Bill > H683

This bill amends Section 40 of Chapter 131 of the General Laws, which is part of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, to clarify the definition and regulation of certain resource areas. Specifically, it proposes to include within the scope of protected resource areas those specifically used for growing aquatic organisms under controlled conditions, and to allow for specific, minimal interventions to remove impediments to fish passage, such as downed trees, sediment buildup, or overgrown vegetation, provided these actions are carried out by authorized entities like the division of marine fisheries or appointed herring wardens and do not negatively affect other protected interests. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "Resource area" to encompass a broader range of natural features bordering or affected by water bodies and tidal action.