The recently announced draft offshore wind energy areas, including two off the northern North Carolina coast, may be scaled back before being finalized early next year.
Process of updating inlet hazard area rules to be continued
A rule approved in September deleted an exception that would allow homes of up to 2,000 square feet to be built in areas where the new erosion rate-based setbacks would prevent construction of new houses.
Corps reinstates seasonal dredging window at state ports
The Army Corps of Engineers’ action follows a federal judge’s ruling that the agreement with the state to eliminate the restrictions on hopper dredging meant to protect federally listed species was illegal.
Understaffed environmental agency ‘stretched to the limit’
With nearly 20% of N.C. Department of Environmental Quality jobs unfilled and hundreds of staff set to retire, cracks are revealed in permitting, regulatory functions.
Wildlife Commission, private firm vie for Southport tract
The state agency and the corporation are interested in the parcel near Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point for different reasons.
Dock debris following Ian ‘worst we’ve seen,’ crews say
Environmental stewards contend that the debris contracted commercial fishers are removing makes the case that North Carolina needs to reinstate building codes for residential docks and piers.
Corps policy has caused nonfederal dredging costs to soar
The Army Corps of Engineers says its five-year-old rule blocking local governments, marinas and private entities from using its dredged material disposal sites will remain.
Division pulls new inlet hazard area development rules
Changes to other coastal management rules had removed a key provision while the recently approved shoreline development rules were still being considered.
Growers will need approval to build floating structures
The Coastal Resources Commission will require shellfish farmers to go through the variance process to build floating structures in their lease areas.
‘Absolute gall’: Chemours’ expansion plan angers residents
As plant officials offered assurances Wednesday that the move would not increase emissions, people who live in the lower Cape Fear region vented their anger during an open house in Leland.
Coastal management staff to draft revised septic setbacks
The Coastal Resources Commission Thursday directed Division of Coastal Management staff to craft proposed amendments to address issues associated with houses on the public beach as a result of erosion.
Appeals court says fisheries lawsuit can move forward
The three-judge appellate court on Tuesday unanimously affirmed a 2021 ruling that denied the state’s request to dismiss the lawsuit.
Morehead City native gifts family’s island to UNC Institute
The 17-acre island at the mouth of the Newport River in Carteret County was donated earlier this year.
Groups join case challenging NC Rules Review Commission
Gov. Roy Cooper’s lawsuit contends that the legislature-appointed commission that reviews and approves — or rejects — rules adopted by state agencies is unconstitutional.
Groups remind public: Disturbing sea turtle nests a crime
Whether deliberate vandalism or accidents, sea turtle monitoring volunteers have seen incidents of tampering this season, a violation of federal law that could result in a $50,000 fine and jail time.
Board seeks more study of Cape Fear River’s west bank
New Hanover County commissioners want more information, including a hydrological study, before determining the types of development suitable for the land across from Wilmington’s downtown.
