Press Releases

North Carolina drought-free for the first time since Aug. 8

For the first time since Aug. 8, 2023, there are no counties in North Carolina listed in drought status, according to the DMAC. However, all or parts of five counties were still listed as “abnormally dry:” Cherokee, Clay, Dare, Graham and Macon.

DEQ Releases 2024 Update to State Greenhouse Gas Inventory, Showing Continued Declines in NC Climate Pollution Emissions

Net emissions of greenhouse gases have fallen 38% between 2005 and 2020 in North Carolina, according to the latest update of the state Greenhouse Gas Inventory, released today by the Department of Environmental Quality.

New phone system installed at Division of Coastal Management office in Elizabeth City

Telephone numbers at the Division of Coastal Management (DCM) office in Elizabeth City have changed. The new main number is 252-621-6450.

Ocean Isle Marina Certified as North Carolina Clean Marina

The N.C. Division of Coastal Management (DCM) has certified its latest North Carolina Clean Marina, a designation given to marinas that exceed minimum regulatory requirements. Ocean Isle Marina in Brunswick County received certification in January.

Burlington reports 1,4 dioxane discharge in wastewater

The City of Burlington has notified the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources of elevated 1,4 dioxane levels discharged into the Haw River from the South Burlington Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Marine Fisheries Standard Commercial Fishing License Eligibility Board to meet

The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries Standard Commercial Fishing License Eligibility Board will meet by teleconference at 10:30 a.m. April 9. The board will consider license applications that are deemed complete and submitted by March 13. 

State certifies new state record for White Perch

The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries recently certified a new state record for White Perch (Morone americana).

UPDATE: Comment period for Coastal Resources Commission temporary rules extended to Feb. 22

The Coastal Resources Commission has extended the public comment period on several proposed temporary rules until Feb. 22.

DAQ to Hold Public Hearing for Anson Gas Producers Draft Air Quality Permit

The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) will hold a public hearing on a draft Title V air quality permit for Anson Gas Producers, LLC.

Department of Environmental Quality names new coastal management director

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has named Tancred Miller as the new director of the Division of Coastal Management (DCM) effective Jan. 29.