Land Use Plan Update-1990

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Division of Coastal Management Copy
COUNTY OF BERTIE .
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1990
Atlantic
Ocean
Norfolk Outer
Portsmouth
Banks
O
Aulander ow Ilsville
Rot obel k` - - 11 3 ] 42 to Vg
1 Kelfor 5 7 Connant a 13
5 42 Burden Il '
t4wiston 58 Mount Gould
vill Askewville
(). CVJ�i � Ashlar '
8 45 4
Drew Fdrnho ,p 1 5 Mid u
G�oo4 I1 Cahaoa 17 �
P R 6 '�- U
A. MerrE-- -
—
Qudsna 12 45 /
Grab ow � 3cz �
T
River It 17 u
New Bern
Wilmington
Raleigh
1-95

BERTIE COUNTY
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1990
Prepared by:
The Bertie County Economic and Industrial
Planning and Development Commission
with assistance provided by:
The Mid -East Commission
P.O. Box 1787
Washington, North Carolina 27889
[phone]
Adopted by the Bertie County Board of Commissioners
on February 19, 1991
Certification by the North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission
on March 22, 1991
The preparation of this report and all accompanying maps were financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is
administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

BERTIE COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COUMSSIONERS
Charles H. Edwards, Chairman
Joseph W. Spruill
Tildon E. Brown
John E. Whitehurst, County Manager
Melvin R. Cobb
Norman F. Perry
Betty A. Askew
Estelle H. Simons
Terry Pratt
BERTIE COUNTY
ECONOMIC AND INDUSTRIAL PLANNING
AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
Nancy G. Spruill, Chairman
Joseph P. Leggett, Vice Chairman
Evelyn J. Parker
Clarence J. Rhea, III
C.B. Griffin, Jr.
MID -EAST COMMISSION
Robert J. Paciocco, Executive Director
and Planner -in -Charge
Linda Roberts, Secretary
Planning Assistance Provided
by Connie R. Price and Tamara Schatz
Eugene C. Watson
Ernest E. Hardy
James L. Gilliam
Henry G. Spruill
Charles L. Smith
Bryant W. Savage
Julia Perry

TABLE OF CONTENTS
L INTRODUCTION .... ....... .. ..... .
IL INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS .. ................
A.
REGIONAL SETTING ..: ...........
B.
POPULATION' . - .. . .........
1. Population Characteristics ............. .......... .
2. Population Trends ..... .. . ..................
C.
ECONOMY ................ .......... .
1. Economic Base and Employment..........:............ .
2.., Income . ... .... .. .... . .
D.
NATURAL RESOURCES . ' ............
1. Topographic Features .. ............
2. Geologic Features .............. ...................
3. Hydrologic Features ... ....... .
4. Meteorologic Features .. .........
E.
EXISTING LAND USE .' ....:'. .......:............ .
F.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES , . .. ....... .
1. Transportation -. .... ..............
.
2. Schools .......................................
3. Government Buildings ............................
.... .............
4.' Emergency Services ...................
5. - Water and Sewer Services .........................
6.' Existing Plans and Regulations,, ... .. .
G.
1986 POLICY STATEMENTS' ...............
1. Resource Production Policies . .. ... .
2.' Resource Protection Policies .: , .. ..............
3. Economic 'and Community Development Policies ...........
4. Special. Issues :.: ..........
IIL 1990 POLICY STATEMENTS :.... , .... .. ......... .
A.
RESOURCE, PROTECTION.. .. ... . .......
1. Constraints to Development ....................... .
2. Areas of Environmental Concern Issues _ ............... .
,
3. Hazardous and Fragile Land "Areas . ............
4. Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Needs ...............
5. Protection of Potable Water Supply , . . . ......... .
PAGE
1
3
3
3
3
7
8
12
14
14
14
14
17
17
18
18
20
22
22
23
23
25
25
26
26
27
28
28
28
28
30
30
31

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
6. Package Treatment Plant Usage .......................
31
7. Storm Water Runoff .............. ................
31
8. Marina and Floating Home Development ................
31
9. Industrial Impact' on Fragile Areas ....:. :.........
32
10. Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands .......
32
11. Restriction of Development Within Areas Up to FIve Feet Above
Mean High Water ....:. .. ...........
32
12.'Upland Excavations for Marina •Basins • '...:......:.....
32
13. Damaging of Existing Marshes by Bulkhead Installations .....
32
14. Maritime Forests .. .. , . , , ,
32
B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT..:.......
32
1. Agricultural Lands .... .. .. . .... ..
33
2. Commercial Forest Lands ... . , .........
33
3. Mineral Production :. .. ' ........
33
4. Commercial and Recreational Fishing ........
34
5. Off -Road Vehicle Policy ' ............
34
6. Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Land Development ...
34
7. Peat and Phosphate Mining . ..... ..
35
C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT .........
35
1. Types and Locations of Industry :. .......
35
2. Local Commitment to Provide Services to Development .....
35
3. Types of Urbar, Growth Patterns Desired ...............
35
4. Redevelopment of Developed 'Areas ...................
36
5. Commitment to State and Federal Programs in. the County ...
36
6. Channel Maintenance' and Beach Nourishment Projects ......
36
7. Energy .Facility Siting ...........:.:..:............
36 .
8. Tourism ........ .... .. ... ..
9. Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access . ........
37
37
10. Types, Densities and Location of Anticipated Residential
Development : ............
37
11. Future Landfill Sites ... ........ :..........
37
12. Junk Car Removal ...............................
38
D. PUBLIC TARTICIPATION ..... .:: ... ..
38
E. STORM HAZARD POLICIES MITIGATION, POST DISASTER
RECONSTRUCTION AND EVACUATION. PLANS ......:..
39
1. Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan ... .........
39
2. Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan ........
42
3. Evacuation Plan . ...... ' . ... ...........
44
ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
IV 1990 LAND USE PLAN, ... ...... . ..... .. .........
45
A.
DEVELOPED. .. ..................................
45
B.
URBAN TRANSITION ........... ...................., .
45
C.
LIMITED TRANSITION .............................. .
46
D.
COMMUNITY ....................................
46
E.
RURAL WITH SERVICES ...........................
47
F.
RURAL ........................................
47
G.
CONSERVATION .................................
47
V. RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATION ......
49
VL INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION ...................
51
APPENDIX L
............................................
54
APPENDIX IL
Survey Results ........ .....................
57
iii

LIST OF TABLES/FIGURES/MAPS
PAGE
TABLE 1.
Population Change Within Incorporated Places 1960-1988 ......
8
TABLE 2.
Full- and .Part -Time Employees by Major Industry 1987:.:.:...
9
TABLE 3.
Major Manufacturing Firms ............................
10
TABLE .4..
Recent Unemployment Rates.... .........:..:........
11
TABLE 5.
Per Capita Income 1985-1987 ..... ...................
12
TABLE 6..
Average Wage and Salary Earnings per Job .................
13
TABLE 7..
North" Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
Rural Projects in Bertie County ........................
19
TABLE 8.
Bertie County Public School Facilities, 1989-90 ..............
21
TABLE 9.
Severity of Risk in Hazard Areas .......................
40
FIGURE 1.
Projected. Population of Bertie County for the Year 1990. ......
5
FIGURE 2.
Projected Population of Bertie County for the Year 2000. ......
6
FIGURE 3.
County Population Change 1930-2000 ....................
7
FIGURE 4.
Soil Suitability, Bertie County, 1990......................
15
FIGURE 5.
Enrollment in Bertie County Schools, 1968-1990 .............
20
MAP 1. Existing Land Use ................................ 60
MAP 2. Hazards Map ..................................... 61
MAP 3. Land Classification ....... ............... ....... 62
MAP 4. Proposed Countywide Water System ..................... 63
iv

This publication represents an update of the existing County Land Use Plan (1986). The original
plan and its five-year updates are required by the Coastal Area Management Act. The Bertie County
Economic and Industrial Planning and Developmeni Commission is the localplanning agency.. This
document is in accordance with the land use planning guidelines (Subchapter 7B-15 NCAC) as amended
on October 25, 1989.
Land use planning is. the very, core of the planning process. All other phases ` of ' planning are
performed to service the projected land use pattern outlined in the land use plan. The land use pattern
of an area is also serviced by the economic development of the county. This idea was supported by
Winston Churchill when he said, "We shape our buildings and then our buildings shape us." Almost
every aspect of 'our lives is affected by land use.
The land use pattern of today's Bertie County is very different from the days of early settlement. At
one time, the County was a densely forested habitat for many forms of wildlife. As man settled in the
area, he soon began to alter the landscape. Widely scattered development of farms or plantations first
appeared on the land. This occurred along the major water courses in the County. Later, inland, compact
rural development began to appear on the landscape. This development was concentrated at the crossroads
of major land routes. Growth continued along these routes and some industrial activities have evolved at
the busiest of these crossroads.
Increased mobility has also had an impact on land use. Automotive vehicles have eased the movement
of people and goods and have brought on different land use needs. Further, we have witnessed an increase
in leisure time. These two factors have accounted for recreational development, particularly along water
courses, and industrial expansion into rural areas. Changes such as these are expected to continue. This
development includes all the necessary housing, services, and space required for growth.
The land use plan can help keep the desired character of Bertie County intact during the process of
change. It is intended to serve as a tool for development and to guide growth to meet the people's needs.
Land use planning is based on many factors including topography, drainage, soils, existing uses of
land, availability of community services, highways, population projections, trends in economic development,
and future land use needs. A coordination of these elements is mandatory. Planning is essential to avoid
the chaos typical in other areas experiencing fast growth. But land use planning is not an end in itself.
Although the plan allows for changes in the future, it must be implemented to receive the benefits from
its adoption.
There are many tools that a county government has at its disposal to implement a land use plan. A
county may: 1) regulate land use, 2) affect land use by the provision of services, 3) purchase or condemn
property which usually determines what uses will occur, and 4) tax property to affect what will occur. The
usual tool for implementation is zoning.
County zoning requires an immense effort in public education.. The potential benefits of zoning are
of sufficient magnitude to justify great effort on behalf of its adoption if zoning is needed. However, new
alternatives, to zoning are available for implementing the land use plan. These included, but are not limited
to: 1) moratoriums on development, 2) housing unit quotas, 3) maximum population limits for services,
4) land banking, and 5) timing and sequencing controls.
Since the land use plan update in 1986, Bertie County has experienced new growth and development
that was governed by the last update. New laws affecting land use planning and additional classifi-
1

2
cations of land allowing more flexibility in development have been adopted as a .direct result of
development trends in Bertie County as well as other local North Carolina governments. ,.Bertie County
does not wish to be inhibited by overly restrictive land classifications, and has already,amended the 1986
plan's land classification. map to facilitate, economic growth.
This plan update will address the specific needs and concerns of Bertie County's citizens as they strive `
to change the County's image from one which is poor and lacking in economic development to one that
is upwardly, mobile, attractive to investors, and is rich in untapped environmental, aesthetic and economic
resources.
In summary, Bertie County has moved forward in the land use planning process and now is the time
to improve upon the many past accomplishments by proceeding with the land use plan for the 1990s.

II. INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS
A:' REGIONAL SETTING .
In many ways, the growth of Bertie County and its prospects for future development can be attributed
to its relative location. Land use'in Bertie County is a product of the regional setting and distribution of
the natural and human resources in' the County.
Bertie County is located on the inner portion of the Atlantic Coastal Plain's physiographicprovince.
"This province extends from Massachusetts to Florida and includes'manytypes of landforms''The'Coastal
Plain is a series of exposed ancient marine terraces, most `of which are rolling hills and low-lying wetlands.
Bertie County is nearly flat at the lower elevations in the southeast and rolling hills at higher elevations
toward Roxobel and Kelford.
The County is situated at the confluence of two major rivers. The Roanoke River, one of the largest
drainage systems crossing the coastal plain, provides .awealth of natural resources along its course.
Another natural asset in Bertie County is the Chowan River. It is the upper portion of the
Albemarle/Pamlico Sound which is the second largest estuarine system on the east coast of the United
States.
The flow of water info and out of this' estuarine system should be of deep concern to the citizens of
Bertie County. ` It should be noted that the natural resources in and around Bertie County have not yet
been as impacted as other areas along the east coast. However, other areas which are now densely
developed were not impacted either when they were primarily rural.
Bertie County is located near several urban areas witnessing fast growth. As these areas grow, Bertie
- County will feel their impact. The Hampton Roads.area, a region of rapid growth, has already sought
to fulfill its potable water and electricity needs from within Bertie County's sphere. Although urban places
offer different choices' and amenities than rural areas' (i.e., shopping, the arts, education, and employment
opportunities), a balance must be achieved. 'Bertie County offers many resources, but the impact of
unplanned resource development could be detrimental.
Bertie County is a rural' crossroad in the maze of an intensely complex,` heavily populated eastern
seaboard. The pressures for and impact of development will intensify. The challenge facing Bertie County
is to preserve the rural, agrarian livelihood valued by the residents while still providing the economic and
community development needed to maintain a' health lifestyle. '
B. POPULATION
Bertie County is a very large county with a relatively small number of people. The County occupies
approximately 701 square miles and has a projected population for 1990 of 21,760 persons, making a
population density of 31 persons per square mile..This constitutes rural county. Only 27.5 percent of
all persons in the County live within incorporated areas.
1. Population Characteristics
A population can best be described in'terms of age, sex, race,'and their distribution_. 'Age structure
is probably the most important population characteristic in estimating. future demands for services and
facilities such as schools, housing and public works. Sex and age characteristics are the basic causative
elements in determining birth and death rates, as well as mortality and migration trends.
3

