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HomeMy WebLinkAboutLand Use Plan-1980lease do not remove!!!!! Division of Coastal Management PAMLICO COUNTY LAND USE PLAN OCTOBER, 1980 E LAND USE PLAN PAMLICO COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA October, 1980 " The preparation of this report.was financically assisted by a grant from the State of North Carolina and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration." 19 IN LAND USE PLAN Prepared Under Coastal Area Management of 1974 for Pamlico County, North Carolina by Board of Commissioners Robert Paul, Chairman Charles Alexander Patsy Sadler James Spencer Don Lee Planning Board Clifton Stowe, Chairman John Van Hook Odell Spain Frank Willis William Gibbs William Rice, County Manager Bernard Hollowell, County Attorney Dick Simmons, County Planner Gene Broughton, Planning Board Secretary Technical Assistance By: Neuse River Council of Governments J. Roy Fogle, Executive Director W. R. Banks, Jr., Project Planner Ms. Kaye Clouser, Project Secretary PAMLICO COUNTY IIORTH CAROLINA CERTIFICATION The Chairman announced that it was time for the public hearing concerning the 1980 update of the Pamlico County Land Use Plan, No one appeared to comment on the Plan, which was presented and explained by Randy Banks of the Neuse River Council of Govern- ments which had prepared the document under contract with the County. Following a discussion, on motion duly made and seconded, a resolution was unanimously adopted approving the updated Plan,subject to the clarification of the definition of Public Trust Areas, Section 3 of Resource Protection Policies on page 97, to make it clear that it is the State's definition and not the County's in respect to artificially created bodies of water. I, William R. Rice, certify that I am the duly appointed and acting Clerk to the Board of Commissioners of Pamlico County, and that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a resolution adopted by said Board at a meeting of said Board held on the 20th day of October, 1980, as the same appears in the official minutes of said meeting, and that said resolution has neither been rescinded nor amended. WITNESS, my hand and the official seal of Pamlico County this 21st day of October, 1980. w Clerk TABLE OF CONTENTS Page I. INTRODUCTION ........................................ 1 II. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS ........................ 4 A. Data Collection ................................. 5 'B. Description of Present Conditions ............... 7 Population .................. I................... 8 Seasonal Population ............................... 16 • 17 Labor Force .................... .. ............. Income Characteristics......... ............... 20 Manufacturing ................................... 22 Retail and Wholesale Trade.. ................. . 24 Natural Resources Related to the Economy........ 28 Agricultural Economy......... .................... 33 Housing ......................................... 37 Conclusions ..................................... 40 C. Existing Land Use......... 42 DCurrent Plans, Policies, and Regulations........ 52 E.. Constraints: Land Suitability .................. 57 Man -Made Hazard Areas ........................... 58 Natural Hazard Areas ............................ 58 Excessive Erosion Areas ......................... 58 Coastal Flood Plains........... .... ......... 59 Soils.. ........ ................. ......... .. 60 Water Supply... 62 Water Quality.. 63 Topography ........................................ 64 Fragile Areas ..................... • ............ 67 F. Constraints: Capacity of CommunityFacilities.. 77 G. Estimated Demand ................................. 82 H. Land Classification ............................. 89 III. POLICY STATEMENTS ................................... 99 A. Resource Protection........... ...103 B. Resource Production and Management..............125 C. Economic and Community Development..............131 D. Attachment B Issues.............................141 E. Continuing Public Participation .................146 APPENDIX Soils Data r V LIST OF TABLES Table # Title Page # 1 Population Trends 1910 - 1970 - 1978 9 2 1970 Population by Age, Race, Sex 10 3 Net Migration, 1960-1970 11 4 Estimated Migration, 1970-1980 11 5 Net Migration by Sex and Age Groups, 12 1960-1970 6 Years of School, Completed, 1970 15 7 Seasonal Population Estimates 16 8 Labor Force Summary 1962, 1965, 1970, 17 1978 9 Commuting Patterns, 1960-1970 18,,19 10 Family Income, 1969 21 11 Per Capita Personal Income: 1970, 1971, 21 1972, 1973, 1974 12 Retail Sales: 1947, 1954, 1958, 1962, 26 1966, 1970, 1974, 1977 13 Employees, Payroll, and Establishments 27 by Industry: 1974 14 Seafood Processing Companies 28 15 Finfish and Shellfish Landings, 1978 30 