The draft list of impaired waters in North Carolina released earlier this year is required under the federal Clean Water Act, but improved water quality standards are needed and rivers and sounds not on the list also need urgent attention, biologists and advocates say.
News & Features
Hand in hand, advocacy groups to regroup for clean energy
Various coastal North Carolina nonprofits are organizing Hands Across the Sand events Saturday as part of the national movement to raise awareness of clean energy alternatives.
Officials unsurprised as 2 more Rodanthe homes collapse
After a nearby house fell earlier this year, Cape Hatteras National Seashore superintendent had advised owners of the two beach houses that were destroyed by a coastal storm Tuesday to remove the homes or take other proactive measures.
Monitor expedition set as marine sanctuary system turns 50
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Author’s message for inclusive outdoors: ‘Trails Not Scales’
Summer Michaud-Skog’s recently published book, “Fat Girls Hiking: An Inclusive Guide to Getting Outdoors at Any Size or Ability” is about how anyone can find their own ways to connect with nature.
Public to soon see Hatteras museum’s long-stored artifacts
With $4.2 million in the state budget for exhibit space, hundreds of never-seen artifacts at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum will at last be able to be brought out of storage.
Celebrations of science, Earth Day on statewide
The 12th North Carolina Science Festival taking place this month is well underway but there are still plenty of opportunities to learn about science and celebrate Earth Day on the coast.
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.
OBX officials, agencies look to improve oil spill response
During the recent Outer Banks Regional Oil Spill Tabletop Exercise, officials and emergency managers worked together on plans to quickly respond to oil spills that could threaten the coasts of Hyde, Currituck and Dare counties.
New program looks to boost climate resilience around bases
Chris Baillie leads a three-year pilot program to determine if existing partnerships to protect military installations from encroachment should be expanded to better incorporate climate resilience and adaptation.
