Run Amuck Legislature rolls back decades of environmental safeguards By Heather Jacobs Deck, PTRF RIVERKEEPER ® In January, GOP lawmakers took full control of the House and Senate concurrently for the first time since 1870. And it didn't take long for the newly elected leadership to initiate their anti- environmental agenda. To begin, the new leadership formed a Joint Regulatory Review Committee whose mission was to "work to create a strong environment for private sector job creation by lifting the undue burden imposed by outdated, unnecessary, and vague rules". Apparently the real mission was to eviscerate the authority of the state's environmental commissions and handcuff the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in an attempt to eliminate any ability for the state to protect our public's resources. The Committee held several public meetings across the state to, as they claimed, gather input from the public, regulated community and state agencies. Nothing in the resolution forming the committee mandated that the committee focus only on environmental rules. But it quickly became painfully clear that was indeed the intent. Analysis of testimony at the public hearings and written comments revealed that North Carolinian's overwhelmingly support keeping or strengthening the state's environmental safeguards by over four to one (885 to 201). However, public comments did not matter as anti-environmental legislation was already in the works. The committee's recommendations resulted in Senate Bill 781. Later the conservation community realized that the Regulatory Reform Committee was used as a smoke screen for S781, as one industry lobbyist gleefully thanked a Senate Committee on passage of the legislation industry had been working on in a back-room process for 6 months! Senate Bill 781 dramatically rewrites the process by which our state government adopts rules, making it more expensive and less efficient. The legislation would bring key state protections down to the federal minimum requirements, make new protective rules essentially impossible, and gut current rules by endless cost-benefit analyses. The Governor vetoed this terrible legislation but unfortunately the general assembly was able to muster enough votes to override her veto. North Carolina now has little say over the protection of our natural resources and public health. The vision of rulemaking S781 offers -one in which the legislature will have to identify and mandate any essential rule before an agency can propose it - is ludicrous. No legislature can identify and act on needed rule changes in a timely way across the full range of environmental and public health issues. That's why our current statutes delegate authority to agency experts to write rules; why rulemaking invites public comment for 60 days, rather than during a one-hour legislative committee meeting; and why current law brings controversial rules to the legislature for review at the end of the process, on a case by case basis. (NC Conservation Network summary) While S781 is arguably the most egregious of all of the anti-environmental legislation, several other bills rank a close second. House Bill 119 left the house as an eight section technical corrections bill and quickly turned into a 23 section polluter wish list in the Senate. Included in this legislation is a section weakening the Tar-Pamlico and Neuse buffer rules; the most cost-effective management tool we have for protecting water quality. Senate bill 110 removed the long-standing ban on hardened structures on our coast. The bill and resulting senate/house compromise will allow for the construction of up to four terminal groins- engineered structures that have been shown to be highly destructive. Amost every coastal scientist in NC supported the continuation of the nearly 30 year old ban. Budget: Again the GOP, with help from five Democrats, voted to override the Governor's veto on the budget. Most striking in the budget is a 12% decrease in funding for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and loss of 1,050 jobs in cuts and transfers; an 85% cut to the Clean Water Management Trust Fund, elimination of the oyster sanctuary program, elimination of four out of five filled positions that support county health department testing programs for new drinking water wells in the first year of the biennium and eliminates the fifth position in the second year. And I could go on..... Senate Bill 709 Energy Jobs Act- Vetoed by the Governor and pending an override vote in the house at publication time, this bill directs the Governor to pursue offshore drilling, directs the development of potential regulations for hydrofracking, and changes the appointments of the Energy Policy Council converting it to the Energy Jobs Council focused on fossil fuels and not renewable energy solutions. False Choice We've heard this argument many times before. We must choose between creating jobs or protecting the public's health and our natural resources. This has been and always will be a false choice. Our economy and the jobs that feed it rely on a healthy environment that protects our kids and communities from disease caused by pollution. Leading pharmaceutical industries in Wilson County have recently made it clear that the availability of clean and abundant water supplies attracted them to North Carolina. Such announcements shine a light on the truth: if we want to maintain a competitive business climate we must be aggressive in protection of our air and water resources. North Carolina, with adequate environmental regulations, sits among the top three for business friendly states in the US. Unfortunately our elected leaders no longer place high importance on clean water, clean air, and public health. The vast majority of North Carolinians however do. This dichotomy must and I suspect will change come November of 2012. Your support has never been more critical than it is today. Help PTRF fight for your values of clean water and healthy communities and make a donation today. ** For more details, Please visit www.ptrf.org to review our 2011 legislative summary. |
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From the President of Board of Directors, PTRF
"Conservation and the Next Generation"
By Jerry Eatman
President of Board of Directors, PTRF
 One of the greatest challenges facing wetland and wilderness conservation groups is a widening generation gap in their membership. Groups like PTRF, Sierra Club and Coastal Conservation Association have all seen the average age of their members steadily rise over the past few decades. If we do not reverse this trend, much of our work will have been wasted. At a recent CCA fundraiser, the great saltwater angler and star of the popular Walker Cay Chronicles, Flip Pallot, opened his presentation to the group with a simple question: "Where are all the young people?"
