The Department of Health and Human Services recommends limits on consumption of certain freshwater fish from the middle and lower Cape Fear River based on concerns about exposure to chemicals found in fish sampled from that area.
public health
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.
State issues swimming advisories for two Carteret sites
Swim advisories were posted Friday at a public swim area by North River Bridge and at the 16th Street access to Bogue Sound in Morehead City.
Federation, law center call for enforcement of existing law
The Southern Environmental Law Center has sent letters on behalf of the North Carolina Coastal Federation to two government agencies pressing for current laws and rules to be enforced regarding leaking septic systems on the Rodanthe oceanfront.
State issues swim advisory for Beaufort public access
Officials will notify the public when the advisory posted Friday at the public access for Taylors Creek at Lennoxville Boat Ramp in Beaufort is removed.
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.
Swimming advisory lifted for Oak Island beach site
State recreational water quality officials had announced the advisory Friday when stormwater from flooded streets and roads was being pumped onto the beach.
Swim advisory issued for near Crowell Street in Oak Island
Officials with the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program said the stormwater was being pumped to minimize flood damage and to ensure roads are accessible by emergency vehicles.
Groups urge action on health risks from exposed septic
The Southern Environmental Law Center, on behalf of the North Carolina Coastal Federation, has sent letters to the National Park Service and the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services urging them to address threats to public health, welfare, and safety associated with collapsing houses and abandoned septic tanks in Rodanthe.
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.
States greatly underestimate extreme heat hazards: Study
A recent Duke University analysis finds that state emergency management departments are underestimating the growing threat of excessive heat as the climate changes.
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.
Eligible adults can receive fans through heat-relief program
Residents 60 and older, and adults with disabilities are eligible for the program, Operation Fan Heat Relief.
Documentary series examines drinking water pollution
“Our America: Trouble on Tap” looks at how environmental pollution, climate change and aging infrastructure are gradually eroding the ability for more and more communities across the United States to have access to free and potable drinking water.
PFAS may not offer fabric stain protection as hyped: Study
Unless the conditions are near perfect, PFAS coatings on commercial indoor furniture appear no more effective at repelling stains than untreated fabric, new research finds.
Coast Guard proposes Gallants Channel safety zone for race
Public comment deadline is May 1 on the safety zone that would prohibit vessels between 8 and 10 a.m. every second Saturday in May during the swim portion of the Crystal Coast Triathlon.
