Encourage the use of nature-based solutions as the preferred alternative for stabilizing tidal shorelines

Statutory Language: 

§  2.  Section 3-0301 of the environmental conservation law is amended by adding a new subdivision 2-a to read as follows:

2-a. A. To further assist in carrying out the policy of this state  as provided  in  section  1-0101  of  this  chapter, the department, by and through the commissioner shall: (1) authorize and encourage the use of nature-based solutions  as  the preferred  alternative,  where appropriate, for stabilizing tidal shore-lines in the state when promulgating and implementing  rules  and  regulations  relating  thereto,  specifically including, but not limited to, those promulgated and implemented for articles fifteen, twenty-five  and thirty-four  of  this  chapter.  The department  shall consult with the United States Army Corps of Engineers  to  ensure  the  minimization  of conflicts with federal law and regulation.

(2)  continue developing  integrated  guidance  for the management of tidal shoreline systems to provide a technical  basis  for  the  coordination  of permit decisions required by any regulatory entity exercising authority over a shoreline management project. Such guidance shall: (i) communicate to stakeholders and regulatory authorities that it  is the policy of the state that some shorelines shall remain natural unless stabilization  is necessary, and when stabilization is deemed necessary, it shall support nature-based solutions as the preferred alternative for stabilizing tidal shorelines; (ii) identify preferred shoreline management approaches for the shore-line and community types found in the state; (iii) explain the risks and benefits of protection provided by various shoreline system elements associated with each management option; and (iv) recommend procedures to achieve efficiency and effectiveness  by the various  regulatory  entities exercising authority over a shoreline
management project.

(3) give preference to a permit application for a shoreline management project based on nature-based solution  design  unless  an  alternative analysis  containing  a  review of nature-based solutions that have been evaluated  using  the  best  available  information  shows   that   such approaches  are not suitable. If this analysis shows that a nature-based solution approach is unsuitable or inconsistent  with  land-use  regulations,  the  department shall require the applicant to incorporate, to the maximum extent possible, elements of a  nature-based solution that are suitable for the project where appropriate.