4-.
Median age is a statistical measure of age composition. It is defined, as the age that divides the
population into two groups of equal size: one-half of the group is older than the median age and the
other half is younger. The median age for Bertie County is not significantly different from the State's.
In 1988, the median age for Bertie County was 33.2 years.. The median age for North Carolina was 32.6.
This implies that one-half of the County's population is less than 33 years old and the other half is greater. `
Sex, age, and race characteristics aswell as their distribution are the components of the following
population pyramids for the years 1990 and 2000 according to projections based on the 1980 US Census
(Figures 1 and 2, pages 5- and 6, respectively).
By examining the shape,,of the pyramids, it, is possible to analyze the County's population over a
period of ten years. The interpretation of Bertie County's population pyramids are as follows:
a. The bases of both pyramids curve inward slightly as a result of reduced birth
rates. , In the future there may be a reduced demand for secondary schools.
b. The bulge in , the 10-14 and 15-19 age groups indicates future work . force
enlargement. When this happens, more jobs will need to be provided for the
young or unemployment or, out -migration of these, persons will occur.
C. Population drops back slightly in the 20-24 , (year 1990) and 25-29 (year; 2000)
age groups, probably due to out -migration from lack of employment opportunities.
d. r The middle sections of both pyramids bulge outward in the age range between
. 30-49. This section of the population constitutes a major portion of the labor
force and buying power. of Bertie County.
e. The proportion of persons over 50 years old, especially female, is substantial.
This should have at least three major, implications for the planning program:
• It will produce specialized demands on services and facilities, particularly in
health care delivery systems and recreation. This is due to the fact that older
persons require greater medical attention and specialized recreational programs.
• With a large number of families receiving fixed incomes (i-s, pensions,
social security), fluctuations in the economy and social policies will have
a greater impact on these people that constitute such a large part of the
County's population.
• Since so many persons in the County over 50 are women, future emphasis
should be placed on the provision of cultural and recreational programs
designed for, older women.
These aspects of the age/sex,structure of Bertie County population should be considered for future
planning endeavors. -

1990
1 1
700
MALE FEMALE
WHITE
NON -WHITE
FIGURE 1. Projected Population of Bertie County for the Year 1990. Source: 1980 U.S. Census of Population.
1 1
700

2000
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FIGURE 2- Projected Population of Bertie County for the Year 2000. Source: 1980 U.S. Census of Population

7
2. Population Trends
An analysis of growth trends will indicate future pressures on land and water resources as well as
pubic services and facilities. Examination of historic growth patterns will provide a basis for forecasting
future planning needs.and population trends.
Figure 3 shows population changes; in, the County since 1930 and. projected through the year 2000.
As shown in the graph, Bertie County's population has grown within the last twenty years after two
decades of significant out -migration. According to the North Carolina Office of State Budget and
Management estimates, population is expected to increase. slightly over the next ten years. It is unlikely
that this gradual increase will have a serious impact on the demand for services and facilities. The
growth patterns for County towns can be seen in Table1:
POPULATION
(in 000s)
27.0
26.5
26.0
25.5
25.0
24.5
24.0
23.5
23.0
22.5
22.0
21.5
21.0
20.5
20.0 I 1 ! ( I I I I I
1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1988 1990 1995 2000
YEAR
FIGURE 3. County Population Change 1930 - 2000.. Source:, Berne County,1986 Land Use Plan
Update and the NC Office of State Budget and Management.
A tabulation' of the , seasonal population is designed to help local governments `prepare' for great
swells in the number of people who seasonally place service and other demands on a local government.
No such `condition exists in'Bertie County and none is expected to materialize'in the future. Presently,
slight seasonal population' fluctuations are associated with temporary farm related jobs during harvest
season.

8
TABLE 1. Population Change Within Incorporated Places 1960 - 198&
%' CHANGE ' "% CHANGE
1970' 11980' , 1988 1970-1980 1980-1988,
Askewville 247
227
226
,-8
Aulander
947
1,214
1,337
; 22
9
Colerain
373
284
262
-24
-8
Kelford
295
254
251
-14
-1
Lewiston Woodville
580
671
702
14
4
Powellsville
247
320
377
23
15
Roxobel
347
278
269
-20
-3
Windsor
2,199
2,126
2,412
-3
12
TOTAL
INCORPORATED
POPULATION 5,235 5,374 5,836 2.5 8
Source: Bertie County Land Use Plan Update 1986 and
NC Office of State Budget and Management.
C. ECONOMY
1. Economic Base and Employment
Bertie County is primarily rural with an agribusiness base. In 1987, retail sales totalled $51 million,
even though much of the county's income is derived from the sale of agricultural products. In 1989, for
example, estimated income from farm products sold totalled $100 million. The County is best known for
peanut production and is a leader in producing tobacco, soybeans, hogs and poultry products.
Table 2 lists numbers and percentages of persons employed in each economic sector of the County and
th
e State: Bertie County employs four times; as many persons in the farm industry as does the State.
Manufacturing firms in`the County are major employers. Forty-six percent of the County's residents
are employed in this sector of the economy. Approximately 35 percent of these firms are comprised of ,
textile and forestry products companies while another 35 percent is associated with agriculture. In the past
five years, Bertie County has drawn three new industries employing 116 persons (Table 3). However, it
has also lost a textile manufacturing and a lumber processing firm that employed a total of 105 persons.

9
TABLE 2. Full- and Part-l"une Employees by Major Industry, ,1987.
BERTIE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA
# of Persons Percentage # of Persons Percentage
TOTAL EMPLOYMENT 9,138 •100;, 3,605,460 100
BY TYPE
Wage and Salary
7,376 , , 81
3,112,777 86
Proprietors
1,762 . , 19
492,683. 14
Farm
772 8
76,838 :2
Non -Farm
990 11
415,845 12
BY INDUSTRY
Farm
1,111
12
109,103
3
Non -Farm
8,027
88 ,
3,496,357
97
PRIVATE
6,987
76
2,922,912, ..
81
Agricultural
_.
Service, Forestry,
Fishing and Other*
249
3
30,189. _ . , ,
.8
Mining
0
0
6,042
.2
Construction
294
3
225,938
,6
Manufacturing
4,216
46
869,337
24
Transportation and
Public Utilities
144
2
157,971
4
Wholesale Trade
331
4 • . ;
162,219
4
Retail Trade
699
8
578,650
16
Finance, Insurance, and
Real Estate. Services.;
806
9
690,694 . -.
19
GOVERNMENTAL
AND GOVERNMENT
ENTERPRISES
1,040
11
573,445
16
Federal, Civilian
111
1
53,415
1
' Military
79
1
125,780
3
State and Local
850
9
394,250
11
*Other consists of jobs held
by US residents employed by international organizations
and foreign embassies.
NOTE: Percentages are rounded.
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Economic Information System.

10
Blue Bell Inc.
Windsor
1966•
garments
" 190
Cardinal Chemical
Windsor
1979
chemical distribution
5
Coulbourn Lumber" Co.
Windsor
1938
lumber
115
Gilliam Brothers
Peanut-Shellers, Inc. _ _
Windsor - ---
1935 -peanut-production
--
50
Lea Lumber and Plywood
Windsor
1939
veneer
257
NDL Enterprises
. Windsor
1989
pharmaceutical packaging
6
Tarmac Carolinas (formerly
Coastal Concrete Co.)
Windsor
1963
cement products
14
R.J. Reynolds
Experimental Farm
Merry Hill
1961 `
research
60
Stephenson Crab
Windsor
1983
fish products
120
Williford Lumber Co.
Windsor
1962
furniture squares & chips
25 -
Workers Owned Sewing Co.
Windsor
1979
contract sewing'.
50
Bunch Pattern Works
Lewiston
1947
industrial patterns
9
Gregory Manufacturing Co.
Lewiston
1923
farm machinery
150
Louisiana Pacific
Lewiston
1953 `
lumber
80
Perdue, Inc.
Lewiston
1976
poultry
'2,600
Golden Peanut Co.
Aulandei
1952
peanut products
35
(140 seasonal)
Northeastern Agri -Supply
Aulander
1979
chemicals & fertilizer
8
Perry -Wynn Fish Co.
Colerain
1927
fish products
15
Fiberglass Toilets
Windsor
1986
fiberglass production
(250 seasonal)
10
Roxobel Curtain Co. _ .
: Roxobel
1989
curtains, draperies
100
Source: Bertie County Economic and Industrial Development Commission:
.

1 11
Unemployment in the. County has been an item of concern, yet these figures have followed national
trends. Recent unemployment rates indicate that, although Bertie County's recent unemployment rates
are slightly higher than the State's, they are considerably lower than most of the surrounding counties
(Table 4).
TABLE 4. Recent Unemployment Rates.
MAY
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
1988
1988
1989
1989
1989--
1989
- 1989
NORTH.CAROLINA.
__ 3.6
3.3
.- 4.4
3.7
3.2
4.0
3.4
Bertie
3.8
2.7
4.1
4.6't
` 3.4
3.9
3.4
Chowan
3.7
3.3
4.3
3.9 .
3.5
4.0
3.4
Halifax
4.7
4.2
6.2
5.7
12.7
6.4
5.2 '
Hertford
5.2
4.9
6.4
5.4
4.2
5.7
4.9
Martin
4.1
3.3-
4.4
3.4
3.0
4.2
3.4
Northampton
4.1
3.7
6.1
4.2'
4.1
5.6
4.3
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
1989
1989
-1989
1989
1989
1989
AVERAGE
NORTH CAROLINA
3.7
3.4
3.5
3.5
3.1
2.8
3.5
Bertie
3.8
4.0
3.9
4.1
3.4
2.8
3.7
Chowan
3.3.,.:
.3.3
4.3 ,s'
3.8
3.2;:
.3.7,
3.6
Halifax
5.7
4.0
4.8
,4.8
4.1
3.9
5.6
Hertford'
5.2
3.7
'4.7
5.0
3.9
4.0
4.9
• Martin,
6.5.,
,4.8
4.0
4.0
3.4,
3.6 _
4.0
Northampton
4.9
4.6
5.3
4.0
4.1
3.8
4.5
' ':,Source: Employment
Security, Commission,' January 1990.

12
2. ; ..Income r
In 1987, Bertie County had a per capita personal income of $10,680 (Table 5). This PCPI ranked
60th in the State and was 80 percent of the State average ($13,322) and 69 percent of the national average
($15,484). Table 5 compares the per capita income of the State, Bertie County, and surrounding counties.
TABLE S. Per Capita Income 1985 - 1987.
RANK
1985 1986 1987 IN STATE
NORTH CAROLINA
$11,658
$12,436
$13,322
--
Bertie
9,128_
10,198
10,680
60
Chowan
9,744.
10,707.
11,317
50
Halifax
9,081
9,669
10,204
72 .. .
Hertford
9,004
9,517-
9,994
78
Martin
9,728
10,422
11,169
55
Northampton
9,454
9,972
10,583
63
Source: North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management.
A more precise way of assessing the amount of money made in jobs available for Bertie County
residents is the average wage and salary earnings per job.: Table 6 shows these figures for the State,
Bertie County, and surrounding counties. In 1980, the average earnings per job in Bertie County was
$8,282, rising to $12,591 in 1987 with a change of 52 percent. The Table shows a slight gain by Bertie
County in average earnings when compared to the State average. , This should not be interpreted as
improvement in Bertie County. The actual dollar difference was larger in 1987 when compared with 1980.
The differencewas $3,300 in 1980 and $4,887 in 1987.
Earnings of persons employed 'in Bertie County increased from 1977 to 1987 at an average annual
growth rate of 8.4 percent. The largest industries in 1987 were non -durable good manufacturing, which
accounted for 29.7 percent of earnings; farm 21.5 percent; and durable goods manufacturing,10.9 percent.
Of the industries that accounted for at least 5 percent of earnings in 1987, the slowest growing from 1977
to 1987 was durable goods manufacturing, which increased at an average annual rate of 1.4 percent. The
fastest was non -durable goods manufacturing, which increased at an average annual rate of 20.5 percent

13
TABLE 6.
Average Wage and Salary Earnings per Job.
%
CHANGE
1980
.1985
1986 .
1987 1980 - 87
NORTH CAROLINA $11,582
$15,855
$16,662
:S17,478
50.9
Bertie
8,282
11,318
12,186
12,591
52.0
'Chouan
9,634`
12,525 `'
13,695 '
141516:
50.7
Halifax,;,
9,658
13,124
14,112
140650
51.7
Hertford'
8,646
11,05
12,661
13,368
54.6
Martin
110460•
15,587 -
167,537,
17,301
-51.0•
Northampton 8,209 10,989 11,854 12,565 53.1
Source Bureau of Economic. Analysis.. ;
The population and economic characteristics for Bertie County indicate that economic diversification
should be a goal for economic development.:.A greater variety of industries should be invited to locate
in the County.. Too much dependence on one type of industry, such as textiles, is, economically unsound.
Economic diversification would help raise , low income levels, reduce unemployment, and lower.. out -
migration rates.

