The Department of Environmental Quality has announced that nine coastal communities have been awarded more than $2.8 million to improve public accesses to beaches and waters.
public access
State lifts swimming advisories at two Morehead City sites
Testing shows bacteria levels had dropped below the state’s and Environmental Protection Agency’s standards set for swimming and water play.
Rules panel sets Aug. 15 deadline on plan for beach mats
The state rules process to allow coastal towns, counties and private beachfront property owners to use portable, roll-out mats as an alternative to traditional beach walkover structures continues.
State lifts swimming advisory for North River Bridge site
The advisory was posted July 7 at the public swimming area at the west end of North River Bridge off U.S. 70 near Otway.
Grants may help troubled Bertie County get back to nature
Lewiston Woodville in Bertie County has poverty and obesity-related health challenges, but one small nonprofit is working to get young people outside and healthier.
Deeds filed for Atlantic Beach dunes lead to access dispute
James Anthony Bunn has notified numerous beachfront property owners in Atlantic Beach that he now owns the dunes in front of their properties and that their continued access to the beach amounts to trespassing.
Swimming advisory lifted at Sandy Bay area in Dare County
Officials said Thursday that the advisory was lifted because water testing shows that bacteria levels have dropped below the state’s and Environmental Protection Agency’s standards set for swimming and water play.
Commission approves septic rule changes, flood disclosure
The state Coastal Resources Commission took separate actions last week to clarify two persistent issues: septic systems on the public beach, and residential flooding.
Public beach access improvement proposals due April 28
The state Division of Coastal Management is accepting proposals for a program that matching funds to local governments in 20 coastal counties to construct low-cost public access facilities.
State grants available to improve public beach access
The state Division of Coastal Management has about $3 million available to help local governments in 20 coastal counties improve public access to coastal beaches and waters.
DMF seeks grant proposals for access, education projects
The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries is accepting applications for grants for fishing access and education projects that help manage, protect, restore, develop, cultivate and enhance the state’s marine resources.
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.
NC Supreme Court rejects Duck beach access case
After a three-year court battle over beach access in Duck, business owner Bob Hovey posted March 15 on social media that the state Supreme Court decided not to hear his case.
North Topsail Beach, Onslow boards to meet Tuesday
The Onslow County Board of Commissioners and the North Topsail Beach Board of Aldermen have scheduled a joint special meeting next week to discuss the town’s desire for money from county occupancy tax coffers to pay for beach nourishment.
Court Determines Duck Access Isn’t Public
A North Carolina appeals court overturned this week the ruling that a beach access at Sea Breeze Drive in Duck is public.
Rodanthe Boat Launch to Close for Upgrades
A soundside boat launch area in Rodanthe will be closed for several months while a dock, ramp and parking lot are built.
