The founder and executive director of the N.C. Coastal Federation has won a Peter Benchley Ocean Award for his lifelong work in protecting and restoring the natural resources of the N.C. coast.
Archives
Internship Program Prepares Future Leaders
The N.C. Coastal Federation is gearing up again to help produce the next generation of young professionals who will shape research and influence coastal policies and decision-making.
Coastal Sketch: Colonel Kevin Landers
He takes over the command of the Army Corps of Engineers’ Wilmington District at a time when federal money for dredging the state’s shallow inlets is becoming increasingly harder to come by.
Private Sewer Plants Could Fuel Development
Sewer plants at two residential subdivisions in western Carteret County could be turned into regional plants that would increase development and threaten the shellfish waters of Bogue Sound.
“A Frozen Pamlico Sound”
Outer Banks artist Randi Machovec’s hands were frozen as she snapped this shot last week of her pier on the Pamlico Sound in Waves, a small town on Hatteras Island. “A rare sight for us islanders,” Machovec wrote.
A Celebration of Community
Almost 11 years after developers bought the old Manns Harbor Marina in the hopes of building a condominium complex, the docks have been returned to their original purpose and are an example of what can happen when local people want it to.
The Good, the Bad & the Ugly of Drilling
The first N.C. skirmish in what will certainly be a prolonged battle over offshore drilling played out in Wilmington Tuesday. CRO editor Frank Tursi takes you into the heart of both camps.
Seals’ Appearance Is a Puzzle
A mix of seal species is appearing on N.C. beaches with more and more frequency, but no one knows why. Could it be a consequence of a changing climate? One Duke University scientist is determined to find out.
U.S. 64 Project Leaves Aging Bridge Hanging
Plans for widening the eastern end of U.S. 64 are now on hold. That’s fine with most locals, but many think the old swing bridge over Alligator River is overdue for a replacement.
Guest Column: Drilling Means Jobs
David McGowan, executive director or the N.C. Petroleum Council, thinks offshore drilling can be done safely and would provide jobs and boost the coastal economy.
“The Great Blue Heron”
Photograph by Sam Bland.
The shallow depth of field and statuesque profile of this coastal bird that frequents North Carolina’s marshes makes the great blue heron’s brilliant colors, lanky body and feathers’ texture pop into focus. In this photo we can truly admire the heron’s greatness.
Proposed Move of State Parks Causes Jitters
Some worry that the protection of natural resources will get shortchanged if Gov. Pat McCrory succeeds in moving state parks to the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, which is more geared toward attracting customers.
No Huffing and Puffing Over Wind
The feds had a meeting in Kitty Hawk about offshore wind energy. There were no protests or demonstrations, no talk of spills and sullied beaches.
The Neusiok Trail — At a Jogger’s Pace
Naturalist Sam Bland spent a cold winter’s day jogging the entire 21-mile length of the trail. He sloshed through mud and cold water and was spooked by something big moving through the woods.
Years of Abuse May Have Taken Toll on Creek
Hawkins Creek in Swansboro may be suffering from years of abuse from stormwater runoff, new state studies indicate.
Commentary: Rolling the Dice Offshore
North Carolina has one of healthiest coastal ecosystems in the country. It will be at risk, Todd Miller warns, if the oil industry sets up shop offshore.
