AGP Executive Report

Jordan Lake Pollution Fight: A court ordered Brenntag Mid-South to stop chemical pollution into a Durham creek that drains to Jordan Lake, after state claims of contaminated groundwater and low dissolved oxygen harming aquatic life. Mining & Water Protections: A new study says federal roadless-area protections help safeguard drinking water for at least 25 million people, adding pressure as rules face change. Solar Boom Misinformation: Rural North Carolina communities are seeing solar expansion slowed by fears amplified online, with “AI slop” blamed for muddying the debate. Invasive Species Debate: Some ecologists argue invasive species can be an early sign of nature rebuilding, pushing a more nuanced view of ecological recovery. Weather Watch: North Carolina is in a hot, humid stretch with isolated storms possible Sunday and another round of strong heat and downpours into the week. Chatham Gas Pipeline Pushback: Neighbors and environmental groups are challenging Enbridge’s proposed 28-mile natural gas line in Chatham County over water, wetlands, and land-use concerns. Heat & Storm Safety: NWS warnings flagged damaging winds and hail risk in parts of the region, urging residents to stay weather-ready.

Heat & Storms Watch: Eastern North Carolina is baking in the mid-80s to low 90s with humidity pushing feels-like near 100, and another stretch of hot, sticky weather is expected into next week with afternoon, hit-or-miss storms. Severe Weather Alerts: The NWS issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Iredell County (and nearby areas), citing damaging winds up to 60 mph and quarter-size hail, with flash-flood risk from torrential rain. Local Flood Recovery: Eno Arts Mill in Hillsborough reopened after Tropical Storm Chantal flooding gutted the historic arts hub, with community donations helping reimburse artists and rebuild. Land & Water Protection: In Chatham County, neighbors are pushing back on a proposed 28-mile natural gas pipeline, raising concerns about water supplies, wetlands/streams, and impacts to trees and endangered aquatic species. Wildlife & Climate Research: University of Delaware researchers are testing shark-borne sensors to collect ocean data that could improve hurricane intensity forecasts. Public Health: North Carolina is seeing cases of the drug-resistant fungus Candida auris, with health officials urging infection-control precautions in healthcare settings.

Public Health Watch: CDC data show North Carolina has reported at least 44 cases of the drug-resistant fungus Candida auris in 2026 (as of July 18), a threat that can spread in healthcare settings and is hard to detect. Greenspace & Health: N.C. State researchers say even small patches of nature and birdsong can boost mental well-being, with effects reported as nearly immediate. Coastal Resilience: On the Outer Banks, Dare County is spending millions to pump 2 million cubic yards of offshore sand onto eroded beaches in Buxton, aiming to rebuild dunes as a “levee system” after hurricane-driven losses. Local Land-Use: Brunswick County’s planning board will hear rezoning requests that could add 700 homes near Bolivia, including a 417-home development and a modification that would shift one project to mostly single-family detached homes. Water & Climate Risk: A UNC-led study projects 18% of North Carolina drinking water systems face moderate-to-high climate hazard risk, with smaller systems often less able to respond. Weather: Saturday looks hot and humid across NC with mostly dry conditions and only hit-or-miss storms, while Forest City sees rain removed from the daytime forecast.

Outer Banks Resilience: Dare County is pumping 2 million cubic yards of offshore sand onto a 3-mile stretch of eroded Buxton beaches, aiming to rebuild dunes as a “levee system” after hurricanes swept homes into the Atlantic and shoreline loss accelerated since 2020. Severe Weather Update: The NWS now confirms three tornadoes touched down during July 28 storms, including a newly mapped EF-0 in Graham County near Lake Santeetlah and an earlier EF-0 in Madison County. Flood Risk & Preparedness: NWS issued minor flooding advisories for northwest North Carolina (Alleghany and Ashe), citing 1–2.5 inches of rain and more expected. Health & Food Safety: A national cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce and a salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeños continue to expand, with recalled produce pulled from major retailers. Air Quality & Wildfire Smoke: A new study says wildfire smoke is erasing some prenatal health gains from cleaner air, as smoke exposure rises with more intense fires. Local Infrastructure: Asheville Regional Airport opened a new 121-foot air traffic control tower with FAA funding, supporting record growth in western North Carolina.