16 Commercial Timber Companies 32 17 Average Farm Size: 1959, 1964, 1969, 34 1974 18 Agricultural Economic Trends: 1964, 1969, 35 1974 19 Farm Acreage and Income: 1963-1974 35 20 Acres Devoted to Major Crops, 1974 36 21 Housing Characteristics, 1979 39 22 Existing Land Use 46 23 Existing School Information 80 LIST OF MAPS TITLE Townships Existing Land Use Bayboro 201 Planning Area Oriental 201 Planning Area Future Land Use Industrial Sites Soils PAGE NUMBER 50 51 87 88 96 135 Appendix I, INTRODUCTION The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 was one of the most extensive and controversial pieces of legislation ever passed by the North Carolina General Assembly. The Act established a cooperative program of coastal area management between local and state governments. The Act required the development and adoption of a land use plan for • each county in the coastal area, and further required each county plan to conform to the State Guidelines which "shall be consistant with the goals of the coastal area management system", as stated in the Act. The purpose of a land use plan for Pamlico County is to achieve the goals of acceptable Coastal Area Management. These goals are: 1) To provide a management system capable of preserving and managing the natural ecological conditions of the estuarine system, the barrier dune system, and the beaches so as to safeguard and perpetuate their natural productivity and their biological, economic and aesthetic values. 2) To Insure that the development or preservation of the land and water resources of the coastal area proceeds in a manner consistent with the capability of the land and water for development, use, or preservation based on ecological considerations. 3) To insure the orderly and balanced use and preservation of our coastal resources on behalf of the people of North Carolina and the nation. 4) To establish policies, guidelines and standards for the conservation of resources; the economic development of the coastal area; the use of recreational lands and tourist facilities; the wise development of transportation and circulation patterns; the preservation and enhancement.of historical, cultural and scientific aspects of the region; and the protection of common law and public rights in the, land and waters of the coastal area. The following land use plan is an update of the original Coastal Area Management Plan adopted by the County in May of 1976. It 2 The history and development of the original plan covered nearly two years and.was the result of the efforts of many people who be- lieved in Pamlico County and the County's responsibility to determine its own destiny. This updated plan was prepared by Pamlico County through the direction of the County Planning Board. Basic data was updated where relevant and possible. Primary emphasis in the up- date which began in November, 1979, was placed on defining the land use policy objectives of the County. This document should not be considered either an all inclusive resource document or an all inclusive policy statement by the county in all areas. Rather this plan should be viewed as a basic policy source for land use issues faced by the County. r Y 3 10 SECTION II DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS M 14 A. DATA COLLECTION 5 Data was assembled from numerous sources and existing reports and documents were utilized. Primary sources included publications of the North Carolina Department of Administration, the Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, the US Census, the • Neuse River Council of Governments, and Pamlico County. A con- centrated effort was made to insure the use of the most current data available. Data was presented in the Plan as an illustrative summary depicting the actual conditions present in Pamlico County. The major problem faced in the data collection process was the result of the timing of the plan update. The US Census, normally the most factual base data available, and the source of many other publications, was nearly ten years old. Changes in existing population and economic conditions in the County are therefore based primarily on estimates or updates of the Census. The very stable population in Pamlico County should negate any major errors in identification of population or economic trends. 