Georges County, Maryland. Low-Impact Development Design Strategies:An Integrated Design Approach. Programs and Planning Division, June 1999.Available online at www.epa.gov/owow/nps/lidnatl.pdf

BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND 17 18 BMPs FOR DEVELOPED OR DEVELOPING LAND 3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY

This section identifies some of the land uses that generate NPS pollution, lists ways to control pollution by land use, and provides a list of resources.

Households See BMP Resources on page 36

Reducing NPS Pollution Septic Systems Around Your Home A proper, well-maintained septic system will adequately treat your sewage. If it is not taken care of, a septic system may become clogged There are a number of BMPs and overflow on the ground or cause wastewater to back up into the that a household can employ to house.A failed system is unhealthy, expensive to replace, and may con- reduce their contributions to taminate nearby ground and/or surface waters, including nearby wells. NPS pollution. Although each Taking a few precautions can avoid costly septic system problems. individual household may con- ■ Know the location of your reduce the amount of water tribute only minor amounts of septic tank and leaching area; the system must treat. NPS pollution, the cumulative mark the tank cover(s) with ■ Avoid putting food waste and effects of household-level action partially buried bricks. grease into the system or to reduce pollution by an entire ■ Have your tank inspected using a garbage disposal. Food neighborhood or region of yearly. If the sludge and waste will not only fill your households can be significant. surface scum combined are septic tank rapidly and require Potential household contri- as thick as one third the more frequent pumping, but butions to NPS pollution liquid depth of your tank, will also float and can eventu- include: have the tank pumped out ally clog the leaching system. ■ bacteria, chemical, and by a licensed septage hauler. ■ Keep deep-rooted trees and nutrient discharges from ■ Keep bulky items such as dis- bushes away from the leach septic systems; posable diapers, sanitary pads, field. ■ ■ chemical use, storage, and cigarettes, or paper towels out Keep vehicles, livestock, or disposal; of the system.These will clog heavy foot traffic away from the leaching system. the leach field, as the weight ■ sediments, chemicals, and ■ Keep toxic materials such may compress the soil too nutrients from lawn and as paint thinner, pesticides, much or break the pipes. garden activities; or chlorine out of your ■ Minimize the use of deter- ■ runoff from impervious system.These chemicals gents and bleaches; use alter- surfaces (e.g., driveways, may kill the necessary native cleaning products such roofs, patios); bacteria in the tank. as baking soda, borax, or non- ■ pet waste; and ■ Do not use septic tank addi- chlorine scouring powders. ■ air pollution contribu- tives.They may cause harm Many cleaning products such tions, from energy use by killing essential bacteria. as toilet bowl cleaners contain and vehicle use. ■ Repair leaking fixtures chlorine and strong acids that promptly; use water-reducing will kill the necessary bacteria fixtures wherever possible to in the septic system.

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 19 Chemical Use, Storage and Disposal Hazardous household products such as cleaners, paint thinner, spot remover, oven cleaner, furni- ture polish, drain opener, pool chemicals, and even hair spray can Lawn and Garden Activities be found in most home storage cabinets. Hazardous products can Landscaping and gardening practices can contribute to NPS pollution usually be identified by a warning through lawn chemicals, fertilizers, silt, and sand. However, with a few label on the container. These minor changes, backyards can actually play an active role in improving products, when handled improp- water quality. erly, can contaminate a well, poi- son a stream, or disrupt the proper ■ Test your soil to know what ■ When possible, reduce the functioning of a septic system. it actually needs before you size of your lawn by planting apply fertilizer or lime low-maintenance ground- ■ Buy nontoxic alternatives (contact your county UNH covers, trees, flowers, and whenever possible. Cooperative Extension shrubs to help water infiltrate ■ Read the label carefully office for information on into the ground and prevent before buying, using, or soil testing). soil erosion. disposing of products. ■ When fertilizer is necessary, ■ For new lawns, use 6-12 ■ Buy only the quantity that select a slow-release fertilizer inches of topsoil to encour- you need and use only the to avoid excess nutrients run- age deeper root growth recommended amount. ning into the water. Under ■ For waterfront or wetland ■ Store and label wastes safely, the Shoreland Protection Act, areas, maintain or plant a nat- then bring them to a local a 25-foot fertilizer-free buffer ural vegetation buffer at least household hazardous waste day must be maintained around 100 feet wide between the collection (contact DES at wetlands and surface water. lawn and the water to hold 271-2047 for locations near ■ Plant natural, native plant soil in place, absorb pollution you). Many towns also accept species instead of non-native before reaching the water, and used oil for recycling. plants (plants that were intro- provide wildlife habitat. Some ■ Hazardous chemicals should duced for agricultural pur- species of wildlife require NOT be poured on the poses or by accident). Native more than 100 foot buffers. ground or down the drain, plants generally require much ■ Start composting in your back- discarded in the trash, buried, less water, herbicides, fertiliz- yard and use compost on your or burned! ers, or trimming. gardens and lawns and around trees and bushes. Composting your yard and food waste is easy and will reduce the need for fertilizers and water by adding nutrients and helping the soil retain moisture. ■ Refrain from using pesticides near surface water. ■ Read pesticide labels carefully.

20 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY Impervious Surfaces Pets Runoff from stormwater washes Scooping your pooch’s poop isn’t just a neighborhood courtesy; it is across yards, driveways, roads, and also the healthy and environmentally sound thing to do. Pet waste may patios, picking up loose soil, pet be a source of bacteria and nutrients in water. Just as we don’t want wastes, fertilizers, pesticides, oil, human sewage in our water, it is important to prevent pet waste from soaps, and other pollutants and littering our towns and being carried into our waterways. People depositing them into streams, drinking and swimming in water contaminated by pet waste could rivers, and lakes.Water directed to ingest harmful pathogens. pervious surfaces will help filter many of these possible contami- ■ Pick up pet waste and flush like a small septic tank. nants before entering our surface it down the toilet, bury it Some local laws or neigh- waters in addition to recharging in the yard, or put it in the borhood rules may restrict our groundwater supplies. trash.Another option is to their use. install an underground pet ■ Do not put pet waste into ■ Limit the amount of imper- waste digester that works storm drains. vious surface on your property (impervious surfaces include sidewalks, roofs, Air Pollution – Acid Deposition driveways, and patios). Through rain or snow, acid deposition deposits acids and acidifying ■ Replace impervious surfaces compounds to the Earth's surface, which then move through soil, veg- with natural ground cover or etation, and surface waters.Acid deposition is formed when emissions with material that allows of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides react with other substances in the some water to seep into the atmosphere to form the acidic compounds. Sulfur dioxide and nitro- ground, such as gravel, brick, gen oxides are emitted primarily from power plants and motor vehi- stepping stones, wood chips, cles as a result of burning fossil fuels. or other porous surface. Acid Deposition leads to adverse impacts such as increased mortal- ■ Direct runoff from impervious ity among sensitive species, decreased visibility, and stunted forest surfaces to areas on your prop- growth. In addition, soils that are saturated with nitrogen have little erty where the water can seep capacity to buffer acid rain before it enters streams.The use of nitro- into the ground. For exam- gen fertilizers, nitrogen-fixing crops, and fossil fuels has doubled and ple, direct roof downspouts continues to increase the rate of nitrogen entering the land. away from the driveway or ■ Reduce your use of electric- the top of your list of desirable the storm drainage system ity (turn off lights, turn down features and look for the and into a gravel swale or thermostats, hang laundry to Energy Star label indicating grassed area, or collect roof dry, take quick showers, etc.). the item is energy efficient. runoff in a screened-top ■ Drive your car less by car- ■ When buying a new vehicle, rain barrel and use to water pooling, biking, walking, and ask the car dealer for a plants around your yard. combining trips. Granite State Clean Car and ■ Maintain or restore natural ■ Maintain your car’s pollution look for the Clean Cars Label vegetated areas as buffers control equipment, keep your indicating the vehicle meets along river, lake, and coastal tires properly inflated, and lower emission standards and waterfronts. keep your engine tuned. better fuel economy. ■ Sweep driveways and walk- ■ When buying a new appliance, ■ Contact your electric utility ways instead of hosing them such as a refrigerator or clothes to see what it is doing to down. dryer, put energy efficiency at reduce emissions.

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 21 Laws and Regulations A complete copy of the rules tires. A Vehicle Registration Fees Failure to achieve compliance by governing septic systems in New fact sheet is available at www.des. that date will prevent access to Hampshire Env-Ws 1000, Sub- nh.gov/sw.htm or call DES at the state cleanup funds should an division and Individual Sewage (603) 271-2975. oil release occur.To assist owners Disposal System Design Rules is After January 1, 2005, owners in meeting this new requirement, available at www.des.nh.gov/ of on-premise heating oil tanks RSA 146-E authorizes a grant pro- rules/envws1000.pdf. Hardcopy must meet DES “Best Manage- gram (up to $1,000) for owners available at DES, 29 Hazen Drive, ment Practices for the Installation who demonstrate a financial Concord, NH 03301, (603) 271- or Upgrading of On-Premise- need. For more information, see 2975 for $10. Use Heating Oil Tank Facilities.” DES fact sheet OIL-24: Best More information on the On-premise-use facilities include Management Practices for the Instal- Shoreland Protection Act is avail- heating oil tanks and piping lation and Upgrading of On-Premise- able at www.des.nh.gov/cspa. located at single family homes, Use Heating Oil Tank Facilities at Under RSA 261:153(V) and apartments, commercial build- www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/oil/ RSA 149-M:18,city treasurers and ings, and industrial facilities. oil-24.htm. town clerks can assess a fee to pay All state laws in New Hampshire can be searched online at for collection and disposal fees of gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html motor oil, car batteries, and car

Site Excavation and Road Construction See BMP Resources on page 38

Site excavation and develop- channels built along roads to carry habitat losses for fish and inverte- ment, road construction, and road stormwater will erode easily brates, wetlands can fill in and maintenance activities may not before they are properly stabi- vegetation can be smothered; cul- last long, but erosion and sedi- lized. Site excavation and devel- verts and ditches can be plugged; mentation from any earth moving opment may make soil and and recreational potential can be can have long-term impacts on attached chemicals more available, reduced when soil loss from exca- water quality. Towns may face resulting in polluted lakes and vation activities is high. Nutrients financial impacts from removing streams. Bare soil particles are dis- and chemicals can be released sediments from ditches, culverts, lodged by rainfall and can be from sediment that enters a and drains. transported down slope to waterbody. Released phosphorus The road building process is streams, lakes, and wetlands. The can cause algal blooms in lakes more susceptible to erosion prob- extent of erosion is influenced by and encourage eutrophication. lems than other types of construc- exposure, rainfall intensity and Construction sites may use tion. Drainage ditches and duration, soil type, vegetation, numerous chemicals at the site, topography, and season. such as pesticides, fertilizers, petro- The sedimentation or deposi- leum products and construction tion of material eroded by water chemicals. Solid wastes and some- from site excavation or road con- times hazardous wastes may also struction and maintenance activ- be handled on site.The “Chemi- ity can have significant negative cals and Petroleum Products” effects on water quality and section of this document dis- aquatic habitats from increased cusses BMPs for preventing NPS sedimentation. In addition to pollution from these sources.

22 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY BMPs for Site Excavation and Road Construction The following list identifies some of the BMPs for developers and road designers to consider.

■ Optimize nonpoint source ■ Minimize slope lengths and completed. Remove pollution control by integrat- divert runoff around dis- sediment accumulated ing BMPs into the overall site turbed areas. during construction from development plans. ■ Construct and install stable permanent BMPs once ■ Prepare field documents for outlets for all ditches and construction activities are the construction crew and stormwater sewer systems completed. the planning board, with clear prior to building the ditches ■ Design roads to minimize instructions and dimensions and pipe outlets. the amount of impervious for erosion control measures. ■ Provide outlet protection at surface created and maximize ■ Municipalities can provide waterways, culverts, and opportunities for on-site quality assurance, including storm sewers to dissipate the treatment of stormwater. professional plan review and energy of water conveyed ■ Minimize or avoid construct- detailed field checks during through a pipe or paved ing roads near sensitive areas construction. channel before it discharges such as wetlands, lakes, rivers, ■ Retain natural vegetation to the receiving stream. or streams. where possible, especially ■ Protect treatment swales from ■ Avoid building roads up and near waterbodies, wetlands, turbulence and sediment down steep slopes. Follow the and steep slopes. accumulation. contours of the land as much ■ Minimize the amount of bare ■ Consider wet ponds and as possible. soil exposed by scheduling constructed wetlands to ■ Protect existing stormwater phases of construction and improve water quality where inlets and culverts from sedi- stabilization. detention is required. ment by using temporary ■ Prevent erosion by covering ■ Monitor practices and adjust, sediment traps, silt fence and bare soil with mulch or other maintain, and repair them hay bale filters, or perforated cover. periodically and after every risers. ■ Establish vegetative cover storm. Laws and Regulations with good root systems prior ■ Remove temporary measures to freeze/thaw cycles. only after construction is Site excavation and road construction activities are governed by RSA 485-A:17, known as the Alteration of Terrain Program or Site Specific Permit Program. Under this program, individuals are required to obtain a permit from DES for any earth disturbance greater than 100,000 square feet, or 50,000 square feet within a protected shoreland area. Protected shoreland is any land within 250 feet of the public boundary of public waters,

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 23 which includes all waterbodies ures during construction and www.des.nh.gov/stormwater/ with a surface area of 10 acres or permanent controls for storm- construction.htm for more infor- more, all fourth order or higher water following construction. mation. water courses, estuaries, and Construction sites (including As of November 2003, DES is coastal waters. The program’s road construction areas if soil is developing a new Administrative administrative rules are found in disturbed) that disturb one or Rule (Env-Wt 303.05(q)) that Env-Ws 415 (www.des.nh.gov/ more acres must obtain a would allow for a notification rules/env415.pdf). Permits typi- NPDES permit under the Phase process for certain road mainte- cally contain erosion control II Stormwater Regulations. The nance activities conducted in provisions, which include federal permit requires pollution accordance with best manage- requirements for installation of prevention plans to reduce pollu- ment practices detailed in the BMPs, such as detention ponds, tion at the construction site.The manual titled Best Management sedimentation ponds, treatment components of pollution preven- Practices for Routine Roadway swales, and vegetated buffer tion plans are similar to BMPs Maintenance Activities in New strips. The permit involves both required by the DES Site Hampshire (NHDOT, August temporary erosion control meas- Specific Permit Program. See 2001).

