New River Watershed Restoration Plans

Project Overview

The Lower and Upper New River Watershed Restoration Plans are a critical initiative to assess and address the threats posed to surface water health in the New River system. These projects are proudly funded by the North Carolina Land and Water Fund and are led by Coastal Carolina Riverwatch (CCRW). The goals of these projects are to enhance the resilience of the New River ecosystem against pollution from various sources, including development, land use practices, and industrial activities.

Plan Development

CCRW is working with NC Division of Water Resources to develop these plans. The final plans and identified projects will be hosted on the DWR website and will allow the communities to be eligible for 319 and other state funding.

CCRW is current collaborating with Onslow County, DOD, local municipalities, community groups and local residents to develop the plan and identify projects that need funding. Reach out to Waterkeeper@coastalcarolinariverwatch.org if you know a location that needs flooding, wastewater or stream restoration help in the plan areas!

Plan Schedule

• Lower New River Plan: 2024 – 2026
• Upper New River Plan: 2025 – 2027

Plan Areas

The plans will cover a significant portion of Onslow County and be divided into an Upper and Lower plan. The separation is motivated by the different stakeholders in each area and the transition from freshwater in the headwaters to saltwater by the inlet.

Watershed Resources

• Learn about Watershed Action Plans (WAPs)
• Add your project idea to the online map!
• Localized stormwater projects and ideas for private properties
• Rain garden guide

Would you like CCRW staff to come talk to your HOA or community group?

Reach out to Waterkeeper@coastalcarolinariverwatch.org to request that our staff visit your community. We would love to hear the needs of the community, add your projects to our plan and share resources to help implement your ideas!