14
D. NATURAL RESOURCES
1. Topographic Features
The topography of Bertie County is level to gently sloping. Elevation ranges from sea level at the -
confluence of the Chowan River and the Albemarle Sound to over'100 feet near Lewiston Woodville.
The mostly level terrain has supported farming for over two hundred years. The natural drainage patterns
have helped reduce the need for land forming.
Excessive slopes, those exceeding a 12 foot change in elevation over a horizontal run of 100 feet, are
present in some areas of Bertie County. Along the. Chowan River'shoreline and the Roanoke River
floodplain steep slopes create the opportunity for, erosion. These bluffs approach 70 feet in elevation
along the Chowan and are very close to the River. Current development is concentrated on the low-lying
areas along the Chowan River." The bluffs are not affected except by the access roads. Future development
on top of the bluffs should be watched closely to guard against erosion. Sand ridges in the Roanoke River
floodplain are used primarily for farming or home'sites. This development does not create a threat to the
River. Intensive development adjoining the Roanoke is unlikely due to low elevations.
2. Geologic Features
Any land use plan must consider soil types and subsurface geology in making future plans. Soil types
and suitability classification are important factors in determining land use.- Soils in Bertie County have _
been mapped by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS). The soil survey is used to determine which soils
present developmental limitations due to wetness or high shrink -swell potential.
Analysis of the soil survey shows forty-one (41) soil bodies or mapping units. Of the forty-one soil
bodies, twelve are well drained, eleven are moderately drained, and one is excessively well drained. These
areas will not present problems for industrial or urban development.
There are fourteen poor to very poorly drained soil bodies in the County; three soils are extensively
floodable: Nearly 80. percent of the soils in the. County have limitations for septic tanks due to poor
drainage; seasonably high water tables, or permeability problems. Figure 4 shows the seven soil associations
in Bertie County. They are grouped according to their suitability for development. This includes hazards
for -foundations, limitations on septic tanks, •and drainage.
There are several areas in the County where quarrying for sand has occurred. These sand pits vary
in size, are mostly abandoned, and are related to past highway construction. The abandoned mines often
fill with fresh water creating excellent recreational opportunities for local citizens.
3. Hydrologic Features
Wetlands, floodplains, groundwater, estuaries and surface water are all features that must be constantly
monitored and are easily affected by changes in land use. These features help provide habitats for various
types of wildlife, drinking water, and sources of commercial activities. These features are so important to
the general public that many have been designed Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC) by the Coastal
Resources Commission (CRC). In Bertie County, the estuaries including the waters and shorelines and
parts of the public trust- waters have been designated AECs.

15
-
- i • � i i
?i.
FIGURE 4. Soil Suitability, Bertie County, 1990. Source: U.S.. Department of Agriculture, Soil
Conservation Service, Raleigh, NC, General Soil Map, Berne County, North Carolina,
1982

16
Estuarine Waters are defined as the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries seaward of the
dividing line between coastal fishing waters and inland fishing waters. Estuarine Waters are important in
that they are among the most productive natural environments in the State. These Waters support the
basic aquati&life that sustain the commercial fisheries. Nine of the ten leading commercial catches within
the State are dependent on the estuary for life. There are nine areas in Bertie Countythat are classified
as Estuarine ;Waters. They include:
• Albemarle. Sound
• all manmade tributaries
Roanoke River
• Conine Creek
• Thoroughfare Creek
• Middle River
• Eastmost River
. " Chowan River - from confluence to 300 yards south of the US 17 bridge
• Cashie River from San Souci Ferry to its mouth.
The management objective for the areas of environmental concern is to give highest priority to its
protection _ in order to ',maintain the biological, social, economic, or aesthetic values associated with it.
The development of navigation channels and the use of wharfs are examples of appropriate alterations in
this area, provided that such changes will not be detrimental to the biological and physical character of the
system. Incompatible uses would include projects which directly or indirectly block or impair existing
navigational channels, increase erosion along the shore, or disrupt the ecology of the shellfish waters.
There are presently no such incompatible uses in the County.
The Estuarine Shoreline, another type of AEC, is considered a component of the estuarine system
because of its close association with adjacent Estuarine Waters AECs. Estuarine Shorelines are defined
as non -ocean shoreline which are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse effects of
wind and water. They are intimately connected to the estuary and are defined as those areas in the
County that border the waterbodies defined as estuaries. The AEC jurisdictional area is defined to extend
for a distance of 75 feet landward from the mean high water mark. Unless measures have been taken to
prevent erosion, no development should occur within these areas. This 75 foot line can be used to
determine setbacks in all ordinances such as subdivision and health regulations.
Public Trust Waters are the third type of AEC found in the County. These areas consist of all natural
bodies of water in the County excluding privately -owned lakes to which the public has no right of access.
Mismanagement of development in these areas could be extremely harmful. These areas are critical iri that
they provide a valuable recreational outlet for the public and also serve to support commercial ad sport
fisheries. Control over development in Public Trust Waters is presently exercised by the State or Federal
government. Bertie County can assist in managing these areas by controlling development adjacent to
them with regulatory devices such as setback lines, minimum lot sizes, septic tank ordinances, floodplain
ordinance, and sedimentation controls.
Inland Wetlands are areas that have been designated by the Coastal Resources Commission as being
important for water quality. These areas are currently being mapped by the U. S. Army Corps of
Engineers/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through a National Wetlands Mapping program. Although these
areas have not been identified as AECs, they have types of plants, soils, and water that make them unique.
Activities within the Wetlands are governed by regulations adopted by the Army Corps of Engineers. The
Wetlands may be natural depressions or land surrounding manmade ponds. Many of the natural*areas
have been altered by changes in drainage patterns. They retain their original hydric soil and could be
eligible for restoration. projects.

17
Two of the larger Wetland areas in Bertie. County. are the Roanoke River Valley and the Roquist
Pocosin. These areas have not been greatly affected: by human activity except for upriver. flood control.
Extended periods of flooding may, over. time, change vegetation patterns in the Wetlands. ` This should
be closely monitored . for future: problems. _
One of the most important factors to consider when determining, the suitability of land for future
.urban development is the possibility of periodic flooding.. Land adjacent to creeks and rivers is often
subject to flooding during severe storms.. Nearly all of these areas in Bertie County are woodlands with
few exceptions. While it would be wise not to allow development. in these areas, it is sometimes not
practical. To prevent as much damage as possible, the County requires structures built within the 100-
year floodplain to meet requirements set forth by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The 100-year floodplain is the -area adjoining water bodies that may be subject to a flood once every
hundred years. -. FEMA requires floor elevations to be at least one foot above the ' flood elevation.
Groundwater is the source of drinking water for Bertie County citizens. Private and publicly owned
wells vary in depth and pumping capacity. Excessive pumping by Perdue and out -of -county industry has
lowered.the aquifer level. An equilibrium has been reached, but future drawdowns by new or expanding
industry should be closely monitored.
4. Meteoroloeic Features
Ambient air monitoring has not revealed any problems with monitored pollutants in Bertie County.
Because there are no potential polluters, there is no need for a monitoring station in Bertie County.
The Division of Emergency Management will continue monitoring sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, lead,
ozone, and particulate matter on a statewide basis and will place monitoring stations in Bertie County if
a' need arises.
E. EXISTING LAND USE
Bertie County includes 441,000 acres of land. An additional 20,000 acres within the County consist
of the rivers and streams.
Forested land is the most common type of land use in Bertie County ' (Map 1). It consists of
approximately 320,000 acres which accounts for nearly 70 percent of the total land in the County. Of
this acreage, almost two-thirds of the forested areas are . privately owned and one-third are owned by
corporations. The main forest types found are Loblolly-short leaf pine, oak -pine, and oak -hickory. There
are some areas that due to clearing, without reforestation, insect and disease problems, and lack of forest
management, are a problem.
Cropland accounts for approximately 22 percent of the total area in the County (Map 1). It is the
second most dominant land use. Approximately 70 percent of the cropland acreage requires drainage or
management for erosioncontrol:
The area in'cropland is continually changing. The total number of acres is fairly constant. Some
land that has been cleared by logging operations is being reverted to cropland. This has proven to be
beneficial to the large farms as they are usually more efficient. ,Other land that has been under cultivation
is being turned into forest plantations by commercial forestry companies.
Areas devoted to pastureland are continually decreasing in the County. It accounts for less than one
percent of all land in the County. Much of the land once used as pastureland is marginal land that is
being converted to accommodate hog and broiler 'production.

18
There has been a slight- increase in built-up land associated with urban areas (Map 1). Commercial
and residential land use have developed along the major corridors of the County. These consist of service -
related facilities'to accommodate highway travelers and single family, non -farm residences, respectively.
Bertie County, as a whole, is not experiencing rapid growth. It is unlikely that any major land use
compatibility problems will occur within the near future.
Land use changes. may occur in the more remote areas of the County. Most of Bertie County
population is concentrated in or around the towns. -Smaller concentrations exist in rural areas at county
crossroads. These population pockets have supported development of convenience outlets such as gas
stations and small stores:
There may be areas that will require special attention in the future. ; Compatibility problems will
occurif development is haphazard or unplanned. The strips of land along major highway corridors in
the County will require planning. The area south of Windsor along US 17 is an area with a variety of
competing land uses. On part of this area is ; the County. Industrial Park. , Development • is ,likely to
continue in this are and it is: recommended that it be restricted to uses that complement the industrial
park and highway users. Other areas of concern include the Merry Hill section in the southeastern section
of the County, the NC 11 corridor, the Roxobel-Kelford area, and the Chowan River shoreline.
Merry Hill serves as a bedroom community to nearby Plymouth in Washington County, the location
of Weyerhaeuser, a major regional employer. It is likely that this area will experience continued growth.
The northwestern portion of the County, including Lewiston Woodville and Aulander, is also
experiencing additional growth due to industrial development. - The location of a processing plant has
increased the need for residential development to house its employees. It is anticipated that future land
use changes will result from production -related industries moving into the area and a need for housing will
increase.
The Chowan River shoreline is likely to experience a large change over the next ten years. Residential
development with access to the River will increase in demand. Higher traffic counts as a result of
development along NC 45 and other rural roads that approach the River may necessitate highway
improvements. These developments may place additional demands on the County for new or improved
services. The lack of land use regulations enforced by the County may lead to future problems.
F. COMMUNITY FACILITIES
This section contains a summary of existing community facilities and their capacity. Also included is
a summary of existing plans and regulations. Items included in this section affect the ability of the County
to support and regulate growth:
1. Transportation
.Bertie County is included, in Division One, District Two of the North Carolina 1990-1996 -
Transportation Improvement Plan. The Ahoskie Division Office holds the regional plan for Bertie County.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation has planned specific rural projects in Bertie County
as described on the next page.. -
The US 17 corridor is the State's major north -south route east of I-95. This highway is of great
economic development importance as a connector to the State port at Wilmington, and a principal link
to North Carolina beaches.
The US 13 corridor serves Bertie, Hertford, and. Gates Counties and connects .to Virginia. This
highway is also of great economic development importance.

19
Due to the relative situation of Bertie County, many of its roads are widely used by travelers. The
major routes in Bertie County are US 17, US 13, NC 11; with US 17 being the most heavily used artery
in the County. Of the 636 miles in the County State Highway System, there are 472 miles of paved roads
and 164 miles of unpaved roads.
Traffic patterns indicate that much movement occurs from Bertie County to the nearby communities
of Ahoskie, Edenton, Williamson, and Plymouth. Most internal movement is centered on Windsor.
For fiscal year.1990, the public transportation program for Bertie County, sponsored by the Choanoke
:. Public Transportation Authority, has budgeted $781,511. They will be purchasing spare parts for vehicles,
buying a 24-passenger bus, converting 5 vans, buying 6 mobile radio units, and rehabil-
TABLE 7. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rural Projects in
Bertie County.
DESCRIPTION OF
LOCATION
IMPROVEMENT
STATUS
NC 308 from US 258
Widen existing roadway to a
Right-of-way being
in Rich Square
24-foot shoulder section
acquired
(Northampton County) to
NC 11-42 in Lewiston
Woodville
US 13 Corridor
Widen to multi -lane
Right-of-way acquisition
. _
funding-1997; Construction
. funding-1999
US 17 Corridor from
Widen existing roadway to multi-
Right-of-way acquisition
Windsor to Chowan River
lane, with a bypass of. Windsor
funding-1994;_Construction
on new location
funding-1996
NC 308 from NCII-42 to
Upgrade existing 2 land roadway
Scheduled for feasibility
US 13 Bypass in Windsor
and resurface
study by Division
.itating 6 vans. • The Choanoke Public Transportation Authority (CTPA) provides the major portion of
transit services. CPTA transports senior citizens and other throughout the County and to the County
Mental Health Facilities Monday through Friday. Other services by CTPA are on demand. Trailways
Bus systems provide transportation around the County and to other localities along major routes.

20
2. , Schools
The Bertie County Board of Education currently operates seven elementary schools and one senior
high school in the County. The senior high school located about three miles north of .Windsor; serves
the entire County.., Plans are currently underway to convert Southwestern Elementary and C.G. White
Elementary to middle schools; and build a new elementary school in the Windsor area.: Although the
total County enrollment continues to decline, some schools are over capacity. Figure 5 shows the total
enrollment for selected years since 1968. The decline continues: but appears to be slowing. This will
allow Bertie County officials to prepare for any capacity problems.
6,500 -
5,500 -
4,500 -
Table 8.describes the existing conditions -in the Bertie County Schools. It lists capacity, enrollment,
and allotment for each school. _ The realignment mentioned above will reduce overcrowding at
Southwestern Elementary.
Secondary education is also provided by private institutions. Lawrence Academy located at Merry
Hill, Bethel Christian Academy at Askewville, Ridgecroft School at Ahoskie, and Northeast Christian
Academy at Lasker have two hundred Bertie County students in their total enrollment. Post -secondary
education is offered by Roanoke-Chowan Technical Institute and Martin Community College at branch
campuses in Windsor.