Road Salting and Snow Dumping See BMP Resources on page 39

In New England, plowing, sand- ing, and manufacturing. Snow harmed at much lower concen- ing, and de-icing are standard also accumulates pollutants from trations. techniques used to keep roadways gas, oil, and metals from car leaks Applying salt to roadways passable and safe for traveling dur- and wearing parts, direct applica- undoubtedly prevents crashes and ing the winter. Runoff from melt- tion of salt, sand, and roadway saves lives, but it also has an eco- ing snow carries accumulated deterioration. This phenomenon nomic cost because of increased pollutants and street and soil sur- is familiar to everyone who has corrosion on automobiles and face materials. In urban areas, noticed older snow piles getting highway structures such as bridge plowed snow sometimes needs to black and gray. decks. Minimizing the application be moved to a remote location, Impacts from the application rate of salt without affecting safety and the resulting stockpile holds of sodium chloride on roads are therefore has economic benefits as accumulated pollutants. Salt stor- important for both drinking well as ecological ones. age is also a concern if runoff from water safety and the protection of BMPs for Road Salting the storage site is not adequately aquatic life. Sodium is a drinking and Snow Dumping controlled. water concern for individuals on Pollutants accumulate in snow low-sodium diets. Chloride in Application of Road Salts through several processes. In the drinking water is a taste concern, atmosphere, falling snowflakes but not a health concern. EPA ■ Sensitive areas, such as public are effective scavengers of exist- has studied the impact of chlo- water supplies, lakes, and ponds, ing particulate and aerosol pollu- ride ions on aquatic life and should be identified and made tants. After the snow has fallen, found that chloride associated known to salt applicators. the snowpack is subject to depo- with sodium was toxic to certain Consider de-icing alternatives sition of airborne pollutants forms of aquatic life at a four-day (calcium magnesium acetate, originating from fossil fuel com- average concentration of 230 sand, etc.) in sensitive areas. bustion, trash incineration, mg/l. Some plant species at the ■ Ground-speed controllers chemical processing, metal plat- base of the food chain can be should be used for all spreaders.

24 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY ■ Give salt time to work; plow- Snow Dumping ■ Direct internal drainage to a ing operations should be collection system and keep ■ Disposed or stockpiled snow timed to allow maximum stormwater flow outside of should be stored on pervious melting by salt before snow is shelter. surfaces, such as grass, where plowed off the road. it can infiltrate through soils. Laws and Regulations ■ Know when to plow and Storage should be on flat reapply salt.The need for areas, and at least 25 feet from The Groundwater Protection Act, another salt application can the high water mark and/or RSA 485-C, contains provisions be determined by watching edge of the bank of the sur- relative to salt storage and use. melting snow kicked out face water. Certain studies The Act lists “salt storage and use behind vehicle tires. If the suggest that a 100-foot set- for winter road and parking lot slush is soft and fans out like back provides greater protec- maintenance” as a potential con- water, the salt is still working. tion to sensitive species and tamination source. Potential con- Once the slush begins to water quality. tamination sources must be inventoried and managed in stiffen and is thrown directly ■ Secure a silt fence or equiva- Class GAA and GA1 groundwa- to the rear of vehicle tires, it lent barrier between the ter, which are wellhead protec- is time to plow. snow storage area and the tion areas and areas of locally ■ For lesser traveled roads, water body. valuable groundwater, respec- consider applying salt in a ■ The snow storage area should tively. Reclassification of 4-8 foot strip along the be a least 75 feet from any groundwater can be requested by centerline of a two lane private water supply wells, at local water suppliers. New out- road. Less salt is wasted with least 200 feet from any com- door salt storage facilities and this pattern and quickly munity water supply wells, snow dumps are prohibited in gives vehicles clear pavement and at least 400 feet from any class GAA groundwater. under at least two wheels. municipal wells. (Note: snow RSA 483-B:9, Minimum Traffic will soon move some storage areas are prohibited in Shoreland Protection Standards, salt off the centerline and wellhead protection areas prohibits the establishment or salt brine will move toward [class GAA groundwater]). expansion of salt storage yards both shoulders for added ■ All debris should be removed within the protected shoreland, melting across the entire prior to snow storage, and new which is all land within 250 feet road width. debris should be cleared from of lakes and ponds greater than ■ Determine levels of service the site and properly disposed 10 acres in size, larger rivers, and for all roads in a service area. of no later than May 15. estuaries and coastal waters. Salt application rates and fre- Storage of De-icing Compounds RSA 485-A:13 prohibits the quency should be based on disposal of any waste to the sur- traffic volume, road grade and ■ Store de-icing compounds face water or groundwater of the curvature, intersections, and on sheltered, impervious state without first obtaining a weather conditions. Sand or surfaces. written permit from DES. sand/salt mix should be used ■ Locate salt piles at least Plowed snow also contains waste based on the level of service 100 feet from streams and and therefore requires a permit requirements. flood plains. prior to disposal in surface water. ■ At the end of the season, sweep accumulated salt and All state laws in New Hampshire can be searched online at sand from roads to prevent gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html further runoff of pollutants.

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 25 Motor Vehicle Salvage and Storage Facilities See BMP Resources on page 40

Cars are the #1 recycled prod- spill absorbents, fuel tanks con- Laws and Regulations uct in the U.S.At least 95 percent taining fuel and residues, and of all cars scrapped in the U.S. are other items. The primary pollu- In New Hampshire, MVSF activ- collected for reuse and recycling, tants of concern include fuel and ities are regulated under several and approximately 75 percent of oil constituents, heavy metals, independent programs within the material in a scrapped car is acids, and suspended solids. local, state, and federal govern- currently recycled. Motor vehi- ment, none of which provide cle salvage facilities (MVSFs) comprehensive environmental BMPs for Motor Vehicle perform a valuable service that oversight. The New Hampshire Salvage and Storage Facilities ultimately saves energy and natu- Green Yards Program has been ral resources, in addition to ■ Drain vehicles, parts, and designed to improve environ- reducing air and water pollution cores soon after vehicles enter mental compliance at MVSFs that would be generated to make the facility. Undrained vehi- through facility registration, new parts. However, salvage yards cles stored on bare ground BMP guidance, and operator also handle wastes that are poten- should have drip pans under training. The DES program is tially harmful to public health places where leaks can occur. designed to augment, not dupli- and the environment if they con- cate, the following existing regu- ■ Dismantle vehicles and parts taminate the soil, air, surface latory programs: on a curbed, impermeable water, and groundwater. RSA 236:111-129 requires concrete surface with spill Although the exact number MVSFs to obtain location controls in place, such as drip has not yet been determined, approval and an annual license to pans and absorbent materials. DES has identified several hun- operate from a municipality. If draining is done outdoors, dred MVSFs in New Hampshire. Noncompliant facilities can be the work area should be cov- For the purpose of this publica- declared a nuisance and shut ered to keep rainwater from tion, the term MVSF includes down under local authority. collecting and to prevent towing yards, salvage pools, auto RSA 236:90-110 requires contaminated runoff from recyclers/dismantlers, and scrap MVSFs along certain federally- rain or melting snow. processors. These facilities range funded highways to obtain loca- from temporary storage areas for ■ Deposit collected fluids in tion approval and an annual damaged cars to retail businesses structurally sound storage license to operate from the N.H. for used auto parts to places containers. Batteries should Department of Transportation. where the “hulks” are shredded be stored properly. RSA 149-M provides compre- and sold for metal scrap. ■ Clean up spills immediately. hensive authority for DES to reg- Potential hazardous wastes at Dispose of absorbents properly. ulate solid waste management an MVSF include used oil, facilities. MVSFs are a type of ■ Remove all fluids from vehi- improperly drained oil filters, solid waste management facility cles before crushing, and mercury switches, engine and must therefore comply with recycle or dispose of fluids. coolants contaminated with oil the rules adopted under RSA 149- and fuel constituents, refriger- ■ Standardize your procedures M that prescribe proper manage- ants, intact air bag cartridges, bat- using a checklist. See an ment of various types of solid teries, lead parts (wheel weights, example checklist on the Web waste generated when disman- etc.), soiled shop towels, spent at www.pca.state.mn.us/air/ tling a vehicle. See Administrative degreasers and other solvents, pubs/mvsf_frm.pdf. Rules Env-Wm 100-300, 2100-

26 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY obtain a release detection permit All state laws in New Hampshire can be searched online at gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html from DES. Through the DES groundwater/drinking water pro- 3700 (www.des.nh.gov/rules/ Rule Env-Wm 100-1000 (www. tection program, MVSFs are also swrules. pdf). In the future, DES des.state.nh.us/hwrb/hwrules.pdf. subject to the administrative rules may also require MVSFs to RSA 146-A and Env-Ws 1402 Env-Ws 421 that prescribe BMPs become registered or permitted authorize DES to regulate for groundwater protection. under RSA 149-M and MVSF aboveground oil storage tanks. 40 CFR 122 (Federal NPDES operators to obtain training RSA 485-C authorizes DES to regulations) require MVSFs to through the solid waste facility implement a groundwater protec- obtain storm water management operator training program. tion program. The program permits from EPA for discharg- RSA 147-A authorizes DES to includes a requirement for ing surface runoff from a point regulate hazardous waste as im- MVSFs, if located within certain source (such as from storm plemented under Administrative groundwater protection areas, to drains, culverts, ditches, swales).

Marinas See BMP Resources on page 41

Water-based recreation is one first source was accidents or spills based detergents, which can cause of New Hampshire’s primary at dockside fueling stations. algal blooms, decrease water clar- industries, and its economic suc- Unlike land based fuel stations ity, reduce oxygen levels in the cess is dependent on a healthy where a small spill can be easily water, and impact fish and other environment. Marinas provide cleaned up, one gallon of fuel aquatic organisms. Marinas are important services such as main- spilled into the water can cover also the place where exotic tenance and repair, fueling, and as much as one square mile of the species, such as variable milfoil, winter storage for boats.They also water surface if not immediately may be introduced if a boat from provide residents and vacationers contained. Gasoline is toxic to an affected waterbody has not access to public waters. Because of freshwater and marine organ- been properly washed before it is their location at the water’s edge isms.The second major pollutant launched at the marina. and the types of services that they pathway identified in the study perform, marinas can act as a was the funnel effect created by conduit for nonpoint source pol- boat ramps. At most marinas, lution. Nevertheless, according to boat ramps act as a conduit link- the EPA, marinas present a minor ing the parking lot and mainte- source of pollution compared to nance areas directly to the water. the overall contribution of non- Storm water runoff and boat point pollution from sources such wash runoff can pick up a wide as urban areas and agriculture. variety of contaminants, includ- For several years in the early ing petroleum products, heavy 1990s, DES biologists monitored metals, bacteria, and nutrients. water quality at three marinas on Other pollutants generated at a Lake Winnipesaukee (DES, marina include pathogens (pet 1995). DES observed that a waste and overboard sewage dis- decrease in lake quality at the charge), fish waste (dockside fish marinas was the result of two cleaning), toxic metals (from primary pollutant pathways. The antifoulants), and phosphorus-

