The North Carolina Coastal Federation

The North Carolina Coastal Federation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Its mission is to protect and restore the North Carolina coast.

The North Carolina Coastal Federation also works to bring together various community organizations. Who focus on providing long-term coastal management for generations to come. This community teamwork helps to increase the impact of their mission.

North Carolina Coastal Federation History

Executive Director (now) Todd Miller established the North Carolina Coastal Federation in 1982. Executive Director Todd Miller formed the organization to combat the peat mining industry. Whose mining of the wetlands area, affected both wildlife and county residents.

The organization operated from his home in Carteret County. Executive Director Todd Miller grew the organization and created much change. This movement to oppose peat mining of the wetlands drew national attention. CBS Evening News coverage in 1983 established the nonprofit's mission on the map.

And as of today, the North Carolina Coastal Federation has continued these efforts. Thus creating a lasting legacy of environmental protection that's not slowing down.

NC Coastal Federation Goals

The North Carolina Coastal Federation has five main goals to address:

1. Clean Coastal Waters and Reduced Coastal Flooding for a Healthy, more Resilient Coast

The organization aims to reduce the amount of stormwater runoff. So that flooding will decrease and the health of the coastal waters will remain intact. They have a plan to install nature-based stormwater strategies. Which will allow the soil to soak in the rain.

2. Living Shorelines that Reduce Soundside Erosion and Create Coastal Habitat

Storms and rising sea levels have increased shoreline erosion rates. As a result, the organization seeks to put in place living shorelines. Which are more friendly to the environment. And remain established over time. These living shorelines would reinforce current shorelines. Using salt marsh and oyster reefs to help better preserve estuaries.

3. Abundant Oysters to Support Coastal Fisheries, Habitat, Clean Water, and the Coastal Economy

The North Carolina Coastal Federation understands the value of the native eastern oyster. Often overlooked, it is important to the economy and environment. And, the Federation's presence will insure these species are not depleted. Remaining protected for the area’s success.

4. Effective Coastal Management That Protects and Restores the N.C. Coast

The dedicated staff works daily long hours. To ensure that the public and its partners receive the proper education. On the importance of protecting natural resources. And using them as a means to impact the economy. As well as the environment for generations to come.

5. A Coast that is Free of Marine Debris

The North Carolina Coastal Federation works with state and local organizations. To ensure that debris left behind by things such as major storms and abandoned vessels. Are removed so they will not harm the environment.

Board of Directors

A board of directors manages the organization. They represent different areas within North Carolina. The Board of Directors currently includes:

Oyster Farm Demonstration

The North Carolina Coastal Federation recently gained ownership of its own oyster farm. It's located near their office in Wanchese and will be a demonstration site. The site contains a half-acre of growing oysters.

The organization will soon install “hex” cages. And oyster seeds to further pursue its mission. They are also working to get local volunteers to help with the demonstration site.

How To Help

The Coastal Federation depends on the local community to operate and prosper. There are several ways that one can assist the organization, including:

1. Donations: Any amount of money, big or small, can help the Coastal Federation in its mission.

2. Volunteer: Individuals willing to lend a helping hand. And take part in organizational activities are always appreciated.

3. License Plates: One can buy a specialty license plate from the organization. “Protect Our Coast” will express your support of the organization to others.

4. Buy Merchandise: An online gift shop is available for site visitors. To buy various items that benefit the organization and help spread the group’s mission.

5. Keep In Touch: Follow the nonprofit's social media platforms. To keep up with the latest happenings of the organization. They are found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. You can also sign up for their newsletter for updates and information.

The North Carolina Coastal Federation strives to protect. And restore the quality of coastal waters and habitats in North Carolina. Through collaboration with local businesses, individual groups, and government organizations. They hope that future generations will enjoy the environment’s resources. In many ways and learn how important it is to protect the environment for years to come.

Author: ENC Explorer

After getting accepted to ECU, I started looking for things to do in and around Greenville, NC. However, my searches kept taking me to places in South Carolina! There must be things to do around ECU, so I started asking other students. They kept telling me to graduate and move away! This inspired me to begin exploring eastern North Carolina and build this website as a showcase of the places to go, sights to see, and things to do all over eastern NC. I have fallen in love with this region and started taking up roots here. After graduating, I didn't move away - I bought a house here and continue to explore eastern North Carolina.