TABLE & Bertie' County Public School Facilities, 1989-90.
TEACHER/
PUPIL
GRADE
YEAR ERECTED
SCHOOL
CAPACITY
ENROLLMENT
ALLOTMENT
RATIOTAUGHT PLUS ADDITIONS
Askewville Elementary:_
170
186
10.5
17.7
K-8
1964, 1985
Aulander Elementary
350
357
19.5
18.3
K-8
1964, 75, 85
Southwestern Elementary
800
933
44.5
10.9.
K-8
1962,68
Bertie Senior High
1000
1220
52
23.4
9-12 -
1962, 68, 70, 72, 82, 85
C.G. White
440
234
14
16.7
K-8
1951,70
Colerain Elementary -
396
389
10
19.4
K-8
1986
John P. Law Elementary
170
.209
14
14.9
K-8
1961,85
West Bertie Elementary
' ` 638
657
30.5
21.5
K-8
1961,75

22
3. Government Buildin¢s
Bertie County has several governmental facilities. Most of these are located within the Town of
Windsor. Among these are:
a. County Courthouse
Consisting of two large courtrooms and offices for State and Federal agencies.
b. County ,Office Building
The newest facility, opening in 1989, including 18 office spaces for county functions.
C. Law Enforcement Center
A newlyrenovated building housing the Sheriffs Department and the Communications
Center.
d. Regional Jail
Bertie County and Martin County share a regional jail facility consisting of 50 cells.
The facility is located in Bertie County. „
e. Human;Services Center
A three building complex housing offices for the Health Department and the Social
Services Department.
f. Senior Center
A renovated school building housing activities for elderly citizens, and the Mental
Health Department.
g. Bertie Memorial Hospital
A licensed 49 bed acute care facility that is owned and operated by the County. The
complex also includes two buildings housing offices ;for doctors.
4. Emergency Services
Bertie County relies on a large number of volunteers to man Volunteer Fire Departments and Rescue
Squads throughout the County. These.men and women contribute countless hours of service to protect
life and property.
a. Fire Services
The eleven Volunteer Fire Departments are located at Askewville, Aulander, Bluejay,
Colerain, Kelford, Lewiston -Woodville, Midway -Merry Hill, Perrytown, Roxobel, Trap
and Windsor.

23
b. Emergency Services
Rescue Squads are located at Aulander, Colerain, Kelford, Lewiston -Woodville and
Windsor.
5. , Water and Sewer Services .
Water services in Bertie County are handled by each of the towns and by three community water
systems at Beacon Light, Clear Water Valley and North Powellsville.
Sewer services are located at Aulander, Colerain, and Lewiston -Woodville. The County system has been
turned over to Windsor to operate and maintain.
The County has submitted applications for the funding of a county -wide water system. The system is
designed in four phases and would be installed over a period of years, based on public demand. Phase I
will serve about 1,176 users in the northeastern portion of the County. Phase II will serve about 1,200
users in the southeastern portion of the County. Phase III will serve about 1,310 users in the southern
portion, and Phase IV will serve about 1,044 users in the northwestern portion of the County. (see Map
4 on page 63)
6. 'Existing Plans and Regulations
This section outlines the plans and regulations in force in Bertie County. This discussion should
provide the citizens with an idea as to how plans and regulations are related to land use. A broad range
of regulatory powers are available to the County, however, most of the regulations that have a major
impact'on land use in the County are enforced at the State or Federal level. The following is an outline
of the regulations that are currently enforced. State and Federal regulations which are enforced in the
County are listed in Appendix A
a. Recreation Program
Bertie County's recreation program is coordinated by a volunteer task force.
Recreational activities are funded by individual organizations. There is a limited
allocation of County funds for recreational purposes.
b. Solid. Waste Collection/Disposal
Bertie County is currently changing their method of solid waste collection and disposal.
Rural dumpsters are being abandoned and replaced with approximately five manned
collection sites. These sites will be operated by a private company, and will include
recycling activities. The County -operated landfill is located near Windsor; however,
plans are underway to develop a regional landfill. The new landfill may be opened
within three years.
C. Prior Land Use Plans
Bertie County utilizes the 1986 Land Use Plan for references on land use policies.
The policies are outlined on pages 53-70 in the plan. Once the 1990 Plan has been
adopted it will supersede the 1986 plan.

24
d. Floodway Ordinances
Ordinances regulating construction in floodplains are currently enforced in the
County. The flood insurance rate maps have recently been ' revised and were
adopted by the County in 1989. The County participates in the National Flood
Insurance Program through enforcement of minimum building standards..
e. Building and Housing Codes
Bertie County has been enforcing the North. Carolina State Building Code since
July 1,1985. In addition, minor CAMA permits are issued by County inspectors.
The County has recently adopted a Minimum Housing Code. This Code will help
upgrade the existing housing stock. Each of these regulations are enforced by the
County Building Inspector.
f. Septic Tank Regulations
Bertie County enforces North Carolina regulations relating to septic tanks. These
regulations are the standards established by the North Carolina Division of Health _
Services. The regulations are enforced by Bertie County Inspectors.
g. Zoning and Subdivision Regulations
Bertie County has . not enacted zoning or subdivision regulations. Windsor,
Aulander, Powellsville, and Colerain each enforce a zoning ordinance. The need
for a countywide subdivision ordinance is detailed elsewhere in this ;plan:

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G. 1986 POLICY STATEMENTS
An analysis of current policies'must'be accomplished before any new policies can be adopted.
This gives planners and local officials an understanding on how well the County has implemented the 1986
Policies. This section includes an evaluation of the policies addressed in the 1986 Bertie County Land
Use Plan Update. The Bertie County Economic and Industrial Planning Development Commission critiqued
these policies at one of its earliest meetings. Each policy was analyzed for its content, means of
enforcement, and implementation strategy effectiveness.
The Planning Commission felt the County had made a good effort in implementing the policies.
Each of the 1986 policies are listed below with a description of any deficiencies found by the Planning
Commission.
1. Resource Production Policies
• Farm managers are attempting to use the most effective methods
for maintaining suitable environment for sustained agricultural
production, and that this production will not degrade in situ
environment or the environment's juxtaposition to it.
• Woodland managers are attempting to use the most effective methods for
maintaining a suitable environment for sustained forestry production, and to
assure that production will not degrade the environment.
• All persons, firms, or governmental agencies quarrying or mining in
the County are to submit a plan for approval by the state. This
policy is being enforced when applicable.
• All land and water users are to utilize the mosteffective methods
available for assuring that the water quality of all surface runoff and
effluents are equal to, or better than, the quality of the receiving
waters. Request other counties, states, or any other individuals or
organizations comply to a similar policy. Bertie County is attempting
to assure compliance with this policy.
• Plan for and promote recreational and tourism activities. Bertie
County has begun funding ' some recreational programs and is
promoting tourism.
• Seek additional public access to public waters. One such access has
been accomplished in Windsor..
• Seek to regulate the flow of the Roanoke River to a more natural
state. Development in floodplains should be limited to access for
upland areas. Development in pocosins should relate to woodland
production. Required development plan for any critical habitat.
Bertie County has promoted preservation by the establishment of the
Roanoke River National Wildlife Refuge; and continues to oppose
efforts to withdraw water by out of state agencies.

26
2. Resource Protection Policies
• Protect fish resources in and adjacent to Bertie County. (See last
comment under #1 above.)
• Plan for and promote historic preservation activities. Bertie,County
continues to place, great emphasis on such activities.. ,
• _ Plan for and promote hiking trails. No direct action has occurred.
Protect surface waters, particularly its quality, in Bertie County and
to seek to protect all upstream waters, through federal and state
legislation, if necessary. Preserve and protect all groundwater
resources for Bertie County use only, and to protect the quality of
the groundwater. (See last comment under #1 above.)
• Protect the integrity of the rural,areas of Bertie ;County. A draft
Subdivision Ordinance has been prepared and will be considered by
the County Commissioners.
Improve and protect our land and water, habitats. Bertie County
enforces their land use plan with few changes. .
• Promote the,use of community wastewater collection and treatment
systems in developed areas, and not to allow intensive development
without community wastewater treatment facilities. , Community
Development Block Grants totalling $1.8 million have been awarded
for such activities in southern Bertie County.
• Allow floodplains, shorelines, and wetlands to remain in their natural
state. Bertie County enforces their Land Use Plan with few changes.
• Protect the shoreline from intensive development and to allow
adequate public access to the public waters. Bertie County is willing
to allow development; however, they want it controlled and are
considering mechanisms. to accomplish this.
3. Economic and Communitv Develonment Policies
• Not recommended that a County water system be developed. Assist
the community systems in maintenance, improvement, and expanding
the capability of their existing service areas. . Further study has
reversed this recommendation and the County now has applications
on file for a partial county -wide water system.

27
• Not recommended that the County develop a wastewater collection
and treatment system. Improve and expand existing community
wastewater collection and treatment facilities where urban and rural
concentrations are large and dense enough to warrant such systems.
This policy has not changed.
• Improve and expand economic development in Bertie County. To
date, one shell building which now houses a pharmaceutical packing
operation has been constructed.
• Improve the type and location of signs and billboards in the County.
No action taken.
• Promote commercial development and all that this entails. The first
shopping center in the County is now under construction.
• Promote public good in community and County agencies by serving
the citizens well. The County has built a new facility and renovated
others to give citizens better access to services.
• Improve developed areas where structures are in need of repair. The
County will continue to work successfully with localities in the
CDBG process.
• Maintain a good quality of air in Bertie County.
• Reduce the number of abandoned structures in the County. The
County does condemnation work, including administration and
physical removal of such structures.
• Promote the improvement in highways, both within the County and
regionally. The County continues to utilize the Transportation
Improvement Plan to guide its program to improve highways.
• Promote Bertie County in a positive and aggressive manner. The
County has installed "Welcomed to Bertie County" signs and has
updated County brochures.
4. Special Issues
• Energy -producing facilities are not a desired land use and should be
prohibited from occurring in Bertie County. Further study has led
County Commissioners to reverse this policy in favor of one that
supports environmentally sound facilities.
• Hazardous waste disposal sites will not be allowed. No change in
this policy.

III. 1990 POLICY STATEMENTS
:The general statement for ,Bertie CountyLand Use Plan policies is promotion of economic
development !that will be in harmony with the natural environment: These policies will serve as a
guide to future changes in land use. They will serve in the protection 'of existing resources, production
and management of resources, and community and+economic development.
The policies for Bertie County are based on issues established by the Bertie County Economic
and Industrial Planning and Development -Commission (BCEIPDC), and comments received at three
area meetings held during the planning process. The issues include those addressed in the 1986 Bertie
County Land Use Plan, the 1989 Planning Guidelines, regulations established by the Coastal Resources
Commission, and new issues of concern to Bertie County citizens." - :
The raising of issues is a never ending process. As man affects the natural environment and the
natural environment affects man, new issues will come on the horizon. Solid waste disposal, oil
exploration, and marina development are new issues since the last Land Use Plan Update. The next
ten years will result in Bertie County receiving increased attention as a site for residential development.
The ensuing changes in land use will be addressed by the following policies:
A. RESOURCE PROTECTION
• 1. Constraints to Development
Septic tank use in Bertie County is important to all rural areas and many towns. The lack of a
public sewer system creates a need for most residential, commercial, and industrial land users to install
septic tanks.
A problem exists in much of the County due to soil types which do not provide good drainage.
The soil types cannot be changed unless a great expense is incurred. Additional drainlines, drainage
ditches or building up of the lot may increase the number of lots on which septic tanks are permitted.
Bertie County inspectors approve septic tank peimits on'a case -by -case; basis. Each lot is reviewed for
drainage, size, and use. This method of review is satisfactory for Bertie County. No additional policies
are needed.
2. Areas of Environmental Concern Issues
Bertie County recognizes the primary concern of the Coastal Management Program is to provide
a means for planning sound economic growth that is sensitive to the need to protect natural resources.
County officials share this concern for the protection and sound management of these environmentally
sensitivelands and waters. The following Areas of Environmental, Concern (AECs) have been
identified in Bertie County.
a.; t Estuarine Waters and Estuarine Shorelines "
b. " Public Trust Areas
28

29 .
In terms of developing policies, the Estuarine System AECs, which include Estuarine Waters and
Estuarine Shorelines, and Public Trust Areas, will be treated as one uniform grouping since they are
so closely interrelated. Another reason for grouping these AECs together is the fact that the effective
use of maps to detail exact on -ground location of a particular area sometimes poses serious limitations.
Bertie County's overall policy and management objective for the Estuarine System is to give the
highest priority to their protection and perpetuate their biological, social, economic, and aesthetic
values, and to ensure .that development occurring within, these. AECs is compatible with natural
characteristics so as to, minimize the likelihood of significant loss, of private property and public
resources. In accordance with this overall objective, Bertie County encourages those land uses which
conform to the general use standards of the North Carolina Administrative Code (15 NCAC 7H) for
development within the Estuarine System. As the County Commissioners adopt land use controls, uses
which are not water dependent would require approval. , Specifically, each .use, permitted in the
Estuarine System is discussed ,below.
a. Estuarine Waters and Estuarine Shorelines
Bertie:County officials are very much aware that protection of the
estuarine waters and adjacent estuarine shorelines is of paramount importance
to fishing, both commercially and for recreation. Bertie County recognizes
that certain actions within the estuarine shoreline, which is defined as the area
extending 75 feet landward of the mean high water line of the estuarine .
waters, could possibly have a substantial effect upon the quality of these
waters.
In order to promote the quality of the estuarine waters, Bertie
County officials will consider land use controls which protect the values of
the estuarine system. Residential, recreational, and commercial uses would
also be controlled within the estuarine shoreline, provided that:
• A significant change of pollution occurring from the development . ,
does not exist;
• Development does not have a significant adverse impact on estuarine
resources;
• Development does not significantly interfere with existing public
rights or access to, or use of, navigable waters or public resources.
b. Public Trust Waters
Bertie County recognizes that the public has certain established
rights, to,, certain water areas, and that these public areas, also support
commercial, recreational and aesthetic values. Bertie County will continue
to promote reasonable conservation and management practices of Public
Trust Waters. Appropriate uses include those which protect public rights for
navigation and recreation. Projects which would directly block or impair
existing navigation channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below
mean high tide, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quality
standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters shall be discouraged.
Encouraged uses shall be those which do not cause an unreasonable detriment
to the physical or biological functions of Public Trust Waters. Such uses as
navigational channels, drainage ditches, bulkheads to prevent erosion, piers,
docks, marinas and bridges will be encouraged.