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 27 BMPs for Marinas facilities are maintained in RSA 487:2 prohibits the oper- good condition. ation of boats constructed to ■ Use only phosphate-free ■ discharge wastewater upon detergents and establish a Divert clean runoff and install waters of the State. wash area over an infiltration infiltrating catch basins around RSA 485-A:55, 56 prohibits the trench or a vegetated swale. If boat launches to prevent pol- sale of detergents, except dish- possible, use a high-pressure lutants from washing down the washer detergents, that contain sprayer with no detergents, or ramp and entering the lake. more than a trace amount of wait until the boat is out of ■ Provide public rest rooms phosphorus. the water to clean it. and pumpout facilities to The Clean Vessel Act was passed eliminate the potential ■ Perform periodic engine by Congress in 1992 and reau- discharge of wastewater to maintenance (e.g., changing thorized in 1998 to help reduce waterbodies. oil, winterizing) out of the pollution from vessel sewage dis- water. Propylene glycol Laws and Regulations charges. The Act established a should be substituted for eth- five-year federal grant program ylene glycol antifreeze when RSA 482-A and the administrative administered by the U.S. Fish and winterizing engines.The rules of the Wetlands Bureau Wildlife Service. All recreational oxidation of propylene glycol (Env-Wt 100-800) regulate the vessels must have access to yields pyruvic and acetic construction of docks and mari- pumpouts under the Clean Vessel acids, which are not toxic to nas. Piers, floats, tie-off piles, and Act. Funds are provided to states aquatic organisms. mooring buoys in navigable for the construction, renovation, ■ Scrape, sand, sandblast, and waters of the U.S. typically fall operation, and maintenance of paint boats away from the under the State Programmatic pumpout stations for pumping open where dust, paint chips, General Permit process, which is waste out of recreational boat or paint spray can be blown a cooperative program with the holding tanks and dump stations into the water.Whenever these U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. for emptying portable toilets.For a types of practices are con- Moorings are regulated by the directory of New Hampshire boat ducted, appropriate contain- Department of Safety under pumpout locations and informa- ment devices should be used. authority of RSA 270 and admin- tion about boat pumpout service istrative rules Saf-C 400-413. see www.des.nh.gov/wmb/cva. ■ Install containment booms at fueling stations. Institute All state laws in New Hampshire can be searched online at weekly inspections to ensure gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html

Agriculture and Golf Courses See BMP Resources on page 42

There are approximately 2,900 ing the productivity of the land, loss or sedimentation, nutrients, commercial and small-scale yet its activities can also con- and pesticides. farms and 100–110 golf courses tribute nonpoint source pollu- Runoff from bare fields can in New Hampshire, according to tion. Golf courses generally pick up soil particles, causing the 1997 USDA Census of require intensive turf manage- erosion of the land and sedimen- Agriculture and the N.H. Golf ment, which often means chem- tation of waterbodies. Excessive Association. In addition, there ical applications. The three irrigation on managed turf can are countless backyard hobby primary nonpoint source con- sometimes result in deep perco- farms throughout the state. cerns from agricultural and golf lation and runoff. Soil particles Farming depends on maintain- course land use activities are soil suspended in surface water

28 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY BMPs for Agriculture and ■ Protect the soil with rota- Golf Courses tional grazing. ■ Rotate crops that provide Although the activities are differ- limited ground cover with ent, the basic goals of BMPs for those that provide generous agriculture and golf courses are ground cover. very similar.They are as follows: ■ Plant crops along contour ■ Reduce the off-site transport lines when possible. of sediment, nutrients, and ■ Construct and stabilize diver- pesticides. sions to control runoff across ■ Control the rate, method, and cropland and gully erosion. ▲ type of nutrients and chemi- reduce the amount of sunlight ■ Reduce erosion and sedimen- cals being applied. available to aquatic plants; impair tation by barring access by the gills of fish, shellfish, and ■ Reduce the total chemical livestock on bare streambanks. aquatic insects; and diminish the loads by use of integrated in-stream habitat for aquatic pest management (IPM), eco- Managing nutrients effectively organisms. Soil particles not only nomic thresholds, alternative ■ Monitor the level of nutri- affect stream or lake sediment pest control, and soil testing. ents in soils by regular soil loads, but can also introduce pol- Several BMPs for agriculture testing. ▲ lutants to the system, because and golf courses are listed below ■ pollutants attach to the particles. by pollution source. Many of Divert, collect, or store runoff Runoff from fertilized fields these can also be applied to water from buildings and ▲ and golf courses can cause algal home use. For new golf courses, yards. blooms and related problems by several problems can be avoided ■ Install a vegetative filter along introducing unnatural concentra- if the designer fits the course to surface waters, feedlots, and tions of nitrogen and phosphorus the existing terrain as much as edges of fields. ▲ to an aquatic ecosystem. Nutrient possible, and takes into consider- ■ Avoid spreading manure or runoff can increase the produc- ation waterbodies, wetlands, and fertilizer during winter. ▲ tivity of aquatic plants that will steep slopes at the site. Most of ■ Incorporate manure into soil eventually die and decay. The these BMPs are applicable to as soon as possible after bacteria decomposing the dead agriculture. The BMPs that are spreading to minimize runoff organic matter can deplete the also applicable to golf courses are during rainstorms. ▲ oxygen supply in the water and marked with the symbol . ■ Prevent or control livestock cause unpleasant odors for recre- access to waterbodies and Managing sedimentation ational users of lakes and streams. implement “pasture pumps” or Runoff from manure is also a ■ Minimize tillage when farm- other watering systems next to source of bacteria, which can ing and minimize extensive heavy use areas and feed bunks. adversely affect human health. earth-moving when design- ■ Diversify crop rotations and Pesticides, fungicides, and her- ing a golf course. ▲ plant cover crops after bicides applied to farmlands, ■ harvesting that use residual lawns, and golf courses can also Plant a cover crop and/or nutrients. degrade water resources. Exposure allow crop residue to remain ■ to certain chemicals can cause on the soil after harvest. Determine manure application poisoning to people and wildlife, ■ Plant vegetative filter strips rates and timing according to through direct exposure and along surface waters and nutrient needs of the crop. drinking water. between fields and fairways.▲ ■ Set realistic yield goals.

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 29 Reducing pesticide use prior to application. Pesticides Nutrient Runoff must be registered with the state, ■ Apply pesticides only when and applicators must submit and Land Use needed. ▲ reports of pesticide usage annu- ■ Which type of land use has Use insect-resistant crop or ally. Commercial applicators are ▲ higher amounts of nutrients turf varieties. also required to pass an exam that in runoff – agricultural land or ■ Spot-treat insect infestations covers label protocol, chemical ▲ developed (urban, suburban, when possible. safety, environmental conse- industrial, and commercial)? ■ Conserve beneficial insects.▲ quences, pest types, and use of You might think agriculture, ■ Select the least-toxic pesticide application equipment. See rules given the application of and use organic pesticides. ▲ Pes 100-1000 (www.state.nh.us/ manure and fertilizers. But agric/pecorl.html) for more modeling studies in the ■ Observe setback zones. ▲ information on certification, stor- Chesapeake Bay watershed ■ Store, handle, and dispose of age of pesticides, application, and and the Lake Champlain chemicals safely, according to setbacks from water resources. basin have shown that runoff ▲ state and federal regulations. The Comprehensive Shoreland from developed areas can ■ Manage crops to compete Protection Act stipulates that no produce just as much, or up to three times more, phos- aggressively with weeds. fertilizer, except limestone, shall be phorus and nitrogen per acre ■ used within 25 feet of the high Control weeds with cover of land. Maintaining farmland crops. water line of a waterbody. See in your community may be ■ Use crop rotation and plant www.des.nh.gov/cspa/483B.htm. better for water quality than diversity to control insects. The Manure, Agricultural developing land! For informa- Compost, and Chemical Ferti- tion on incorporating agricul- ■ Plant pest-repelling plants lizer Handling Law, RSA 431:33- ture into land use planning, next to crop plants (e.g., 35,required the N.H. Department see the technical bulletin marigolds next to tomatoes). of Agriculture, Markets, and Food Preserving Rural Character: ■ Contact the N.H. Department to develop BMPs for handling The Agricultural Connection. of Agriculture or your local these materials and to investigate Available online at www.state. county Cooperative Extension complaints of mismanagement. If nh.us/osp/planning/guide/ office (listed in the phone book) the investigation finds that BMPs docs/Tech Bulletin6.pdf ) for assistance or advice on IPM are not used, the department will programs, which use biologi- notify operators in writing and threshold is specific to the type cal and nonchemical controls require them to submit plans for of animal. Medium CAFOs are ▲ to reduce pesticide use. compliance if the corrections are determined by the number of animals and whether or not the Laws and Regulations not made within 10 days. The federal National Pollutant facility discharges to surface The N.H. Department of Discharge Elimination System water. Small facilities can be des- Agriculture Division of Pesticide (NPDES) program requires con- ignated as CAFOs at the discre- Control enforces state pesticide centrated animal feeding operation of the permitting authority laws affecting sale, storage, and tions (CAFOs) to obtain (EPA). For more information on application of all registered pesti- discharge permits. Large CAFOs the CAFO final rule, see EPA’s cides.The N.H.Pesticides Controls are determined by the number of website at http://cfpub.epa.gov/ law, RSA 430:28-48,requires pesti- animals on the site, and the npdes/home.cfm?program_id=7. cide applicators to obtain permits from or to be licensed by the All state laws in New Hampshire can be searched online at gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html Division of Pesticides Control

30 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY Timber Harvesting See BMP Resources on page 44

Every timber harvesting opera- nitrate concentrations in stream BMPs for Timber Harvesting tion involves some risk of soil ero- water greatly increased during the The goal of timber harvesting sion that may affect water quality. four years after commercial clear BMPs is to keep runoff away from EPA’s 1996 National Water cuts. In addition, soils are consid- exposed soils.This is accomplished Quality Inventory estimated that ered to be a “sink” for trace levels by making proper road ditches forestry activities contributed of mercury deposited from the and culverts, and constructing approximately 9 percent of water atmosphere. Logging operations water bars and dips. In addition, quality problems in surveyed that greatly increase soil erosion filter strips between exposed soils rivers and streams nationwide. may add small, but ecologically and waterbodies must be main- Sediment, nutrients, and pesticides significant, amounts of mercury tained and water crossings must be are pollutants commonly associ- into the aquatic ecosystem. constructed and maintained to ated with forestry activities. Studies at Hubbard Brook prevent erosion.The following list Road construction and road Experimental Forest in Wood- includes major BMPs related to use account for 90 percent of the stock, N.H. have indicated that the forestry practices. total sediment runoff from critical determinants for levels of ■ forestry operations. If erosion con- erosion and sedimentation from Survey the site to identify trol mechanisms are not properly harvested sites is related to the care areas that might need special constructed and maintained on taken during harvesting and protection or management skid roads, haul roads, and land- implementation of BMPs. Sedi- during forestry operations. ings, sediment may contribute to ment yields may increase during ■ Road systems should be filling wetlands and stream chan- logging operations regardless of designed to minimize road nels. Sediment will add nutrients the practices used, but effects on length, road width, and the to lakes and ponds, interfere with stream turbidity can be minimized number of places where fish respiration and filter feeders, when proper care is taken. water bodies are crossed. and decrease aesthetic value. Harvesting trees along a stream can also reduce streambank shading that regulates water tempera- ture (and oxygen levels) for cold water fish. Removing vegetation destabilizes streambanks, and resulting sedimentation can limit sources of food, shade, and shelter for aquatic life and force them to move to another area. When trees and other stabiliz- ing vegetation are removed from a watershed, nutrients and other chemicals released from the soil into surface and groundwaters can cause water quality changes. Research in the White Mountain National Forest showed that

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 31 ■ Erosion control devices and skid trails or truck roads shall be proper stream crossing design constructed in accordance with should be incorporated into procedures as currently cited in site plans. the Best Management Practices for ■ Carefully select equipment Erosion Control on Timber and methods for transporting Harvesting Operations in New logs from the harvest area to Hampshire, published by the the areas where logs are gath- Department of Resources and Economic Development, ered to reduce the amount of b Within 50 feet of: disturbed soil. Division of Forests and Lands. RSA 227-J:7, Alteration of 1 Any stream, river, or brook ■ Operations should be timed to Te r rain, states pursuant to RSA not included in subpara- avoid rainy seasons and fish 485-A:17,any person proposing graph (a)(3) which nor- migration and spawning seasons. to transport forest products or mally flows throughout the ■ Streamside management undertake construction in or on year; or areas, also known as buffer the border of the surface waters 2 Any standing body of strips, should be used to pro- of the state, and any person pro- water less than 10 acres in tect against soil disturbance posing to significantly alter the area associated with a near stream banks. characteristics of the terrain, in stream, river, or brook ■ In areas where soils have such a manner as to impede the which normally flows been severely disturbed, natural runoff or create an throughout the year. revegetation efforts should unnatural runoff shall comply The Comprehensive Shore- occur as soon as possible. with the provisions of RSA 485- line Protection Act, RSA 483-B, A.The permits are obtained by states that if forest management Laws and Regulations completing the intent to cut is associated with shoreline form (RSA 485-A:17 III). Forestry laws in New Hampshire development or land conver- RSA 227-J:9, Cutting of are available online at www.nhdfl. sion, not more than 50 percent Timber Near Certain Waters org/laws_rules/forestrylaws.htm. of the basal area of trees and a and Public Highways of the RSA 227-J:5, Notice of Intent maximum of 50 percent of the State, states that within a 12- to Cut and Report of Wood total number of saplings can be month period, no more than 50 Cut, states pursuant to RSA 79, removed for any purpose in a percent of the basal area of trees an owner conducting a cutting 20-year period. If forest man- shall be cut or otherwise felled, operation shall file a notice of agement is not associated with leaving a well distributed stand intent to cut and a report of shoreland development nor land of healthy, growing trees: wood cut as outlined in RSA 79. conversion, and is conducted in RSA 227-J:6, Operations in a Within 150 feet of: compliance with RSA 227-J:9 Wetlands, states pursuant to RSA 1 Any great pond; (described above), it is exempt from RSA 483-B. 482-A, no person shall excavate, 2 Any standing body of water RSA 227-J:10, Care of Slash remove, fill, dredge, or construct 10 acres or more in area; any structures in or on any and Mill Residue, describes how 3 Any fourth order or bank, flat, marsh, or swamp in far away slash and mill residue higher stream; or and adjacent to any waters of can be disposed of in relation to the state without a permit from 4 Any public highway; or surface waterbodies. DES. Permitted skid trails, truck roads and culverts, bridges, pole All state laws in New Hampshire can be searched online at gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html fords, or other crossings on the

