For over 25 years, N.C. Cooperative Extension has led research and education efforts to address sources of pollution in the Neuse River Basin. On the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, this effort is being recognized. The American Rivers organization selected the Neuse River as its river of the year for 2022.

American Rivers recently posted " The Neuse has seen major progress in recent decades, with cleanup efforts improving water quality and restoration efforts improving habitat for wildlife and access for fishing and boating. The river’s rebounding health has benefited wildlife and people alike, and as the nation celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act this year, the Neuse illustrates how positive steps for clean water benefit both the environment and economy."

Water quality improvement at the river basin level is very exciting and points to a concerted community effort to make measurable improvements. The full article is availabe on the American Rivers site.