The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Coastal Management, in partnership with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, is calling for responsible behavior from visitors to Masonboro Island Reserve during the July Fourth holiday. The island serves as a research reserve and state nature preserve.
Tancred Miller, director of the N.C. Division of Coastal Management, expressed appreciation for the collaboration with law enforcement: “We’re grateful for our ongoing collaboration with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, which helps ensure the safety of visitors to the Masonboro Island Reserve.” He further emphasized responsible recreation: “As you enjoy Masonboro Island or any of North Carolina’s Coastal Reserve or National Estuarine Research Reserve sites this July Fourth, we urge you to respect this unique natural habitat by practicing responsible recreation and leaving no trace.”
Visitors are advised against attempting to swim across Masonboro Inlet due to safety concerns and are encouraged to minimize their environmental impact. The reserve lacks facilities or resources; therefore, it is important for guests to familiarize themselves with visitor guidelines and safety information before arrival.
Preparedness remains crucial for visitor safety—carrying proper supplies, using reliable transport methods, packing out all trash, and maintaining awareness of personal and communal safety are recommended practices.
The North Carolina Division of Coastal Management focuses on conserving coastal resources across 20 counties in the state. Since its establishment in 1989, over 44,000 acres have been preserved through their programs at ten different coastal sites.