30
Outstanding Resource Waters have not been identified in Bertie County. No policies have been
adopted for this issue.
3. ;., Hazardous and Fragile Land Areas
a. Wetlands
Soil and,Water Conservation has designated several areas in Bertie
County as wetlands. County officials realize the importance of freshwater
swamps, marshes, and pocosins to the natural environment and support this
designation.. Many kinds of wildlife would _ be lost if this habitat , was
drastically altered. The wetlands future is.based on maintaining existing
drainage patterns.
Bertie County supports the wetlands program by discouraging land
uses that will alter the natural drainage pattern and vegetation. Farming
and forestry that does not change the drainage pattern would be supported.
Bertie; County supports the CAMA program and the US Carps of
Engineers.404 program which has jurisdiction on regulating development in
designated freshwater swamp areas.: The County will encourage landowners
to establish or maintain vegetative buffers around sensitive wetlands and water
bodies.
Development in coastal wetlands is regulated by the local and State
CAMA Permit Officers. Other wetlands (i.e., 404 wetlands) are regulated by
the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. Bertie County policy is to continue
support of these regulations in an effort to protect this sensitive natural
environment.
b. Cultural and Historic Resources z
There are many. historic sites and other cultural resources in Bertie
County.. Several sites have been identified and are being protected and
preserved for future generations. Hope Plantation is one such site. This
activity should be expanded through the County. _ It will be a matter of policy
to plan for and promote preservation of historic and cultural resources. The
following items will be implemented in. the: next five, years:
• Complete an inventory of all historic and cultural resources in Bertie
County
• . Develop an historic preservation plan .for Bertie.County,
• Secure State and National recognitions for appropriate sites. •
4. Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Needs
A detailed study and related policies are discussed in Section E of this chapter. The County will
continue to rely upon their Emergency Management Coordinator to implement policy, and will utilize
the Bertie County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan as a guideline in developing hurricane and
flood evacuation needs.

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5. Protection of PotableWater Supply
Bertie County is in the planning stage of a countywide water system. The system is proposed to
be developed over the next ten years. A network of water districts is being established which will
help facilitate the creation of the water system. Funds are currently being sought for an area near
Windsor and an area in the northeastern. part of the County.
Each system, when completed for the County will have two 350 gpm wells and one upright
storage tank. Each area will own and operate their system. This will include the ownership of land
surrounding each well site.
Land uses near groundwater- sources are regulated by the North Carolina Department of
Environment, Health, and Natural Resources. Bertie County recognizes the importance of these
regulations and supports their enforcement.
6. - Packne Treatment Plant -Usage
Package sewage treatment plants are not widely used in Bcrtie County. Septic tanks and
municipal treatment 'plants provide the majority of permitted methods of sewage disposal. Bertie
County will encourage the use of municipal treatment plants when possible.
Package treatment plants will be supported as an alternative means of sewage disposal. The
issuing of permits through the North Carolina Division of, Environmental Management and Bertie
County Health Department is considered an appropriate means of protecting the quality of adjacent
waters:.
7. Storm Water ' Runoff
Bertie County supports the use of State and Federal regulations to control storm water runoff.
Best Management Practices through Soil Conservation Service is supported for agricultural operations.
Residential development does not currently create a storm water runoff problem. To be prepared
for future development, the County should begin a review process which will include drainage plans.
The plans should address the amount of land to be covered by impervious surfaces.
8. Marina and'Floating Home Development
The 1986 Bertie County. Land Use Plan did not foresee marinas as an issue that needed
addressing.. A proposed project has led to an increased likelihood of a marina being built. The
success of .this project could lead to other requests -for marina permits.
The building of marinas and associated development; and upland excavation for marina basins, can
have a significant commercial and recreational potential in Bertie County. The County supports this
development when it is built in compliance with CAMA regulations. A development review process
at the local level should be implemented.
Floating home development and dry stack storage has not taken place in Bertie County. Because
of potential damage to water quality, the County will not encourage floating home development. Dry
stack storage is not currently offered. in Bertie County. - The County will support their construction
when built according to State and Federal regulations:

32
9. Industrial Impact on Fragile Areas
Bertie County recognizes the vulnerability of fragile areas to changes in land use. County officials
will continue to support, applicable. State and Federal regulations as they relate to the, siting of new
or expanding industry on environmentally sensitive areas. ,The County.will support water dependent
industries adjacent. to water bodies. Industry will_ be discouraged from other areas classified as
conservation.
10. Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands,
• i
The County has no policy on this topic.
11.. Restriction of -Development Within Areas Up To Five Feet Above Mean High Water
There is little land in Bertie County that would be adversely affected by a five foot rise in sea
level. The areas affected would be in wetlands areas and would come under CAMA regulations
already in effect. : The. County has no other policy .on this issue other: than to support state
;regulations.
12. Upland Excavation for Marina Basins . .
This issue was addressed in number 8 of this chapter.. The County supports marina development,
including those where upland excavation may be involved,so long as it is done in compliance with
CAMA regulations.
13. Damaging of Existing Marshes by Bulkhead Installation
While, the rivers in the County have wooded swamps, there are no marshes; therefore, no policy
has been set.
14. Maritime Forests
Maritime forests, shellfishing waters, sound and estuarine systems islands are not present in Bertie
County. • No policies have be adopted for these issues.
B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
Resources are either renewable or nonrenewable. Renewable resources are dependent upon man
for the use of best management practices. When used wisely these resources can provide food and
fiber. Nonrenewable resources must be used judiciously to prevent their depletion.
Economic development in the County should include protection of renewable natural resources.
The purpose of this protection is to ensure a future. economic return from the resources as well as
to avoid environmental degradation:

33
1. Aericultural Lands
The resource in `Bertie County that provides the largest economic return is agricultural land.
The protection of this resource is important to the economic future of the County. The primary
protectors of this resource are the farm managers in the County. They have the most to gain and
also the most to lose. Bertie County will encourage sustained agricultural production through the
use of Best Management Practices.
At present, Bertie County has no land use regulations to assist in conserving prime agricultural
land. The law of supply and demand, and federal regulations are used in the private sector to
establish the highest and best use of existing agricultural land. The County's policy will be to
encourage and support farm programs which will keep prime agricultural land in cultivation. This
will'be accomplished by*utilizing the Bertie County Soil Survey in managing and planning all aspects
of agricultural production and other land uses. Land that is in soil capability Classes I or II and
designated prime agricultural land, or State and locally important land, should be protected by the use
of local land use regulations such as subdivision ordinances:
The change in farm land from cultivated -crops to other agricultural uses often has a negative
impact on surrounding property owners. Increased noise, bad odors and water pollution may result
from the development of poultry and pork producing operations.. These operations, even when
maintained properly, receive opposition due to a less than positive visual impact. At the same time,
these operations contribute to the economic viability of the County. The County should proceed with
the adoption of regulations that will protect surrounding property owners by imposing a minimum
setback. The.setback regulations should apply to new homes and new farm operations.'
2. Commercial Forest Lands
Commercial forest companies are the largest land owners in Bertie County. When combined
with privately held land approximately 70 percent of Bertie County is covered with forests. This
natural and renewable resource is important to the County because of jobs provided through forest
products, the aesthetic quality,. natural habitat and improved air quality provided through the
abundance of forested areas.
Forestry activities utilize the same resources as farming activities. The County's policy will be to
continue support of the production of this natural resource through in -kind services to agencies
directly involved with the maintenance and support of this resource. Specifically the County will
continue to support the Extension Service, Soil Conservation Service and NC Forest Service in their
efforts to encourage good forest management. The County encourages efforts to provide farmers
financial incentives to leave forested buffer areas between agricultural areas and public trust waters.
The County will support Federal and State wetland programs in an effort to protect fragile areas,
particularly wildlife habitats, adjacent to forests. M
3. Mineral Production
Several areas exist in.the County that are used or have been used in the past for the mining of
sand. At the present time this, is the only nonrenewable resource that is taken from the County's
resource base. The sand pits vary in size and are normally related to highway construction. At
present the County does not have specific regulations to cover mining.
Bertie County will continue to support State and Federal regulations on mining. The use of this
natural resource will be supported provided no adverse impact on the environment occurs.

34
Mining activities should only occur on land that is notbest suited for ,agricultural or forestry
land. The County should adopt regulations that will.require minimum setbacks and buffers from
adjoining property. Owners of abandoned mines should be encouraged, to restore as near as possible,
the, area to its original. condition.
4. Commercial and Recreational Fishing
The fishing industry, both commercial and recreational has been and continues to be an important
part of Bertie County's economy. The waters., in which this industry occurs are directly influenced by
runoff and effluents from farms, forests, industry and rural and urban communities. It is critical that
the receiving waters are of a quality; that will support a viable habitat for the resource base that
creates the fishing industry. The County is equally affected by runoff from areas outside Bertie
County. These areas are in North Carolina and Virginia.
The policy to protect the fishing industry will be to encourage land and water use to utilize
the most effective. methods available for assuring that the water quality of all surface runoff and
effluents are equal to or better than the quality of the receiving waters.. This. policy. may be
implemented by supporting Bertie County Soil and Water Conservation District Long -Range
Conservation Program, and best fisheries management practices programs. Also the County should
develop regulations that will control runoff. In addition, support will'be given to Local, State and
Federal agencies that control or regulate upriver runoff. Legislation should be supported that requires
land use plans in all North Carolina counties. The County will encourage and participate, in economic
development programs that will expand fish processing in the County.,
Additional support for the recreational fishing industry will come from encouraging the expansion
of tourism and vacation development.
Outstanding Resource Waters and trawling activities are not present in Bertie County. Policies
are not needed at this time.
5. Off -Road Vehicle Policy .
Off -road vehicle usage in Bertie County is limited primarily to private roads and farms. The
County policy will be to support any, regulations adopted by State or Federal agencies. Additional
County regulations are not needed at this time.
6. Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Land Development
Land ; use by residential, commercial or industrial uses offers economic incentives for private
property owners. Bertie County's policy in the past has been to allow,the.market place to, establish
the need, type and location of development. The supporting of this policy has not created a problem.
This policy may,create a burden for County, services; however, it will continue. Certain industry may
be undesirable in Bertie County. Infrastructure needs in rural areas may,out weigh the benefits of new
development.
,The directing of growth to certain areas is often not easy and sometimes not a desirable thing
to accomplish.. The benefit to directing growth will be to continue supporting development .in areas
that have the capacity to handle the growth. Future growth can be directed to desired areas through
the use of subdivision and health department regulations and State and Federal Regulations.
The Bertie County Economic and Industrial Planning and Development Commission can play a
keyrole in, the location of future development. A coordinated marketing effort should continue
present efforts in industrial recruitment, provide prospective developers with current information and
direct growth to targeted areas.

