The following accomplishments have been realized in 2007: 

• NCAC 7H .0312, Technical Standards for Beach Fill Projects, which outlines new sediment criteria rules for beach nourishment projects, went into effect Feb. 1. It is the most comprehensive set of rules regarding beach nourishment for any coastal state.

• With the CRC’s Science Panel, completed the Inlet Hazard Areas boundary project. The project identifies new boundaries for the State’s 12 developed ocean inlets.

• Enhanced public access to public beaches and coastal waters through $2.9 million in grants for 23 projects in 19 local communities for public access projects. The grants help pay for a variety of projects to improve access to coastal beaches and waters, including walkways, dune crossovers, restrooms, parking areas and piers. Funds also may be used for land acquisition or urban waterfront revitalization.

• Supported coastal land-use planning through $200,000 in grants to 13 local communities for land-use planning. Projects that are eligible for funds include new or updated CAMA land-use plans.

• Revitalized the North Carolina Clean Marina Program by hiring the first dedicated staff member to implement the program. Thanks to her efforts, five new clean marinas were certified in 2007, and two workshops for marina owners were held in early December. The Clean Marina program is a voluntary program designed to show that marina operators can help safeguard the environment by using management and operations techniques that go above and beyond regulatory requirements.

• Reached thousands of students, teachers, local government officials, coastal decision makers, and other members of the coastal community through workshops (Sea Level Rise, Coastal Development Rule Updates for Marine Contractors, Barrier Island Development Issues, Septic Systems for Realtors, Clean Marinas, and Coastal Explorations), reserve site field trips, Estuary Live broadcasts, and other educational activities conducted by the staff of the North Carolina Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve. The Spring 2007 Estuary Live broadcast alone reached over 1800 participants.

• Constructed a “green” boardwalk at the Rachel Carson component of the North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve to provide directed access to the Reserve’s unique habitats.  Composite decking and railing, reclaimed from wood and plastic, were used in place of traditional treated lumber to promote environmentally sustainable building practices and for its durability.  The boardwalk is a joint project with the Town of Beaufort and was funded through a grant from the Division of Coastal Management’s Public Beach and Waterfront Access to the Town and a private donation.