Wastewater planning

Failing Septic Systems

Many rural communities rely on septic wastewater systems, and Carteret County is no exception. However, low-lying septic is highly vulnerable to rising seas, and Carteret County is experiencing widespread septic failure as a result of sea level rise. This looks like toilets that aren’t able to flush, sinks that don’t drain, and raw sewage that can overflow into waterbodies, such as the North River. Homes without functioning septics are also condemnable by the county, which can force homeowners out of their residence.

Diagram on how septic works
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Stats in big text from vulnerability assessment and shellfish sanitation survey
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30%

50%

20%

60%

How the program works

Assess Community Vulnerability

We’ve partnered with the EPA and engineering experts from AECOM, ERM to assess community vulnerabilities which includes evaluating soil types, current conditions and projected conditions under various SLR scenarios.

Develop Wastewater Solutions

Experts develop suite of wastewater options with cost estimates abd management requirements.

Engage the Community

We facilitate workshops with the community to determine most suitable options.

Plan for Implementation

We work with experts to identify financial strategies and necessary training for implementation.

Timeline

  • 2025-October 2026 Planning

  • Fall 2026- 2027 Identifying Funding

  • 2027+ Implementation

Next

Flood Resilience