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Debris and derelict vessels pose a number of problems in the waterways of coastal North Carolina. They can impact water quality; cause degradation of marine habitat; present health and safety risks to swimmers; pose safety hazard to boaters; and have the potential to drive away tourists who are looking for pristine environments and visually pleasing vistas. The Eastern Carolina Council (ECC), the Mid-East Commission, and the Cape Fear Council of Governments have been funded by the NC Division of Water Quality to collect and analyze data on derelict, abandoned vessels, and other man-made solid waste debris in or on the bank of public trust waters in coastal North Carolina from the Virginia border to the South Carolina border. Photographs, GPS data points, and basic information will be collected by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary for each derelict, abandoned vessel and for each incident of man-made debris that is seen in or on the bank of public trust waters. The GPS points will be inserted into a map. The topic of derelict vessels and the depositing of man-made solid waste debris in or on the banks of public trust waters will be researched. Agencies involved in the issue will be identified along with their role. Ordinances and state laws regarding this issue will be researched as will best practices for dealing with the issue. These will be presented in the report. The completed report along with photos, descriptions, and data points will be conveyed to NC Division of Water Quality, U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and others as requested. Findings will also be reported to concerned local governments and to the concerned legislators. This study will provide a basis for future decisions and a baseline for future events which might result in additional debris in our coastal area. Ultimately, it is hoped that solutions will be found to address this mounting problem. For additional information, contact ECC Planning Director Judy Hills at 252.638.3185 Ext. 3005 or jhills@eccog.org |