10 i B. DESCRIPTION OF PRESENT CONDITIONS 7 w POPULATION The population for Pamlico County has remained relatively constant between 1910 and 1970 and ranges from a low of 9,060 in 1920 to a high of 9,993 in 1950. The greatest change in population between decades was 1910 to 1920 showing a decrease of 906 persons from 9,996 in 1910 to 9,060 in 1920. This is a decrease of approximately nine percent over the ten year period. Following this substantial decrease, the county's population began to increase gradually from 1920 to 1950; however, in 1960 and 1970 the population decreased to 9,850 and 9,467 respectively. This.downward trend in the population of Pamlico County is not expected to continue. The County population as estimated by the State Division of State Budgets and Management for 1979 is 9,500 with a slight increase to 9,700 projected for 1990. Table 1 indicates the past population history for Pamlico County from 1910 to 1970 with 1978 estimates from the Division of State Budget and Management. Pamlico County, due to its geographiclocation and lack of ocean shoreline, has not experienced the population explosion as have other areas in coastal North Carolina. Out -migration of persons, particular- ly those of childbearing age.shown in Tables 3 and 4 has further con- tributed to the stable county population. 8 TABLE I I'►►j►u_lr►t Inn 'ri-vii►in r►►r 11rtml Ico County. Civil Divisions 1910. 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1978 _ Township 1 1,515 1,444 1,159 1,542 1,951 1,686 1,813 N/A Township 2 2,120 1,872 1,712 1,124 1,441 1,573 1,489 N/A Stonewall Town 161 218 329 261 272 214 335 380 Township 3 2,498 2,330 2,699 3,073 2,990 3,169 2,886 N/A Alliance Town - - - - - - - - - - - - 577 620 Bayboro Town 370 349 468 428' 453 545 665 930 Mesic Town N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 369 360 Vandemere Town 296 308 360 436 475 452 379 480 Township 4 1,004 819 908 1,054 1,112 945 922 N/A Township 5 2,829 2,595 2,389 2,913 2,499 2,477 2,357 N/A Arapahoe Town N/A . N/A 290 307 273 274 212 500 Minnesott Beach N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 41 150 Oriental Town 645 607 601 535 590 522 445 450 PAMLICO COUNTY 9,966 9,060 9,299 9,706 9,993 9,850 9,467 10,000 Change -906 .+239 +406 +287 +143 -383 +533 Percent Change -9.1 +2.6 +4.4 +3.0 +1.4 -3.9 +5.6 SOURCE: US Census of Population NC Division of State Budget and Management N/A - Not Available V 9 TABLE 2 Pamlico -County 1970, Population by Age, Race, and Sex Total White Non -White Age Male Female Male Female Male Female Total 0-4 378 346 254 214 124 132 724 5-9 475 472 280 264 194 208 947 10-14 528 543 310 294 216 249 1,071 15-19 494 476 284 274 208 202 970 20-24 283 310 217 223 66 87 593 25-29 249 238 189 172 60 64 487 30-34 217 226 144 149 72 77 443 35-39 233 298 158 182 75 115 531 40-44 286 283 190. 176 96 107 569 45-49 251 281 176 203 73 78 532 50-54 253 272 188 203 65 69 525 55-59 230 256 174 188 56 68 486 60-64 212 '269 159 209 53 60 481 65-69 179 198 130 143 49 55 377 70-74 141 194 103 154 38 40 335 75-79 99 104 75 82 24 22 203 • 80-84 48 82 41 70 7 12 130 85+ 21 42 16 32 5 10 63 Median Age 27.6 31.3 30.3 35.7 20.0 22.1 29.4 SOURCE: US CENSUS OF 1970 0R TABLE 3 Net Migration - Pamlico County 1960 - 1970 Total Population Actual 1970 Population Natural Increase (1960-1970)1 Expected 1970 Population2 Actual 1970 Population Population Change Due to Migration Total White Population Actual 1970 Population Natural Increase (1960-1970)1 Expected 1970 Population2 Actual 1970 Population Population Change Due to Migration Total Non -White Population Actual 1960 Population Natural Increase (1960-1970)1 Expected 1970 Population2 Actual 1970 Population Population Change Due to Migration 9,850 726 10,576 9,467 -1,109 6,239 203 6,442 6,331 -111 3,611 523 4,134 3,136, -998 K 1 Number of Births in Excess of Deaths 2 1960 Population Pius.Natural Increase COUNTY TOTAL Pamlico -12.13 TABLE 4 Estimated Rate of Net Migration 1970 - 1980 WHITE NON -WHITE TOTAL MALE FEMALE TOTAL MALE FEMALE -2.92 -3.65 -2.21 -26.20 -27.79 -24.70 SOURCE: NC Department of Administration Division of State Budget and Management V 11 TABLE 5 Net Migration by Race, Sex and Age Groups Pamlico County 1960-1970 1960 1970 Percent of Age Population Age . Population 1960 Group Male -White Male -White Present in 1970 i 0-4 292 10-14 310 106.2 5-9 348 15-19 284 81.6 10-14 356 20-24 217 61.0 15-19 290 25-29 189 65.2 20-24 131 30-34 144 109.9 25-34 317 35-44 348 109.8 35-44 383 45-54 354 92.4 45-54 374 55-64 333 89.0 Female -White Female -White 0-4 294 10-14 294 100.0 5-9 321 15-19 274 85.4 10-14 227 20-24 223 66.2 15-19 233 25-29 172 73.8 20-24 138 30-34 149 107.9 25-34 351 35-44 358 101.9 35-44 383 45-54 406 106.0 45-54 392 55-64 397 101.3 Male -Nonwhite Male -Nonwhite 0-4 284 10-14 216 76.1 5-9 289 15-19 208 72.0 10-14 240 20-24 66 27.5 15-19 168 25-29 60 35.7 20-24 106 30-34 72 67.9 25-34 179 35-44 171 95.5 35-44 149 45-54 138 92.6 45-54 146 55-64 109 74.7 Female -Nonwhite Female -Nonwhite 0-4' 300 10-14 249 83.0 5-9 275 15-19 202 73.5 10-14 244 20-24 87 35.7 15-19 179 25-29 64 35.8 20-24 108 30-34 77 71.3 25-34 225 35-44 222 98.7 35-44 166 45-54 147 88.6 45-54 150 55-64 128 85.3 12 There are several reasons for migration from rural areas to urban arena though this trend is slowing in Pamlico County. Some notable causes for migration are: 1) Trends toward fewer and larger farms. 