Developments have been swift in the five years this week since the public first learned of an emerging contaminant in the drinking water source for thousands in the lower Cape Fear region, but work remains.
Climate change, pollution imperil Cape Fear, advocates say
Industrialization, pollution, climate change and PFAS are among the hurdles the Cape Fear River faces, speakers explained Wednesday during Cape Fear River Watch’s first State of the River forum.
Plan would fund clean energy, hog farm buyouts, resilience
The governor’s proposed $29.3 billion 2022-23 budget funds offshore wind industry infrastructure, buyouts of hog farms in floodplains, forest preservation and management, and expansion of climate resiliency programs.
Study finds oyster sustainability among Indigenous peoples
Archaeological examinations of middens published this week show that Native Americans and Australians were successful at sustainably harvesting shellfish over thousands of years.
Groups are setting traps to reduce plastics in NC waters
Devices that catch litter in storm drains and small creeks are being put in place in a growing effort to lower the amount of plastics and microplastics getting into waterways and the ocean.
Construction of Ocean Isle Beach’s terminal groin complete
Construction of the 750-foot-long structure intended to protect the east end of town from erosion wrapped up earlier this month.
Collaborative seeks to add radio towers for tracking wildlife
North Carolina researchers and conservationists are working with others in several states to snag a $1 million federal grant to expand and maintain a network of automated radio tracking towers connected to the Motus Wildlife Tracking System.
Study of shrimp eyes opens window into life in the deep sea
UNCW researcher Lorian Schweikert was on a team that found the light organ patterns on the bodies of deep-sea shrimp were the best predictor of the size of their eyes.
Whales’ rebound in Australia a success story: Duke biologist
Conservation biologist David Johnston at the Duke University Marine Lab in Beaufort says Australia’s recent decision to remove humpback whales from its endangered species list is a conservation victory and pivot point.
New Hanover discusses future of Cape Fear’s west bank
County commissioners during last week’s work session continued examining proposed development on riverfront property across from downtown Wilmington, currently being considered by nearby Leland for annexation.
Sand from dredging expands eroded island habitat for terns
A recent dredge project has turned back years of erosion for a dredge spoil island near the federal channel in the Cape Fear River that supports colonies of royal terns and sandwich terns.
Topsail Island towns float plan to reduce plastic pollution
Topsail Beach officials are drafting what could be the state’s first ban on unencapsulated polystyrene for floating dock repair and construction, part of a Topsail Island-wide anti-pollution initiative.
Some N. Topsail Beach owners want Surf City annexation
A group of property owners in the Phase 5 area of North Topsail Beach’s beach nourishment plan says it wants out and to be annexed by neighboring Surf City.
Federal dollars now available for North Carolina waterways
Millions of dollars in federal spending are set to be put to use clearing shoaling in North Carolina’s inlets, harbors and channels. First in a new special reporting series.
Still no answers from sampling of PFAS-laden foam
A statewide investigation of foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in areas including Brunswick County beaches has yet to identify the potential sources.
UNCW event examines history of environmental injustice
Student-led People of Scientific and Equitable Achievement hosted the panel discussion.