I have participated in many discussions among conservation advocates about the need to bring younger members into the movement. The common theme in these discussions is concern over the growing number of young people who have no connection to or experience with the natural world. As a result of population growth, urbanization, and the explosion of entertainment options for young people, we are producing more young adults than ever before who have never hiked a trail, paddled a canoe, or listened to the sounds of a coastal marsh. Environmental education groups across the United States are recognizing the need to simply provide opportunities for young people to spend time outdoors. We cannot expect the next generation to care about preserving great estuaries like the Pamlico if they have no experience with the resource.
Most of us "veteran" environmentalists can track our commitment to conservation to a love of the outdoors formed early in our lives through great outdoor experiences. Whether it was a family camping or fishing trip or a youth group hiking or paddling trip, the experience sparked a passion for the outdoors which led to recognition of the need to conserve the resource. At PTRF our greatest recruiting tool for the next generation of environmentalists is time spent on the River. The more young people we can get to experience the beauty of this great river system and the thrill of activities such as fishing, sailing and paddling, the better chance we have of passing our conservation work on to the next generation.
Education plays a big role in getting young people to care about the environment; and the staff at PTRF has always done a good job with this part of our mission. With advances in technology, it has become possible to educate greater numbers of school-age children about environmental issues. Our Riverkeeper is a regular on the science class speaking tour. There are also currently discussions among Foundation Board members about creating a volunteer committee to provide more classroom speakers to expand this effort. Our membership includes some potentially terrific environmental educators. We are recognizing, however, that education alone seldom leads to a passion for conservation without some greater connection to nature obtained through positive experiences. It is in this area where PTRF is really making strides to reach the next generation.
Over the past three years the Foundation has made a concerted effort to get more people, particularly children and young adults, out on the river through our paddling groups and organized paddling trips. Recognizing that the best way to get young people to care about the river is to get them out on the river, PTRF has steadily increased its focus on providing these opportunities. This focus has been nicely timed by our staff to catch a wave of popularity in certain outdoor activities.
Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are two of the fastest growing recreational activities in the coastal regions of the United States. The Foundation is capitalizing on this increase in popularity by using its fleet of kayaks as a way to spread the word about the connection between clean rivers and recreational opportunities. A perfect example of the success of this effort was the overwhelming response to the "free kayak rides" provided at River Jam in Greenville.
PTRF teamed with a local group of young adults interested in outdoor activities to provide free kayak rides at River Jam. The response was tremendous. At times there were dozens of kayaks on the River under the watchful eye of our Riverkeeper and other volunteers. While the attendance at River Jam generally was disappointing, the kayak rides were a huge success. The opportunity to get out on the River in a kayak was by far the most popular activity at River Jam. There were dozens of families with children who had their first experience on the River courtesy of this event. There is clearly an opportunity here which PTRF will continue to pursue.
In addition to recruiting future eco-warriors through "kayak diplomacy," the Foundation staged a hugely successful fishing clinic. The connection between wetland preservation and a quality fishery is undeniable. For generations fishermen have been some of our nation's great environmentalists. Unfortunately, unless you have a friend or family member with experience fishing the Pamlico River who can help you get started, fishing the Pamlico can be intimidating. The purpose of the PTRF fishing clinic was to help more people get started fishing on the River by providing practical advice. The fishing clinic is also an example of the Foundation's continuing efforts to work with the next generation of hunters and fishermen to bridge the gap between "environmentalists" and "sportsmen," through the shared mission of conservation.
Providing education and outdoor recreational opportunities for young people is a great strategy for recruiting younger members; but it is not going to reach the target audience unless we also modernize the Foundation's means of communication with members and potential members. For this reason, a critical part of our "next generation" strategy has to be the effective use of social media. Thanks to Kelly Jochim, the Development Coordinator at PTRF, the Foundation is now using Facebook, Twitter and other social media to communicate with our members and to publicize our mission. PTRF has been the "Voice of the River" for years. By modernizing our communication options, we make sure that this voice retains relevance in an age of electronic media.
It is appropriate, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary, that we contemplate the future of PTRF and the ways in which we can make certain that our work continues. The next generation of Americans will face the greatest environmental challenges in our history. If we can rise to the challenge of adapting our organization and our recruiting methods, I am confident PTRF will celebrate many more anniversaries.
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From the Executive Director
IF-Then Magic
By David Emmerling
Executive Director
A recent dinner table discussion at the Emmerling house became extra interesting. My wife, Joni, is finishing her course work for certification as a Life Coach and my son, Dane, visiting from Chapel Hill where he is doing research and waiting to start the Masters of Public Health Program, were in attendance. The evening's discussion was about goals, motivation, and how people make significant life changes and simultaneously make a difference in their communities. After some back and forth, talk focused on the power of IF-THEN. The concept and its application are presented in Heidi Grant Halvorson's book, Succeed. This started me thinking about the implications of these ideas for the work and mission of the Pamlico-Tar River Foundation.
