NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Two Public Hearings Scheduled For Alcoa’s Yadkin Dam Operations

Isaac-Davy Aronson — Mon, 13 May 2013 09:00:00 +0000

Two public hearings are scheduled this week in the ongoing fight over whether Alcoa should be allowed to continue operating dams on the Yadkin River.

The hydroelectric dams are about 60 miles south of the Triad, and they powered Alcoa’s aluminum plant in Badin for decades. The factory is now closed, but Alcoa is seeking another 50-year federal license to operate the dams and sell the electricity on the open market.

Why Legislators Are Changing State Environmental Policy

Alex Granados and Frank Stasio — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:06:16 +0000

A variety of measures aimed at weakening environmental protections are making their way through the General Assembly. One would limit environmental regulations while another would repeal a six-year-old renewable energy policy. Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is changing its mission statement to reflect an emphasis on customer service, a move some call anti-science.

Coastal Plain Counties Praised For Conservation Efforts

Gurnal Scott and Brent Wolfe — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:00:00 +0000

Officials with the state Division of Water Resources say a new report shows great improvement in groundwater levels over a 15-county area in eastern North Carolina. According to state officials, deep-well, freshwater aquifers in the coastal plain have to stay above full capacity to keep from mixing with saltwater. If they were to mix, cities would have to spend money to filter out saltwater to make their water is safe to drink.

The Fracas over Fracking

Frank Stasio and Dixon Crews — Fri, 25 May 2012 14:38:00 +0000

Just a few years ago North Carolina state geologists began reporting that prehistoric geologic formations beneath our feet may be good candidates for shale and gas deposits. The only way to release such deposits is through hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking.” Other states like Pennsylvania and New York have legalized fracking in recent years, but have had to retroactively enact regulations on the practice. North Carolina wants to do it differently.

Chapel Hill Public Meeting on "Fracking"

Leoneda Inge — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 11:10:00 +0000

The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources got an earful last night in Chapel Hill as the debate over natural gas exploration heats up. Scientists and everyday citizens packed East Chapel Hill High School to have their say on DENR’s draft report on hydraulic fracturing, sometimes known as “fracking.” That’s the controversial process used to extract natural gas from shale rock underground. An overwhelming number of voices at the hearing were against fracking and the negative impact they worry it could have on the environment here.

Fracking Hearing Draws Hundreds

Isaac-Davy Aronson — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:45:00 +0000

Opponents and supporters of hydraulic fracturing made their cases at a public hearing in Sanford last night.

Ray Covington of the group North Carolina Oil and Gas said about 600 people turned out to comment on "fracking," the controversial process used to extract natural gas deposits from shale rock. He praised a recent report from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, finding that fracking can be done safely in the state with proper regulation.

Public Meeting on "Fracking" Report

Leoneda Inge — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:25:00 +0000

The state Department of Environment and Natural Resources is ready to present its draft report on hydraulic fracturing. This is the controversial process used to extract natural gas from shale rock underground.

Report: NC Not Ready for Hydraulic Fracturing

Jeff Tiberii — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 22:10:00 +0000

State Environmental officials say an independent study concludes North Carolina needs more regulations before some natural gas drilling can take place.

Thomas Built Buses Recognized for Environmental Stewardship

Catherine Brand — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:15:00 +0000

The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources is designating High Point-based Thomas Built Buses as an "Environmental Steward." Julie Woosley is the manager of the state's Environmental Assistance Center. She says Thomas Built recycles 100% of the waste it creates.

State Releases Environmental Report

Jessica Jones — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:40:00 +0000

There have been significant improvements in air and water quality in the state over the last two decades, according to a new state report.