The state-managed Operation Fan Heat Relief has been providing fans since 1986 to adults living with disabilities or are 60 and older to help reduce heat-related illnesses and make their living environment more comfortable.
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Indigenous group to lead environmental justice conversation
The three-hour webinar set to begin at 11 a.m. July 18 “centers Indigenous knowledge systems, lived experience, and community-led solutions to environmental justice,” according to organizers, Two Rivers Saponi-Occoneechee Association.
DEQ seeks feedback on draft river basin action plans
The public may provide feedback on draft plans for the Lumber and Tar-Pamlico river basin action strategies during a July 20 virtual information session.
Pine Knoll Shores aquarium readies for ‘Birthday Splash’
With the North Carolina Aquariums celebrating 50 years in 2026, Coastal Review talks with Jay Barnes, the former Pine Knoll Shores site director about the early days of the facility, which is hosting two celebrations Saturday for the anniversary.
Stein signs budget with safe water provisions, new ferry tolls
Gov. Josh Stein signed the $34.4 billion spending plan featuring coastal environmental spending and policy provisions, and new tolls on state ferries that have long been free to ride.
ECSU adds data science, online history, social work degrees
Elizabeth City State University, one of four North Carolina Promise institutions providing affordable access to higher education, is expanding its curriculum and adding flexibility for students.
Manns Harbor Bridge repairs to be ‘most complete’ in decades
The harsh marine environment has taken its toll on the nearly 70-year-old William B. Umstead Bridge, and the modern materials but laborious application required are driving up the price tag and lengthening the timeline for the ongoing repairs.
Drought creates feeding trough
The state’s ongoing drought is affecting water levels in the North Carolina Coastal Federation’s North River Wetland Preserve near Otway, where wading birds take advantage of conditions recently to feed on the fish, tadpoles, frogs and aquatic insects left with nowhere to go. Nearly the entire state was facing drought conditions at the time this was published, with most of the coast in moderate drought with increasing severity toward New Hanover and Brunswick counties and the western portions of most other coastal counties.
Advocates challenge proposed Castle Hayne quarry expansion
Environmental groups argue that Martin Marietta’s preferred plan to enlarge its Castle Hayne quarry would permanently destroy 140-plus acres of pristine wetlands and around 10 acres of open water classified as primary nursery and strategic habitat areas, and essential fish habitat.
Forecasters project heat wave over Fourth of July weekend
Forecasters and health officials warn that this Fourth of July weekend the “feels like” temperatures of between 100 and 110 starting Friday can be dangerous to your health.
EMC to hear progress on habitat protection plan update
The 15-member Environmental Management Commission are scheduled to hear an update to the N.C. Coastal Habitat Protection Plan at its July 9 meeting.
DCM accepting applications for public access funding
Applicants eligible for fiscal year 2027 funding through the North Carolina Boating Infrastructure Grant, or BIG, Program must apply for the federal funds by Aug. 28.
Albemarle Region’s tallest hotel offered luxurious amenities
The nine-story, 100-room Virginia Dare Hotel, completed in 1927 amid a hotel industry trend of going taller and taller, enjoyed a only a brief heyday but still stands as an Elizabeth City icon.
Center to sue over lack of protections for migratory red knots
The Center for Biological Diversity said Wednesday that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has been notified about the expected legal action for the federal agency “failing to designate critical habitat for red knot shorebirds in a timely manner.”
Explore riverine islands’ natural treasures by kayak
Cape Fear River Watch invites you to join in an out-and-back paddle July 18 to Shark Tooth and Keg islands, where treasures of shells and shark teeth abound.
Duke Energy takes nearly $130 million to kill its wind project
The Interior Department has announced that Charlotte-based Duke Energy will terminate its offshore wind lease off Bald Head Island and “refocus” the $129 million taxpayer buyout back on fossil fuels and nuclear power.

