The "IF-THEN" premise is supported by some very good research. This body of work indicates that in order to reach our goals, we should start by deciding exactly what actions need to be taken, and when and where we will take these actions. These need to be as specific as possible. When the next "if" arises, we do not have to debate with ourselves because the decision about what action to take is already made and we already know how to proceed. For example, instead of "I am going to make healthier choices", you decide IF you are eating out, THEN you are going to choose the grilled entrée rather than the fried, or coffee instead of dessert. The result is we have planned for success.
The challenge now is to create some "IF-THEN" statements based on this premise that would benefit of our river and organization. What follows are some possible statements that PTRF members, board and staff might use or adapt
- If PTRF distributes an action alert then I will communicate with my elected official at the local, state, or national level about the issue or my concern.
- If I am in a conversation or meeting where the information on protecting the river is needed then I will educate individuals and groups regarding the benefits for the health and wellbeing of our kids, communities, and economy.
- If PTRF needs volunteers then I will volunteer.
- If PTRF needs donations to support the work and mission then I will do so to the best of my ability.
- If I love the Tar-Pamlico River then I will do all I can to make certain it remains swimmable, drinkable, and fishable.
You can craft your own IF-THEN statements that will fit for you and help the river. Be as specific as possible. Don't delay. Make a commitment to use the approach and think IF-THEN each time you think about our precious river and the amazing resource it represents. |
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Tar Heel Tarpon - Part 2
By Peter Boettger
 The primary technique for inner banks tarpon fishing involves enticing the fish to take whole dead or live baits on bottom rigs, or suspended at various depths in the water column beneath a float while at anchor. Rods, reels, and rigging are similar to that used for big drum except that the tackle should be heavy enough to handle a fish twice the size and strength of a mature old drum, and far more athletic. In order to avoid overstressing the fish, the goal should be to fight the fish with maximum pressure, bringing it to the boat in 15 minutes or less. Tarpon can be caught on lighter tackle, but prolonged fight time will increase the chance of exhausting the fish and make it more susceptible to mortality following release. To draw fish close to the boat, chumming techniques identical to that used for old drum are deployed.
Rods in the heavy action class from 6.5 to 7.5 feet should be equipped with extra large spinning reels or conventional reels capable of holding at least 250 yards of line rated 30-50 lb test in strength. Recommended drag set is 20-25% of the main line strength, with the rod tip held at a 45-90 degree angle in relationship to the line. For example, a reel spooled with 30 lb test is set for 5-8 lbs. A hand held fish scale is an accurate way to check drag pressure.
There are two schools of thought that apply to terminal rigging. Some experts prefer a progression of strength between the mainline and the hook. For them a leader long enough to be wound onto the reel 4-5 timesas the fish nears the boat is of key importance. It allows more control when the fish is close up, prevents break off due to chafing against the body of the fish or boat, and provides the ability to safely grab the leader by hand while disengaging the hook. It will also render the many sting rays that will be caught during a tarpon outing easier to subdue and release. The wind-on leader should consist of 80-125 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon line, typically 10-12 feet in length, depending on the length of the rod. To connect the main running line to the wind-on leader, the main line is tied into a Bimini Twist about 2 feet long to form a loop, but a Surgeons Loop or Spider Hitch will also suffice, particularly when joining a main line and wind-on leader of the same material. A No-Name, Uni-knot, Blood knot or Yucatan can then be used to tie the mainline loop to the proximal end of the wind-on leader. A 2-3 oz egg sinker with a bead on each end is then threaded onto the leader, and may or may not be fixed in place with crimps. At the distal end of the leader a 150 lb barrel swivel is tied on with a Clinch knot or Uni-knot. Finally, a 3-4 foot length of 120-150 lb monofilament shock lineis tied onto the other end of the barrel swivel and to a 8/0-12/0 jay hook, 8/0-16/0 circle or octopus hook , or snelled hook using Clinch or Uni-knots, All knots should be trimmed neatly to reduce friction on the rod guides when casting and prevent tangling with line on the spool.
At the other end of the spectrum, the rigging is designed to minimize connections, use crimps in place of some knots, and thereby reduce chances of tackle failure. For example, various knots as outlined above are used to tie a single strand of main line to a 100-150 lb snap swivel, which is in turn snapped through a crimped loop on the proximal end of the leader. The leader is then threaded through an egg sinker, which is crimped in place 12-18 inches above a hook that is secured on another crimped loop. A separate shock line is eliminated altogether. Some anglers choose a shorter leader, only the length of the rod, which is not wound in past the rod tip, or will double the main line back to the reel if using braided line. They rightly point out that the lighter, thinner main line is more aerodynamic, and if without knots will reduce friction on the reel and rod guides, thus increasing cast distance. In the case of a single strand of main line, the absence of a knot within the line on the reel will have the added benefit of reducing the chance for tangles on the reel. Regardless, enough length of leader is still available for safe hook removal.
