News Release

Cape Hatteras National Seashore Issues Permit to Repair Southernmost Groin in Buxton, North Carolina

Image of the remaining sections of the southernmost groin, located near the former location of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.

News Release Date: April 1, 2026

Contact: Cape Hatteras Public Affairs, 252-475-9032

MANTEO, N.C. — Cape Hatteras National Seashore issued a special use permit to Dare County for its upcoming project to repair the southernmost groin, located partially within the boundaries of the Seashore, in Buxton, North Carolina.

In 1970, in response to coastal erosion adjacent to Naval Facility Cape Hatteras (now known as the Buxton Beach Access or Buxton Formerly Used Defense Site), the U.S. Navy constructed three groins—two to the north of and one just south of the former location of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for the purpose of protecting Naval Facility Cape Hatteras. Dare County intends to repair the southernmost groin this year.

Permitted groin repairs include removal of deteriorated materials and installation of new steel sheet piles, with stone scour protection at the base to help prevent erosion.

NPS opened a public comment period between Aug. 27 and Sept. 29, 2025. In late February, the Seashore also issued a permit to Dare County for this year’s beach nourishment projects in Buxton and Avon.