NEMO in North Carolina

Sea Grant’s water quality planning program efforts are part of the National Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials (NEMO) Network. The program is founded on natural resource-based planning principles and specifically geared toward local land use officials. Today, the National NEMO Network includes programs in 31 states, including North Carolina NEMO. Learn more about the NEMO Network and NC NEMO.

Polluted stormwater runoff is the number one water quality problem facing coastal North Carolina and the nation, causing shellfishbed closures, beach closures and expensive clean-up costs. As growth continues among North Carolina’s coastal communities, local governments are increasingly challenged to develop in ways that do not degrade water quality.

Our extension staff helps local officials understand the links between land use, runoff and water quality through research-based education. Going one step further, Sea Grant also provides assistance with policy development related to water quality, as well as one-on-one assistance for coastal counties and localities.

For more information or to schedule a visit to your community, please contact: Gloria Putnam, Water Quality Planning Specialist, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , 919/513-0117, or Lisa Schiavinato, Coastal Law, Policy and Community Development specialist, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , 919/515-1895.

Leadership Training

In 2009, Sea Grant teamed up with several partners to host a second annual Leadership Training: Coastal Growth Strategies, a daylong workshop for local officials looking to integrate water quality protection goals with growth and development strategies. The workshop highlighted practical local public policy options and growth strategies being implemented in coastal communities.

To review materials and resources from the workshop, visit our Conferences and Events archives section of our Resource Library.

Coastal Officials - New Water Quality Fact Sheets Available!

Recreational Water Quality

Although planning for water quality is a key component for local governments, citizens and visitors to coastal North Carolina want to know if it is safe to drink tap water, eat seafood and swim in particular areas. Sea Grant collaborated with water quality experts from state agencies to develop the Recreational Water Quality Guide. The publication answers frequently asked questions about recreational water quality and focuses on three main areas associated with human health: microbial pathogens, harmful algae and toxic contaminants.

Photos: NC Wildlife Resources Commission, NC Department of Commerce (Tourism Division)