The latter set up is conducive to fishing either live or dead bait under a float, whereas the float can be conveniently attached to the swivel at the connection between the main line and leader. Balloons are an effective, inexpensive float device that will easily break off when the action begins following a tarpon strike. The length of leader and sinker beneath the swivel can then be adjusted for to allow setting the bait at the desired depth. Several rods are typically set out, in order to methodically cover the entire water column. Alternatively, some fishermen let the bait move up and down freely with the forces of wind, waves, and current.
Tarpon will hit a number of cut or whole dead baits. Some of the favorites include fresh croaker, menhaden, spot, and mullet. The emphasis is on freshness, preferably caught and put on ice the same day. Bait fish are fished whole or cut into halves, fillets, or steaks 4-8 inches in length and 1-2 inches thick. Frequent changing of baits is mandatory to maintain freshness. Most tarpon fishermen will deploy at least 4-6 rods at different around the boat. Live bait fishing for tarpon is by far less popular than fishing with whole dead bait or cut bait around the inner banks, but can be effective at times. In addition to the species used for cut bait, similar sized bluefish, pinfish, and even crabs are sometimes fished alive beneath floats or on the bottom with or without weights. Live bait hooks and other types should be hooked from the bait fish's top jaw and up through the nose.
Tarpon have an extremely hard, bony jaw structure, and are often very difficult to hook. Most experienced anglers favor letting the fish run in the hope that the hook will lodge in the relatively soft spot behind the corner of either jaw. Some experts recommend setting the hook hard when fishing with J hooks. Either way one can expect to lose the majority of fish that strike, often during a "jump off". Predictably, a tarpon will jump with the bait within 10-20 seconds of the strike, and average about 5-6 jumps during the course of a fight.
These fish are incredibly strong and usually hit with a very hard initial run. When the tarpon starts to lose momentum on the first run immediately begin applying nonstop maximum pressure. Winch the fish inward by pulling the rod back and upward, alternating with a quick down and forward motion while reeling in the slack rapidly. During each strong run point the rod tip at the fish and let it run against the drag, resuming pressure by reeling any slack in fast when the fish slows. The object is to maintain steady pressure and fight a tarpon close, letting out the minimum amount of line possible. This will reduce the chance of the line being cut by the tarpon's gill plates and hard scales, with the exception of when a tarpon jumps. Violent head shaking, flared gills, and a writhing body against a taught line sharply increase the risk of getting cut off, particularly if the fish should fall backward toward the boat and land on the line, or slice it against its hard mouth. When the tarpon jumps the angler should give the fish some slack by lowering the rod, leaning forward, and 'bowing to the silver king'. Keeping the head up can help discourage the fish from running again when tired enough to come to the boat. The leader can then be grabbed with a gloved hand, and the hook cautiously removed with a sturdy pair of pliers.
Do not attempt to take a tarpon out of the water for pictures. Due to size and weight, their internal organs are vulnerable to damage when hoisted or dragged over the gunnels of a boat, and can easily be fatal. If the hook cannot be removed in the water, cut the leader as close as possible to the hook, which will rust and dissolve.
It has been postulated that adrenaline can make war addictive for warriors. More benignly the sheer power, spectacular shimmering leaps, and breath taking beauty of inner banks tarpon will deliver heart pounding thrills for those fishermen with the prowess and fortitude to challenge them. May it always be so.
Peter Boettger is author of Fishing the Western Pamlico, available in the PTRF office.
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Pamlico and Pungo Fishing Report
By Capt. Richard Andrews
Late summer and early fall on the Pamlico and Pungo River System is perhaps the best time of year for a variety of light and heavy tackle fishing opportunities. The mixed bag (speckled trout, flounder, puppy drum, striped bass) fishing is usually in full swing and the tarpon and giant red drum have moved into the Pamlico Sound and Pamlico/Pungo River to spawn.
For big game fishing enthusiasts, the tarpon began to show in mid-July in the middle portion of the Pamlico River from Bath to Blount's Bay mostly. These fish range mostly from 75-150 pounds in weight and some can be 5-6 feet in length. Heavy tackle and special gear is needed to land these enormous fish. Fresh cut bait such as spot, croaker, or mullet is ideal. I catch all of my bait with a cast net and keep it live in my livewell until I either cut it up for hook baits or grind in up for fresh chum. I believe this will give you advantage over other anglers who use store bought bait. Most tarpon rigs are simply a 6 foot shot of 100-150 pound test leader with a weight crimped close to the top or tag end of the leader and a specially designed tarpon hook snelled to the hook end of the leader. Pre-made rigs are available in Washington at Eastside Bait and Tackle, and the staff there will answer any questions you have and help you get rigged up right for these supreme gamefish.
