Research and Resources for a Healthier Coast

As part of the National Sea Grant Program, North Carolina Sea Grant provides research, education and outreach opportunities relating to current issues affecting the North Carolina coast and its communities.

North Carolina Sea Grant

Media Contacts
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    919-515-9069

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    919-515-9098

We facilitate funding of millions of state and federal dollars to conduct university-based research, outreach and education programs each year. Our initiatives and projects touch a broad range of topics, including

  • Fisheries
  • Seafood science and technology
  • Water quality
  • Aquaculture
  • Community development
  • Law and policy
  • Coastal hazards
  • Climate and weather

This research fuels outreach and education programs that promote discovery, learning, new research and awareness across the state and the nation.

Mission
Through research, outreach and education programs, North Carolina Sea Grant provides unbiased, science-based information to enhance the sustainable use and conservation of ocean and coastal resources to benefit communities, the economy and the environment. 

Vision
North Carolina Sea Grant will, in the 21st Century, serve as a leader in addressing the state's urgent and emerging needs in ocean and coastal resource management, and in the successful transition to ecosystem-based approaches through sound science and educational excellence. 

Funding Programs
North Carolina Sea Grant administers funding from state and national sources in the following categories:

Core Research – Supported by federal dollars from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and matching state funds, this research demonstrates specific needs or issues in North Carolina, and, in some cases, importance across the nation and world.

N.C. Fishery Resource Research (FRG) – Established and funded by the N.C. General Assembly, the FRG program pairs fishermen and community members with university researchers to fund research-based initiatives affecting fishing communities, seafood businesses and coastal ecosystems.

N.C. Blue Crab and Shellfish Research Program – The N.C. General Assembly established and funds this program to research the life cycles of hard and soft shell blue crabs, the state’s most valuable fishery, as well as oysters, scallops, clams and other shellfish.

Bycatch Reduction of Marine Mammals in Mid-Atlantic Fisheries – This collaborative research effort — funded by NOAA Fisheries in partnership with North Carolina Sea Grant — brings together the commercial fishing industry, scientists, and other interested parties to reduce the potential bycatch of marine mammals.

Sea Grant Minigrant Program – This program provides seed funding to address rapidly emerging issues.

Photo: NC Wildlife Resources Commission