2) Mechanization of agriculture. 3) Lack of economic opportunities other than farming. Another factor which may increase the pressure for out -migration in Pamlico County is the existence of subsurface phosphate deposits lo- cated in the eastern half of the County. The purchase of large tracts of land owned by long time residents of the County by phosphate mining operations may become reality as the need for food and fertilizer in- crease. There is no significant urban area located in Pamlico County. Those seeking employment opportunities available in urban areas must either commute or move to these areas. This resulting loss of popula- tion has an adverse effect on the economy of the area. These people are no longer available to the County to support industrial and com- mercial enterprise or add to the tax base. Conversely, industrial and commercial jobs must be available in the County to.retain the young adult segment of the population. The composition of the population of Pamlico County reflects the out -migration of younger adults upon reaching an employable age. A distinct drop in population can be seen from the 15-19 age group to the 20-24 age group as shown in Table 2. The North Carolina Median non -white age of 21.40 does not differ I appreciably from that of Pamlico County non -white median age of 21.05. However, the North Carolina median age falls in the 25-29 age group 13 r while that of Pamlico County is in the 30-34 age group. Thus, it can be concluded that North Carolina possesses a greater percentage of employable age individuals than does Pamlico County. Out -migration from the county is being slightly offset by the in- flux of older retired persons. These people are normally white and economically middle class or above. The result is an older median age for the white population in the County. The educational level of the population of Pamlico County in 1970 was below that of the State of North Carolina with median years com- pleted being 9.3 for males 25 years and over and 10.3 for females 25 years and over as compared to 10.3 and 10.8 respectively. The median non -white years of school completed was considerably less than the county wide median with males 25 years and over completing only 7.9 years and the corresponding groups of females finishing 9.4 years. The number of high school graduates in the County is projected by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction to increase from 129 in 1977 to 137 in 1986. The education level of county citizens when compared to the state should significantly improve in the future. Population projections for Pamlico County prepared by the North Carolina Department of Administration using past trends, births, deaths, and net migration indicate that Pamlico County will maintain a stable year-round population. No major increases or decreases are projected. Early 1980 census data, however, indicates the present population ex- ceeds state projections for 1990. This fact indicates more rapid growth than previously predicted. There are also several major obstacles preventing major population growth in the County including poor soils for conventional septic tanks, 14 lack of'major highway access to the County, high water table, con- siderable flood plain, and the generally environmentally sensitive land areas. The dem ire by the County to continue. n Htn)le papulntlon with minor to moderate growth and not seek major growth is most com- patible with the existing conditions. TABLE 6 Years of School Completed (1970) Pamlico County Non - White White Total Male Female Total Persons 25 Years and Over 3,712 1,442 5,154 2,414 2,740 5,154 No School Years Completed 48 26 74 45 29 74 Elementary 1-4 Years 217 231 448 273 175 448 5-7 Years 661 371 1,032 546 486 1,032 _ 8 Years 408 126 534 274 260 534 High School 1-3 Years 1,201 455 1,655 691 965 1,656 4 Years 866 179 1,045 404 641 1,045 College 1-3 Years 206 28 234 109 125 234 4-or More Years 105 26 131 72 59 131 Median Completed 11.0 8.6 9.8 9.3 10.3 9.8 SOURCE: 1970 Census of Population, General Social and Economic Characteristics. w V 15 SEASONAL POPULATION A seasonal population increase occurs during the summer months as vacationers are attracted to the water resources of Pamlico County. The following figures are estimates of the normal summer population in- crease based on the private seasonal dwelling units, motel rooms, and campground facilities. TABLE 7 Township I Township II Township III Township IV Township V 417 288 135 81 1,333 Pamlico County 2,254 This seasonal population increase has little visible impact on Pamlico County. In 1977, only 6.6% of the County retail sales or $871,000 were purchases made by travelers. The effect of seasonal pop- ulation in County services is limited normally to law.enforcement