Another highlight of late summer/early fall big game fishing on the Pamlico is the giant red drum fishing. Peak fishing usually occurs in September, but these fish can be caught with consistency as early as late July in some areas. Oyster reefs, tips of long shoals sticking out into the river, and large drop-offs are places to focus your efforts for the drum. They usually are found in schools, and multiple hooks at one time can be common. While not as formidable as tarpon, these are also very big and strong fish, and these "old drum", as some refer to them as they are the older, adult spawning class of the species, generally range from 30-60 pounds in weight and up to 50-55 inches in length. A stand of 4-6 medium-heavy spinning rods with 6500-7500 class spinning reels spooled with 20-25 pound line is ideal. Although lighter tackle can be used, I encourage everyone to use heavier tackle, as it reduces stress on the fish during the fight and reduces possible catch and release mortality. Owen Lupton drum rigs with single barbless circle hooks and a distance no greater than 6 inches from the eye of the hook to the weight is required by law from the NC Division of Marine Fisheries (http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/mf/).
For those light tackle enthusiasts, the puppy and slot drum fishing peaks in the early fall. The fish that migrated in the river from the barrier island marshes and the sound and are abundant along points, sandy flats near the mouths of the major creeks, structure such as stump fields, fallen trees or limbs, or boat houses and piers. Silver and/or gold Johnson spoons, 4" white or chartreuse paddle tails and 3" white, natural, or molting colored Gulp shrimp on ¼ oz. jig heads are all excellent sight casting baits for schooling drum in the Pamlico. Fish them on a 12-18 inch shot of 15-20 pound fluorocarbon leader attached to 10-15 pound braided mainline using a "Uni to Uni" knot.
Capt. Richard Andrews is the owner of Tar-Pam Guide Service, a year-round guide service offering fishing excursions on the Pamlico, Pungo, and Roanoke Rivers and specializing in light tackle fishing for speckled trout, puppy drum, flounder, striped bass and big game fishing for giant red drum and tarpon. For booking info, contact him at (252) 945-9715, email at richard@tarpamguide.com, or look him up on the web at www.tarpamguide.com.
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Operation Medicine Drop is Growing!
Collaboration between stakeholders is having an enormous positive effect on North Carolina. Results include destroying millions of dosage units that will not poison our children, be abused in our communities, or pollute our waters. Additionally thousands of North Carolinians are being educated about the issues related to unwanted and unused drugs. The group of invested stakeholders that include but are not limited to are RIVERKEEPERS®, State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), Safe Kids NC, waste disposal professionals, pharmaceutical companies, and leaders in state government makes the success of these efforts possible.
The pilot group, led by Safe Kids, established the baseline for understanding the impact of the Operation Medicine Drop collaborations, increasing the number of collaborating organizations, and greater marketing of the events. The Safe Kids pilot take-back group included the SBI and Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and conducted the first weeklong, statewide take-back in March of 2010. The effort resulted in the collection of 2 million dosage units. The 2011 campaign collected more than 4 million dosage units of medications at 235 events sponsored by 175 agencies in 72 of our 100 counties.
In support of the RIVERKEEPER® led statewide stakeholder group, Operation Medicine Drop continues looking at poisoning prevention, substance abuse and the environmental impact of medications. Safe Kids NC, a key collaborator in this work enhanced the efforts and
- Developed a toolkit on how to conduct a take-back event; first of its kind, now duplicated by NADDI and other agencies, this includes access to resources developed by the RIVERKEEPERS'® groups.
- Provided online registration of events and locations across the state.
- Developed and provided electronic log to record dosage units and type of medication (prescription, over the counter, controlled and other liquids, creams and gels).
- Developed and provided online agency registration and resources for local communities including potential partners that included RIVERKEEPERS® and media ready materials that were expanded and enhanced through the work and funding secured by the RIVERKEEPER'® group.
- Partnered with NC Public Health epidemiology section to provide county poisoning data and also NC unintentional poisoning data report, which are posted online.
- Programs have been replicated in Missouri, South Carolina, Virginia, Oregon, Maryland and Washington State.
The program continues to gather attention from around the country and the second year will include targeted efforts to improve the rules and regulations pertaining to drug disposal within North Carolina to further protect our kids, communities, and water.
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Rain Garden Construction Project Summary
By Richard Andrews
 PTRF partnered with Franklin County Soil and Water to construct a 250 square foot rain garden behind the Kid's Corner Day Care Center in Louisburg, NC. The purpose of a rain garden is to improve water quality in nearby bodies of water. The rain garden is designed to treat stormwater runoff from the rooftop of the day care center, as well as additional runoff from the adjacent playground. Rain Gardens are small bioretention cells, which serve to promote infiltration of stormwater and bypass existing storm drain systems. Rain gardens also reduce the amount of pollution reaching creeks and streams by utilizing the permeability of onsite soils to treat the stormwater.
The rain garden was constructed on June 21, which followed a period of extremely dry weather in Franklin County. In addition to being very dry and hard, the existing soil at the site was also very clayey. Constructing the rain garden required the removal of topsoil and the excavation of approximately 8-10 inches of clayey substrate below the topsoil. To accomplish this formidable task in such conditions, our partners at Franklin Soil and Water were able to recruit the assistance of the City of Louisburg and use a back hoe to do all of the excavation. This saved us much time and labor.