32 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY Sand and Gravel Excavation See BMP Resources on page 44

Adverse impacts on water qual- other two contaminants, waste ■ Provide an above-ground con- ity, soil erosion, and aesthetics are materials and petroleum products, tainment area that can fully concerns associated with the can cause surface water and contain any spill if petroleum operation, maintenance, and clo- ground water quality problems if storage is essential in the pit. sure of sand and gravel pits. Gravel they are not properly disposed. ■ Dispose of any contaminated excavation is often the first step in soils according to DES BMPs for Sand and residential or commercial devel- requirements in Env-Wm Gravel Operations opment. Water quality problems 2603 and Env-Ws 412 associated with mineral extraction ■ Allow space for gradual slopes, (see www.des.nh.gov/rules/ are primarily related to sedimenta- diversions, and adjacent owner swrules.pdf and www.des.nh. tion, but gravel pits can affect both protection. gov/orcb/412.htm. surface water and ground water ■ Cut and fill slopes should not ■ Maintain and wash equipment quality. Many pits are located over exceed 2:1 (2 horizontal feet outside of pit area. aquifers, and groundwater impacts for 1 vertical foot) to provide can affect current or future sources ■ Control dust as necessary to stability. Flatter slopes (3:1) are of drinking water. prevent nuisance and public preferred to facilitate seeding Typical water quality contam- hazard. efforts. inants from gravel excavation are ■ Minimize areas designated sediment, nutrients, petroleum ■ Maintain an adequate depth of for traffic. unexcavated material above products, and waste materials ■ Use retention basins to trap the seasonal high water table generated by pit operations. fine material. Clean out as to act as a filter. Sedimentation occurs from bare necessary. excavated slopes, where there is ■ Maintain buffer strips of natu- ■ Use “anti-tracking” pads the potential for large quantities ral vegetation between the pit at gravel pit access roads. of materials, especially fine soil and surface water, wetlands, These are stone pads where particles, to erode. Bare surface public roads, and property mud can be dislodged from soils are also subject to wind ero- lines. vehicle tires. sion. Changes to drainage pat- ■ Construct diversions at tops of terns can also cause erosion if slopes to divert runoff water Laws and Regulations adequate safeguards are not in away from the slope banks to a place. Erosion can occur when a stable outlet. RSA 485-A:17 states that all sand pit is active or after it has been and gravel pits that will disturb ■ Spread a minimum depth of 4 closed if it was not properly more than 100,000 square feet of inches of topsoil over the site revegetated. In addition, many contiguous area (or 50,000 in order to revegetate the site. communities require topsoil square feet within an area pro- ■ from mined areas to be stored on Assess the impact of the exca- tected by the Comprehensive site, and most operators stockpile vation on nearby drinking Shoreland Protection Act) must topsoil on site for site revegeta- water wells, especially if obtain a permit from DES prior tion and closure. groundwater or surface water to starting operation.This permit The nutrients that adhere to is to be withdrawn from the is commonly referred to as an soil particles are released to aquatic pit area. “Alteration of Terrain” or “Site systems when eroded sediments ■ Store petroleum products out- Specific” permit. It is a technical are deposited into streams. The side the pit area. permit designed to protect water

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 33 quality, and it does not address natural drainage patterns, control permits for stormwater dis- other impacts that might be of of sedimentation, and storage charges are required of active or concern to local citizens, such as requirements for fuels and other inactive mining operations and aesthetics, noise, and dust. Those toxic materials (specified in Env- stone processing facilities from issues are addressed at the local Ws 421). Reclamation standards, which water drains in a chan- level, usually by the planning applicable to all excavation oper- nelized way, as opposed to board under authority granted ations, include revegetation and bermed operations where water by RSA 155-E. There is no soil amendments, slope stabiliza- is contained on site and infil- exemption for highway con- tion, and restoration of natural trates into the ground. struction with this permit as drainage patterns. Communities Municipally-owned pits are reg- there is with RSA 155-E. may adopt additional standards ulated under Phase II of Permits are issued on the condi- and have enforcement authority. NPDES. New Hampshire facili- tion that no wetland areas shall Env-A 2800 is under Statutory ties need to file a Notice of be disturbed without a permit Authority RSA 125-C:4 and estab- Intent (NOI) to the EPA to be from the DES Wetland Bureau. lishes standards for particulate covered by the Multi-Sector RSA 155-E requires local plan- matter emissions and visible General Permit (MSGP), as ning boards, boards of selectman, emissions for sand and gravel described in the Federal Register or zoning boards of adjustment sources. Sand and gravel facilities on October 30, 2000. Section J (if so designated by town meet- must not exceed a certain visible in the MSGP contains the ing) to regulate gravel excava- emission standard and must be requirements for sand and gravel tions. The statute describes equipped with a fugitive emis- pits and stone processing facili- situations in which permits are sion control system. Facilities ties. Permittees must prepare a required. Operational and recla- must follow permit, fee, moni- pollution prevention plan and mation standards are described in toring, and reporting require- unless they have qualified for this law, and many of these relate ments as stipulated in Env-A 600, exemption of monitoring to nonpoint source pollution 700, 800, and 900,respectively. requirements, they must moni- issues. Operational standards For more information, see www. tor total suspended solids and include setbacks from water bod- des.nh.gov/ard/ardrules. htm. nitrogen concentrations (nitrate ies, vegetational buffers along National Pollutant Discharge plus nitrite) for a specified water bodies, maintenance of Elimination System (NPDES) length of time.

Chemical and Petroleum Storage See BMP Resources on page 45

Fuels, heating oil, and industrial quality and public health. One (USTs) since 1985. The UST process chemicals and their gallon of gasoline can contami- rules apply to all nonresidential wastes historically have been nate approximately 730,000 gal- underground storage facilities stored in underground tanks. lons of water. And while some with storage capacities of more Because some constituents of constituents of gasoline are per- than 110 gallons that contain petroleum products and other sistent in the environment, others motor fuels or hazardous chemi- chemicals are carcinogens and vaporize readily and are toxic if cals and to all on-premise heating will readily contaminate ground- inhaled. Many fuel products are fuel tanks 1,100 gallons or larger water, leaking tanks can cause also potentially explosive. at commercial and industrial extensive and expensive damage. DES has regulated the installa- facilities. Rules governing above Spills from above ground tanks tion, monitoring, and removal of ground tanks apply to nonresi- also raise concerns about water most underground storage tanks dential tanks of 660 gallons or

34 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY greater in size containing petroleum products and were adopted in 1997. Residential tanks of 10,000 gallons or smaller are excluded from regulation. The rules establish requirements for the regulation, design, installation, operation, maintenance, and monitoring of tanks. that could lead to direct con- Laws and Regulations After January 1, 2005, owners tact of stormwater with raw of on-premise heating oil tanks materials, intermediate mate- RSA 146-C and Env-Wm 1401 reg- must also meet DES “Best rials, and waste materials or ulate underground storage tanks. Management Practices for the products. RSA 146-A:11-c and Env-Wm 1402 Installation or Upgrading of On- govern above-ground tank reg- ■ Have a spill prevention and Premise-Use Heating Oil Tank ulations. Anyone with questions response plan that describes Facilities.” On-premise-use facil- regarding above or underground spill containment, diversion, ities include heating oil tanks and tanks should contact the DES isolation, and cleanup prac- piping located at single family Oil Remediation and Compli- tices, and procedures for noti- homes, apartments, commercial ance Bureau at (603) 271-3644. fying appropriate authorities. buildings, and industrial facilities. Authority to regulate the Failure to achieve compliance by ■ Conduct transfer operations management, transportation, and that date will prevent access to only on impervious surfaces disposal of hazardous waste in the state cleanup funds should an that are adequately bermed to New Hampshire is given to DES oil release occur.To assist owners control spills. Secondary con- in RSA 147-A, the Hazardous in meeting this new requirement, tainment should be available Waste Management Act. Specific RSA 146-E authorizes a grant pro- for all above ground storage regulations governing hazardous gram (up to $1,000) for owners facilities. Funnels and drip waste are found in Env-Wm 100- that demonstrate a financial need. pans should be used to pre- 1000.Anyone with questions All regulated USTs and most vent spills. regarding proper hazardous of the Above Ground Storage ■ Store containers on impervi- waste management should con- Tanks that have been registered ous surfaces, such as concrete tact the DES Hazardous Waste with the state have been GPS- or asphalt, in areas that will Compliance Section at (603) located and can be plotted on contain leaks. 271-2942. Wellhead Protection Area over- RSA 485-C, the Groundwater ■ Cover outdoor containers to lays for planning purposes. Protection Act, authorizes local prevent precipitation from entities to manage potential con- BMPs for Chemical and coming in contact with the tamination sources in wellhead Petroleum Storage tops of the containers. protection areas. DES has adopted ■ Maintain up-to-date material ■ Do not store containers in BMP rules that apply to use, stor- inventory, schedule routine areas with functional floor age, handling, and disposal of reg- cleanup operations, and train drains or manholes, unless ulated substances (potentially employees about good secondary containment is hazardous materials) in other than housekeeping practices. provided. household quantities. ■ Conduct periodic visual inspections for leaks or con- All state laws in New Hampshire can be searched online at ditions that would lead to gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html discharges and for conditions

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 35 Resources for Land Use/Activities BMPs

HOUSEHOLD BMP RESOURCES General

Connecticut River Joint Commissions. A Homeowner’s Guide to Non-point Source Water Pollution in the Connecticut River Valley. 1994.Available online at www.crjc.org/pdffiles/homeguide.pdf or contact them at PO Box 1182, Charlestown, NH 03603 (603) 826-4800.This booklet offers useful hints for homeowners on managing runoff, caring for septic systems, conserving water, and dealing with yard waste, bugs, and chemicals. It also offers alternatives for toxic household products and a directory of sources of help. USEPA Office of Water. Pointer No. 10: Managing Nonpoint Source Pollution from Households.EPA841-F-96-004J. Online at www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/facts/point10.htm. USEPA. Do’s & Don’ts Around the Home.This EPA article has text on household chemicals, landscaping and gardening, septic systems, water conservation, other areas where you can make a difference (e.g., cleaning up pet waste), and community action. Online at www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/dosdont.html.

Septic Systems

DES Fact Sheets: There are 12 DES fact sheets related to septic systems.They are available on the web at www.des.nh.gov/sub.htm and www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/ bb/bb-11.htm or call (603) 271-2975.The latter fact sheet explains how septic systems can impact water quality. DES. You and Your Septic,a brochure.Available if you call (603) 271-2975.

Chemical Use

DES Household Hazardous Waste Section. Hazardous Materials in Your Home. Online at www.des.nh.gov/pdf/hmiyhome.pdf or call (603) 271-2047. The schedule for household hazardous waste collection days in New Hampshire is posted on the DES website at www.des.nh.gov/hhw/hhwevent.htm.

Lawn and Garden Activities DES Fact Sheets: Proper Lawn Care in the Protected Shoreland,The Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act. SP-2 (1997). www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/sp/sp-2.htm Municipal Composting of Yard Waste, DES Fact Sheet WMD-SW-3, 1998 www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/sw/sw-3.htm. Covers backyard composting, too. DES.“Native and Naturalized Shoreland Plantings for New Hampshire.” An appendix in Best Management Practices for New Hampshire Marinas: Guidelines for Environmentally Proactive Marinas. (1995, revised in 2001) www.des.nh.gov/nhppp/marinas2.pdf.

