North Raleigh Today

During a recent meeting of the North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) in New Bern, former Deputy Director of the Division of Coastal Management (DCM), Michael “Mike” Lopazanski, was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. This award is the highest civilian honor in North Carolina and is given by the Governor's Office to individuals who have made significant contributions to their state and communities.

Lopazanski retired in December 2024 after over three decades of service in state government. He received the award on February 27 from DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson, CRC Chair Renee Cahoon, and DCM Division Director Tancred Miller.

DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson stated, “Congratulations to former Deputy Director of our Division of Coastal Management Mike Lopazanski on this well-deserved honor. I’m grateful for his outstanding service to our state.”

Renee Cahoon praised Lopazanski’s dedication, noting that he has been a constant presence amid changes within the CRC since she began serving in 2002. “Mike is such a dedicated steward of our coastal management program,” said Cahoon. She emphasized his leadership and commitment to both DCM and CRC throughout his career.

Tancred Miller highlighted Lopazanski’s contributions during more than two-thirds of CAMA's fifty-year history, saying, “Mike is recognized for having been a central figure... leading the way in policy and rule development.”

Lopazanski’s career included roles as a policy analyst, Coastal and Ocean Policy Manager, Section Chief for Policy and Planning, Assistant Director from 2016-18, and finally Deputy Director.

Robert “Bob” Emory noted Lopazanski’s key role over his 34 years with DCM: “Through many changes... Mike has helped to keep all of us focused on the goals of the Coastal Area Management Act.”

Former CRC member Robin Smith remarked on Lopazanski’s expertise: “The state’s coastal management program has benefitted from Mr. Lopazanski’s expertise... managing sometimes emotionally charged issues requires judgment, patience, and unfailing civility.”

J. Webb Fuller commented on Lopazanski's approach: “His approach to his job is always non-controversial while the issues before him are always extremely controversial.”

Miller concluded by acknowledging Lopazanski as a cornerstone for coastal management: "34 years in itself is a remarkable accomplishment...a gift to the State of North Carolina."

For more information about The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award visit [longleafpinesociety.org](https://longleafpinesociety.org/order-of-the-long-leaf-pine/).