Bill > H734

This bill amends Section 18 of Chapter 91 of the General Laws to allow for "cultching," which is the process of adding shell material to create or improve habitat for shellfish, provided it is not placed on salt marshes or eel grass and does not obstruct navigation. This practice is permitted specifically for the purpose of establishing, re-establishing, or maintaining shellfish habitat as part of nutrient management plans that are approved under Section 208 of the federal Clean Water Act, which refers to a federal law that establishes a comprehensive program for managing wastewater and improving water quality.