and emergency medical services. These services experience an increase in calls for service during peak tourist periods; however, both services are presently capable of meeting the demand placed by the seasonal popu- lation. Perhaps the most important and long term effect of the summer visitors is the strain placed on a very sensitive environmental area. These people come to enjoy the water and inhabit residences normally adjacent to estuarine waters and shorelines. There are no sewage dis- posal systems in the County and as a result this waste returns to the environment through conventional septic tank systems. Presently it is very difficult to directly attribute any polluted waters or shellfish areas to the seasonal population, but the possibility exists and should kri major increases in the seasonal population occur an identifiable problem LABOR FORCE The County is having difficulty retaining its young adult popula- tion, which includes elements of the labor forcer The supply of labor and the characteristics of the labor force are important in determining the economic status and potential of Pamlico County. TABLE 8 . Labor Force Summary 1962 1965 1970 1978 Pamlico N.C. Pamlico N.C. Pamlico N.C. Pamlico N.C. Total Work Force 2,300 1,846,800 2,300 1,969,900 2,380 2,276,100 3,750 2,678,000 Total Employment 2,091 1,748,920 2,139 1,887,164 2,090 3,490 2,5629,000 Unemployed 9.1 5.3 7.0 4.2 12.2 3.8 6.9 4.3 Total Unemployment 209 97.880 161 82,736 290 86,492 260 116,000 • SOURCE: US Census of Social Characteristics, 1980 NC Employment Security Commission Pamlico County has followed North Carolina and shown an increase in total work force. However, while North Carolina's unemployment decreased from 5.3% to 4.3%, Pamlico County's rate of unemployment was never less than 6.9% from 1962 to 1978, the Pamlico rate being always two or three times as high as North Carolina's. Pamlico County has lost a portion of its available labor force through out -migration. -The remaining portion of the total work force in Pamlico County still has a much higher rate of unemployment than the statewide average. 17 There were 1,010 persons commuting to places of employment outside the County in 19601 by 1970 the total had increased to 1,454. It is reasonable to assume the commuting pattern still exists because there has been no major increase in the number of job opportunities within the County. It can also be assumed that a majority of these commuters would accept employment closer to their homes in Pamlico County if such employment was available. This would add to the recruitable labor supply available to industry and commerce locating within the County. TABLE 9 Commuting Patterns for Pamlico County 1960 - 1970 1960 1970 Out- In- Out- County Commuting Commuting Commutin Beaufort 12 40 150 Carteret 17 4 44 Craven 874 100 1,165 Jones 11 3 16 Lenoir 0 0 6 Dnslow 43 7 23 Pitt 0 0 15 Elsewhere 53 23 35 Total 1,010 177 1,454 Live & Work in 'amlico County 1,719 1,719 -0 In- muti 13 46 0 .0 0 0 .9 77 1,539 1,539 18 TABLE 9 Commuting Patterns for Pamlico County 1960, 1970 (Cont.) Out- 1960 In- Out- 1970 In - County Commuting Commuting Commuting Commuting Employed Residents 2,729 -- 2,993 -- Persons Working In Pamlico County -- 1,896 -- 1,616 Net Commuting - Gain (+) or Loss (-) -833 -1,377 In -commuting should also be noted. In 1960, 177 individuals in - commuted and in 1970 only 77, resulting in a decrease in the number of persons outside the County holding county jobs. This is a direct result of increased competition from outside the County for available jobs. This also results in a high unemployment rate. It is felt that many of the 1,454 commuting to work outside the County are potentially recruitable for work in Pamlico County. Pamlico County has the potential labor supply in its high school graduates, its recruitable labor force, and its commuting residents. - The nucleus to train these people is present in Pamlico County Technical College. The County needs jobs for these people to reverse its decreasing population trend in young adult age groups. 19 INCOME CHARACTERISTICS. f The financial status of residents of Pamlico County is examined to determine both earnings and buying power. Data from the 1970 census and the North Carolina State Government Statistical. Abstract is included for background information as shown in Tables 10 & 11. Noticeably, the income of white families is only 65.4 percent greater than that of non -white families, yet the white per capita income is 149 percent greater than non -white. This leads to the conclusion that non -white familes have far more members than white families or that individual -whites receive higher wages than blacks. Therefore, non -white individuals generally have less purchasing power than white individuals. When compared to the other 99 counties, Pamlico