In July 2021, the Society of Soil Scientists of Northern New England (SSSNNE) adopted an update to the Site Specific Soil Mapping Standards for New Hampshire and Vermont.  SSSNNE, in consultation with NHDES Alteration of Terrain (AoT) staff updated the publication because of misinterpretation of some sections and varying quality of site specific soil map (SSSM) submittals. In addition, map information was not being properly interpreted in the stormwater designs.

Site specific soil mapping is required for proposed areas of disturbances in AoT applications.  Properly prepared soil maps lead to better engineering designs, which result in better projects that protect the environment.

The correct identification of soils and physical properties determines the hydrologic soil group for hydrologic analysis, and provides important information on infiltration properties and expected seasonal high water elevations.

Engineers, soils scientists and land planners are all responsible for providing the most accurate information to their clients and should be familiar with these regulations.

The New Hampshire Association of Natural Resource Scientists (NHANRS), the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) and the Society of Soil Scientists (SSSNNE) are co-sponsoring the workshop to be held in Concord at the NHDES Auditorium. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. The link to register for the workshop is http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07eip16rurcc4f711d&llr=git6rllab