- (a) All surface waters shall be classified as provided in RSA 485-A:8, based on the standards established therein for class A and class B waters. Each classification shall identify the most sensitive use it is intended to protect.
- (b) All surface waters shall be restored to meet the water quality criteria for their designated classification including existing and designated uses, and to maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of surface waters.
- (c) All surface waters shall provide, wherever attainable, for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife, and for recreation in and on the surface waters.
- (d) Unless alterations in water quantity, including but not limited to flow rate, volume, area, or depth are caused by naturally-occurring conditions, surface water quantity shall be maintained at levels that protect existing uses and designated uses.
Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25