AGP Executive Report

Coastal Fisheries: A North Carolina judge ruled the state failed to protect coastal fish stocks, saying none of the 13 state-managed stocks are viable long term—raising fresh alarms for flounder, shrimp, speckled trout and more. Storm Resilience: In New Bern, the Resilient Coastal Communities Program marked five years of work, with $16M allocated to help 60 eastern NC towns plan upgrades and reduce flood risk. Nor’easter Impacts: Red flags flew at Emerald Isle as a nor’easter brought strong winds and high rip-current risk, with Outer Banks erosion and overwash already underway. Land Conservation: The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy preserved 336 acres around Lake Eden via a Camp Rockmont easement, protecting rare plants and habitat. Rural Tech & Health Access: BETA Technologies launched all-electric flight operations in NC’s eLIFT program, testing faster delivery of critical healthcare supplies to rural access points. AI Oversight: North Carolina joined multistate pushes urging federal AI safety rules after incidents involving AI agents escaping testing environments. Helene Housing Reality: Two years after Hurricane Helene, reporting shows thousands of displaced homes remain unresolved, with many properties still vacant or awaiting demolition and greenspace plans.

Coastal Storm Watch: A developing nor’easter is battering North Carolina’s Outer Banks with dangerous surf, beach erosion, and overwash that has closed N.C. Highway 12 and suspended ferry service, with more high-tide impacts expected into the weekend. Flood Resilience & Planning: State agencies are seeking public input on flood resilience plans for the Cape Fear and White Oak river basins, as communities brace for repeated coastal and river flooding. Wildlife & Water Stress: Extreme heat, drought, and Helene-related habitat loss are hitting NC trout—state hatchery renovations and delayed restocking mean fewer fish for fall anglers. Fire Season Caution: The N.C. Forest Service is urging caution as fall wildfire risk rises, reminding residents about safer outdoor burning practices. Estuary Week on the Crystal Coast: Groups are marking National Estuaries Week by spotlighting eastern NC waterways as storm buffers and wildlife nurseries, with Estuary Day events and shore cleanups planned. Policy & Tech: The FCC proposal to override local broadband rules is drawing pushback from cities and counties, while attorneys general are urging Congress to regulate AI.

Coastal Storm Watch: A developing nor’easter off the North Carolina coast is expected to bring strong winds, coastal flooding, dangerous surf, and beach erosion this weekend, with waves already pounding from the Outer Banks through the Mid-Atlantic. Local Impacts: In eastern N.C., gusty conditions cut Cherry Branch ferry service to one crossing per hour instead of two, disrupting travel on the Neuse River. Water & Fisheries: North Carolina trout stocking is delayed until November after heat and drought pushed hatchery losses to about 70%, with officials citing climate-driven warming and flooding challenges. Wildfire Risk: The N.C. Forest Service is urging extra caution with outdoor burning as fall wildfire season ramps up, noting most wildfires are preventable and warning against burning on dry or windy days. PFAS Accountability: Environmental groups say Chemours has not met PFAS limits in a Bladen County consent order, alleging higher contamination is reaching surface waters, including the Cape Fear River. Water Infrastructure: Hendersonville received major funding to improve wastewater systems after Hurricane Helene, aiming to strengthen resilience.

Helene Recovery, Western NC: Yancey County investigators are searching a FEMA-approved Helene debris pile for two people still missing—13-year-old Yevhenii Segen and his grandmother, Tetyana Novitnia—after debris removal reopened access; cadaver dogs found nothing during the latest sweep. Water Infrastructure, Asheville: Two years after Helene, Asheville says a critical auxiliary spillway fusegate repair is complete, but larger projects meant to prevent prolonged outages are still in design. Climate Risk, Appalachia: UNC Asheville researchers say climate change is increasing landslide risk in southern Appalachia and are partnering with the NC Geological Survey to build an early warning system that combines storm forecasts with past landslide maps and soil moisture. Storm Watch, East Coast: A rare September nor’easter is forecast to bring days of coastal flooding, beach erosion, and strong winds from North Carolina to Maine, with travel disruptions possible. Public Health, Ticks & Rabies: A study finds many people with Lyme antibodies also show antibodies to other tick-borne pathogens, and a separate report highlights growing rabies-related medical exposures nationwide.

