The term "ordinary high water mark" refers to a significant boundary line used primarily in legal and regulatory contexts to determine the extent and limits of water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and streams. It is defined as the point along the shoreline or bank where the presence and action of water are typically visible and distinguishable during normal or average conditions.
The ordinary high water mark is generally identified by natural indicators such as changes in vegetation, distinct soil characteristics, erosion patterns, or permanent physical features. It represents the water level that bodies of water reach most frequently throughout the year under normal circumstances, excluding occasional and temporary flood events or extreme weather conditions. Thus, it signifies the average water height that is closely associated with the ordinary and everyday flow of the water body.
The determination of the ordinary high water mark holds significant implications in various legal and regulatory frameworks. It serves as a fundamental reference point for establishing boundaries, riparian rights, and determining jurisdictions related to water bodies. It guides decisions concerning land use, construction near waterways, water resource management, and environmental regulations. Additionally, it safeguards public access rights, navigational boundaries, and the preservation of aquatic ecosystems.
The ordinary high water mark is of utmost importance for legal clarity, consistency, and fair use of water bodies, providing a reliable means to distinguish water-adjacent zones and inform regulatory practices accordingly.