Renewable Fuels Update: XCF Global says its New Rise Renewables Reno facility is back online after upgrades, with renewable diesel production and initial fuel sales moving forward. Weather & Flood Risk: Western North Carolina is bracing for more showers and thunderstorms through the weekend, with isolated flash flooding possible as drought eases. Mining Permits Go Digital: North Carolina DEQ is expanding its AccessDEQ portal so mining permit applications can be submitted, paid, tracked, and notified online. Wildlife on the Coast: A 14-foot great hammerhead washed ashore at Carolina Beach twice; tissue samples are being used to determine the cause of death. Data Center Pushback: AI-driven data center site selections are facing growing local resistance, with some areas considering moratoriums or land-use changes. Public Health Watch: A salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeños continues to spread across states, prompting recalls and menu removals. Coastal Science Spotlight: NASA and partners are gearing up for the Aug. 12 total solar eclipse, with eclipse-chasing science efforts planned along the path.

Drought Watch: After a week of rain, North Carolina’s drought is easing but not over—Brunswick County remains in the worst severe category, while Watauga improved to moderate; reservoirs like Falls Lake and Lake Norman are still below normal, so officials are urging conservation. Wildfire Risk: A lightning-caused “holdover” wildfire near Shallotte burned underground for weeks before surfacing, and it’s now 100% contained—another reminder that drought dries out duff and makes storms more dangerous. Mosquitoes & Public Health: NC State researchers say tiger mosquitoes in Wake County are developing resistance to common insecticides, while health officials are tracking West Nile virus activity in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. Water Safety: Southport issued swimming advisories at two sound-side locations after bacteria levels exceeded standards, with signs to come down once results improve. Energy & Rates: Gov. Josh Stein pushed Duke Energy over a proposed rate increase as regulators nationwide weigh who should pay for the power grid behind the AI/data center boom. DOJ vs. Schools: The Justice Department accused Duke Law of race-based admissions practices, adding to federal scrutiny of universities.

Drought Watch: The Aug. 4 drought monitor shows 70.9% of the U.S. in abnormal dryness or drought, with 48.5% in D1 or worse—spring wheat is hit hardest, with 58% affected and a sharp uptick over the past month, while North Carolina still faces longer-term moisture deficits. Legacy Pollution: A UVA-led study found road dust in seven eastern cities—including Raleigh and Greensboro—still carries toxic metals tied to old factories and decades-old pesticides, raising concerns about everyday exposure near parks and schools. Local Planning After Helene: Buncombe County’s Swannanoa small area plan is in its final stretch, expanded after Tropical Storm Helene to focus on resilience; public comments are open until Aug. 17, with in-person viewing Aug. 7 and Aug. 13. Data Center Pushback: Greensboro leaders are moving toward a potential 120-day moratorium on large new data centers over 10 megawatts, after reversing course and starting the legal process for a public hearing Aug. 17. Food Safety: A cyclospora outbreak tied to contaminated iceberg lettuce has expanded to 15 states, including North Carolina, with thousands sickened nationwide.

Cybersecurity & Trade: North Carolina Ports says a systems-wide cyberattack has been contained, but gates at the Port of Wilmington, Morehead City and the Charlotte Inland Port will open at 8 a.m. Aug. 5 with expected delays for truckers. Heat & Climate: A new ranking of the hottest Augusts in North Carolina since 1895 points to record-level warmth, with climate change driving rising temperatures. Extreme Weather Outlook: Colorado State University trims its 2026 Atlantic hurricane forecast again, citing a strengthening El Niño that should suppress tropical development. Local Energy Policy: Pasquotank County votes for a 12-month halt on new solar farms while it updates its Unified Development Ordinance. Public Health: NC confirms its first 2026 West Nile virus illness in a Gaston County resident and reports early mosquito detections in Cabarrus, Forsyth and Mecklenburg. Water & Agriculture: Beaufort County farmers say recent rainfall helps some crops but also creates new problems when drought-hit fields get soaked all at once. DEQ Permitting: DEQ begins accepting mining permit applications electronically through AccessDEQ, aiming to speed processing and improve transparency. Air Quality & Clean Energy: Duke Energy’s solar procurement is in legal limbo after a state regulator order, raising questions about meeting 2031 solar goals.