County's relative position in per capita income improved from 1947 with a ranking of 98th to a ranking of 71st in 1975. This increase is probably due to the out -migration of young people, especially blacks, while retaining the older, well established sector of the population. If out -migration is halted certain economic stimuli must be added in order to continue to improve Pamlico County's income levels. The retention of a low family income results in limited purchasing power which has an adverse effect on retail sales, wholesale sales, and services. Due to the lack of income among certain families, heavy burdens are placed on local welfare programs which increase the demand for tax revenue. When considering the improvement of per capita and family income, one solution lies in upgrading skills of workers enabling them to command higher wages. In recent years, pay scales for skilled labor have risen sharply while the pay scale for unskilled labor has experienced only minor increases due to minimum wage laws. It must be considered that P01 TABLE 10 Pamlico County Family Income 1969 Non -White White Total Total Families 637 1,749 2,386 Median Family Income $4,431 $7,181 $5,761 Per Capita Income 1,077 2,687 1,882 SOURCE: 1970'Census of Population, General Social and Economic Characteristics. TABLE 11 Per Capita Personal Income 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 Pamlico County $2,151 $2,326 $2,792 $3,437 $3,737 North Carolina $3,252 $3,470 $3,853 $4,267 $4,616 .. SOURCE: North Carolina State Government Statistical Abstract. f 21 the demand for unskilled labor diminishes as our society becomes more technical in nature. New industrial and commercial development which may be attracted to Pamlico County will be seeking skilled technical manpower. These enterprises would rely on Pamlico County Technical College or similar facilities to train prospective employees to fill positions requiring certain skills. The technical skills for farm labor will also increase as more farming operations become mechanized. This process will both reduce the number of farm laborers and require that those who remain possess certain technical skills. MANUFACTURING "Every community in the United States purchases goods and ser- vices from outside its borders. A community pays for these goods and services by specializing in the production of certain goods and ser- vices sold outside the community. The goods and services sold outside the community play a key role in determining the economic health of the community."i Those manufacturers that sell their products outside the County are considered to be "basic" indus.tries which bring in "outside" capital. Therefore those that sell their products within the County are said to be "non -basic" industries. Some manufacturers are, because they sell both within and outside the County, considered basic and non -basic. A county with all non -basic manufacturing tends to produce a stagnated economy, as no new or outside money enters the County. Pamlico County, a County that imports greatly for goods and services, must export to recoup the monies expended outside the County. iTiebout, Charles M., The Community Economic Base Study, Committee for Economic Development, Dec., 1962. 22 The two outstanding facts influencing Pamlico County involve a lack of diversification and the excessive number of females employed in manufacturing enterprises. It is a historic fact in North Carolina that women have been employed in Reasonal, low -skilled, low wage enterprises. Manufacturers that employ more skilled workers at higher wages and furnish more stable income and employment base are drastically needed.. The main industry is seafood processing with timber products being second. ` There has been little or no recent growth in manufacturing and little diversification. Total manufacturing jobs in 1976 represented only 13.1% of the total jobs in the County. Farm products added to seafood and timber products cover most of the County's exports and constitute the basic industries. Total value of Pamlico County farm marketings in 1976 waG $9,517,000. The importance of the seafood industry is quite evident. In 1978, Pamlico County ranked third among North Carolina counties with a total finfish poundage of 12,552,300 and a fourth with a shellfish poundage of 2,859,800. Total value of finfish and shellfish was $3,054,731 and $1,262,762 respectively. 