36 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY Hillsborough County Conservation District and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Greenscaping (Reducing Pollution in Your Backyard). Chappell Professional Center, 468 Route 13 South, Milford, NH 03055 or call (603) 673-2409. USEPA. Healthy Lawn Healthy Environment: Caring for Your Lawn in an Environmentally Friendly Way. Available through the NH Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food Division of Pesticide Control, (603) 271-3550 or it can be ordered for free by calling Irene Catcher, EPA Region 1, (617) 918-1525. USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service.“Lawn and Garden Care” website. Information includes proper fertilizer use and alternatives to pesticides and chemicals by insect pests, www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/ highlights/homegarden/lawn.html Center for Watershed Protection.“Toward a Low Input Lawn,” article #130 in The Practice of Watershed Protection, 2000, editors Thomas R. Schueler and Heather K. Holland, Ellicott City, MD.Available online at www.stormwatercenter.net/ under “Publications” or from the Center for Watershed Protection, 8391 Main Street, Ellicott City, MD 21043, (410) 461-8323 Massachusetts Department of Food and Agriculture. A Homeowner’s Guide to Environmentally Sound Lawncare: Maintaining A Healthy Lawn the IPM Way. July 1997. Online at www.state.ma.us/dfa/pesticides/publications. Massachusetts Department of Food and Agriculture. Pesticide Storage and Handling Practices for Homes. July 1997. Online at www.state.ma.us/dfa/pesticides/publications.

Impervious Runoff DES Drinking Water Source Protection Program. Managing Stormwater as a Valuable Resource:A Message for New Hampshire Municipalities and Water Suppliers. DES-R-WD-01-13, September 2001. Online at www.des.nh.gov/dwspp/stormwater.pdf.

Pets University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension. Pet Waste and Water Quality fact sheet, GWQ006, DNR WT-534-99,R-11-99-10M-20-S. Online at //clean-water.uwex.edu/pubs/sheets/index.html.Also available from Extension Publications, 630 W.Mifflin St., Madison,WI 53703 (608) 262-3346. Pet waste poster at EPA’s website: www.epa.gov/region01/eco/lis/posters/ pet.html.

Air Pollution

DES Clean Cars Program and Energy Star Program. Online at www.des.nh.gov/ard/clean_cars.htm. For more information contact Kathy Brockett in the Air Resources Division at [email protected] or (603) 271-6284.

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 37 The Hubbard Brook Research Foundation. Acid Rain Revisited:Advances in Scientific Understanding Since the Passage of the 1970 Clean Air Act Amendments.Online at www.hbrook.sr.unh.edu/hbfound/hbfound.htm or contact the Foundation at 6 Sargent Place, Hanover, NH 03755, (603) 653-0390. Peter M.Vitousek, Chair, John Aber, Robert W.Howarth, Gene E. Likens, Pamela A. Matson, David W.Schindler,William H. Schlesinger, and G. David Tilman. Issues in Ecology – Human Alteration of the Global Nitrogen Cycle: Causes and Consequences. Full report published in Ecological Applications, Volume 7,August 1997. Summary available online at http://esa.sdsc.edu/tilman.htm SITE EXCAVATION AND ROAD CONSTRUCTION BMP RESOURCES

The DES Phase II website address for construction requirements is www.des.nh.gov/stormwater/construction.htm. DES Fact Sheets: Fees for Alteration of Terrain Permits. WD-WQE-2, 1997.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wqe/wqe-2.htm. Alteration of Terrain Permits,When Are They Required? WD-WQE-3, 1997. Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wqe/wqe-3.htm. Soil Erosion and Sediment Control on Construction Sites. WD-WQE-6, 1996. Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wqe/wqe-6.htm. Impacts of Development on Stormwater Runoff. WD-WQE-7, 1996.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wqe/wqe-7.htm. Federal Stormwater Permits. WD-WEB-8, 2002.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wwt/web-8.htm. DES. Best Management Practices for Urban Stormwater Runoff. R-WSPCD-95- 3, January 1996. Copies ($5.00 each) can be ordered from DES by calling (603) 271-2975. DES. Best Management Practices for Construction Site Chemical Control. 2000. NH Office of State Planning, DES, and NH Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food.Available at DES. DES and Rockingham County Conservation District. Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook for Urban and Developing Areas in New Hampshire. August 1992, revised edition expected in 2002. DES and USDA Soil Conservation Service. Soil Manual for Site Evaluations in New Hampshire. 2d Edition, December 1991.Available through DES. NHDOT Bureau of the Environment. Best Management Practices for Routine Roadway Maintenance Activities in New Hampshire. August 2001. Order copies from NHDOT Bureau of the Environment, 7 Hazen Drive, Concord NH 03301 (603) 271-3226.Available online at http://webster.state.nh.us/dot/environment/pdf/BMPManual.pdf. NHDOT Bureau of Construction. Guidelines for Erosion and Sediment Control and Stormwater Management.Order from NHDOT Bureau of Construction, 7 Hazen Drive, Concord NH 03301.Available online at http://webster.state.nh.us/dot/business.htm.

38 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY UNH Technology Transfer Center. Series of Quick Guides for New Hampshire Towns.A set of pamphlets distributed as a set.The topics are 1) Culvert Installation and Maintenance, 2) Ditch/Channel Construction and Maintenance, 3) Vegetative Erosion & Sediment Control, 4) Non- Vegetative Erosion & Sediment Control, 5) Cut and Fill Slopes, 6) Beaver Pipe: Construction and Maintenance, 7) Stormwater Inlets and Catch Basins, 8) Mowing and Brush Control, 9) Snow and Ice Control, and 10) Obtaining Permits. Ordering information at www.t2.unh.edu/video_pub/publist.html. EPA Office of Water. Stormwater Management for Construction Activities – Developing Pollution Prevention Plans and Best Management Practices. EPA 832-R-92-005, September 1992. Online at www.epa.gov/ npdes/pubs/owm0307.pdf. Information on erosion, sediment, and runoff control from roads, highways and unpaved roads available from the EPA online at www.epa.gov/owow/nps/roadshwys.html. ROAD SALTING AND SNOW DUMPING BMP RESOURCES

DES Fact Sheets: Snow Disposal Guidelines.WMB-3, 1992.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wmb/wmb-3.htm. Road Salt and Water Quality.WMB-4, 1996.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wmb/wmb-4.htm. UNH Technology Transfer Center. Pros and Cons of Sand on Ice and Snowpack. Fall 2001 newsletter, online at www.t2.unh.edu/fall01/pg6- 7.html. The following publications are available from UNH Technology Transfer Center, 33 College Road, Durham NH 03824. (603) 862-2826.They are listed at www.t2.unh.edu/video_pub/publist.html. Calcium Chloride Package.A package of articles and pamphlets explaining the benefits of deicing with calcium chloride. Deicing,Anti-Icing, and Chemical Alternatives. Informative sheet discusses the benefits of anti-icing, deicing, prewetting, and liquid chemical alternatives. Road Salt and Water Quality.Environmental fact sheet discusses road salt management, alternatives to road salt, and the DOT Reduced Salt Pilot Program. The Salt Storage Handbook.A practical guide for handling deicing salt. Published by the Salt Institute. Series of Quick Guides for New Hampshire Towns.A set of pamphlets developed by the UNH Technology Transfer Center and distributed as a set. Topic #9 is Snow and Ice Control. The Snowfighter's Handbook. A practical guide for snow and ice control before, during, and after a storm. Published by the Salt Institute. Winter Operations Snow Removal and Ice Control Policy.From NHDOT, describes general policies, maintenance techniques, and equipment for snow and ice management.

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 39 USEPA. Minimizing Effects from Highway Deicing. Storm Water Management Fact Sheet, EPA 832-F-99-016, September 1999.Available online at www.epa.gov/owmitnet/mtb/ice.pdf. Center for Watershed Protection. Influence of Snowmelt Dynamics on Stormwater Runoff Quality. Gary L. Oberts, Metropolitan Council, St. Paul, MN.Article #3 in The Practice of Watershed Protection, 2000,Thomas R. Shueler and Heather K. Holland, eds. Ellicott City, MD.Available online at www.stormwatercenter.net/ under “Publications” or from the Center for Watershed Protection, 8391 Main Street, Ellicott City, MD 21043, (410) 461-8323. Environment Canada. Assessment Report – Road Salts. www.ec.gc.ca/ substances/ese/eng/psap/final/roadsalts.cfm. MOTOR VEHICLE SALVAGE AND STORAGE FACILITIES BMP RESOURCES

DES Fact Sheets: Management of Used Motor Vehicle Batteries.WMD-SW-4, 1999. Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/sw/sw-4.htm. Reducing your Hazardous Wastes:An Overview for Businesses.WMD-HW-8,1998. Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/hw/hw-8.htm. Scrap Metal Management.WMD-SW-19, 1998.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/sw/sw-19.htm. Waste Antifreeze: Management Requirements for Handlers and Transporters. WMD-HW-4, 1999.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/hw/ hw-4.htm. Mercury-Containing (Universal Waste) Devices: Management Requirements for Handlers and Transporters.WMD-HW-17, 2002.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/hw/hw-17.htm. Contaminated Cloth Wipes for Laundering.WMD-HW-6, 1998. Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/hw/hw-6.htm. Scrap Tire Management.WMD-SW-22, 2000.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/sw/sw-22.htm. “Universal Waste” Batteries: Management Requirements for Handlers and Transporters.WMD-HW-18, 2002.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/ factsheets/hw/hw-18.htm. DES. NH Green Yards Environmental Guidance Manual for Motor Vehicle Recycling Yards.February 2003. Contact Pamela Sprague at nhgreenyards @des.nh.gov to order a copy. DES. Summary Requirements for Management of Used Oil Being Recycled (as provided in New Hampshire’s Hazardous Waste Rules Env-Ws 100-1000). www.des.nh.gov/hwcs/requirements.pdf DES Pollution Prevention Program. Pitstops Manual: Best Management Practices for Automobile Service Facilities. R-WMB-01-3, undated. Available online at www.des.nh.gov/nhppp/pitstops.pdf.

40 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY The DES Pollution Prevention Program provides non-regulatory waste reduction assistance for businesses, maintains an in-house pollution prevention technology library, and serves as a clearinghouse for researching pollution reduction information. Call (603) 271-2900 or (800) 273-9469. The New Hampshire Small Business Assistance Program provides free, confidential technical assistance to help small businesses with environmental compliance issues. Call (603) 271-1379 or (800) 837-0656. WasteCap Resource Conservation Network (ReCoN) is a program operated by the Business and Industry Association of NH. It provides on-site solid waste reduction assistance and information for businesses. Call (603) 271-4676 or see their website at www.wastecapnh.org. NH Hazardous Waste Assistance Hotline is at (603) 271-2942. The DES Waste Management Division has received a grant to produce a BMP guidance document on MVSFs by the end of 2002. Until then, a good resource is available from the state of Minnesota, but readers should be aware that certain wastes are regulated differently in MN than NH.The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has produced a “Motor Vehicle Salvage Facility Environmental Compliance Manual.”A 15-minute video- tape,“Salvage Yards and the Environment: the next generation” accompa- nies this publication. 2nd edition, 1998. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Ground Water and Solid Waste Division, St. Paul, MN. Pollution Prevention and Remediation Programs Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL. Pollution Prevention and Best Management Practices for Automobile and Other Salvage Facilities.Available online at www.broward.org/ppi02300.htm. This is geared towards businesses in Broward County, Florida, but contains useful general information. MARINA BMP RESOURCES

DES Fact Sheets: Equipping Your Boat with a Marine Sanitation Device (MSD). WMB-2, 1996. Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wmb/wmb-2.htm. The DES Boat Inspection Program: Keeping Sewage and Greywater Out of New Hampshire Lakes. BB-38, 1997.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/bb/bb-38.htm. Pressure-Treated Wood: Can It Be Used in New Hampshire's Waters? BB-19, 2001.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/bb/bb-19.htm. Pamphlets available from DES Watershed Management Bureau: A Boater's Guide to Cleaner Water A Boater's Guide to Sewage Pumpout, www.des.nh.gov/pumpout.htm Attention Boaters:Are you an Exotic Aquatic Weed Carrier? Help Keep Our Coastal Waters Clean! Keep Our Water Clean - Use Pumpouts DES Pollution Prevention Program. Best Management Practices for NH Marinas. R-WSPCD-95-6, October 1995, revised in December 2001. A hard-copy version of the updated 2001 manual can be obtained by calling (800) 273-9469, or e-mailing [email protected]. More information is available at www.des.nh.gov/nhppp/marinas.htm.