35
Peat and Phosphate Minim
At present, there are no known peat bogs or' phosphate deposits in Bertie County large enough
to justify mining.. The discovery or use of any such areas in the future will be' dependent upon future
economic conditions. Bettie County officials will address these two issues and establish policy if and
when activity in one or both of these areas appears feasible.
C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
New jobs, better housing, improved infrastructure and schools are all intertwined in the economic
and community development of the County. Each of these,`when looked at separately, offer simple
solutions to development problems. However, improvement in one area will not automatically improve
another area. The underlying factor in all of this is the effect development will have on the
environment, particularly water quality. The County policy will be to improve and expand economic
and community development that is consistent with good environmental practices.
L Tunes ' and Locations 'of Industry
One of 'the: primary concerns of local officials and Bertie' County citizens is the need for
diversification of the 'County's economic base. Providing job opportunities, to keep existing citizens
here and to attract new citizens is a top priority for the County. As discussed earlier, desirable
industry will be directed to developed areas. The new industry should be environmentally acceptable
and rely on existing industry and business whenever possible as a resource base.'
2. Local Commitment to Provide Services to Development
Commitment to provide services to development by Bertie County citizens includes not only
financial support but policies as stated in this plan. Developers, when considering a new project, will
look at local financial incentives and the openness of the public to new development.
Bertie County will continue to support the development of a Countywide water system as
described on page 23. The system should be developed on a local system basis. This will reduce costs
and generate local support. The water system should be planned to support new growth and not be
limited to current users.
County governments role in providing a public sewer system should continue to be limited. Since
the County is not financially able to'support a county -wide sewer system, Bertie County will continue
to support the extension of municipal sewer systems into rural areas. Support will include application
for Community Development 'Block Grant funds.
The County will work with NCDOT officials to encourage a timely completion Hof scheduled
highway improvements. Making four lanes of US 17 and .13 will provide excellent connectors to other
areas and provide a selling point for new development.
County officials should begin efforts to bring natural gas lines into Bertie County. In addition '
support should be given to the extension of,rail service beyond the north western part of the'County.
3. Types of Urban Growth Patterns Desired
Bertie County desires'growth patterns that will distribute economic opportunity but not place
an unnecessary burden on local taxpayers. The growth should occur in an' orderly manner, preserving
the existing character of rural areas, and prime farm land. Local officials feel that it would be in the

• 36
County's best interest ,to encourage urban, growth in, areas already served by; urban services or that
could be served by urban services, such as water and sewer line extension.
.,,.The County should consider the adoption of regulations that will direct growth to.desirable areas.
In addition, the County should, consider the use of setback ordinances to, establish a minimum
distance .back from highway roadways for predominantly rural. areas.
4.. Redevelopment of Developed Areas
The reuse of developed areas for new uses can be a financially and environmentally smart decision.
County officials desire to assist developed areas that need redevelopment or improvement and would
qualify for State or Federal financial assistance.
More intense development in areas that are already developed is a desirable activity in:Bertie
County. The new development will help fill vacant lots, make better use of existing public utilities,
and help provide for the implementation of new. services.
5. Commitment to State and Federal Programs in the County ,
Bertie County officials support the returning of local tax dollars to.the County through the use
of State and Federal programs that .will -benefit the County.,: These tax dollars are distributed in a
wide variety of, programs. All people in the County are directly or indirectly affected by the transfer
of funds.
Erosion control is one state program that is implemented locally. Bertie County is committed
to the erosion control programs through support of the State Sedimentation and Erosion Control
Act. This act encourages buffer strips along drainageways and acquires erosion control plans for large
excavation projects. County officials believe State regulations are sufficient to control the problem.
River access in Bertie County is presently limited to private boat landings and beaches, and two
public boat landings. Bertie County officials support efforts to provide additional public access to the
rivers.. This should include boat landings,, swimming areas, and passive, recreation areas.
Highway improvements, as stated earlier, are considered a major factor in ensuring the continued
economic growth of the area. Bertie County will continue efforts to secure_ DOT funds to improve
the County's major and minor thoroughfares.
Large port facilities do not presently exist in the County. Policies pertaining to any proposed
facility would be considered on a case -by -case basis. -
The County has and will continue to support efforts to dredge areas along major bodies of water
to provide safe access for commercial and recreational boating. Spoils from dredging operations
should be deposited in areas not affected by erosion.:
At present, no military facilities are located in or;planned for Bertie County. If a new facility -is
;proposed policies will be developed. The County is affected by low flying military aircraft on training
missions; however, no policy has been adopted. _
6. Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment Projects
Bertie ,County has no such.projects; therefore, no policies have been set..,
7. Energy Facility Siting
At present there are no energy facilities in Bertie County. The need for new facilities may change
in coming years as energy demand changes. The location of any type facility in the County will have

37
a positive impact on the tax base. Af the same time the potential exists for a negative environmental
impact.
The general public can control the need for these facilities by limiting the demand for energy.
Conservation of electricity and oil can eliminate the need for new' sites. Conservation will require
an education process that will, take time to implement.
New energy facilities take years to get permitted and built. Plans for energy facilities must be
formulated at the same time the public is learning to conserve. The County policy is that electric
generating plants in Bertie County should be environmentally acceptable. Oil exploration or refining
is not anticipated at this time for Bertie County. Policies on this issue will be adopted when a need
occurs.
8. Tourism -
The attraction of tourists into Bertie County is a major goal of local officials. The current
number of tourist attractions is small but the potential is great. Bertie County has over 200 years of
history upon which to draw. The rivers and open'spaces are.attractions that cannot be created in
other places.
The marketability of lBertie County to tourists is dependent upon it being environmentally
conscience of any changes in land use. Increasing the number of tourists will be the result of a
successful maiketirig campaign'. The `attractiveness of the County to tourists may'result in their
becoming permanent citizens, or at a minimum returning at a future date.
Bertie County should' support river access .projects that are needed for tourists_. The County
should' encourage historic � preservation' in all towns and iri' rural areas.
9.'.; Coastal and Estuarine' Water Beach Access
Bertie County is concerned with river access. Currently such access points are unavailable to the
public. The County has attempted to locate both beach and boat access, but have been unsuccessful
due to the great amount of private land that would have to be crossed to get to any of the possible
sites. One boat access is located on the Cashie River in the Town of Windsor, but no beach access
locations exist; therefore, there is no policy set on this issue.
10. mopes, Densities and Location of Aniicinated Residential, Development
The projected population for Bertie County in the 1990 census shows a decrease of 653 people,
or a loss of 3.1 percent since the 1980 census. Taking this trend into consideration, the County has
no policy on this issue. A possible residential development in the Black Rock area has been discussed
for many years. The County supports such development as long as its consistent'with good
environmental practices.
11. Future Landfill Sites
The County policy will be to support future non-harzardous solid waste landfill sites within Bertie
County for county use, as long as they are constructed and maintained within reasonable environmental
guidelines. The County will consider other types of landfill operations on an individual basis; however
the County does support a regional solid waste landfill if it is cost effective and environmentally sound.

38
12. - Junk Car Removal
The abandonment of vehicles on public and private property is a nuisance and an eyesore for
Bertie County citizens. These vehicles can also be a health hazard by being breeding places for
insects and vermin. The problem exists in both rural and urban parts of the County.. The County's
desire to attract new development can be hampered by unattractive roadsides. While most people
agree a problem exists, finding.a legal solution is not easy. Private property rights and deciding on
the definition of an .abandoned vehicle can delay the adoption of any regulation.
In order . to promote the attractiveness and health of Bertie County, regulations to eliminate
abandoned vehicles have been adopted:
D. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Participation by Bertie County citizens in the update of the 1986 plan .was encouraged from the
start of this process. The citizen participation plan attempted to activate as many citizens as possible.
:The BCEIPDC took the lead: in revising the land use plan.
Beginning in the Fall of 1989 and through June 1990, each monthly meeting of the BCEIPDC
included an agenda item on the land use plan update. In addition, beginning in January 1990 and
continuing through June 1990, an additional meeting was held each month. The first meeting each
month included items on the agenda that may not have been land use plan related. The second
meeting was held strictly to discuss the land use plan _ update. All of the meetings were held in
Windsor at the Carolina House Restaurant and were open to the public.
Three local meetings were held at night to generate citizen input. The locations were: Lewiston
Woodville Town Hall, Midway Community Building, and Bertie County Courthouse.
A survey was mailed to increase input on policy development. The mailing list included the
committee.. working on,the Bertie County Strategic Plan. A tabulation of the survey is shown in
Appendix II. ' The numbers shown on.the survey form are average scores. :Those responding to the
survey were asked to indicate, on a scale of 1 to 4, the issues that cause the most concern. A high
average score indicates the issue affects Bertiet County. citizens.
The survey and series of meetings did not generate any significant citizen participation. The lack
of any hot issues during the time period of this; update was a factor in the small response. Planned
development along the Chowan River may create an interest'in the next update.
Several policies. in the 1990 land use plan call -for the implementation of land use regulations.
Specifically, subdivision ordinances, drainage .plans, and. setback *requirements are proposed for
adoption.. The .enforcement of these regulations may generate citizen involvement. The current
Planning Board may find their involvement in enforcement of the regulations as an. unwanted burden.
The Board may wish:to separate the traditional planning function, i.e., subdivision plat review, from
their industrial recruitment efforts. This may require the creation of a new citizen board.
Finally, Bertie County will. continue to publicize Commissioner and Planning Board meetings.
Changes in the land use plan will require public hearings and an opportunity for citizen comment.

E. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECONSTRUCTION, AND
EVACUATION PLANS
Section .0203 (a)(6) addresses this portion of the Policy Statements. In accordance with the
Guidelines, the following discussion and policies are submitted.
1. Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan
This section. speaks to the effects of coastal storms, i.e. high winds, storm surge, wave action,
flooding and erosion, on the County. In that Bertie County is located about 60 miles west of the
coast, most of these actions will be minimized. To be sure, a hurricane can be as devastating in Bertie
County as along the coast, depending on the location of the "eye". However, most other effects from
storms will be lessened.
a. Identification of Hazard Areas
Bertie County has two major hazard areas: 1) the Chowan River
shoreline and wetlands, and 2) the Roanoke River floodplain and wetlands: Each
of these areas are identified on Map 2. Other hazard areas of lesser extent are:
b.
1) the, Cashie River floodplain, 2) Black Walnut Swamp and wetlands, 3) Salmon
Creek Swamp and wetlands; and 4) ,Roquist Creek and Pocosin: These areas are
integrated into the two major hazard areas listed above. Most are located nearby
or drain into the.major hazard areas.
Identification of these areas has involved three major sources: 1) the
County soil survey, 2) the US Geological Survey topographic maps of the area
and 3) the flood insurance study: Specification of the exact location of the hazard
areas is difficult in this study. Because of.map scale, the boundaries are too
general to specifically -delineate between! hazard and. non -hazard areas. A
boundary as such requires large scale maps commonly used in a flood insurance
study which is currently. in use in the County. However, for land use planning
purposes, the location of boundaries at this scale is adequate.
Risk of Damage in Hazard Areas
The level of damage to life and property in the hazard areas of Bertie
County is considered relatively small as indicated in Table 9. There are several
clusters of development along.the Chowan River that are vulnerable to storms
broughtabout by high winds, flooding, and wave action. At the . Colerain
Landing, waterfront development includes a petroleum storage facility, a fish
processing plant, a restaurant and a recreation area. The remaining clusters are
primarily -residential development with eight clusters between Bull Pond Point and
Edenhouse Pointyand five clusters from Edenhouse Point to Terrapin Point.
Most of these residential clusters are situated above the SLOSH level ((Sea, Lake,
and Overland Surges from Hurricanes). However, approximately fifteen dwellings
are situated within the SLOSH zone, and an additional forty dwellings are located
very close to the SLOSH zone. Other structures can be considered to be outside
of storm waves and flooding. However, these structures can suffer from wind
damage, falling trees, and flying debris.

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- While the Roanoke River has controlled flow because of several dams
,,upstream of Bertie County, inundation can occur both naturally as well as being
man induced.. On the upper Roanoke River, the dwellings and roads are located
above the twenty -foot contour; while trails and unimproved roads are usually more
than fifteen feet. On the lower Roanoke, River the dwellings and roads are
located above the fifteen -foot. contour, except at Cashoke Landing where a
dwelling is located at I approximately ten feet. Inundation from stormtides can
exceed this level, but not often enough to warrant major concern.
On Roquist.Creek near US 17, a,dwelling is located very close to the
floodable area and could receive floodwaters. On the Cashie River there are two
areas, of concern: one is at the Sans Souci ferry site where one dwelling is less
than five feet above normal river level and another is less than ten feet over
normal reiver level... At Windsor the central busienss.district, sewage treatment
plant, and a number of dwellings can be considered vulnerable to floodwaters.
The occasional forcing of water upstream by high winds into the Windsor area
and associated storm, rainfall can create a vlunerable condition on the low lying
land.
It is likely that damage to public and private -utilities will occur from high
winds. Additionally, it is likely that several roads at low lying bridges may be
flooded during the storm period and. immediately thereafter. Of particular
concern are the US 17 bridges over Salmon Creek and Edenhouse Creek.
TABLE 9. Severity of Risk in Hazard Areas.
WAVE
SEVERITY
EROSION/ ACTION
HIH
HAZARD AREA
RANK
SCOUR BATTERING
FLOODING
WINDS
Estuarine Shoreline AEC
1
.. • .
•
•
V-Zone Flood Zone
2
: '
•
•
Wetland AEC .
2
. ,
•
A -Zone Flood Zone
.3
B-Zone Flood Zone
3
Remainder. of County
4
RISK LEVEIS: HIGH (•); MODERATE (•); LOW ( )

}
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C. Estimated Severity of Possible Hazard Damage
We have been witness to recent damage along the Chowan River brought -
about by1he waning energy of a hurricane. With the full force of hurricane
winds or a prolonged Nor'eastern, the potential for damage exists for all frontage
property along the Chowan River with other hazard areas being flooded. There
are no less than fifty residential and commercial structures which are vulnerable
to storm hazard damage. 'According to the County Tax Office, the replacement
value of these structures could be as high as $6`million.
d. ':Anticipated Development in Hazard Areas
The people of Bertie County have been wise in their use of land through
the years. Most development has occurred on the high ground except for a few
instances. The waterfront development at Colerain is understandable since the
land uses are river oriented. Other development is oriented toward residential
uses.
With the increasing population and economy within the County, as well
as outside the County, there will be a demand for intensifying water oriented land
uses. While Bertie County is not in the mainstream of coastal development, it
shouldbe anticipated that development in and near hazard areas will occur.
e. Hazard Mitigation Policies
The following policies have been set by the County:
1) To prepare a Bertie County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. This
ordinance should be designed to meet the National Flood Insurance
Program. The ordinance should also be designed to minimize flood
damage by referring to accepted practices and methods that would set
forth uniform rules for developers. It should require that all existing
structures must comply with requirements related to the 100-year flood
elevation. These requirements stated that if any repair, reconstruction,
or improvement of a structure is equal to or exceeds sixty-five percent
of the market value, the improvement or repair must follow the building
code regulations.
2) To prepare a Bertie County Area Redevelopment Plan. This plan is
related to the Building Code and Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
The policy is to indicate that reconstruction after a storm be subject to
the regulations of the building code, which states that any building
damaged in excess of sixty-five percent of its value will conform with the
code requirements for new buildings when repaired. -
3) To support the existing building code, this land use plan update, and the
County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan.
The County has no policies directly addressing the issue of discouraging
development or the public acquisition of land in hazardous areas.

