Press Releases

State seeks public comment on draft permit to allow coal ash removal

State environmental officials are asking for public feedback on draft environmental permits that will allow safe closure of the coal ash pond at Duke Energy’s W.H. Weatherspoon Plant to begin while improving water quality protections.

Duke Energy agrees to pay $6 million for Dan River spill

The state environmental department today reached a settlement with Duke Energy that holds the utility accountable for environmental violations related to the February 2014 coal ash spill at the company’s Dan River power plant in Eden.

State accepting comments on proposed Pamlico County shellfish lease

The state marine fisheries division is accepting public comment on a proposed bottom and water column lease for shellfish aquaculture in Pamlico County.

Officials announce permanent clean drinking water system for residents of Durham community

Residents of a Durham County community now have a permanent source of clean drinking water, thanks to the work of state, federal and local officials.

State issues recreational water quality advisory for northeastern counties

State officials today are urging citizens in North Carolina’s northeast counties to exercise caution with all water-based activities due to the heavy rainfall from recent storms that may have led to excessive bacteria in the water or introduced other substances into the water at potentially unsaf

State agency postpones a September grants workshop due to travel restrictions

State officials are postponing a grants workshop scheduled for Sept. 27 in Plymouth due to the travel restrictions imposed on state employees following a fuel leak in Alabama.

Standard Commercial Fishing License Criteria Committee meeting scheduled

The Marine Fisheries Commission Standard Commercial Fishing License Criteria Committee will meet at 10 a.m. Sept. 30 at the Crystal Coast Civic Center, 3505 Arendell St., Morehead City.

State agency accepting comments on proposed wind energy leases offshore of North Carolina

State officials will participate in a federal public meeting on Sept. 21 in Nags Head to accept comments from the public and answer questions about a proposed wind energy lease sale along the coast.

North Carolina honored for governor-supported energy cost savings program

North Carolina has been honored for a state program supported by Governor McCrory that helps local governments, state agencies, schools and universities save money on utility projects.

State submits second civil rights review despite federal government’s refusal to comment

The state environmental department has sent an environmental justice analysis for a proposed coal ash landfill at Duke Energy’s Dan River facility to the federal EPA’s Office of Civil Rights and the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.