Strengthen Protection of New Hampshire's Natural Systems (ADP Action 4)

Strengthen state and local protection of New Hampshire's natural resources to improve resilience to climate change, with particular attention to preservation of agricultural soils, floodplains, wetlands, drinking water supplies, and wildlife habitat connectivity. To help achieve this goal, new development should be directed toward already-built areas, at possibly higher densities, so as to avoid stresses on undisturbed natural areas. Actions items include 1) identification of ecological hubs and corridors, 2) prioritization of places to protect or restore, 3) region-wide examination of the fragmentation of aquatic systems, 4) improved management of groundwater resources and potable water supplies, 5) more comprehensive monitoring to detect environmental responses to climate change, and 6) specific measures to reduce environmental stressors.  Implementation of this action would necessitate a greater emphasis on regional planning and development strategies than currently exists.