The NOAA National Marine Sanctuary Systems will be celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and a livestreamed expedition begins next week at the first national marine sanctuary off Cape Hatteras.
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NC water quality thresholds may leave seagrass vulnerable
New research from UNC shows that the state’s current water quality standards for chlorophyll-a and turbidity may not protect submerged aquatic vegetation in high-salinity estuaries considered economically and environmentally vital.
May fishing: Bonito among spring arrivals on NC coast
May brings with it the promise of southwest breezes and pleasant days on the water with the ability to finally get in a small boat and catch a fish close to shore — the true sign of approaching summer.
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.
EPA proposes 3 new actions to protect public from PFAS
The Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed new testing method, permitting direction and protections for aquatic life are a step, but not a solution, advocates say.
Sustainable aquaculture may hinge on research, education
In an industry that’s constantly evolving and a climate that’s also changing, environmental monitoring, science and training appear to be key to the future of oyster farming and other forms of aquaculture.
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.
Growing aquaculture industry faces climate challenges
Aquaculture has the potential to help the world adapt to a changing climate, but warming ocean temperatures, storms and landscape changes could force the industry to adapt as well.
Jockey’s Ridge joining real-time weather data network
ECOnet, an online weather and soil data program through the State Climate Office of North Carolina, will soon be able to collect information from Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the first of the program’s weather stations on the Outer Banks.
Competitors face off to create fresh water with wave power
Competition demonstrates that wave-powered desalination systems can supply fresh water to people in coastal locations, including in disaster-recovery situations.
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.
Quiet Washington County rich in coastal NC history
Washington County’s story is one of isolation, success, and an eventual renewal on the banks of the Roanoke River.
Highly infectious virus spreads among wild birds on coast
As highly pathogenic avian influenza infects wild birds and poultry across the country — often without clear symptoms — agriculture and wildlife officials advise taking steps to slow the spread.
Ocracoke’s John Simpson: Keeper of island carving tradition
Simpson is the featured carver at this year’s Ocracoke Waterfowl Festival set for Saturday and president and cofounder of the Ocracoke Island Decoy Carvers Guild.
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.
Earth Day celebrations abound along NC coast
Fairs and festivals are planned for up and down the coast to celebrate Earth Day, which is Friday.
