Develop policies and regulations for modification activities

Shoreline modification activities are actions that modify the physical configuration or qualities of the shoreline area. They are typically construction activities such as building a dike or dredging a basin, but they can include other actions such as clearing, grading, or application of chemicals.

As described in Ecology's guidelines, shoreline modification activities are undertaken in support of or in preparation for a shoreline "use." For example, fill (activity) required for a cargo terminal (industrial use) or dredging (activity) to allow for a marina (boating facility use). A single use may require several different shoreline modification activities. For example, a marina and boatyard development may involve a breakwater, dredging, clearing, grading and fill.

Shoreline "uses" generally are ongoing and the policies and regulations related to them must deal with functional relationships inherent in the individual uses, and pertain to long term management. Modification activities represent a physical alteration of the shoreline so activity regulations deal with more immediate, time-limited physical impacts.

Ecology guidelines for modification activities

• General principles that apply to all modifications

• Shoreline stabilization (e.g., bulkheads) standards

  • General principles, including description of environmental effects and a preference for hard over soft structures

  • Standards for new development

  • Standards prohibiting new stabilization structures unless specific conditions apply

  • Standards for replacement structures

  • Requirements for geotechnical reports

  • Standards for new stabilization structures

• Piers and docks

• Fill

• Breakwaters, jetties, groins, and weirs

• Beach and dunes management

• Dredging and dredge material disposal

• Shoreline habitat and natural systems enhancement projects

Link to Ecology's guidelines for modification activity policies and regulations (external link)

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