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2. Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan
Post disaster reconstruction policies will serve as. a guide to assure that rebuilding activities,
following a disaster, will protect coastal structures from future damage.
a. Bertie County Emergency Plan .
The County.adopted the BertieCounty Disaster Relief and Assistance
Plan in 1983. The Plan addresses all aspects of a disaster and directly relates, in
part, to post disaster reconstruction activities both in the short term and long
term. It is the policy of the ,County _to enforce the Plan when disaster occurs.
b. Reconstruction Over a Long Period of Time
The County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan: sets up procedures for
reconstruction immediately after a disaster _and ,continues with reconstruction
activity guidelines over a long period of time as well. County policy mandates
that the Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan be followed. CAMA permitting
regulations will also, guide reconstruction activities, and County policy supports
CAMA regulations.:
c.. Establishment of a Recovery Task Force
The County policy is. to have the Emergency Management Damage
Assessment Team serve also as the Recovery Task Force. While the Damage
Assessment Team will function immediately after a disaster to determine the
nature and severity of damage, it is felt that these same individuals are in the best
position, and have the best capabilities, to direct the recovery activities .over a
long period .;of time. This ;task force consists of the County Commissioner
Chairman, County Manager, County Finance Director, Emergency Management
Coordinator, Health -Department Director, Social Services Director, Mental Health
Director, Building Inspector, and the Tax Appraiser. The responsibilities of the
task force will be:
1) Establishing an overall restoration. schedule.
2) Setting restoration priorities,.in advance, by definition.
3) Determining requirements for outside assistance and requesting such
assistance when beyond local capabilities.
4) Keeping the appropriate State officials informed using situation and
damage reports..:
5) Keeping the public informed.
6) Assembling and maintaining records of actions taken and expenditures
and obligations incurred.,
7) ,Undertaking repair and restoration of essential public facilities and
services in accordance with priorities developed through the situation
evaluations.
8) Assisting private businesses and individual property owners in
obtaining information on the various types of assistance that might
be available from federal and state agencies; in understanding the
various; assistance programs; and applying for such assistance.

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d. Establishment of a Schedule for Staging and. Permitting Repairs
The County policy is to have the Recovery Task Force determine a
schedule for repair activities as follows:
1) Building permits to restore structures located outside of designated
AEC areas that were previously built in conformance with local codes,
standards and the provisions of the North Carolina Building code
shall be -issued automatically.
2) All structures suffering major damages as defined in the County's
Damage Assessment Plan shall be repaired or rebuilt to conform with
the provisions of the North Carolina Building Code and other related
ordinances.
3)' All structures suffering minor damage as defined in the Bertie County
Damage Assessment Plan shall be permitted to be rebuilt to their
original state before the storm condition, provided non -conforming
use regulations are met.
4) For all structures in designated AECs and for all mobile home
locations, a determination shall be made for each AEC as to whether
the provisions of the North Carolina Building Code, the State ,
Regulations for Areas of Environmental Concern, or other ordinances
appear adequate in minimizing storm damages. For areas where the
construction and use requirements. appear adequate, permits shall be _
issued in accordance with permitting policies above. For AECs
where the construction and use requirements do not appear to have
been adequate in mitigating damages, A Temporary Development
Moratorium for all structures located within that specific AEC shall
be imposed.
5) All individual mobile homes located in mobile home parks sustaining
some damage to at least 50 percent of their mobile homes in the
park shall be required to conform to current ordinances.
6) Permits shall not be issued in areas subject to a Temporary
Development Moratorium until such a moratorium is lifted by the
Bertie County Board of Commissioners.
e. Establishment of Policies for Repair and/or Replacement of Public Infrastructure
The County policy related to the repair and/or replacement of public
infrastructure is set forth below:
1) All damaged water and sewer systems (both public and private) shall _
be repaired so as to be elevated above the 100-year floodplain or
shall be floodproofed, with the methods employed and the
construction being certified by a registered professional engineer.
2) All damaged roads used as major evacuation routes in flood hazard
areas shall be repaired so as to be elevated at least one foot above
the 100-year floodplain evacuation:
3) All local roads that have to be completely rebuilt shall be elevated
so as to be above the 100-year floodplain elevation.

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3. Evacuation Plan
a. The County Evacuation Plan lists,.as the primary purpose, the directing and
moving of evacuees through the County westward to higher ground. Evacuation
traffic control points have been designated at three locations:
1) Intersection of Routes 17 and 45 at Midway,
2) On Route 17 where it crosses the Cashie River in Windsor, and
3) Intersection of Routes 13 and 17 in Windsor.
Emergency shelters have been set up in five designated schools:
School Location Ca aci
South West Elementary Windsor 850
West Bertie Elementary Kelford 600
Colerain Elementary Colerain 450
South Aulander Elementary Aulander 450
J. P. Law Elementary Merry Hill 250
b. Evacuation Policies
It is the policy of the County to route evacuees through the County to
higher ground as quickly and safely as possible. It is also County policy to
provide adequate shelters for County residents living in high risk areas. It is
County policy to notify all County citizens of impending danger related to
hurricanes and flooding activities.

IV. 1990 LAND USE PLAN
The completion of the Inventory and Analysis section and the Policy Statement section allows for
development of the land use plan., The use'of a land classification system in. conjunction with a land
• use map provides. local officials the opportunity to designate areas for future growth. The plan
provides the opportunity to anticipate how planned land use interacts with environmentally sensitive
areas. The focus of the land use plan is to evaluate the intensity of land utilization and the level of
- services required to support" that intensity. ,
The CAMA guidelines include seven land use classifications, for use on the land use map:
Developed, Urban Transition, Limited Transition, Community, Rural with Services, Rural, and
Conservation. The definitions for each class reflect the suggested level of development. All of the
land use classifications are used in the Bertie County Land Use Plan (Map 3). Described below will
be the description of each land classification, how the policies relate to each class, the type of land
use in each class, and the location of each class:
A. DEVELOPED
The Developed class of land use provides for continued intensive'de'velopment and redevelopment
of existing cities or municipalities. Areas to be classified as "developed" includes land currently
developed for urban purposes or approaching a density, of 500 dwellings per. square mile that are
provided with usual municipal or public services, 'police and fire protection. In other words, such
areas must currently be "urban" in character, i.e., have, mixed land uses such as residential, commercial,
industrial and institutional, or other uses at high to medium densities. The exceptions in this class
includes the Towns of Colerain, Kelford, Powellsville and Windsor. Each of these towns has adopted
their own CAMA Land Use Plan; therefore, the County has no involvement in these lands.
The developed areas in the land use plan correspond to the existing urban areas. Most of the
areas presently have land available for development. However, past growth rates show little promise
for substantial urbanization. Still, these developed areas have the more,desirable land for commerce
and industry. Most of the developed areas, have the urban services expected for growth. But, these
communities must plan to solidify their infrastructures and to fill in the available undeveloped land.
This is particularly the case within' Windsor, and Ito a lesser extent, other communities.
B. URBAN TRANSITION
The Urban :Transition classification gives counties the opportunity to designate areas that are
likely to experience urban -type growth in the next five. to, ten years. These areas normally are adjacent
to areas classified developed, and in the next land use plan may be,classified developed. The land
assigned the urban transition classification is suitable for ,intensive development,. and can support
spillover from the developed class. Urban transition land must be served, or readily served, by public
water, sewer, and other urban services including public streets. Also, the urban transition lands should
be generally free of severe physical limitations for urban development.
The urban transition class should not include:
lands of high potential for water supply watersheds, tourist resources,
agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction, or, land falling within, extensive
rural areas being managed commercially for these uses, when other lands
are available;
45

46
lands,where urban development might result in major or irreversible .
damage to important environmental, scientific, or scenic values;
land where urban development might result in damage to natural systems
or. . processes of more than local concern;
land where development will result in undue risk to life or property from
natural I hazards or, existing land uses;
areas.subject to frequent flooding; and
• habitat for important wildlife. species.
The urban transition areas in the land use plan border the developed area. These areas have land
available for development. The urban transition areas must be planned now for the necessary seivices
to be in place as development occurs. This includes water, sewers, police and fire protection, and
other components of the urban infrastructure. These communities, because of their proximity to
Ahoskie, can be expected to experience some spillover growth. The transition areas near Aulander
and Powellsville are expected to be sufficient to handle increased urban growth. Growth is also
expected in the Colerain and Midway areas due to their proximity to.the Chowan River. Other urban
transition areas occur southeast of Windsor and south of Lewiston Woodville. 'An urban transition
area located along US 17. between the Roanoke River and Roquist Creek floodplains is considered a
prime location for commercial and ` residential development.. 'This is due to its proximity to
Williamston and the recreational opportunities associated 'with the nearby natural habitats.
C. LIMITED TRANSITION
The Limited. Transition classification is very similar to the Urban Transition classification in
permitted uses. The primary difference is in location. The urban transition classification is tied to
existing developed or community areas. The limited transition class is set aside for potential areas of
intensive development. The' land in, this class may be geographically remote from existing 4owns.
Bertie County officials would_ 'like for land in the limited transition class to experience increased
development during the next ten years. Community water and sewer, along with paved streets should
be required to support the cluster -type development. The predominant land use in this area should
be residential at a density of three units per acre or less. Soil types and physical characteristics may
affect the density of individual projects.
The limited transition classification will be designed along the Chowan River shoreline between
Colerain and Morgan Swamp. All of the proposed Blackrock development will be in this
classification.' The area will extend for a distance of approximately one-half mile from the shoreline.
Areas classified Conservation'as a result of being'an AEC or within the 100=year floodplain should
not be classified limited transition.
D. COMMUNITY
The Community classification provides for clustered land uses' to''meet the housing shopping,
employment, and public service needs within the rural areas of the County. It is usually characterized
by a small grouping of mixed land uses which are suitable and appropriate for small clusters of rural
development not requiring municipal sewer service.

Areas in Bertie County such as Trap, Midway, Merry Hill, scattered sites along Indian. Woods Road,
Perrytown, Wakelon, Hexlena, Connarista, White's Crossroads, and Republican are typical of areas in the
community classification. These communities provide services for the surrounding Rural classification. The
areas will likely remain much the same over the next five years.
Rural with Services. classification . is set aside for areas of Bertie County that are within the four
planned water districts. The planned water systems, if approved, will be funded by bonds provided by Farmers
Home Administration. The systems are designed to avert potential health problems caused by contaminated
wells. Capacity will; support existing development and limited growth.
An area two hundred feet wide along both sides of each'County road within the two water districts
is classified Rural with Services. Areas previously.classified Developed, Urban Transition, Limited Transition,
or Community are not affected by, this classification.
'Ift N1t"1 0
The Rural class provides for agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction, and other allied uses traditionally
associated with an agrarian region. Other land uses, due to their, noxious or hazardous nature and negative
impacts on adjacent uses may also be appropriate within this class if sited .appropriately. Such uses may
include, but not be limited to, energy generating plants, refining plants, airports, sewage treatment facilities,
fuel storage tanks and other industrial type uses. These are lands identified as appropriate locations for
resource management and allied uses; land with high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction;
lands with one or more limitations what would make development costly and hazardous; and land containing
irreplaceable, limited,, or significant natural, recreational, or: scenic resources not otherwise classified.
The rural classification areas in Bertie County correspond to existing rural land uses which are usually
located between the poorly drained areas. Much of the County is in this category. This area contains much
of the land classified prime farmland or woodland. The retention of large tracts is important for economical
farming and forestry practices and should be protected.
G. , CONSERVATION
The final land use category, according to CAMA guidelines, is the Conservation class, which provides
for effective long-term management of significant, limited; or irreplaceable resources, specifically, and at a
minimum, all of the statutorily defined AECs. However, beyond the presence of AECs, other areas within the
County, because of natural, cultural, recreational, productive, or scenic value, may also require similar "effective
long-term management." Examples could include major wetlands (other than statutorily defined coastal
wetlands); essentially undeveloped shorelines that are unique, fragile, or hazardous for development; lands that
provide necessary habitat conditions (especially for remnant species); pocosins; or publicly -owned water supply
watersheds and aquifers.
The designation "Conservation" should not be misconstrued to imply "non-use," but does imply a need
for careful and cautious management of any allowable use. Within a conservation area, there may be high
ground areas which are suitable for development, in which case development may be allowed to take place.
Within land designated conservation, each proposal; or application for any use should be reviewed on a case -
by -case basis.