After excavating down to the desired grade, we planted a variety of native plants that added both aesthetic value to the area and promoted absorption of excessive nutrients from stormwater. Once the plants were strategically in place, the rain garden was backfilled with approximately 4 inches of mulch. The mulch helps the plants retain water as well as helps to promote infiltration, absorption, and collection of stormwater in the rain garden.
 Backyard rain gardens are simple and feasible project for homeowners. They help divert stormwater and can also serve as a beautiful landscape feature for your yard. If you have a home near or adjacent to a stream or wetland area which flows into the Tar River and have a natural depressional area in your yard that seems suitable for such a project, then give us a call. We are happy to organize a volunteer day to construct it or provide any assistance to you in building your very own backyard rain garden.
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Nominees for PTRF Board of Directors
Lorrie Basnight, MD Associate Professor of Pediatrics; Associate Dean of Graduate Medical Education, East Carolina University, Brody School of Medicine Lorrie grew up in Chapel Hill in a family that loved the outdoors and understood the responsibility to preserve the environment for others. Her parents taught her about birds, how to boat, and how to be observant in the woods. Her grandparents established a family cottage on the Pamlico River at Broad Creek in the 1950's, and she has spent time on the river her whole life: sailing, motoring or paddling up creeks, or cooling off in the water. She has belonged to the PTRF for over 20 years. Dr. Basnight received both her undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. She joined the faculty at East Carolina University's Brody School of Medicine in 1995 as a pediatrician. Her primary professional interest is medical education, and she is Associate Dean for the Graduate Medical Education programs at the institution (26 residencies and fellowships with over 350 residents). She has also served as the elected Chief of the Pitt County Memorial Hospital medical staff-one of only two women to have held that position. Dr. Basnight's husband, David Collier, is also a pediatrician on the faculty, and they have two children-Caroline who is 17; and Clay who is 14. Lorrie is a member of the choir and is an Elder at Peace Presbyterian church in Greenville. In her free time she enjoys reading and outdoor activities. Bill Hunneke 
I live in Greenville and work for the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Prior to my work with DENR, I ran a textile manufacturing plant (a family business) employing about fifty people in Kinston. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and a Master's of Science degree in Oceanography. Before to moving back to North Carolina in the mid 1990's I worked for the Hawaii Undersea Research Laboratory in Honolulu staging and participating in research cruises and submersible dives worldwide, primarily on active submarine volcanoes. I understand science; I understand finance, organization and management. I am also acutely aware of what it means to make a payroll every week. I believe PTRF is on the cusp of even more significant leadership in the environmental community in our state, thanks in greatest measure to our incredibly dedicated and talented staff. I feel lucky and privileged to be able to work with them on behalf of the membership. Priorities for me include continuing PTRF's outreach into underserved communities, trumpeting the cause of environmental justice for all and helping the organization play a significant role in the environmental education of the state's future leaders through continued outreach to our youngest citizens. Grady McCallie I live in Raleigh and work for a statewide environmental advocacy group, the NC Conservation Network, and have enjoyed getting to explore the full length of the Tar-Pamlico watershed. But beyond appreciating the watershed, I admire the work of PTRF. During the ten years I've lived in North Carolina, PTRF has been a model for other river basin groups, making steady progress towards a cleaner river and healthier watershed, even in difficult times. PTRF's staff are talented, thoughtful, and incredibly committed, and I love the way the organization combines science-based advocacy with a strong sense of community. I've been grateful for the chance to serve on the board for one term, and would love to serve one more. Other details about me: I have a law degree (from the University of California at Berkeley) but don't practice; before coming to NC, I worked briefly for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and for five years for the National Wildlife Federation. In my current job, my work focuses on water quality, the state budget, transportation, and growth policy. My wife and I have a two year old daughter who loves being outside, especially in the wind and rain. Nation Hahn  Nation Hahn is a communications and digital culture consultant based out of Raleigh, NC. Nation has a strong background in nonprofit and political work. He began his career working for John Edwards Presidential campaign in fundraising. During his time on the Edwards campaign he was able to begin his education on public policy by spending a substantial amount of time in the policy department during a campaign in which Edwards advocated strongly for environmental issues.
After graduating from UNC Chapel Hill Nation went on to work for a Congressional Campaign in Charleston, South Carolina before moving back to Raleigh to serve as Development Coordinator for the NC Sierra Club. Working alongside Molly Diggins Nation was able to increase major donor participation, launch a fundraising event strategy and experiment with online giving programs. Even after his departure from the Sierra Club to move into communications and digital media work Nation has remained active on environmental issues. Nation grew up in the western part of North Carolina and developed a passion for social justice, equality and the environment during a childhood marked by extreme poverty until he was adopted by his Great Aunt and Uncle. Today he continues to work in the political and nonprofit sector by volunteering with the UNC Young Alumni Council with a focus on giving to programs that benefit low income students and the Young Advocates of Planned Parenthood. |
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RIFFLES AND RUNS
R & R SANDERSON FARMS UPDATE
Opposition to the proposed poultry slaughterhouse in Nash County continues to grow. To date, the Cities of Wilson and Raleigh, the Towns of Bailey and Spring Hope and the Neuse River Compliance have released statements in opposition to Sanderson Farms' proposed facility. The Neuse River Compliance Association (NRCA) has 19 members that have wastewater treatment facilities that discharge into the Neuse River. According to a NRCA news release, the members voting in favor of a resolution asking state officials to deny permits to Sanderson include the municipalities of Apex, Clayton, Farmville, Goldsboro, Kenly, La Grange, Raleigh and Wilson. Also in support were Johnston County; the South Granville Water and Sewer Authority, which represents Granville County and Butner, Creedmoor and Stem; Contentnea Metropolitan Sewer District, which includes Ayden, Grifton and Winterville; and Aqua America, a private wastewater service with more than 250,000 customers in 42 N.C. counties.
