650-RICR-20-00-1. Red Book (version Periodic Refile, 10/09/2003 to 09/26/2007)

Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program Original Edition Page 1 Section 310 Section 310. Alterations to Freshwater Flows to Tidal Waters and Water Bodies and Coastal Ponds A. Definitions 1. Alterations to the flows of tributaries include the installation of dams or other devices that alter flows of tributaries to tidal waters and that significantly change the timing and/or volumes of fresh water to coastal waters. Such alterations have a reasonable probability to conflict with a Council plan or program for resources management or may significantly affect the environment of the coastal region. 2. Alterations to the circulation of tidal waters include all structures that alter the behavior of waters within tidal water bodies, including the removal of tidal waters for industrial cooling or other purposes and the installation of structures in embayments and salt ponds that alter the volumes and/or timing of exchange with outlying tidal waters. B. Policies 1. The Council recognizes that alterations to the volume of fresh water discharged to estuarine water bodies can have a significant effect on the species and abundance of organisms present in the estuary and may also cause changes to sedimentation, erosion patterns, and flooding. 2. It is the Council's policy to maintain and enhance anadromous fish runs and to consult with the Department of Environmental Management when considering proposals that may affect these features. C. Prerequisites 1. The construction of dams, tidal gates, and other structures affecting flows of tributaries and the circulation of tidal water bodies shall require an Army Corps of Engineers permit. D. Standards 1. See standards given in "Filling, Removing, or Grading of Shoreline Features" (Section 300.2), as applicable. 2. See standards given in "Construction of Shoreline Protection Facilities" (Section 300.7), as applicable. 3. See standards given in "Sewage Treatment and Disposal" (Section 300.6), as applicable.