Clean Water Alert: Lincoln County issued a swimming advisory after about 2,000 gallons of untreated wastewater leaked into a Lake Norman cove, with health officials warning residents not to swim or touch the water due to possible fecal contamination. Flood Recovery & Resilience: Rutherfordton is nearing completion on Helene repairs to the Norris Public Library and Woodrow Jones Building, adding upgrades like waterproofing, new HVAC, sump pumps, and dehumidification. Local Industry With Environmental Checks: Alexander County approved a $50,000 North Carolina Railroad grant to fund environmental and ecological studies for potential expansion at the Alexander Industrial Park, including site assessments. Water Infrastructure Planning: Pitt County commissioners voted to pursue FEMA funding for Lake Glenwood dam repairs rather than faster contract work, citing grant timing and downstream flood risks. Wildlife Conservation: Leonardo DiCaprio and Jeff Bezos’ Phoenix Species Project announced $200 million to help recover 100 of the world’s most threatened species. Energy & Power Demand: Duke Energy’s latest earnings call highlighted rising power demand and ongoing infrastructure investment, with data center capacity a key driver. Skywatching (Climate-Friendly Fun): NASA says Aug. 12’s new moon plus the Perseids could deliver 50–100 shooting stars, with a partial solar eclipse also visible in parts of North Carolina.

Wildlife Conservation: Leonardo DiCaprio and Jeff Bezos’ groups launched the $200M Phoenix Species Project to help recover 100 of the world’s most threatened species across 30 countries. Contaminated Land Lawsuit: An NC Business Court case says a developer sank $10.5M into contaminated property before an environmental consultant warned it about dry-cleaning chemical pollution. Data Centers & Community Impact: Texas paused new data center approvals while officials audit grid connections; in NC, Granville County moved to clarify how data centers are reviewed in its land-use rules, and residents in Richmond County raised concerns about air impacts from an Amazon data center. Storms & Flood Recovery: Cleanup continues after Hurricane Helene in western NC, including MountainTrue removing vehicles from the Hungry River; Mount Airy businesses are still rebuilding after severe flooding. Water Quality Alerts: A swimming advisory was issued for Lake Norman after about 2,000 gallons of untreated wastewater spilled into the lake. Air & Energy Policy: Duke Energy reported $2.6B in profits as regulators weigh a rate case, with environmental groups pushing for cleaner, lower-cost outcomes.

Tariff Fight in Court: North Carolina is among 25 states suing the Trump administration over new tariffs, arguing they’re a workaround after the Supreme Court struck down earlier import-tariff moves. AI Governance for the Environment: Red Hat’s asago open-source project aims to turn AI safety and governance policies into operational controls, helping organizations deploy AI with clearer guardrails and audit trails. Species Conservation: DiCaprio’s Re:wild and Bezos Earth Fund launched a $200 million Phoenix Species Project to help recover 100 of the world’s most threatened species, including North Carolina’s Hickory Nut Gorge green salamander. Local Weather Watch: Tuesday brings more active storm chances across North Carolina, with damaging wind the main threat in a localized risk area centered near Asheville and Charlotte. Data Center Backlash: More than 30 NC local governments have paused new data center proposals amid concerns about power, water, noise, and neighborhood impacts. Wildlife Health Update: The NC Wildlife Resources Commission will hold a public meeting on chronic wasting disease after confirmation in Edgecombe County, with new hunting rules and surveillance plans. Community Environmental Recognition: Hyster-Yale’s Greenville facility earned DEQ’s top Environmental Stewardship Initiative designation for cutting energy, water, waste, and carbon. Pollinator Call: The Great Southeast Pollinator Census returns Aug. 21-22, inviting residents across NC to count pollinators and help track trends.

Water Quality Alert: Lincoln County issued a swimming advisory after about 2,000 gallons of untreated wastewater leaked into a Lake Norman cove, warning residents to avoid swimming due to possible fecal coliform contamination. Invasive Species & Lake Health: Halifax County commissioners approved a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission asking Dominion Energy to boost funding and action against noxious aquatic weeds and algae in Lake Gaston, including hydrilla and Lyngbya. Coastal & Habitat Work: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $4.3 million contract for maintenance dredging in the Morehead City Inner Harbor, timed with environmental windows to reduce impacts on marine life. Wildfire Smoke Disruption: Campgrounds along Idaho’s Pioneer Scenic Byway closed as two wildfires expanded, underscoring how fast smoke and fire conditions can disrupt outdoor recreation. Climate/Disaster Recovery: Mount Airy crews continued cleanup after weekend flooding, with heavy rain damaging businesses and forcing extensive repairs. Marine Life Mystery: A great hammerhead shark washed ashore on a North Carolina beach with a deep laceration; volunteers collected samples after officials disposed of the carcass. Energy Costs: AAA reports North Carolina gas prices slipped under $3.80, still about a quarter higher than a month ago.