The Company, in February, announced they will delay their decision to site the plant in Nash County due to high grain prices and other market conditions. However Nash County pushed ahead with what they claimed to be a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) on the proposed slaughterhouse. The DEIS was written for the purpose of seeking federal grant dollars for water and wastewater infrastructure. A summary of the study was presented to Nash County Commissioner in March. However the County withdrew the DEIS at the beginning of May stating that the federal Economic Development Agency will only accept grant applications after the company has officially announced that it will be locating to Nash County.
After initial review of the DEIS, PTRF believes the document is flawed. Staff will remain vigilant and continue our efforts to educate our elected leaders on the impacts of a largely unregulated and growing poultry industry.
*For more information and background, visit www.ptrf.org and recent additions of Currents.
R & R 30 YEAR CELEBRATION & RIVER JAM WERE A BLAST
(From The East Carolinian)- The Pamlico-Tar River Foundation (PTRF) celebrated its 30th birthday in Greenville in the Greenville Town Common with River Jam 2011. The event, sponsored by Grady-White Boats, was a two-day tribute to our organization's dedication to preserving the Tar River and protecting the communities in the surrounding watershed.
It kicked off with the 30-year celebration at the Tipsy Teapot with Greenville band "The Revelators" joined by out-of-towner Arielle Bryant to serenade the crowd.
River Jam, which began at 2 PM on Saturday had organizations join the effort, including ECU Campus Recreation and Wellness, which supervised the free kayak rides on the river and sent over 150 people out on the river. In addition to the kayak rides, there were biking and walking tours provided by nonprofit group, The Friends of Greenville Greenways, or FROGGS. Marianne Montgomery, a FROGGS board member, was excited to be included in this year's River Jam. "We had a great time telling people about the new greenway opening on June 11," she said.
Audrey Tribo, an ECU student, attended River Jam with a great interest due to her involvement in the campus organization Gamma Sigma Sigma. "As service vice president of a sorority, I need to be aware of any volunteer activities on or around the ECU campus," said Tribo. "River Jam sounded like the perfect opportunity to get in touch with new organizations, like the PTRF." Though she said she did not know about The Pamlico-Tar River Foundation before the event, Tribo is very interested in getting the students on campus to be more involved with environmental groups, including the PTRF. Tribo was not the only attendee that was college-age, however. The foot traffic at the event carried many young adults interested in making an impact on their community.
Throughout the event, the passersby were invited to sit and enjoy any one of the three bands that performed in the amphitheater. The set list included Kinston band 8-Track, The Revelators and Matt Walsh, an artist out of Statesville. Tailgaters were lined up along one side of the lawn, while the rest of the area was covered with viewers armed with chairs, umbrellas and blankets.
The closing ceremony was highly anticipated this year, after its success with last year's River Jam, which also included a lighted flotilla. The river was lit with a soft glow, which was a beautiful tribute to the river and to the PTRF's 30 years of dedication. Jochim was pleased with the turnout saying, "The point of today was for people to have fun, while hopefully growing a new respect for the river."
Special thanks to The East Carolinian for the coverage and save the date for next year's on April 22nd!
R & R CAMPING PLATFORM SPONSORSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT
 The Pamlico-Tar River Foundation is now seeking corporate sponsorships for future camping platforms along the Tar River. Preparations are underway to construct the first platform of the Tar River Camping Platform system near Dunbar between Rocky Mount and Tarboro. Generously donated private funds have enabled PTRF to initiate this project, and we hope that grant fund support as well as future sponsorships from river-friendly local businesses in our watershed will help us to reach our goal of a continuous system of overnight facilities from the Tar River headwaters to Washington and on Fishing Creek from Medoc Mountain State Park to its confluence with the Tar. Help support ecotourism in Eastern North Carolina by promoting one of our most important natural assets. For more information, please contact Richard Andrews by email at richard@ptrf.org or by calling (252) 946-7211.
R & R 15% OFF NEW MEMBERSHIPS THIS SUMMER ONLY!
This summer, help support PTRF by spreading the word about our Summer Membership Drive. Any new member who signs up to join PTRF at any level will receive 15% off the price of membership! We want to offer everyone the chance to make a difference in the community, and by joining PTRF this summer and supporting our new programs and continued advocacy for your river, they'll be getting a really bargain. To be sent more information on membership or if you have any questions, please call Kelly at 252-946-7211 or email her at kelly@ptrf.org .