Wastewater Resilience Funding: Hendersonville announced $72M in grants and low-interest loans to expand and flood-proof its wastewater treatment facility after Hurricane Helene, including $20.1M from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and $11M from NC DEQ’s State Revolving Fund. Flood Watch for Western NC: The National Weather Service issued a flood advisory for parts of Ashe and Watauga counties due to excessive rainfall, with minor flooding expected in low-lying areas and water over roadways. Coastal Planning Input Sought: NC DEQ’s Division of Coastal Management is taking public comment on a federal consistency review tied to training activities at MCAS Cherry Point Range Complex, with an in-person hearing set for Sept. 29 in Morehead City. Life Sciences Workforce Boost: Pitt Community College received a $427,415 NSF grant to modernize its biotechnology program and grow training for quality control bioanalytical lab technicians in eastern North Carolina. Habitat Restoration Plan: NCWRC plans to enact a 10-year habitat restoration effort in the Pisgah and Nantahala forests. PFAS Settlement Context: A PFAS settlement involving Chemours, DuPont and Corteva in North Carolina was reported as about $455M over 15 years, with major shares earmarked for local governments near Fayetteville Works.

Coastal Flood Watch: A developing nor’easter is forecast to bring dangerous coastal flooding, heavy rain, and strong winds from the Outer Banks north through New England, with major beach erosion and tidal flooding risks rising through the week. PFAS Rollback: The EPA withdrew federal PFAS drinking-water guidance, a move that could hit North Carolina hard where millions rely on water potentially contaminated with “forever chemicals.” Hurricane Helene Aftershocks: New reporting marks two years since Helene, detailing how close a Lake Lure dam came to failing and how Buncombe County’s 911 system was overwhelmed—plus ongoing housing displacement pressures in western NC. Toxic Waste Lawsuit: Federal and state governments are suing Domtar Paper over decades of toxic waste contamination in Martin County, while a $1.75M restoration settlement awaits final approval. Wildlife & Public Safety: Bear encounters are rising across multiple states, and experts warn that when bears learn to find human food, the behavior is hard to reverse. Wildfire Preparedness: Governor Sanders activated an interstate wildfire compact response statewide as wildfire danger remains elevated.

Coastal Flooding Watch: A first-fall nor’easter is forming off the North Carolina coast, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and days of coastal flooding and beach erosion risk along the East Coast. Mountain Flood Alerts: NWS issued flood advisories for parts of western North Carolina, including Ashe County, warning of minor flooding in low-lying areas and water over roadways from thunderstorms. Wildlife & Habitat: Wake County is seeing a massive nocturnal bird migration, with BirdCast estimating millions of birds crossing in a single night—an urgent reminder as migratory species decline. Energy & Water Impacts: Environmental groups told the D.C. Circuit the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission mishandled its review of a pipeline expansion’s effects on streams and aquatic life in Virginia and North Carolina. Local Infrastructure: Leland town leaders backed a comprehensive environmental review for potential replacement options for the aging Cape Fear Memorial Bridge. Community & Economy: A Wayne County summit highlighted how childcare shortages are costing local businesses millions and weakening workforce stability.

Coastal Storm Watch: A first fall nor’easter is forming off the East Coast, with strong onshore winds, heavy rain, and dangerous surf that could mean coastal flooding and beach erosion—eastern North Carolina may see increased rain around Sept. 24. Water Protection Leadership: Michael Pjetraj was named director of the NC DEQ Division of Water Resources, taking over from Richard Rogers, as the state continues work to protect surface water and groundwater. PFAS Accountability: North Carolina announced a $590 million settlement tied to “forever chemicals,” including money for drinking-water protection and cleanup; some private well owners remain skeptical about whether filtration promises will hold up. Storm Recovery Stories: Two years after Hurricane Helene, families in Western NC and Charlotte are still rebuilding—some through buyouts and hazard mitigation, others through new livelihoods and community recovery. Disaster-Ready Tech on Roads: After Helene shut down major freight corridors, NCDOT is using truck-cab safety alerts to warn drivers before they hit washed-out interstate dead ends. Electric Aviation Demo: NCDOT will showcase an electric aircraft at Pitt-Greenville Airport as part of eLIFT-NC, exploring electric logistics for rural access and disaster response. PFAS + Health Context: A guide explains how PFAS spread through drinking water and why testing and treatment are still major challenges for many communities.

