The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources is set to conduct a public hearing on June 26. The focus will be the revision of the state definition of “wetlands” in accordance with state rules. This event offers an opportunity for public input, with options for both in-person and virtual attendance.
The revised definition aims to limit wetlands protected under state water quality rules to those under federal jurisdiction. This change aligns with the directives from the 2023 NC Farm Act, SL 2023-63, which mandated adjustments to agricultural and wastewater laws within the state. The session law became effective on June 27, 2023, prompting immediate implementation and directing the Environmental Management Commission (EMC) to adopt a rule reflecting this updated definition.
Following this directive, the EMC voted in favor of advancing the proposed rule. Furthermore, a Regulatory Impact Analysis associated with this revision received approval from the N.C. Office of State Budget and Management on December 31, 2024.
The upcoming hearing seeks verbal comments regarding these amendments to rule 15A NCAC 02B .0202. Details for participation include:
– Date: Thursday, June 26, 2025
– Time: Starting at 6 p.m.
– Location: Ground Floor Hearing Room, Archdale Building, Raleigh
– Online Access: Available via Webex
For those attending virtually or intending to speak during the hearing, registration details are provided through designated links. Registration for virtual speakers closes at noon on June 26.
Written feedback is also welcomed between May 1 and June 30, either by email or traditional mail addressed to Sue Homewood at the Division of Water Resources.
All supporting documents and proposed permanent rules are accessible online for review by interested parties.