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 41 USEPA Office of Water. National Management Measures to Control Nonpoint Source Pollution from Marinas and Recreational Boating. 2000. Online at www.epa.gov/owow/nps/mmsp/index.html. USEPA. Guidance Specifying Management Measures for Sources of Nonpoint Pollution in Coastal Waters. Chapter 5: Management Measures for Marinas and Recreational Boating. EPA-840-B-93-001c, January 1993. Online at www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/MMGI. USEPA. Managing Nonpoint Source Pollution from Boating and Marinas, Pointer No. 9. EPA841-F-96-004I, 1996. Online at www.epa.gov/owow/nps/facts/point9.htm. US Fish and Wildlife Service. Information on the Clean Vessel Act online at http://fa.r9.fws.gov/cva/cva_info.html. Grant information is available at http://fa.r9.fws.gov/grants/grantinf.html under “Aquatic Ecosystems.” Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Long Island Sound Programs and Bureau of Water Management. Best Management Practices for Coastal Marinas.August 1992. Publication available from Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, 79 Elm Street, Hartford, CT 06106-5127.TEL: (860) 424-3034, FAX: (860) 424-4054. Maine Department of Environmental Protection. Best Management Practices for Marinas and Boatyards: Controlling Nonpoint Pollution in Maine. December, 1995.This manual contains a discussion of common pollutants and their potential impacts in marina waters. BMPs are discussed and listed.The manual includes useful fact sheets, a model oil spill response plan, and operations and maintenance plan based on Rhode Island’s plan. Copies are available through the Maine DEP,Augusta, ME 04333 or call (207) 287-7688. AGRICULTURE AND GOLF COURSES BMP RESOURCES General Agriculture and Nutrients

NH Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food. Manual of Best Management Practices for Agriculture in New Hampshire: Best Management Practices for the Handling of Agricultural Compost, Fertilizer, and Manure. Revised August, 1998. Online at www.nh.nrcs.usda.gov/Public_Affairs/Publications.htm under “Best Management Practices.” NH Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food. Best Management Wetlands Practices for Agriculture.July 1993,Amended September 1998. NH Department of Agriculture and others. Good Neighbor Guide for Horse-Keeping: Manure Management, brochure prepared by April 1990. Online at http://ceinfo.unh.edu/aahr1050.pdf. NH Horse Council. Guidelines of Best Management Practices for Horsekeeping. 2001. Brochure. Copies available at DES; call (603) 271-7889. UNH Cooperative Extension. Best Management Guidelines for Vegetable, Small Fruit, and Tree Fruit Growers.Nada A. Haddad, 1993.Available through the author at the UNH Cooperative Extension Rockingham County office in Brentwood (603) 679-5616.

42 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY USDA NRCS New Hampshire office has Conservation Practice Sheets listed at www.nh.nrcs.usda.gov/news/publications.html under “Conservation Practice Sheets” for Alley Cropping, Contour Buffer Strips, Cross Wind Trap Strips, Field Borders, Filter Strips , Grassed Waterway, Herbaceous Wind Barrier, Mulch Till Residue Management,No Till Residue Management, Riparian Forest Buffer,Vegetative Barriers, and Windbreak/Shelterbelt. USEPA. National Management Measures to Control Nonpoint Source Pollution from Agriculture.Technical guidance and reference document to manage NPS pollution from agricultural activities. www.epa.gov/owow/nps/agmm/index.html. USEPA list that highlights some of the best agricultural BMP materials available for both professionals and the public: www.epa.gov/owow/nps/bestnpsdocs.html#agriculture. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) was reauthorized in the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to provide a voluntary conservation program for farmers and ranchers that promotes agricultural production and environmental quality as compatible national goals. EQIP offers financial and technical help to assist eligible participants install or implement structural and management practices on eligible agricultural land. For more information, see www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/eqip. Northeast Regional Agricultural Engineering Service, Cooperative Extension. On Farm Composting Handbook.June 1992.Available for $20 at (603) 862-2346. Golf Courses

USEPA golf and the environment bibliography online www.epa.gov/OWOW/wetlands/partners/golfbib.html. Center for Watershed Protection.“Minimizing the Impact of Golf Courses on Streams,”article #134 in The Practice of Watershed Protection, 2000, editors Thomas R. Schueler and Heather K. Holland, Ellicott City, MD.Available online at www.stormwatercenter.net/Library/Practice/134.pdf under “Publications” or from the Center for Watershed Protection, 8391 Main Street, Ellicott City, MD 21043, (410) 461-8323. NJ Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Watershed Management. Draft Guidance Manual: Best Management Practices for Golf Course Construction and Operation in New Jersey.January, 2000. www.state.nj.us/dep/watershedmgt/draft_golf_bmp_manual.htm. Buffer Strips

Connecticut River Joint Commissions:Ten fact sheets on buffers available online at www.crjc.org/riparianbuffers.htm, including titles such as “Introduction to Riparian Buffers,”“Buffers for Agricultural Land,” and “Backyard Buffers.” The USDA NRCS has a website devoted to information on buffers at www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/buffers/BufrsPub.html

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 43 TIMBER HARVESTING BMP RESOURCES

DES Fact Sheet: Timber Harvesting and Water Quality. WD-WQE-4, 1996.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/wqe/wqe-4.htm. NH Department of Resources and Economic Development. Best Management Practices for Erosion Control on Timber Harvesting Operations in New Hampshire.Division of Forests and Lands, January 2001.Available online at www.nhdfl.org/info_plan_bureau/fi&p_waterqualitybmps.htm. NH Timberland Owners Association. Best Management Practices for Controlling Soil Erosion on Timber Harvesting Operations in New Hampshire,A Pocket Field Guide for Foresters, Landowners, and Loggers. 1993. Contact them at 54 Portsmouth St., Concord NH 03301 (603) 224-9699. Connecticut River Joint Commissions. Forestland Buffers for the Connecticut River Watershed, Fact Sheet No. 3.Available online at www.crjc.org/riparianbuffers.htm. USEPA. Managing Nonpoint Source Pollution from Forestry, Pointer No. 8. EPA841-F-96-004H, 1996. Online at www.epa.gov/owow/nps/facts/point8.htm. USEPA. Guidance Specifying Management Measures for Sources of Nonpoint Pollution in Coastal Waters. Chapter 3: Management Measures for Forestry. EPA-840-B-93-001c, January 1993.Available online at www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/MMGI. Database of weblinks for forestry BMPs. Listed by agency at www.stateforesters.org/reports/BMP/BMP_Library.html#Database. Maine forestry BMPs at www.ume.maine.edu/~woodlot/bmp.htm. Minnesota Forest Resources Council. Sustaining Minnesota Forest Resources: Voluntary Site-Level Forest Management Guidelines for Landowners, Loggers and Resource Managers.This guidebook was developed as a collaborative statewide effort involving forestry and water quality stakeholders. It provides a set of integrated guidelines that address a variety of impacts on forest and water resources. www.frc.state.mn.us/FMgdline/Guidebook.html or contact the MFRC at 2003 Upper Buford Circle, St. Paul, MN 55108 or (651) 603-0109. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Forestry. Wisconsin’s Forestry BMPs for Water Quality:A Field Manual for Loggers, Landowners and Land Managers. 1997.This field manual lists over 119 BMPs for forestry activities including road building, timber harvesting, prescribed burning, and the application of chemicals.To request a publication, call (608) 267-7494. Information online at www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/forestry/usesof/bmp/bmp.htm. SAND AND GRAVEL EXCAVATION BMP RESOURCES

DES Fact Sheets: State Alteration of Terrain Permit Requirements for Sand & Gravel Pits. WD-WQE-1, 1997.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/ wqe/wqe-1.htm.

44 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY Alteration of Terrain Permits (Site Specific) When Are They Required? WD-WQE-3, 1997.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/ wqe/wqe-3.htm. NH Office of State Planning, DES, and NH Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food. Best Management Practices for Construction Site Chemical Control. 2000.Available at DES. NH Office of State Planning. RSA 155-E: Earth Excavations. 1998. A 20-minute video on gravel pit regulation.This video provides a basic understanding of RSA 155-E, the law governing earth excavations and covers the operational and reclamation standards and common questions and answers.Available for $12 from the Municipal and Regional Planning Assistance section of OSP.For more information see www.state.nh.us/osp/publications/start.html or contact Chris Northrop at OSP,57 Regional Drive, Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-2155. USDA NRCS NH Office. Vegetating New Hampshire Sand and Gravel Pits. Technical Note PM-NH-21,April 1991; Revised April 2000. Provides recommendations for controlling erosion at sand and gravel pits. Online at www.nh.nrcs.usda.gov/news/publications.html listed under “Conservation Planning and Practices.” USDA NRCS NH Office. Gravel Pit and Other Sandy and Droughty Site Renovation Trials and Experiences in New Hampshire.Technical Note PM-NH-26, May 1991, Revised April 2000.Available online at www.nh.nrcs.usda.gov/news/publications.html listed as “Gravel Pit Renovation.” Southwest Regional Planning Commission. The Law Governing Earth Excavations.A manual about state statutes governing gravel pits and local regulatory options, including recommended procedures for addressing gravel pits locally, a model ordinance, application checklist, and sample application form. Contact the Southwest Regional Planning Commission at 20 Central Square, 2nd Floor, Keene, NH 03431, (603) 357-0557, www.swrpc.org/library/index.html. CHEMICAL AND PETROLEUM STORAGE BMP RESOURCES

DES Fact Sheets: Fact sheets related to hazardous wastes can be found at www.des.nh.gov/hw.htm. Fact sheets related to oil can be found at www.des.nh.gov/oil.htm. Consumer Tips for the Safe Management of Gasoline. CO-10, 1998.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/co/co-10.htm. MtBE in Drinking Water.WD-WSEB-3-19, 2000.Available online at www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/ws/ws-3-19.htm. DES Storage Tank Facilities and Contaminated Sites Databases: www.des.nh.gov/asp/onestop/des_menu.asp. Other DES publications available from the DES Public Information Center by calling (603) 271-2975 or writing [email protected]. List of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) - CD-ROM. $30, No Code #. List of Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) Sites. $25, No Code #.

BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 45 List of All Contaminated Groundwater Sites. $25, No Code #. Case Studies and Evaluations of Remedial Technologies at Leaking Underground Storage Tank Sites in NH, R-WSPCD-95-5. Summary Requirements for Management of Used Oil Being Recycled (as provided in New Hampshire’s Hazardous Waste Rules Env-Ws 100-1000). Available online at www.des.nh.gov/hwcs/requirements.pdf. NH Office of State Planning, DES, and NH Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food. Best Management Practices for Construction Site Chemical Control. 2000.Available at DES; call (603) 271-2975. USEPA. Catalog of EPA Materials on Underground Storage Tanks. EPA-510-B- 00-001, January 2000.This updated, revised booklet provides an annotated list of UST materials and includes ordering information. Many of the informational leaflets, booklets, videos, and software items listed are designed to provide UST owners and operators with information to help them comply with the federal UST requirements.Available online at www.epa.gov/swerust1/pubs/index.htm. Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program. Automotive-Related Industries: Best Management Practices for Storm Water and Industrial Sanitary Sewer Pollution Control. 1993, Hayward, CA. (510) 670-5543.

46 BMPs BY LAND USE/ACTIVITY 4 CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING

The previous sections have described water resources as well as practices to prevent or control pollution from various sources. This section describes several ways in which citizens and town officials can become more involved in watershed management.

Watershed Organizations

Hundreds of citizens living on or watershed can be considered a Program offers a partnership near rivers or lakes in New watershed organization. A local between state government and Hampshire have been working to conservation district or commis- local citizens through the forma- maintain or improve the distinct sion, river or lake advisory com- tion of a local river management attributes of their watersheds. mittee or association, regional advisory committee for a state Many of these committed individ- planning commission, forester designated river.The Federal Wild uals have organized to form local association, invasive plant species and Scenic Rivers System offers a watershed organizations or joined coalition, organic farmer associa- similar partnership between the existing organizations already tion, conservation education cen- federal government and local citi- working within their local water- ter, or land trust are examples of zens for watershed and river advi- shed. Some organizations perform what might be considered water- sory committees. The New regular water quality monitoring; shed organizations. Hampshire Lakes Association has others are organized to address a Watershed organizations can assisted in the formation of many particular issue. Some rely com- be formed through several differ- lake associations. Each organiza- pletely on volunteers; others have ent partnerships or on their own. tion plays an intricate role in pro- paid staff.Any organization work- The New Hampshire Rivers tecting not only the water, but its ing to protect the health of a Management and Protection shoreland and watershed as well.