41 A need does exist to seek diversity of industry. The labor supply is available. However, adequate sewage disposal is not easily furnished. Most major industry could not locate in Pamlico County unless sewage disposal is made available. The soil is suitable for industrial sites in selected areas along the Southern Railroad and NC 55 in the vicinity of Grantsboro and Bayboro. The nucleus for training industrial workers exists in Pamlico County Technical College. Pamlico County is actively seeking compatible industrial growth that will insure economic development and environmental concerns co -exist in a manner that is satisfactory to both. , 23 Modern industrialization is predicated on the availability of certain major facilities, primarily arterial highways, air, and rail. Pamlico County is deficient in all three. The improvement most likely to occur would be the four laning of Route 17 and four laning Route 55 from Grantsboro to New Bern. The N.C. Department of Transportation has designated an air facility to be constructed in Pamlico County which will also serve to improve the overall economic picture. There are two prime deterrents to conventional industrial develop- ment in Pamlico County. Governmental action directly affects the lack of central sewer facilities which are the responsibility of town and county governments and lack of north -south transportation, which is primarily the responsibility of state government. No bridge crosses the Pamlico River to the north or the Neuse River to the south. The County is aware that construction of facilities such as major bridges must be based on justification much greater than the economic development of a single county. RETAIL AND WHOLESALE TRADE The monetary return from retail sales in Pamlico County has shown increases in line with that of North Carolina since 1947, although the 1974 figures show a slowing percent increase. The comparison of 1974 figures between'Pamlico County and North Carolina show Pamlico County beginning'to lag significantly behind. However, 1977 figures show a greater increase in Pamlico County than the state as a whole. When considering increases or decreases in sales, the tendency of the dollar to decrease in value during recent years must be taken into consideration. Although the number of dollars from retail sales has been increasing over the years, this cannot be attributed to significant 24 increases in retail establishments. The lack of retail growth in Pamlico County can be attributed to 1) the ease with which people can commute to urban centers in adjoining counties that offer greater variety, 2) the limited income of Pamlico County residents, and 3) lack of population growth. While retail trade has been increasing, wholesale trade showed a decline in the late 1960's; however, is gradually showing some in- creases. Even with the fluctuation in wholesale trade it would be difficult for retail establishments not to look outside the County for their goods. f 25 1 1 0 N Q� Pamlico County Percent Increase North Carolina Percent Increase TABLE 12 Retail Sales* - Pamlico County 1947 1954 1958 1962 1966 1970 1974 1977 1,205 2,285 3,127 4,065 5,638 8,009 10,790 15,676 89.6 36.9 30.0 38.7 42.1 34.7 45.3 1,637,627 3,072,846 4,345,021 6,449,162 8,548,508 11,731,452 18,526,287 24,059,065 83.6 41.4 48.4 32.5 37.2 57.9 30.0 *RETAIL SALES FIGURES ROUNDED TO NEAREST THOUSAND DOLLARS SOURCE: Profiles, North Carolina Counties TABU 13 Employees. Payroll, and Establi,hments, by Industry: 1974 tExcludes goverment employees, railroad employees, self -employe- persons, etc. -- see "General Explanation". Size class 1 to 4 includes establishments having payroll during 1st quarter but no employers during mid -March pay period. "D" denotes figures withheld to avoid disclosure of operations of individual establishments) No. of Employees for week Including First "arcn 12 iaiarter 1 5 10 20 50 . 100 250 500 1000 to to to to to to to or nnual Total 4 9 19 49 99 244 999 more P. 'LICO Total 958 844 __i.986 144 106 19 8 7 3 1 = - - ARricultural services, forestry, fisheries 43 81 378 29 29 - - - - - - - LontraLt constru.tfon N:anufacturing I-od ana kindred products Misc. fonds and kindred products Fresh or frozen packaged fish 58 189 147 110 (8) 77 174 104 55 (D) 331 70 439 165 (D) 13 14 5 3 2 10 6 - - - 1 4 2 1 1 1 1 - - - 1 3- 3 2 I - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - _ lran+l.rtition and other public utilities 42 _ 83 366 6 4 3 1 -- :hnle�ale trade 240 15il 933 19 12 1 2 2 2 - - - - 'Owl —ale trades---non-durable goods 238 153 920 18 11 1 2 2 2 - - - - •.ro..r:_s and related products 21' 123 755 13 7 - 2 _ 2 2 - - - - Fish in-1 se.if_.,ds 21% 1_23 755 13 7 - 2 2 _2 - - - - %.,tail trade - - -� 200 141 _ 6-.1 33 25 6 1- 4eneral merch.anlise stores (C) (p) GO 2 1 - -- )Ifsr.henrral_ n,_rc hind lse stores ((.) _i — (Ill (U) Financ,_, in-.ur,�nc_e, and real estate (B) (D) (?) 