NSW Strategies - Neuse River Basin
Nutrient Sensitive Water Management Strategy: Agricultural Nutrient Reduction Strategy
Environmental conditions in the Neuse River are driven by complex interactions among rainfall, flows, temperatures, biological factors, and chemistry. Each year brings its own variations. However, the long history of problems with nutrient pollution and algal blooms provides solid evidence that control measures are necessary. On December 11, 1997, The Environmental Management Commission adopted rules to support the nutrient sensitive water management strategy for the Neuse River.
The Agriculture Rule set a 30% reduction from the nitrogen loading of the 1991-1995 baseline years. These rules provide flexibility at the local level for implementing site-specific practices. Farmers and achieve the reduction goal collectively, focusing on critical areas. They may sign on either with an advisory committee that develops a local strategy or implement the standard best management practice option of the rules.
Since reporting began in 2001, the Neuse River Basin has consistently exceeded and gone beyond the 30% reduction goal. The agricultural community has continued to install best management practices to improve water quality and reduce nutrient loading to North Carolina's waterways.
Annual Progress Reports on the Neuse Agricultural Rule
Agencies involved in nitrogen reduction planning:
Sources of technical and financial assistance:
For more information contact:
Joey Hester, NPS Planning Coordinator