|
Contact: Public Affairs Office, 252-473-2111
Cape Hatteras National Seashore plans to seek public input later this year on managing flooding impacts at the Seashore. The Seashore is initiating a joint National Environmental Policy Act-based planning process to evaluate water management options for portions of the Seashore in Frisco and Buxton that regularly experience flooding. Initial public input will be sought at scoping meetings. Partner agencies may include Dare County, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Army Corps of Engineers. “After speaking with our state and federal partners, there is agreement that all stakeholder agencies should come together to evaluate sustainable solutions to maintain important wetland and wildlife habitat and improve visitor enjoyment in flood-prone areas,” said David Hallac, Superintendent of the Outer Banks Group, which includes Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Visitor and administrative facilities in affected areas have experienced persistent flooding over the past year due to record-setting rainfall events and the lack of water management tools. These include: the Cape Point campground; beach parking lots (near ramp 43 and old ramp 45); the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse parking lot; off road vehicle ramps 43, 44, and 49; Lighthouse Road; and areas around the Seashore’s administrative offices. Although most facilities remain open while flooded, flooding can diminish the visitor experience and make access to some areas challenging during large rainfall events. Dates for the first round of public meetings are expected to be announced in August. |
Last updated: June 29, 2016