The EPA has released an app that helps identify when a harmful algal bloom may be forming in U.S. waters.
water quality
NC riverkeepers cry foul over state’s farm law
Riverkeepers say the 2014 law calls into question whether the Department of Environmental Quality is thoroughly investigating their complaints against the state’s industrial hog and poultry farms.
White Oak River basin plan aims to improve water quality
The public has until July 23 to submit comments on the draft 2021 White Oak River Basin Water Resources Plan, a tool for identifying areas that need additional protection, restoration or preservation.
Agencies to reverse rollback of water quality protections
The Environmental Protection Agency and Department of the Army said Wednesday they will move to reverse Trump-era changes to the definition of “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act.
Threats to seagrass could cost state’s economy millions
A new report from Duke University and NC State estimates economic losses associated with the decline of submerged aquatic vegetation in the Albemarle-Pamlico estuary could total $8.6 million in 10 years.
Hearing set on proposed new surface water standards
The state is holding an online public hearing at 6 p.m. July 20 on proposed revisions to surface water quality standards and classifications.
EMC to Consider Swamp, Wetland Rules
The state Environmental Management Commission will consider during its meeting May 13 the proposed removal of the swamp classification for part of the Cape Fear River.
Comment on Pasquotank River Basin Plan
NCDEQ’s Division of Water Resources is requesting public review and input by May 31 oof the draft 2020 Pasquotank River Basin Water Resources Plan.
Mattamuskeet Restoration Plan Meeting Set
A virtual meeting is set for 6:30-8:30 p.m. April 15 on the latest efforts to restore the Lake Mattamuskeet watershed in Hyde County.
Towns Advance Water Quality Projects
Beaufort recently installed pavement that allows stormwater to soak into the ground, one of numerous projects to improve water quality in area municipalities.
New Water Quality Rules in Effect Thursday
Newly amended rules to monitor recreational water quality for the public’s safety went into effect Thursday.
Groups Launch Fisheries Water Quality Effort
The Water Quality for Fisheries, or WQ4F, Program is a newly launched effort by state and volunteer organizations to address water quality concerns for fisheries communities.
Seagrass Loss Bad Sign for Water Quality
A recent study shows a net loss of at least 5,686 acres of seagrass meadows between 2006 and 2013 in North Carolina’s Albemarle-Pamlico estuary.
Beaufort OKs $23.6M For Infrastructure Work
Beaufort commissioners have accepted a $23.6 million financing package from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to pay for water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure work.
Dare Boat Ramp to Close for Renovations
A busy boat access to Roanoke Sound in Dare County will soon close until mid-May for parking lot improvements, including new measures to reduce polluted stormwater runoff.
New Stormwater Plan Puts Nature to Work
The North Carolina Coastal Federation announced Wednesday a new plan for “nature-based” solutions to stormwater-related flooding, water quality issues.