R & R SAVE THE DATE: NC BIG SWEEP OCTOBER 15
 Please note that PTRF is scheduling our fall cleanup for October 15th instead of the normal first Saturday in October (we didn't want to compete with the ECU-UNC football game!). For more details visit our web-page. PTRF will organize cleanups in the Washington and Greenville area. Volunteers interested in organizing a cleanup in your community, please contact PTRF at 252-946-7211.
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EarthShare North Carolina is a federation of environmental non-profits that work to keep our state's rivers clean and our communities healthy - and to foster ecotourism for a strong North Carolina economy. Earth Share's primary mission is to raise money for its member organizations, including PTRF, through workplace giving campaigns conducted in public sectors like state agencies and universities (State Employees Combined Campaign), federal agency and military bases (Combined Federal Campaign), and many private sector businesses throughout North Carolina.
Through workplace giving campaigns, individuals can designate their gift to EarthShare North Carolina or to one or more of its participating organizations (like PTRF). The individual's contribution is then deducted throughout the year from their paycheck, and Earth Share distributes it to the appropriate organization(s). If you choose to designate PTRF, we will receive 100% of your donation. Or, you may choose Earth Share and your donation will be divided among all participating organizations.
The State Employee Combined Campaign (SECC) code to designate PTRF to receive your donation is 1116; to designate EarthShare North Carolina use code 1100. In the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) use code 15322 for PTRF and 32241 for EarthShare.
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(April 23 - July 26, 2011)
Georgia Ferrell, Henderson
Vera Tabakova, Greenville
Pelican Level
Burke and Betty Barbee, Greenville
Major Donor
Ernie and Sara Larkin
Spring Appeal Donors
lbera, Dick and Vicky Bailey, Fred Baker, Ben and Laveita Brinson, Curtis and Sue Brookshire, Randy and Charlotte Bryant, Thomas Buchheit, Emily and Peter Bundy, Lawrence Cantrell, Russel and Elizabeth Cook, David Coulthard, Thomas and Cheryl Czaplijski, Luther and Cindy Davis, Wayland Denton, David and Elsa Desrochers, Charles Dove, Marvin and Nellie Droes, Don and Donna Dunlap, Patricia Dunn, Steve and Debbie Edwards, Mrs. Jane Emmerling, Reba and J C Fulghum, Ray and Sybil Hardee, Ira Hardy, Doreen Livermon, Melvin and Lois Hoot, Connie Howard, Bob and Margaret Hudson, Kathy Ingram, William and Dava Jarman, Diana Jeck, Paula and Hans Johnson, Sylvia and Macon Jordan, Peter and Becky Kaurup, Betsy Keller, Wardlaw Lamar, Ernie and Sara Larkin, Jon and Marilyn Larson, Sabin Leach, Linda and Hugh Leighty, John and Virginia Mallette, William and Susan Meggs, Charles and JoAnn Moore, Matt Nease, Tom and Sue Nicholson, Stuart and Janet Nottingham, Patricia Pertalion, Joseph Pivar, Bubba and Barbara Rawl, Robert Richards, Stanley and Ann Riggs, David and Toni Ritchie, Rivers and Associates, Inc.,, Don and Linda Rubright, Mike and Kathy Sink, Laura Smith, Judy Taylor, Rosemary Turnage, Doug Wakeman, Zack and Deborah Waters, Brooks Webb, Enid White, Sam Worthington
Memorials and Honorariums
PTRF is honored to have received donations in memory Grace Ixos from Georgia Ferrell; and in memory of
J. P. Woolard from Burke and Betty Barbee.
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"Paddling Eastern North Carolina"
(www.PocosinPress.com)
Is available in bookstores and outdoor stores or from the publisher.
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|  Peter Boettger is author of Fishing the Western Pamlico, available at the PTRF office. |
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PAMLICO
Free Towing For Members!
VHF - 16 or 252.964.3171
24 HOUR SERVICE
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Pamlico-Tar River Foundation
PO Box 1854 Washington, NC 27889
Phone: (252)946-7211
Fax: (252)946-9492
Email:
info@ptrf.org
Website:
www.ptrf.org
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King of the River
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Award-winner watercolor artist and Washington resident Pat Holscher has generously donated a breathtaking watercolor exclusively for the Pamlico-Tar River Foundation.
The energetic kingfisher is found up and down the Tar-Pamlico River, and now you have the opportunity to bring one home. Just in time for the holidays, PTRF has just completed a limited run of numbered prints that are signed by Pat Holscher herself, available to the PTRF membership for $150.
All proceeds go directly to the Pamlico - Tar River Foundation and our continued efforts to protect and preserve the river for everyone. This is a generous, beautiful print and would make a fantastic addition to any art or wildlife enthusiast. Please call the office at (252) 946-7211 or email info@ptrf.org for more information or to place an order.
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