Are Docks Killing Marshes?

Environmental groups are raising concern in Georgia over the new rules that shorten the review for personal docks that extend through the saltwater marsh into open water.

Groups there are challenging new rules that make getting private recreational docks easier, according to the Savannah Morning News. One environmentalist reports as much as 7 acres of dead marsh have been observed in the Savannah area this year, the largest amount since 2007, they say.

They attribute the die-off to large docks that obstruct the flow of dead marsh grass. That so-called "wracking" causes a build-up that kills off healthy marsh, they allege.

The proposed Georgia rules aren't much different from what's already in place in the South Carolina Lowcountry. In Georgia currently, long docks require Army Corps of Engineers approval, but the new rules, like South Carolina's, would only require state approval for docks under 1,000 feet.

That so-called "fast tracking" has angered Georgia groups, who want docks capped at 500 feet in length, without special permits.

Residents in Georgia say the cumbersome dock-permitting rules have harmed coastal property values, since waterfront homes with docks are considered premium properties.