Water Quality Monitoring

More than one thousand citi- month measuring, collecting, form of a report. Monitors can zens participate in the monitoring analyzing, and observing water develop watershed management of New Hampshire lakes, ponds, quality indicators. Sampling and protection plans according to rivers, and estuaries. Volunteers schedules are flexible with most the testing results and their estab- play a vital role in collecting data organizations sampling monthly lished water quality goals. The to evaluate water quality through- throughout the summer. Samples data are also used in state water out the state. Many collect samples are delivered to the appropriate quality assessment reports and and analyze the water for various lab for analysis. The volunteer often lead to restoration and/or indicators of pollution. data are then compiled, and results watershed protection efforts. Monitors may spend a few and interpretations are sent back One special program in New hours a week or a few hours a to the volunteer monitors in the Hampshire is designed to better

CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING 47 characterize the levels of mer- our water resources. If you’re Pettee Hall, UNH cury that are present in freshwater interested in getting your feet Durham, NH 03824 fish. Specimens from lakes wet, contact one of the many cit- Contact Jeff Schloss at throughout New Hampshire have izen monitoring programs listed (603) 862-3848 or been submitted by volunteers and below. Bob Craycraft at (603) 862-3546. analyzed for mercury through the Water Quality http://ceinfo.unh.edu/watvol.htm DES Volunteer Lake Assessment Monitoring Programs Great Bay Coast Watch Program (VLAP). For more infor- UNH Cooperative Extension/ mation, contact the VLAP or the DES Volunteer Lake Assessment Sea Grant, Kingman Farm DES Limnology Center at (603) Program Durham, NH 03824-3512 271-3414. 29 Hazen Drive (603) 749-1565 Volunteer monitoring leads to Concord, NH 03301 www.gbcw.unh.edu local awareness of land use and (603) 271-2963 human practices that may be www.des.nh.gov/wmb/vlap Merrimack River Watershed detrimental to water quality. Council, PO Box 1377 DES Volunteer River Assessment Pollution prevention through 181 Canal Street Program routine monitoring ultimately Lawrence, MA 01842 29 Hazen Drive saves the community and the state (978) 681-5777 Concord, NH 03301 the cost of expensive, after-the- www.merrimack.org (603) 271-2963 fact remediation. Maintaining River Network www.des.nh.gov/wmb/vrap.htm clean water and quality water 153 State Street resources benefits all of us. UNH Cooperative Extension Montpelier,VT 05602 Citizen volunteers perform a Lay Lakes Monitoring Program (802) 223-3840 great service by watching over Water Resources www.rivernetwork.org

Exotic Weeds

The DES Exotic Species Lake Winnipesaukee.As of March, licensed pesticide applicators. Use Program coordinates activities 2002, it has invaded 48 other of chemicals for aquatic weed associated with the control and waterbodies in the state. Other control by unlicensed individuals is management of exotic aquatic problematic species in New illegal and endangers other aquatic plants,as well as education and vol- Hampshire include fanwort, water life and public health. Funds for unteer plant monitoring programs. chestnut, Eurasian milfoil, purple exotic weed control are available Exotic aquatic plants, such as mil- loosestrife, and common reed. under the Exotic Weed Control foil and fanwort,have been a prob- Preventing the introduction of Program administered by the DES lem in New Hampshire lakes and nuisance exotics is the best solu- Watershed Management Bureau’s ponds since the mid-1960s. Many tion to the problems they create. Biology section (603) 271-2248. exotic plants grow without natural Once a lake has become infested, To minimize chances of spread- controls. They encroach into and it is impossible to eradicate the ing nuisance exotics, you can: replace the habitats of native problem even when mechanical ■ Remove plant fragments from plants, disrupting the natural food and chemical treatments are used. boats and trailers and dispose web. Var iable milfoil, by far the Mechanical removal of weeds of the vegetation on land most wide-spread exotic aquatic requires a New Hampshirewet- away from water (these plants plant in New Hampshire, was first lands permit. Chemical applica- make good garden fertilizer). found in Moultonborough Bay in tions can be performed only by

48 CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING ■ Avoid boating through large plant distribution map, exotic patches of vegetation. species facts, plant pictures, ■ Contact the DES Exotic information about manage- Species Coordinator at (603) ment activities, recommended 271-2963 if you see milfoil, plant ID guides, and informa- fanwort, or an unfamiliar tion about how to be a Weed looking weed. Watcher. ■ Volunteer for the DES Weed Remember, native aquatic Watcher Program. Information plants are important in the eco- about this program is avail- logical balance of your lake or able at www. des.nh.gov/ pond. Plants provide shade, food, ment. Native plant communities wmb/exoticspecies.This site fish and invertebrate habitat, and can sometimes discourage inva- contains links to an exotic diversity in the aquatic environ- sive plants from taking hold.

Watershed Management Plans

Protecting and restoring aquatic New Hampshire. Each plan water quality, protection of ecosystems using a watershed includes the issues and solutions wildlife habitats, recreational use approach has become popular at involved in the watershed of the of the lakes, conservation of land, the national, state, and local levels. targeted river, lake, pond, bay, or inter-municipal communication, This strategy is based on the prem- gulf. For information on other and the role of education. The ise that many water quality and watershed management plans, plan also recommends specific ecosystem problems are best solved contact DES at (603) 271-7889 actions that should be undertaken at the watershed level rather than or the appropriate local water- by the State of New Hampshire, at the individual water body or shed organization. the five Squam-area municipali- polluter level. The approach has ties, local organizations and Squam Lake Watershed Plan four principal components: groups, and local individuals. In 1984, the New Hampshire ■ Problems are prioritized and The Upper Merrimack River Council on Resources and targeted. Local Advisory Committee Economic Development held ■ River Management and There is a high level of stake- several meetings in the Lakes Implementation Plan holder involvement. Region to address the effects of ■ Integrated solutions are made rapid development around the The Upper Merrimack River possible by taking advantage area’s lakes and to recommend a Local Advisory Committee of the expertise and authority program of action to protect the (UMR LAC) was established in of a wide variety of agencies lakes and surrounding lands. The 1990 through the N.H. Rivers and stakeholders. Squam Lakes Watershed Plan, Management and Protection published in 1991 by the Squam Program (RSA 483) to develop ■ Success is typically measured Lake Watershed Advisory Com- and facilitate the implementation through monitoring or other mittee, was the first such manage- of a river corridor management data gathering. ment plan to result from these plan. The UMRLAC River Below are descriptions of meetings. Using a theme of Management and Implementation watershed management plans “protection through managed Plan was adopted in 1994 and is that have been developed in use,” the plan addressed land use, organized into three sections:

CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING 49 The Great Bay Estuary & Coastal Watersheds New Hampshire Estuaries A/B NHEP Study Areas 1 Salmon Falls Project Management Plan River Watershed 1 2 Cocheco River Watershed The New Hampshire Estuaries 3 Lamprey River Watershed Project (NHEP) is part of the 4 Oyster, Bellamy, and U.S. Environmental Protection Winnacunnett River 5 Exeter River Watershed Agency’s National Estuary 6 Coastal Drainage Program (NEP), which is a joint local/state/federal program estab- 2 lished under the Clean Water Act A with the goal of promoting the protection and enhancement of estuarine resources identified to be of national significance. The ultimate goal of each estuary project is to formulate and implement B a realistic Management Plan.The 4 Management Plan is available from the NHEP office at 159 3 Court Street, Suite 1, Portsmouth, NH or (603) 433-7187. Berry’s Brook Watershed Management Plan The Berry’s Brook watershed is 6 5.9 square miles in area, located 5 mostly in Rye and Portsmouth, with smaller areas in Greenland and North Hampton. In June 1993, Appledore Engineering, Inc. produced the Berry’s Brook Watershed Management Plan for Water Resources Management, sampling, and biomonitoring at the Berry’s Brook Watershed Riparian Lands Management, eleven sites on the Pemigewasset, Protection Council. The plan and Outstanding Resources Winnipesaukee, Contoocook, and includes an inventory and analy- Management.This plan is available Merrimack Rivers from Franklin sis of watershed resources, online at www.merrimackriver. to Bow.The UMMP has published potential threats to watershed org/publications.htm. Macroinvertebrates of the Upper resources, a watershed build-out With partnerships formed Merrimack, an annotated picture analysis plan, and an action plan. throughout the watershed, the identification key, and The State of The Management Plan includes UMRLAC has initiated a number the Upper Merrimack 1995-1997, a goals and policies, regulatory of other projects and programs river quality report incorporating strategies, and non-regulatory such as the Upper Merrimack the first three years of monitoring. strategies. For more information Monitoring Program (UMMP), The group also publishes a contact: Jeff Gardner, Berry’s which works with volunteers to newsletter and hosts training Brook Watershed Protection conduct field chemistry, bacterial workshops, lectures, and activities. Council, (603) 433-6189.

50 CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING Education and Outreach

Education and outreach are What do they want to know? ■ Brochures and posters can integral parts of both watershed How can you get the audience be obtained through many planning and encouraging citi- motivated to care about your organizations or create one zen involvement. Gaining a bet- message? Where or how should with a special message. ter understanding of the role the message be delivered? ■ Displays can be tailored to people have in affecting water There are many education and the audience at a local event quality can foster skills and moti- outreach programs and resources or school. vation that lead to maintaining available to increase public aware- ■ Flyers are an easy way to or improving that quality. ness of nonpoint source issues. deliver a quick message or For any education to be effec- National, state, and local organiza- to advertise an event. tive, it must be well thought out tions provide a variety of educa- ■ and planned. The first step in tion tools or you can create your Press releases about a project starting an education or outreach own.A few examples include: or event provide a cost effec- program is identifying your out- tive way to get information ■ reach goals. The next step is to School curricula can be to a broad audience. consider the message that you designed around watershed ■ Newsletters distributed by want people to understand.Who and nonpoint issues. state and local organizations is your audience for the informa- ■ Speakers can present at will often accept outside tion or who needs it most? What schools, workshops, confer- articles on projects or does the audience already know? ences, and meetings. information. ■ Websites are a valuable resource for getting out timely information or to refer people to for more information. ■ Workshops, forums, conferences, and meetings provide continuing education on available resources, updates, data, issues, and thought provoking ideas from a local to a national level. ■ Promotional items with an environmentally-friendly tone, such as recycled content products, native plantings, and organic cotton t-shirts, can get a message across while setting an example. Many watershed-related organizations incorporate creative educational programs into their watershed management plans or grant applications.

CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING 51 Resources for Citizen Involvement and Watershed Planning

Watershed Organization Resources

USEPA. Find out what watershed you live in and other information about watersheds in your state from EPA’s Surf Your Watershed website at www.epa.gov/surf.There is also a commercial site that identifies local watersheds, at http://mywatershed.com.The site generates a map show- ing the rivers and watershed boundaries in your town. USEPA Office of Water. Watershed Protection:A Project Focus.EPA 841-R-95- 003,August 1995.Available online at www.epa.gov/owow/watershed/focus/index.html. The Terrene Institute. Organizing Lake Users:A Practical Guide. Alexandria, VA, 1991.Visit www.terrene.org/; select “catalog,” then “publications” for a list of the resources, or phone (703) 548-5473.

Water Quality Monitoring Programs Resources

Connecticut River Joint Commissions. A Citizens’ Guide to River Monitoring in the Connecticut River Valley. 1995. Produced by the River Watch Network for the Connecticut River Joint Commissions with support from DES.The principles of organizing and carrying out a river monitoring program, as described in this document, apply to rivers every- where, not just the Connecticut River Valley. USEPA.The EPA website on volunteer monitoring is www.epa.gov/owow/monitoring/vol.html.The website includes general information as well as methods manuals for all types of water quality monitoring.

Education and Outreach Resources

For more information about education and outreach resources contact DES,Watershed Outreach Coordinator, (603) 271-2457 or [email protected] resources include: UNH Sea Grant New Hampshire, Kingman Farm, Durham, NH 03824, (603) 749-1565 or www.unh.edu/marine-education/index.html. Information on UNH Marine Docents Program and Sea Trek Educational Programs. Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center, Manchester, NH, (603) 626-FISH or www.amoskeagfishways.org. Family programs, visitor center, and exhibits. USEPA. Office of Environmental Education: (202) 564-0443 or www.epa.gov/enviroed. The Terrene Institute, 4 Herbert Street,Alexandria,VA, 22305.A not-for- profit, nonadvocacy organization, the Terrene Institute provides posters and books, conferences, and is a distributor of the EnviroScape® educational units.Visit www.terrene.org/ or phone (703)548-5473.

52 CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING Council of State Governments. Getting in Step:A Guide to Effective Outreach in Your Watershed, Ordering information available at UMI Books on Demand, PO Box 1346,Ann Arbor, MI 48106, (800) 521-0600 or www.bellhowell.infolearning.com (click on UMI, then Books on Demand). Massachusetts Water Watch Partnership, University of Massachusetts (MassWWP) provides training and technical assistance to citizen organizations that conduct water quality monitoring programs on the lakes, rivers, and estuaries of Massachusetts. Contact them at (413) 545-5532 or visit their website at www.umass.edu/tei/mwwp. One useful publication that they offer is Ready, Set, Present:A Data Presentation Manual for Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Groups Available online at www.umass.edu/tei/mwwp/datapresmanual.html. Maine Department of Environmental Protection and Congress of Lake Associations. A Citizen’s Guide to Lake Watershed Surveys: How to Conduct a Nonpoint Source Phosphorus Survey. Publication #DEPLW-41-A97,April 1997.

CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING 53 54 CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT AND WATERSHED PLANNING 5 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Funding assistance for watershed management is available from various government and private sources.This section provides an overview and contact information for financial assistance programs offered by the state of New Hampshire.The programs listed below provide funding annually. Information presented here is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change, so please contact the appropriate agency to learn more about the programs.

