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.
Archives
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.
Federal Study Gives Offshore Wind the Green Light
Commercial wind farms off the N.C. coast will likely have minimal adverse environmental effects, notes a federal study. People will have a chance to comment on the study at three meetings this week.
“First Beach Snow”
Photograph by Jeffery King
Five years ago this week Oak Island was a winter wonderland.
Federation Set to Launch Two Websites
Come Monday, Coastal Review Online will move to a new digital home and the federation’s website will get a complete remodeling.
Navassa Superfund Site Slated for Cleanup
More than $10 million has been allocated to clean up the site of a former wood treatment plant following a federal lawsuit that resulted in the largest environmental settlement in U.S. history.
Ocean Isle Applies for Corps Groin Permit
Town leaders are now banking on the construction of a 750-foot terminal groin to fend off further erosion on the east end of the island.
Crab Pot Project Is a Success
The N.C. Coastal Federation’s pilot program wrapped up, clearing hundreds of derelict crab pots from waterways between Ocracoke Island and the Virginia line