Storm Recovery in WNC: Two years after Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina is still stuck in the slow lane of FEMA closeouts, with only 14% of submitted projects reaching that stage and billions spent while many schools, nonprofits, and local governments wait on reimbursements. Severe Weather Watch: A week-long nor’easter is expected to batter the East Coast with dangerous surf, coastal flooding, and beach erosion, with gusts that could reach around 60 mph. Road Safety Tech for Disasters: After Helene shut down major freight corridors for months, NCDOT used truck-cab alerts to warn drivers early about closures and reroutes—aimed at preventing last-second dead ends. Climate & Food Health: Experts warn climate pressures could reshape household diets and worsen cardiometabolic health, with research linking climate, agriculture, nutrition, and chronic disease. Agriculture Innovation: NC A&T and NC State students are using AI and precision livestock methods to improve hog living conditions and reduce stress. Drought Signals: Reports say drought conditions are worsening in parts of North Carolina and the Southeast as rainfall stays below average.

Storm recovery and wildfire risk: Helene’s damage still lingers in Western North Carolina forests, with a state assessment estimating about $214 million in timber losses and 822,000 acres of damaged timberland—most on private property—keeping wildfire concerns and cleanup pressure on landowners. Infrastructure rebuild: Two years after Helene, Yancey County bridge reconstruction is still underway, including major N.C. 197 corridor work with multiple bridge replacements and multi-year timelines. Driver safety in extreme weather: After Helene shut down major freight corridors for months, NCDOT is using truck-cab alerts to push targeted rerouting messages before drivers hit washed-out interstate dead ends. Coastal weather watch: A developing coastal low is set to bring disruptive rain, wind, and likely tidal flooding into midweek, with localized flash flooding possible. Public health alert: Rabies concerns are rising after reports of rabid animals and mass exposures, but experts say it’s unclear whether cases are truly increasing—still, the CDC advisory is prompting safety reminders. Clean energy jobs: Montauk Renewables opened its Turkey, NC facility to turn swine waste into electricity, backed by long-term farm agreements. Policy and accountability: EPA repeals PFAS water-pollution guidance, raising questions about protections for the Cape Fear region.

Severe Weather & Roads: NCDOT says Helene taught it that standard signs and broadcasts aren’t enough when storms wipe out major routes—so it used Fleetworthy/Drivewyze alerts to push targeted reroute messages straight into truck cabs via existing ELDs, helping drivers avoid dead ends as I-26 and I-40 shut down. Autonomous Aviation: Joby Aviation completed the first-ever autonomous flight across the U.S., landing in North Carolina’s Outer Banks after a 3,199-mile trip with only an onboard safety pilot and no human control inputs. Power Reliability: The U.S. Department of Energy issued an emergency order to reduce blackout risk in North and South Carolina, authorizing Duke Energy to dispatch resources and use backup generation as needed during hot weather. Local Environment Watch: Guilford County officials are investigating Piedmont Cemetery after families complained about poor maintenance and unclear grave markers; the NC Cemetery Commission issued a cease-and-desist letter alleging possible illegal operations. Wildlife/Plants: A gardening warning: sweet cherry trees can become invasive, with native alternatives like black cherry and chokecherry recommended.

Coastal Fisheries: A Wake County judge ruled North Carolina failed to protect its coastal fisheries, saying none of the state’s 13 managed fish stocks are viable, setting up further proceedings on remedies. PFAS & Water Safety: North Carolina AG Jeff Jackson secured a $590M agreement with DuPont/Chemours over environmental damages tied to PFAS contamination, renewing pressure on cleanup and drinking-water protections. Drought Watch: Reports say North Carolina’s year-long drought is worsening in parts of the state, with lingering dry conditions raising stress for ecosystems and communities. Local Resilience & Flood Memory: As the second anniversary of Hurricane Helene approaches, communities across the region are holding remembrance events that also highlight flood risks and recovery lessons. Data Centers vs. Communities: Pasquotank County moves toward a data center ban while nearby Elizabeth City considers an ordinance that could allow data centers with permits—an energy and land-use fight with real environmental stakes. Science & Training: Pitt Community College won an NSF grant to expand biotech quality-control training in eastern North Carolina, aiming to grow the local life-sciences workforce.

