Press Releases

Judge Issues Ruling in Favor of DEQ on Coal Ash-related Petition

The Administrative Law Judge presiding over the Duke Energy appeal of the Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) coal ash closure decision issued another ruling in favor of DEQ on Friday.

REMINDER: North Carolina Secretaries’ Science Advisory Board to meet December 2

The state Secretaries’ Science Advisory Board will meet on Monday, December 2, in Raleigh to discuss hexavalent chromium-6 recommendations and hear presentations on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The full agenda can be found online at: https://deq.nc.gov/about/boards-and-commissions/secretaries-science-advisory-board.

Bald Head Woods Coastal Reserve open to visitors after Hurricane Dorian

The Bald Head Woods Reserve on Bald Head Island in Brunswick County reopened to visitors today after closure due to Hurricane Dorian. With the opening of Bald Head Woods, all North Carolina Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve sites are open after the storm.

DEQ issues violation notices to Greensboro and Reidsville for 1,4 dioxane discharges

The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issued notices of violation to the wastewater pre-treatment programs for the cities of Greensboro and Reidsville for recent 1,4 dioxane discharges that violated water quality standards and the conditions of their wastewater permits.

Governor Roy Cooper recognizes “America Recycles Day” in North Carolina

Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed today America Recycles Day in the state to promote the importance of recycling and recognize the conscientious habits of North Carolinians that improve our quality of life and support a clean, economically vibrant and sustainable environment.

State seeks public feedback on Hanes Farm sand mine permit in Craven County

The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Energy, Mineral and Land Resources (DEMLR) is seeking community feedback related to the application for a mining permit for a mining operation located off Crump Farm Road in Craven County.

Low levels of GenX, two other PFAS compounds detected at Gray’s Creek Elementary School; parents notified of sampling results

Parents of Gray’s Creek Elementary students were notified this afternoon by Cumberland County School system officials of drinking water testing results at the school from samples taken in late October. Samples results show GenX levels of 6 parts per trillion and total PFAS levels of 53 parts per trillion, including levels of two, individual per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at 34 parts per trillion and 13 parts per trillion.

Public hearing in Asheville Dec. 19 on proposed permit for industrial landfill at power plant; Comment period ends Jan. 10, 2020

State officials will host a public hearing Dec. 19 in Asheville to gather comments on a draft permit to construct and operate an industrial landfill at the Duke Energy Progress Asheville Steam Electric Plant. Public comments will be accepted through Friday, Jan. 10, 2020.

State coastal commission will meet Nov. 19-20 in Emerald Isle; Coastal advisory council will meet Nov. 19

State acquires 35 acres for Bird Island Coastal Reserve

The state has purchased 35 acres in Sunset Beach to be added to the Bird Island Coastal Reserve.