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Did you know... By definition, steep slopes are hillsides having a 15 foot or greater vertical rise over 100 feet of horizontal run, or a 15% slope. Steep slopes are often undesirable areas for development due to the difficulty of building on steep grades. On the other hand, they can provide wildlife habitat, recreational opportunties, and scenic views, preserving the unique and culturally valuable environmental qualities that people treasure in NH.
Steep Slope Enabling Legislation RSA 674:16 ~ Grant of Power RSA 674:21 ~ Innovative Land Use Controls RSA 674:21.I(j) ~ Environmental Characteristics Zoning
Innovative Land Use Planning Techniques: A Handbook for Sustainable Development; NH DES, NH Association of Regional Planning Commissions, NH OEP, NH Local Government Center To view all Lending Library publications, click here.

Difficulties Developing Steep Slopes Development of Steep Slopes can be hindered by several factors including: *Erosion *Septic System Failure *Extensive grading & switchbacks for road construction
Strategies for Developing Steep Slopes Techniques used to minimize the impacts of developing on steep slopes include: *Planting vegetation to stabilize soil & decrease erosion *Berms to slow runoff *Retaining walls to hold unstable soil

Page updated 3/18/08