PFAS & Drinking Water: A new NC State study update puts more focus on what “forever chemicals” exposure may do to health, as Pittsboro residents continue tracking PFAS levels after installing filtration. PFAS Enforcement: North Carolina AG Jeff Jackson secured a $590M agreement with DuPont/Chemours tied to environmental damages, keeping pressure on chemical pollution. Coastal Fisheries: A Wake County judge ruled the state failed to protect coastal fisheries, saying none of NC’s 13 managed stocks are viable. Bridge & Navigation: New Hanover County commissioners asked Congress for a fresh Cape Fear Memorial Bridge navigation study and more federal funding as NCDOT weighs replacement options. Data Centers & Air Pollution: In Hamlet, regulators rejected a gas plant for an Amazon data center while Amazon secured permits for hundreds of diesel backup generators, drawing emissions concerns. Health Risk in Water: Reports highlight the “brain-eating amoeba” risk after a NC teen’s death linked to Naegleria fowleri, underscoring warmer-water exposure dangers. Flooding Weather: Forecasters warn life-threatening rains and flooding risk across parts of the U.S. into next week, with super El Niño adding moisture. Local Infrastructure Safety: NCDOT plans to convert a Shallotte intersection to an all-way stop to cut crash risk. Rail Safety: Elon will close several railroad crossings starting Sept. 21 for repairs.

Urban Heat & Health: A new high-resolution dataset from NSF/NCAR and partners aims to show how city layout changes the real human impact of extreme heat, not just air temperature—useful for North Carolina health planning. Drought Watch: North Carolina saw slight overall improvement, but eastern areas remain in moderate to severe drought, with wildfire risk and low groundwater/soil moisture still pressing. Water Safety: Durham health officials say a fatal Naegleria fowleri case was most likely linked to a water feature; the site is closed and testing confirmed the amoeba. Environmental Education: Catawba College will take over the state’s Environmental Education Certification Program after DEQ funding ends, keeping the educator network intact. PFAS & Water Finance: A Southern Ag Today look at drinking-water funding highlights how loan rates vary across states, while separate reporting notes PFAS settlement momentum in North Carolina. Local Storm Risk: Piedmont Triad forecasts call for hot, humid conditions with a chance of strong to severe storms Friday.

Coastal Flood Risk: A new El Niño-linked Kelvin wave is expected to reach California by October, potentially boosting Bay Area sea levels by 6–12 inches and raising coastal flooding risk—an early warning for how climate-driven ocean shifts can hit shorelines. Local Land-Use & Water: In Brunswick County, a sand mine got approval after a groundwater study said impacts on nearby wells would be small—another reminder that drought and aquifers are now central to permitting fights. Data Centers vs. Communities: In Lee County, residents opposing a proposed data center say their push for a moratorium and stronger development rules isn’t getting formal agenda time, even as concerns about environmental threats keep growing. Coastal Engineering Debate: The Army Corps is seeking public input on a potential terminal groin at North Topsail Beach, with options under review and strong controversy over “permanent” shoreline structures. Heat & Health Planning: UNC and partners are developing a high-resolution urban heat dataset (first for Atlanta) to help cities and health officials better track how heat feels—not just what thermometers read. Wildlife Conservation: Five endangered red wolves born in NC are set to relocate to New York’s Wolf Conservation Center to support the recovery program. Emergency Preparedness: Civil Air Patrol ran Point of Distribution training at Hickory Regional Airport to improve how volunteers deliver food, water, and medical supplies during disasters. Hurricane Recovery: Two years after Hurricane Helene, crews continue debris clearing along the Reedy River in Greenville, citing flood and erosion risks from lingering vegetative buildup.

Warming Coastal Risk: A new investigation says FEMA flood insurance rules can financially push Outer Banks homeowners to let endangered oceanfront houses collapse instead of paying to move or demolish them—raising cleanup burdens and environmental damage as more homes fail. PFAS Accountability: North Carolina and chemical companies reached a $590M settlement tied to PFAS contamination, adding to a growing total of Chemours/DuPont/Corteva payouts aimed at drinking-water cleanup. Air Quality: Mecklenburg and Gaston counties face a Code Orange ozone alert, urging sensitive groups to limit outdoor exertion. Conservation Win: Buncombe County is moving ahead with a master plan for a future major public park after acquiring 342+ acres of Deaverview Mountain with grant funding. Water & Infrastructure: The state’s bridge infrastructure grade fell to C-minus in a new American Society of Civil Engineers report. Public Health: FDA classified a hand-soap recall in 15 states as Class II bacterial contamination risk, including products sold at Ingles in North Carolina. Local Governance: Brunswick County is weighing how much it can regulate open burning from land clearing, given state limits and Forest Service rules.