MS SB2783

Authorizes the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources to determine the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) for purposes of placing bulkheads and rip-rap on private property

Defines OHWM as a mark on the shore established by water level fluctuations and indicated by physical and biological characteristics including water stains, soil changes, scour lines, debris lines, and plant community changes

Prohibits department staff from making OHWM determinations during high tide when observable characteristics are not visible

Clarifies that OHWM is distinct from "mean high water" and cannot be used to determine boundaries between private property and public trust tidelands

Changes terminology throughout existing coastal wetlands law from "ordinary high tide" to "ordinary high water mark" and updates references from "commission" to "department"