By Aparna Dhulipala
September 10, 2023
Why the Cape Fear River Matters
The Cape Fear River is the state’s largest river basin, and stretches over 6,500 miles through 26 counties. Its vast expanse means that it is essential to the day to day life of many, as according to Kemp Burdette, the riverkeeper of the Cape Fear River, it is a source of drinking water for one-in-five North Carolinians. In addition, it is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the east coast, and is home to 95 species of fish and 42 rare aquatic species. However, there are several issues that threaten to compromise its health. This article is intended to serve as a basic guide to some of the main threats.
Threats
PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)
Perhaps the most well-known water-related issue among Cape Fear residents is the GenX scandal. In 2017, North Carolina residents discovered that a company was dumping a toxic chemical called GenX into the Cape Fear River. It was later revealed that GenX was only one group of chemicals being dumped; the others were classified as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. PFAS have been dubbed as “forever chemicals”, meaning that they persist in the environment – and in our bodies. They are toxic, and have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, liver and thyroid problems, and reproductive harm. Although further disposal of PFAS in the river has been banned, levels of the chemicals are still a concern, as in July of 2023, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services issued a warning recommending people not to consume above a certain amount of fish from the middle and lower Cape Fear due to PFAS contamination. It has been several years since this issue was discovered, but it continues to be a concern for both human and aquatic life.
CAFOs (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations)
One of the most significant threats to water quality in the Cape Fear River Basin are Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, also known as “CAFOs.” CAFOs are areas with high concentrations of livestock being reared for agriculture, and North Carolina is home to many CAFOs with poultry and hogs. Often, waste from these operations is left in uncovered piles, and when it rains, it ends up being swept into waterways. Apart from being unpleasant to think about, animal waste in waterways can have serious health and environmental consequences. It can sometimes contain dangerous pathogens and bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal disease and skin irritation if exposed to. In addition, waste often contains high amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus, which can damage aquatic ecosystems by causing toxic algal blooms and poisoning animals.
Proposed Port Expansion
Recently, an issue of contention has been a port expansion that was suggested in 2017 by the North Carolina State Ports Authority. Authorities proposed that the harbor be deepened from 42 feet to 47 feet, widened it in areas by 100 feet up to 300 feet, and extend the ocean entrance to the river from 44 feet to 77 feet in order to accommodate larger cargo ships. While this could improve (economic gains), this could have negative environmental impacts. The project could destroy more than a thousand acres of soft-bottom habitat, which is the habitat for many juvenile fish. In addition, it could exacerbate saltwater intrusion, causing species to migrate and freshwater plants to die.
Taking Action
If you feel passionate about any of these issues, there are many ways to make a difference. You could contact your legislators, donate to local environmental organizations, or get involved with environmental advocacy through nonprofits. Everyone has the power to make a difference, and every action matters.
Spotlight - Cape Fear River Watch
Cape Fear River watch is a local nonprofit organization that strives to protect and preserve the Cape Fear River Basin. They are involved in local policy talks, citizen engagement work, and local cleanups. It’s an organization that does amazing work, and they often have volunteer opportunities, so I encourage anyone who’s interested to contribute their time!
Sources:
Cape Fear River Watch
Coastal Review
Institute for Water Resources
NC Sea Grant
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
North Carolina Health News
Star News
Waterkeeper Alliance
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