Bill > H3984

This bill establishes a comprehensive program and dedicated fund to promote the beneficial use of dredged materials (sediment and other materials removed from water bodies) for coastal restoration and resilience in Massachusetts. The legislation creates a new Dredge Material Fund that will be managed by the Department of Environmental Protection and financed through dredging permit fees, municipal and private contributions, state and federal grants, and other designated revenue. The fund will support a program designed to identify and utilize dredged materials for environmental purposes such as beach nourishment, marshland enhancement, and restoration of intercoastal islands. Municipalities and private entities can participate by submitting plans detailing how they intend to use dredged materials and contributing a portion of project costs. The program aims to improve coastal resilience, mitigate climate impacts, reclaim historic habitats, and protect public and private interests. Key requirements include developing guidelines for material transportation and placement, ensuring minimal environmental impact, and producing annual reports detailing the program's activities, including the amount of dredged materials reused, project locations and outcomes, and financial expenditures. The department must establish program regulations within 12 months and begin operations within 18 months of the bill's effective date.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3984