The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources announced on May 5 that it is accepting public comment through Aug. 4 on the draft 2026 basin plan for the Cape Fear River Basin, which is the most populous and largest river basin contained entirely within the state.
The draft plan addresses water quality in the Cape Fear River Basin by focusing on data collected between 2000 and 2020. It outlines areas that need additional protection, restoration, or preservation to ensure that state waters meet established water quality standards. The document also provides an overview of water use and availability in the basin and discusses ongoing studies and actions to manage pollution from emerging compounds such as PFAS (per-and-polyfluoroalkyl substances) and 1,4-dioxane.
PFAS are referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in humans and animals. The draft plan notes that scientific studies indicate exposure to these compounds can result in significant health effects. Additionally, it describes 1,4-dioxane as a synthetic industrial chemical likely to cause cancer in people.
The headwaters of the Cape Fear River Basin begin near Greensboro and Reidsville before flowing toward the Atlantic Ocean near Southport. Major rivers within this area include the Haw, Deep, Cape Fear, Black, South, and Northeast Cape Fear rivers. The region encompasses parts of urban centers such as those found in both the Triad and Triangle areas along with Fayetteville and Wilmington.
Land use varies across the basin: developed land is concentrated primarily in its upper half while agricultural lands dominate further downstream. According to recent data from a U.S. Department of Agriculture census referenced by DEQ officials, agriculture has seen decreases in cattle and swine numbers but substantial increases in poultry production within this area over time.
Public comments will be accepted until August 4 via email at DEQ.DWR.BasinPlanning@deq.nc.gov or by mail addressed to Nora Deamer at N.C. DEQ Division of Water Resources.