48
Examples of permitted- uses ,in the Conservation classification include:
• Drainage: adequate drainage is essential to the economic vitality of
Bertie County; therefore, drainage facilities over and through these areas,
but not with the intent of draining the conservation areas will be
allowed. Such facilities may include diking, tiling, and piping systems.
• Low density residential development if and as approved by the County
Health Department and local, State, and Federal regulations. However,
water and/or sewer services will not be extended to such a residential
area merely to stimulate additional growth and development. One -site
sewer services will be required and must be feasible. Site plans should
be reviewed to insure that, at a minimum, regulations on impervious
materials are met.
Water -oriented uses such as piers, docks, and marinas, if they are shown
not to cause detriment to the estuarine waters or the conservation lands.
• Necessary utility service lines, such as water, sewer, electrical, natural gas,
etc., may be transmitted through areas classed as conservation. These
lines would have a destination outside of areas classed conservation and
would serve only areas outside the conservation class and would not act
as a stimulus Ito development within the conservation' class. These
transmission lines shall not violate the environmental integrity of the
conservation class, and if permitted, "must meet all applicable Federal,
State, and local regulations.
Roadways, when construction of roadways can be conducted without
significantly altering the ecological system, and in compliance with
existing Federal, State, and local regulations.
Timber harvesting and farming, provided natural drainage patterns are
not changed.
The conservation classification includes the 100-year flood boundary as, defined by the' Federal -'
Flood Insurance Program, Public Trust Waters, Estuarine Waters and Estuarine Shorelines. As noted
on the Land Classification Map, conservation areas are shown for general use only and final
determination of location shall be made by the responsible Federal, State, or local agency having
regulatory authority. Such determination shall be made based on a field investigation of any area in
question. The land would fall under the rural classification or th&limited transition classification if
-the field investigation shows that it should not be in "conservation.'

V. RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATION
In accordance with Section .0205 of the CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines, the County is to show
"the manner in which the policies developed under Rule .0203 shall be applied to each of the land classes."
.This discussion is to include "the types of land uses .which are .appropriate in each class."
The 1990'Bertie:County Land Use Plan Update includes policies in five general areas -.resource
protection; resource production and management; economic and community development; public participation;
and storm hazard mitigation, post disaster reconstruction and evacuation plans. Within these major headings
are 37 subheadings, each containing one to many policy statements. Each major heading, with or without its
subheadings does not relate to any particular land class and, in fact, may relate to all land classes either
directly or indirectly. However, in order to .fulfill the requirements of the CAMA Land Use Planning
Guidelines, the following is submitted.
The Developed class relates to the more urbanized areas of the County. These areas are characterized
by higher population densities, commercial and industrial activities, and a wide range of intensive land uses.
Policies in this Land Use Plan Update speak to the County's desire to allow development to continue to occur
in those areas that are suitable for such development.
The Transition class includes those areas where more intensive growth is likely to occur within the
next five to ten years, and may be adjacent to urban areas or may be separated from such areas. Infrastructure
in the form of public water and sewer services will greatly affect the rate of growth in these classes. Policies
relate to the County's desire to see these areas develop in the near future. Exceptions are those .Transition
areas that do not have public infrastructure services.
The Community class is characterized by moderate development within a small geographic area such
as a crossroads. These areas have moderate residential densities plus moderate commercial development. It
is not expected that these areas will either increase or decrease significantly in the next several years. County
policies would attempt to protect these areas and the environment surrounding them.
The Rural With Services class is designated for communities within the four planned water districts.
The systems, when installed, will give protection from possible health problems in those rural areas where
limited development exists. County policies relating to this class deal with the concerns that rural areas be
protected, but be allowed to develop slowly and in a controlled manner.
The Rural class is designated for agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction, and other allied uses
traditionally associated with an agrarian region. Other land uses, due to the noxious or hazardous nature and
negative impacts on adjacent uses may also be appropriate within this class if sited appropriately. Such uses
may include, but- not -be limited to, energy generating plants, refining plants, airports, sewage treatment
facilities; fuel storkage tanks and other industrial type uses. These are lands identified as appropriate locations
for resource management and .allied uses; land with high potential for agriculture,. forestry, or mineral
extraction; lands with one or more limitations that would make development costly and hazardous; and land
containing irreplaceable, limited, or significant natural, recreational, or scenic resources not otherwise classified.
Policies in this class seek to. find a balance between a no -growth policy and a no -regulation policy.
The final land use category, according to CAMA guidelines, is the Conservation class, which provides
for effective long-term management of significant, limited, or irreplaceable resources, specifically, and at a
minimum, all of the statutorily defined AECs. However, beyond the presence of AECs, other areas within the
County, because of natural, cultural, recreational, productive, or scenic value, may also require similar "effective
long-term management.", Examples could include wetlands (other than statutorily defined coastal wetlands);
essentially undeveloped shorelines that are unique, fragile, or hazardous for development; lands that provide
necessary habitat conditions (especially for remnant species); pocosions; or publicly -owned water supply
watersheds and aquifers.
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50

VI. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION
The land use -plan is a tool for coordinating numerous policies, standaids, regulations, and other
governmental activities. The plan. provides the framework for budgeting, planning, and the provision and
expansion of community facilities such as water,. sewer, school, and road systems. It is the principal policy
guide for governmental. decisions and activities -which affect land use in the Bertie County. The
implementation of policies in the land use plan requires coordination between the local government and the
state and federal governments. Enforcement, of the policies and goals requires a consistency, with the higher
levels of government. The formation of a policy without means of enforcement defeats the intention of the
land use plan update. .
Bertie County has worked to ensure compatibility between the Bertie County and the local Land Use
Plans. There appeared to be no inconsistencies between the policies in each plan. A good working
relationship exists between the Towns and Bertie County.: During its developmental period, the, plan was
continuously evaluated for its consistencies between state and federal regulation..
Bertie County intends to foster intergovernmental coordination by working with state and federal
agencies to implement policies to improve water quality, as well as carry out goals for the agriculture and
commercial fishing industries. In addition, Bertie County will work with the North Carolina Department of
Cultural Resources in protecting and enhancing its heritage. Coordination between the Division of Coastal
Management and US Army Corps of Engineers.will,be maintained in the permitting process for development
in areas classified as wetlands. All additional efforts will be made to promote cooperation between the state,
federal, county, and local governments. ,
Bertie County will exchange a copy of their certified plan with all municipalities within the County,
and with adjacent. counties.
Listed below are Federal and State agencies with the licenses and permits they are responsible for:
FEDERAL DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
AGENCY LICENSES AND PERMITS
Army Corps of Engineers = Permits required under'Sections 9 and 10 of the Rivers and
(Department .of Defense) Harbors Act of 1899; permits to construct in navigable waters.
Permits required under Section 103 of the Marine Protection,
Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972.
Permits required under Section 404 off the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act of 1972; permits to undertake dredging and/or filling
activities.
Coast Guard - Permits for bridges, causeways, pipelines over navigable waters;
• (Department of Transportation) required under the General Bridge Act of 1946 and the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1899.
51

52
AGENCY>`
,
"LICENSES AND"PERMITS'
" Geological. Survey -
Permits required -'for off -shore `.
Bureau of Land Management
drilling.
(Department of Interior) -
Approvals of OCS pipeline corridorrights=of-way.
Nuclear Regulatory -
Licenses for siting, construction and operation of
(Department of Energy)`
nuclear power plants; required under the Atomic
Energy Act' of 1954 and Title II of the Energy
Reorganization Act of 1974.
Federal ' Energy `: -
Permits for construction, operation and maintenance of
Commission (Department'
interstate pipeline facilities required under the Natural
of Energy)
Gas Act of 1938. `
-
Orders of Interconnection of electric transmission facili-
ties under Section 202(b) of the Federal Power Act.
-
Permission required for abandonment of natural gas
pipeline and associated facilities under Section 7C(b)
of the Natural Gas Act of 1938.
STATE DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
AGENCY ` LICENSES'AND PERMITS
Department of Environ= Permits to discharge to surface waters or operate
ment, Health and Community or oil discharge permits; NPDES Permits (G.S. 143-
215):
'Development
Division of Environ- - Permits for septic tanks that serve industrial process
mental Management -water flow or are community owned. Such systems
owned by the State or Federal Government are under
the jurisdiction of the Health Department, (G.S. 143-
215.108).
- Permits for air pollution abatement facilities and sources
(G.S. 143-215.108).

53
AGENCY
LICENSES AND PERMITS
- Permits for construction of complex sources; e.g., parking
lots, subdivisions, stadiums, etc. (G.S. 143-215.109).
- Permits for construction of a well over 100,000 gals/day
'(G.S.87-88).
Division of Coastal
- Permits to dredge and/or fill in estuarine waters tidelands, etc.
Management
(G.S. 87-88).
- Permits to undertake development in Areas of Environmental
Concern (G.S. 113A-118).
NOTE: Minor development permits are issued by local
government.
Division of Land
- Permits to alter or construct a dam (G.S. 143-215.66).
Resources
- Permits to mine (G.S.74-51).
- Permits to drill an exploratory oil or gas well (G.S. 113-391).
- Permits to conduct geographic exploration (G.S. 113-391).
- Sedimentation erosion control plans for any land -disturbing
activity of over one contiguous acre (G.S. 113A-54).
- Permits to construct an oil refinery.
Department of
- Easements to fill where lands are proposed to be raised above
Administration
the normal high water mark of navigable waters by filling
(G.S. 146.6(c)).
Department of
- Approval to operate a solid waste disposal site or facility
Human Resources
(G.S.130).
-
Approval for construction of any public water facility that
furnishes water to ten or more residences (G.S. 130-160.1).
-
Permits for septic tank systems of 3,000 gpd or less capacity
(G.S. 130-160).

NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
State Office: Division of Coastal Management
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611-7687
[phone]'
Field Office: Division of Coastal Management
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
P.O. Box 1507
Washington, NC 27889
[phone]'
NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
State Office: Division of Emergency Management
Department of Crime Control and Public Safety
- 116 West Jones Street
.. _._ Raleigh, NC 27611 -
[phone]
Regional Office: Area Emergency Management Coordinator
North. Carolina Division of Emergency Coordinator
607 Bank Street
Washington, NC 27889
[phone]
NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE
(National Flood Insurance Program Information)
Flood Insurance Coordinator
Division of Community Assistance
Department of Community Assistance
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611-7687
[phone]
55

National Office: Federal Emergency Management Agency
500. C Street, SW:
Washington, DC 20472
Public Information: [phone]
Publications: [phone]
Regional Office: Federal Emergency_ Management Agency
Region IV.
1375 Peachtree Street, NE
Atlanta, GA 30309 ,
Public Information: [phone]
Disaster Assistance
Program: [phone]
Flood Insurance
Program: [phone]
56

BERTIE COUNTY ISSUES
CRITICAL CONCERN = 4; MODERATE CONCERN = 3; SLIGHT CONCERN = 2;
NO CONCERN = 1
PLEASE INDICATE THE LEVEL OF IMPORTANCE YOU PLACE ON THE FOLLOWING
ISSUES:
3.20
Soil limitations for septic tank use .
2.56
Development in Floodprone areas
3.53
Protection of Outstanding Resource Waters
3.14
Development in Areas of Environmental Concern
2.34
Local Policies to protect wetlands,
2.39
Storm evacuation plans
1.60
Protection of drinking water supplies
2.57
Use of Package Treatment plants for sewage disposal
2.20
Storm water runoff
2.43
Marina development
2.76
Industrial impact on fragile areas
1.81
Development of River islands
2.03
Development in areas up to five feet
above high water line
3.41
Protection of productive agricultural lands
2.09
Damage to marshes by bulkheads
2.91
Protection of commercial forestlands
2.09
Protection of mineral production areas
3.17
Commercial and recreational fishing
58

CRITICAL CONCERN = 4; MODERATE CONCERN = 3; SLIGHT CONCERN = 2;
NO CONCERN 1
2.24
Limitations. on off -road vehicles
3.14
Impact of. residential, commercial, and industrial development on resources
2.16
Peat or phosphate mining impact on resources
3.82 `
Type and'location of industry'
3.07
Local commitment in providing services for industry
2.43
Type of urban growth patterns
2.37
Redevelopment of developed areas
2.42
Commitment to State and Federal programs
2.45
Assistanceto channel maintenance projects
2.77
Electric -generating plant siting
2.25
Oil exploration
2.96
Tourism
2.96
River access
2.63
Density of development
2.20
Solid waste disposal
2.93
Historic preservation
2.95
Appearance of private property '
2.49
Flood control
3.00
Improvement in County services
3.33
County water system
3.70
County sewer system
3.10
Public participation in land use planning
59

Map 1
e
Ex
Urbanized
� Municipal-ifies
� Rura1
❑ Agricultural
r t i e
istin
1990
LAMA banduse
Concentrations
Co
g L a n
Areas
with
Plan
& Forests
unty
d u s e
a
60 I

demaAov
N V
THE
PART
CAROLINA
FUNDS
1972,
OFFICE
NATIONAL
NC it
NC
RI ER
ROANOKF,
PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED IN
THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH
COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THROUGH
PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF
AS AMENDED, WHICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE
OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT,
OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
!!0
6
61

Map 3 I
62

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Note - This map shows approximate locations
only and is not suitable for permit decisions.
wQllt R
No
I
63