Nonpoint Source (319) Watershed Grants

Section 319 Watershed Assistance Grants Funding organization: DES Watershed Assistance Section. Approximate grant amount: $300,000 distributed in grants annually, no limit on grant requests. Who can apply: Statewide. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government units, conservation districts, regional planning commissions, and watershed organizations. Types of projects funded: Watershed management plans, BMP implementation, education and outreach, and organization building to address nonpoint source pollution problems. Grant cycle: The request for proposals (RFP) is issued in August. Proposals are due in November. Grants are awarded in January, with contract approval by April. Match required: 40 percent of total project cost. Contact: DES Watershed Assistance Section, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. (603) 271-2457. See also www.des.nh. gov/wmb/was/grants.htm Section 319 Watershed Restoration Grants Funding organization: DES Watershed Assistance Section. Approximate grant amount: $500,000 distributed in grants annually. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include non-profits, government units, conservation districts, regional planning commissions, and watershed organizations. Types of projects funded: Restoration of water bodies that have been impaired by nonpoint source pollution. Grant cycle: The RFP is issued in August. Proposals are due in November. Grants are awarded in January, with contract approval by April. Match required: 40 percent of total project cost.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES 55 Contact: Coastal Watershed Supervisor: DES, 360 Corporate Drive, Portsmouth, NH 03801. (603) 433-0877. Merrimack Watershed Supervisor: DES, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271- 2457. See also www.des.nh.gov/wmb/was/grants.htm. Section 319 Small Outreach and Education Grant Program for Nonpoint Source Pollution Funding organization: DES Watershed Assistance Section. Approximate grant amount: $20,000 distributed in grants annually. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include non-profits, government units, conservation districts, and regional planning commissions. Types of projects funded: Outreach or education projects to solve nonpoint source pollution problems including but not limited to: material development, public mailings, public events, website setup or design, displays, and demonstration or educations sites. Grant cycle: Grants will be advertised continuously with applications accepted quarterly. Match required: 40 percent of total project cost. Contact: Watershed Outreach Coordinator: DES, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-7889. See also www.des.nh.gov/wmb/was/grants.htm.

Sourcewater Protection Grants

Source Water Protection Grants Funding organization: DES Drinking Water Source Protection Program. Approximate grant amount: $200,000 annually; individual grant limit of $15,000. Who can apply: Statewide.Water suppliers, municipalities, regional planning commissions, county conservation districts, and non-profit organizations are welcome to apply.Applicants must have endorsement of a public water supplier. Types of projects funded: Delineation of protection areas, assessment/planning, inventory of threats to water supplies, and implementation of protection programs. Grant cycle: The RFP is issued in August. Proposals are due in November. Grants are awarded in January. Match required: No match required. Contact: DES Source Water Protection Program, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-7017. See also www.des.nh.gov/dwspp/grants.htm.

56 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES Water Supply Land Conservation Grant Funding organization: DES Drinking Water Source Protection Program. Approximate grant amount: $300,000 annually. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include any municipality (including villages and school districts) or non-profit organization having water supply as a principal mission. Types of projects funded: The purchase of land or conservation ease- ments critical to the protection of drinking water source protection. Grant cycle: There are two cycles per year. In the fall, eligibility applications are due October 1 and final applications are due December 1. In the spring, eligibility applications are due February 1, and final applications are due April 1. Match required: 75 percent match is required. Contact: DES Drinking Water Source Protection Program, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord NH 03301 (603) 271-0688 or the Society for the Protection of NH Forests, 54 Portsmouth St., Concord NH 03301 (603) 224-9945. See also www.des.nh.gov/dwspp/ws_landgrant.htm.

Regional Planning Grants

Water Quality Planning Grants Funding organization: DES Watershed Management Bureau. Approximate grant amount: $50,000 annually. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include the nine regional planning commissions. Types of projects funded: Projects that support local river advisory committees and watershed planning. Grant cycle: Annual. Match required: None. Contact: DES Watershed Management Bureau, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. (603) 271-2457. See also www.des.nh.gov/wmb/was/grants.htm. Regional Environmental Planning Program Funding organization: DES Approximate grant amount: $225,000 annually Who can apply: Available only to the nine regional planning commissions. Types of projects funded: Environmental planning projects, including watershed management. Grant cycle: Annual. Match required: None. Contact: DES Watershed Assistance Section, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. (603) 271-2457. See also www.des.nh.gov/wmb/was/grants.htm.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES 57 Coastal Grants

New Hampshire Coastal Program Competitive Grant Program (Financial Assistance Grants) Funding organization: New Hampshire Coastal Program (Office of State Planning and Energy Programs). Approximate grant amount: $200,000 annually; individual grant limit of $50,000. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include municipalities, local community groups, environmental/watershed associations, nonprofit organizations, schools and educational institutions, county conservation districts, and regional planning commissions within the coastal watershed. Types of projects funded: Waterfront access creation and enhancement, environmental remediation, pollution prevention, habitat inventories, land protection planning, waterfront park planning and improve- ment, and environmental research. Grant cycle: The RFP is issued in October, proposals are due in the middle of January,grants are awarded in April/May,and contracts are approved by July 1. Projects must typically be done within 12 months. Contact: NHCP,152 Court St., Portsmouth, NH 03801 (603) 431-9366. See also www.state.nh.us/coastal/program/grants.htm. Local Grants Program Funding organization: New Hampshire Estuaries Project (Office of State Planning and Energy Programs) Approximate grant amount: Approximately $50,000 annually, individual grant limit of $10,000. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include municipalities, local community groups, environmental/watershed associations, nonprofit organizations, schools and educational institutions, county conservation districts, and regional planning commissions within the coastal watershed. Types of projects funded: Projects that address actions listed in the NHEP Management Plan (2000). Grant cycle: Grant cycle varies year-to-year. See the NHEP website for details: www.state.nh.us/nhep. Match required: 50 percent of total project cost. Contact: NHEP Director, 152 Court St., Suite 1, Portsmouth, NH 03801 (603) 433-7187.

58 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES Waste Reduction Grants

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program Funding organization: DES Waste Management Division. Approximate grant amount: $250,000 annually. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include communities or groups of communities (regional planning commissions or solid waste districts). Types of projects funded: Household hazardous waste collection. Highest priorities are given to new applicants and communities or groups with a population greater than 10,000. Grant cycle: There are two funding rounds each year.Applications are due on November 15 and May 15. Match required: 50 percent of total project costs. Contact: DES Household Hazardous Waste Program, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord NH 03301 (603) 271-2047. See also www.des.nh.gov/hhw/hhwgrant.htm. Used Oil Collection Grant Assistance Program Funding organization: DES Waste Management Division. Approximate grant amount: There is an individual grant limit per year of $2,500 or $5,000 for groups of municipalities. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include municipalities and other political subdivisions, nonprofit waste management and recycling organizations, and state-registered motor vehicle inspection stations. Types of projects funded: Projects that establish, improve, or operate used oil collection centers that serve individuals who change their own oil. Government entities can also use funds to transport used oil to an off-site recycling facility. Grant cycle: There are six funding rounds each year.Applications are due by February 1,April 1, June 1,August 1, October 1, and December 1 each year, with approval 2 months after the submittal date. Match required: No match required. Contact: DES Used Oil Program, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord NH 03301. 1-888-TAKEOIL or (603) 271-6424. See also www.des.nh.gov/hwcs/used_oil.htm. Agriculture Nutrient Management Grant Program Funding organization: New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets and Food, Bureau of Markets. Approximate grant amount: $75,000 annually, individual grant limit of $2,500. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include agricultural operators and organizations. Types of projects funded: Livestock fencing, controlled wetland crossings, concrete pads for manure/compost storage, roofs for manure/compost storage, barn/gutter downspouts, pasture pumps and other watering systems, vegetative buffers or berms, and educational programs.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES 59 Grant cycle: There are two funding rounds each year.Applications deadlines are June 1 and December 1. Match required: None. Contact: NHDAMF,Bureau of Markets, PO Box 2042, Concord NH 03302 (603) 271-2753. See also www.agriculture.nh.gov.

Other Grants

Conservation License Plate Program Funding organization: State Conservation Committee. Approximate grant amount: $150,000 annually. Who can apply: Eligible applicants include county conservation districts, cooperative extension natural resource programs, conservation commissions, schools, scout troops, nonprofit groups, and conservation organizations. Types of projects funded: Projects that enhance the environment by promoting the sustainability of the state’s public and private land, air, water, and cultural resources to prevent their pollution or degradation. See also www.mooseplate.com. Grant cycle: Applications are accepted in January. Match required: No match required. Contact: State Conservation Committee, 25 Capitol Street, P. O. Box 2042, Concord, NH 03302 (603) 679-2790. For information on federal grants, see: Catalog of Federal Funding Sources for Watershed Protection, second edition. USEPA, Office of Water, December, 1999. EPA 841-B-99-003.Available online at www.epa.gov/OWOW/ watershed/wacademy/fund.html. For information on private foundations, see: The Foundation Center, 79 Fifth Ave., New York,NY 10003 (212) 620-4230.This organization maintains a Foundation Directory, which is also online at http://fdncenter.org.There is a subscription fee to access the searchable directory, but the website offers free links to grantmaker websites at http://fdncenter.org/funders/grantmaker/index.html.

60 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES APPENDIX: CONTACTING AGENCIES IN THIS GUIDE

Agencies and Organizations Involved in Nonpoint Source Pollution Issues

State and Federal Agencies Description

NH General Court All state laws can be searched online at State House the referenced website. Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-3680 http://gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html NH Department of Environmental Services (DES) Wetlands, groundwater protection, 29 Hazen Drive lakes and rivers, watershed manage- Concord, NH 03301 ment, biology, septic systems, household (603) 271-3503 hazardous waste, shellfish, water quality, www.des.nh.gov/ storage tanks, shoreland protection NH Office of State Planning and Energy Programs Municipal planning, land use controls, and NH Coastal Program coastal NPS program 57 Regional Drive Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-2155 http://www.state.nh.us/osp/ www.state.nh.us/coastal/ NH Estuaries Project Water quality in NH’s estuaries 159 Court Street, Suite 1 Portsmouth, NH 03801 (603) 433-7187 www.state.nh.us/nhep/ NH Dept. of Agriculture, Markets, and Food Agricultural best management practices, 25 Capitol Street, P.O. Box 2042 pesticide use Concord, NH 03301-2042 (603) 271-3551 www.state.nh.us/agric/aghome.html NH Dept. of Resources and Economic Development Logging and forestry Division of Forests and Lands 172 Pembroke Road Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-2215 www.nhdfl.org/ NH Dept. of Safety Moorings program, boating safety James H. Hayes Building 33 Hazen Drive Concord, NH 03301 (603) 293-0091 http://www.nh.gov/safety/

APPENDIX 61 State and Federal Agencies (continued) Description

NH Dept. of Transportation Stormwater, sediment control, road John O. Morton Building maintenance 7 Hazen Drive Concord, NH 03302-0483 (603) 271-3734 http://webster.state.nh.us/dot/index.htm US Environmental Protection Agency Nonpoint source pollution, wetlands, Region I (New England) federal stormwater permits 1 Congress Street, Suite 1100 Boston, MA 02114-2023 inside New England: (888) 372-7341 outside New England: (617) 918-1111 www.epa.gov/ www.epa.gov/region01/ USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Soils information, technical assistance Federal Building for stormwater, agriculture, forestry, and 2 Madbury Road natural resource issues Durham, NH 03824-2043 (603) 868-7581 www.nrcs.usda.gov/ www.nh.nrcs.usda.gov/ US Army Corps of Engineers Federal wetlands permits New England Division 696 Virginia Road Concord, MA 01742-2751 (978) 318-8111 www.usace.army.mil/ www.nae.usace.army.mil/ UNH Cooperative Extension Water resources monitoring, education University of New Hampshire and outreach, forestry BMPs, GIS and 110 Pettee Hall GPS training, integrated pest manage- Durham, NH 03824 ment (603) 862-1029 http://ceinfo.unh.edu/ UNH Technology Transfer Center Technical assistance for transportation Kingsbury Hall issues 33 College Road Durham, NH 03824-3591 (800) 423-0060 (inside NH) or (603) 862-2826 www.t2.unh.edu/

62 APPENDIX New Hampshire Organizations Description

NH Association of Conservation Districts Natural resource issues, County PO Box 2042 Conservation Districts Concord, NH 03302-2042 (603) 271-3551 (not on the web) Rockingham County Conservation District Stormwater manual 118 North Road Brentwood, NH 03833-6614 (603) 679-2790 http://ceinfo.unh.edu/zip_check.htm Nashua Regional Planning Commission Regional planning agency, excavation 115 Main Street, P.O. Box 847 regulations, growth/sprawl study Nashua, NH 03061 (603) 883-0366 www.nashuarpc.org/ North Country RC&D Area Council Natural resource issues 107 Glessner Road Bethlehem, NH 03574 (603) 444-6303 www.nccouncil.org/ NH Lakes Association Lake issues 5 South State Street Concord, NH 03301 (603) 226-0299 www.nhlakes.org/ NH Timberland Owners Association Forest management 54 Portsmouth Street Concord, NH 03301 (603) 224-9699 www.nhtoa.org/ Granite State Designers & Installers Septic systems 76 South State Street Concord, NH 03301 (603) 228-1231 www.gsdia.org/ WasteCap of New Hampshire Provides free and confidential assistance 122 North Main Street to businesses to reduce waste, save Concord, NH 03301 energy, and prevent pollution. (603) 224-1517 www.wastecapnh.org/ NH Small Business Development Center Assists businesses in reducing waste Environmental Assistance Program and maximize profits Rivier College, Sylvia Trottier Hall 20 Main Street Nashua, NH 03060-2702 (603) 897-8484 www.nhsbdc.org/eap.htm

APPENDIX 63 64 APPENDIX

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Water Division 29 Hazen Drive Concord, NH 03301

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