Press Releases

Coastal Resources Commission Science Panel releases report on oceanfront hardened structures

The N.C. Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) Science Panel today released its report examining oceanfront hardened structures and shoreline stabilization approaches along North Carolina’s coast at its regular meeting in New Bern. The findings will provide scientific and technical information to support future discussions regarding shoreline management.

Water quality swimming advisory lifted for sound-side site in Brunswick County

MOREHEAD CITY – State recreational water quality officials today lifted a water quality swimming advisory for a sound-side swimming area in Brunswick County.

Updated analysis shows North Carolina’s seagrass habitat still declining

The amount of seagrass in the state’s estuaries has decreased more than 16% over a 14-year period, according to a new study.

REMINDER: N.C. Coastal Resources Commission to meet June 18

The N.C. Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) will meet June 18 at the Double Tree New Bern Riverfront, 100 Middle St., New Bern. Members of the public may attend in-person or join the meeting online. The CRC Science Panel will present its findings regarding oceanfront hardened structures.

Water quality swimming advisory issued for sound-side site in Dare County

MOREHEAD CITY – An advisory against swimming was posted today at a sound-side site in Dare County, where state recreational water quality officials found bacteria levels in the water that exceed the state’s and Environmental Protection Agency’s recreational water quality standards.

DEQ and partners demonstrate mobile microgrid initiative in Western NC

Two mobile microgrids will provide reliable clean energy for critical facilities in the face of more frequent and intense storms.

DEQ Division of Water Resources to hold public hearing on water impacts from proposed Castle Hayne Quarry expansion

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Water Resources will hold a public hearing on July 14 to accept public comments on water quality impacts from Martin Marietta Materials Inc.’s proposed expansion of a limestone quarry in Castle Hayne, located in New Hanover County.

Water quality swimming advisory issued for sound-side site in Brunswick County

MOREHEAD CITY – An advisory against swimming was posted today at a sound-side site in Brunswick County, where state officials found bacteria levels in the water that exceed the state’s and Environmental Protection Agency’s recreational water quality standards.

REMINDER: Second application period for Dam Safety Grant funding to close June 19

The Department of Environmental Quality’s Dam Safety Program is currently accepting a second round of applications for the North Carolina Dam Safety Grant Program, which will close at 5 p.m. on June 19, 2026. 

Revisions to air quality permit for Egger - Lexington Particleboard Plant open for public comment

The Division of Air Quality (DAQ) is accepting public comments on a draft air quality permit for Egger - Lexington Particleboard Plant in Davidson County.