N.C. Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve

All sites of the N.C. Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve are open as of 5 p.m. Friday, October 2, 2020 as North Carolina progresses to Phase 3 of the state’s plan of slowly easing certain COVID-19 restrictions. In accordance with Executive Order No. 169, mass gatherings that bring together more than 50 persons outdoors at a time are prohibited. Face coverings are required when out in public, indoors or outdoors, where physical distancing of six feet is not possible. To ensure health and safety, visitors should follow the "Three W’s” as outlined by the N.C. Dept. of Health and Human Services – wear a mask or cloth face covering; wait at least six feet away from others, and wash hands frequently.

The reserves will continue to closely monitor state and local COVID-19 guidelines and directives and encourage reserve visitors to comply with these measures to protect themselves and their communities.

Visitors are strongly advised to take the following steps to reduce transmission while visiting a reserve:

1. Postpone your visit if you are sick or experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
2. Maintain at least six feet social distancing from other individuals, with the exception of family or household members.
3. Wear a cloth face covering outdoors when you cannot maintain at least six feet distancing from other people with the exception of family or household members. These coverings function to protect other people more than the wearer.
4. Carry hand sanitizer with you when leaving home and use it frequently.
5. Avoid touching surfaces others may have touched, such as signs and boardwalk railings.
6. Do not share any personal items, including phones, cameras, water bottles, and recreational equipment.

Additional guidance for visitors during the COVID-19 outbreak:

• Avoid group photos that violate social distancing guidelines. 
• Continue to keep dogs leashed and practice social distancing with other people and their dogs.

Any additional guidance and future updates will be posted to the Coastal Reserve website. For the latest information on COVID-19 in North Carolina, go to: www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus or call 866-462-3821 for health-related questions.

The N.C. Coastal Reserve & National Estuarine Research Reserve is a program of the N.C. Division of Coastal Management, a division of the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality. The N.C. National Estuarine Research Reserve is managed through a federal-state partnership between NOAA and the N.C. Division of Coastal Management. The Reserve is a network of 10 protected sites established for long-term research, education and stewardship. This program protects more than 44,000 acres of estuarine land and water, which provides essential habitat for wildlife; offers educational opportunities for students, teachers and the public; and serves as living laboratories for scientists.

Learn more about the Reserve program