Removing Lost Fishing Gear
The Federation is looking for commercial fishers in the northeast and central regions to join us in January as part of contracted lost fishing gear clean-up crews. The annual Lost Fishing Gear Recovery Project is an effort between the Federation and the N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries, and the N.C. Marine Patrol. Since 2014, the Federation’s commercial fishing crews have removed more than 20,000 lost crab pots from coastal waters, which, if left in place, can be hazardous to boats and marine life.
Applications are due by December 13, the application can be found, here.
The Center for Coastal Protection and Restoration
We are excited to share that we have officially broken ground on our new Center for Coastal Protection and Restoration in Carteret County. The center will serve as a dynamic community education facility and future headquarters of the Coastal Federation.
Recently a small group from our Board of Directors, Campaign Cabinet Members, and Federation staff held a groundbreaking ceremony at the site. Construction is expected to take about 18 months to complete, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to our new campus in the fall of 2026.
The Center will include a suite of indoor and outdoor education opportunities, including outdoor coastal resilience demonstrations, a nature trail, an education classroom for youth programming, and an Event Center for workshops, celebrations, and other community events.
Celebrating the Federation Family
We are so proud to share that our very own board member and lifelong Federation supporter Tom Earnhardt was recently awarded the North Carolina Award.
The award is the highest civilian honor recognizing significant contributions to North Carolina in the fields of fine art, literature, public service and science. Tom’s award is for the science category as he has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting North Carolina’s rich natural and cultural heritage. At the coast, Tom served a key role in helping to preserve the southernmost Outer Banks, Cape Lookout National Seashore. He is best known as the writer, host, and co-producer of “Exploring North Carolina,” the long-running PBS series.
Congratulations Tom on this well-deserved recognition!
Wine & Brine
Tickets are now on sale for the fourth annual Wine & Brine event hosted by the North Carolina Seafood Festival and the Federation.
This year’s event will take place on January 17, at Southern Salt Seafood Company on the waterfront in downtown Morehead City. This event offers guests the chance to connect with local oyster growers and savor their harvests paired with wines curated by MF Chappell Wine Merchant. Alongside the shellfish tastings, Southern Salt Seafood Company will serve fresh local southern and seafood fare, further establishing North Carolina’s reputation as the “Napa Valley of Oysters.”
Unwrap Something Meaningful
Are you looking for the perfect Holiday gift this year? Be sure to check out our Gift Shop, where your friends and loved ones can unwrap something meaningful. Each purchase will help support our work to protect North Carolina’s stunning coast.
Coastal-inspired holiday gifts, sweatshirts, and beanies are just some of the items we have to offer.
This year you can also give the gift of a Federation membership. The year-long membership offers many benefits including discounts, event announcements, and a set of felt oyster coasters.
Giving Thanks and Giving Back
As we reflect on the many things we are thankful for this holiday season, we hope you know that our members and supporters are always at the top of our list. Your support makes our work possible and keeps our coast healthy and vibrant for future generations. Thank you!
As you plan your year-end giving, you may want to consider gifts from an IRA (for those of us aged 70½ or older) or gifts of stock or mutual funds. Please consult your financial advisor to see what might be best for you, and contact Sarah King at sarahk@nccoast.org to complete a gift.
Donate a Vehicle
Do you have a vehicle you no longer need and are willing to donate? The Coastal Federation needs two commuter vehicles. The ideal car would have less than 100,000 miles and be a Toyota Camry or similar.
All donations are tax-deductible, and your gift would greatly help the Federation’s team. Please complete this information form if you have a vehicle that is a fit!