Chapter 155-E of the New Hampshire Revised Statutes requires that, with several exceptions, all mining and excavation operations in the State obtain prior approval and permit from the local municipality in which the operation is to occur. The purpose of the Statute is to minimize safety hazards created by open excavations; to safeguard the public health and welfare; to preserve our natural assets of soil, water, forests and wildlife; to maintain aesthetic features of our environment; to prevent land and water pollution; and to promote soil stabilization.