PFAS Fight in NC: Gov. Josh Stein, AG Jeff Jackson and DEQ Sec. Reid Wilson are urging a federal court to reject an EPA-Chemours PFAS settlement, saying it was negotiated “behind our backs” and won’t undo decades of damage to eastern North Carolina drinking water. Flash Flood Emergency: Watauga County’s South Fork New River overflowed into Blowing Rock homes along Highway 321, with fast, debris-filled water and rescues reported as flood warnings stayed active into early Monday. More Flood Risk: The NWS also issued flash flood warnings for parts of northwest NC (including Ashe, Watauga and Wilkes) as thunderstorms dumped heavy rain, with roads and low-lying areas at risk. Coastal Safety: A HIGH rip current risk is posted for much of the NC coast, including the Southern and Crystal Coast and parts of the Outer Banks—swim only with flags and caution. Military Infrastructure: NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic awarded a $95M architect-engineer contract tied to Marine Corps sites including MCAS Cherry Point and New River, plus a separate $29.5M grounds maintenance contract for NC installations. Weather Watch: Monday brings statewide rain/storm chances with the highest activity along eastern and coastal areas, and highs in the mid-to-upper 80s.

PFAS Fight in Court: Gov. Josh Stein, AG Jeff Jackson, and DEQ Sec. Reid Wilson urged a federal judge to reject an EPA-Chemours PFAS settlement they say was negotiated “behind our backs,” arguing it won’t undo decades of damage to eastern North Carolina water. Flash Flood Watch: The NWS kept a Flood Watch in place for parts of North Carolina (including Alleghany, Ashe, Stokes, Surry, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yadkin) through late tonight, warning of street flooding and possible flash flooding from slow-moving, heavy-rain storms. Foothills Flood Emergency: In Surry and Stokes, Big Creek overflowed and crews reported swift-water rescues, with reports of 5–10 inches of rain and washed-out bridges and flooded roads. Local Landfill Monitoring: Rowan County commissioners will consider adding about $167,000 for environmental monitoring at active and closed landfill sites, including groundwater, surface water, landfill gas, and compliance work. Health & Food Safety: A federal egg recall linked to drug-resistant Salmonella continues, with cartons distributed across multiple states including Kroger brands. Clean Tech for Safety: NC State researchers unveiled a wearable patch that vibrates immediately when it detects environmental hazards like toxic gases or heavy metals. Gardening Prep: Surry County Master Gardener workshops in August will focus on fall crop planning, seed saving, and cool-season growing.

Severe Weather & Flooding: A Sunday storm system is bringing heavy downpours and flash-flood risk across parts of North Carolina, with the Piedmont Triad and Foothills facing damaging wind gusts and localized flooding. In Surry and Stokes counties, Big Creek overflowed and emergency crews carried out multiple swift-water rescues as 5–10 inches of rain fell in a narrow band, washing out roads and bridges. Local Resilience & Environmental Monitoring: Rowan County is considering about $167,000 for required environmental monitoring at active and closed landfills, including groundwater, surface water, landfill gas, and compliance work. Drought Update: Rutherford County’s drought has eased after recent rain, but water levels remain below average and officials are still urging conservation. Food & Water Science: UNC researchers are using wastewater DNA surveillance to study population nutrition across North Carolina wastewater treatment plants. Perseids Skywatch: The Perseid meteor shower peaks in mid-August, with new-moon timing offering potentially excellent viewing in North Carolina if skies stay clear.

Drought Watch: North Carolina’s drought has eased after recent rain, but DEQ and Gov. Josh Stein say conservation still matters because reservoirs and groundwater remain below normal. Severe Weather: A strong front is set to bring showers and thunderstorms across the Carolinas this weekend, with heavy rain and gusty winds possible—especially in the foothills and mountains. Water & Health: Heat-related illness is rising in North Carolina, with emergency room visits already higher than in any prior year’s same period, underscoring the need for heat safety as summer stretches on. PFAS & Clean Water: Gov. Stein and DEQ are pushing back on PFAS decisions tied to Chemours, arguing drinking-water protections must stay strong. Data Centers & Power/Water: A proposed data center in Eastern NC is off the table after local opposition over water supplies and electricity impacts, while other communities continue debating new data center pressure on infrastructure. Wildlife & Climate: North Carolina is seeing a record sea turtle nesting season, but heat may affect hatchling sex ratios. Conservation Funding: Chatham County is accepting applications for cost-share programs to help farmers and landowners protect water quality and conserve water. Invasive/Threats: North Carolina officials are working to find and destroy yellow-legged hornet nests as concerns grow for honeybees and crops.