6 5 - - 5trviras 51 33 150 12 8 3 1 __— _ _ `:unclassifiable establishments 103 45 ! _ 211 _ _10 _ 7 1 1 - 1 NATURAL TED TO Pamlico County's natural resources may be catalogued as a rich agricultural soil, timberland, commercial fishing, sportfishing, and hunting, vacation areas, and large phosphate deposit within its Much of the soil needs ditches and large canals for drainage to be productive. When this is done it is very rich, level, and well adapted for mass production farming. Some of the pocosin is being adapted for timber by the large timber and pulpwood companies such as Weyerhaeuser. The land is thoroughly cleared, drained, disced, and planted with the desired species of trees much as any other crop would be planted. This timber is hauled directly by truck,to the saw mills or paper mills. Commercial fishing consists of the taking of crabs, oysters, shrimp, and fish in the Pamlico Sound as well as some deep-sea fishing outside of Ocracoke Inlet. The main fishing ports are Oriental, Pamlico, Bayboro, Vandemere, Whortonsville, Hobucken, and Lowland. The following is a list of sea food processing companies in the County: TABLE 14 Name Location Bayboro Dehydrating Co. Bayboro, NC Bay River Seafood Co. Stonewall, NC Cahoon Brothers Seafood Lowland, NC Garland Fulcher Seafood Oriental, NC Gaskill Seafoods Bayboro, NC Sound Packing Co. Merritt, NC Lowland Seafood Co. Lowland, NC Harbor Packing Co. Lowland, NC Fulcher Crab Co. Oriental, NC C.M. Muse Seafood Oriental, NC Stephenson Seafood Co. Oriental, NC R.E. Mayo Packing Co. Hobucken, NC McCotter Seafood Co. Vandemere, NC Pamlico Packing Co. Vandemere, NC Riverview Crab Co. Oriental, NC 28 .Sportfishing and hunting, in addition to fishing in.the Sound, consists of the hunting of wild ducks in the salt marshes and also the shooting of some bear, deer, quail, marsh hens, etc. There is a wildlife game refuge near Hobucken. These fishermen and guides usually practice subsistence farming to carry over between seasons. There are several concentrations of vacation camps and cottages along the north shore of the Neuse River near Minnesott Beach, Oriental, and Janiero. The larger camps are Camp Seagull and Camp Don Lee. It is a quiet, scenic area to spend the summer and many people come there for swimming, sailing and water skiing. A golf course located in Minnesott Beach also provides activities for year- round users. Many people come to the County year after year for vacations and some permanently to retire. The Inland Waterway passes Hobucken and Oriental and pleasure boats stop at the Marina in Oriental. A 29 TABLE 15 North Carolina PRELIMINARY FI11FISH & SHELLFISH LANDINGS 1978 Totals FINFISH SHELLFISH TOTAL COUNTY POUNDS VALUE POUNDS VALUE POUNDS VALUE Beaufort 1,813,000 609,771 2,9223900 915,280 4,735,900 1,525,051 Bertie 22234,700 133,638 2,234,700 133,638 Brunswick 1,143,300 773,360 1,477,800 1,388,103 2,621,100 2,161,463 CARTERET 26,758,200 4,395,387 10,454,700 6,166,200 37,212,900 10,561,587 Chowan 5,408,774 494,817 14,200 3,130 5,422,974 497,947 CRAVEN 25,900 6,173 16,400 2,460 42,300 8,638 Currituck 406,300 161,606 600,500 106,230 1,006,800 267,836 Dare 16,569,500 4,996,236 51994,200 4,087,390 22,563,700 9,083,626 Hyde 4,930,400 994,260 3,397,100 891,392 8,327,500 1,885,652 0 Martin 0 151,100 6,091 151,100 6,091 New Hanover 737,400 403,942 303,100 378,408 1,040,500 782,350 ONSLOW 531,100 156,485 1,092,700 743,243 1,623,800 899,728 PAMLICO 12,552,300 3,054,731 2,859,800 1,262,762 15,412,100 4,317,493 Pasquotank 455,626 185,509 140,40G 21,326 596,026 206,835 Fender 2172100 39,414 79,700 97,378 296,800 136,792 Tyrrell 750,800 281,141 978,300 159,134 1,729,100 440,275 Washington 523,400 126,373 1,000 193 533,400 126,566 REGION P 39,867,500 7,612,781 14,423,600 8,174,665 54,291,100 15,787,446 NC Total 75,208,900 16,818,939 30,332,800 16,222,629 105,550,700 33,041,568 SOURCE: NC Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, Division of Marine Fisheries. The phosphate mines in adjoining Beaufort County have developed lwo'n mn.jor. Indimtry, it In unr or the rirhent drporlitn invxin- tence and there are many other industries that are related to the uses of phosphate that could develop. One of the studies for a deep water canal for Lees Creek to the port of Morehead City follows the Inland ` Waterway through Pamlico County. Such a canal overland would.be easier to maintain than one across the sound to Ocracoke Inlet. Industries related to phosphates are the manufacture of fertilizers, toothpaste, detergent and etc. This is a similar situation to that of the port of Galveston with a deep sea canal leading to Houston, which began as a phosphate mining operation. There are also large deposits of phosphate under parts of Pamlico County. Summary of Natural Resources: 1. The Neuse River and Pamlico Sound with its seafood industry sportflshing,and recreation are a valuable asset to the County. 2. The rich agricultural soils are the source of much of the County's wealth and a ready source of employment which could be expanded. 3. Its woodlands and swamps are a potential source of employment and Income for the County. 4. The phosphate mining operation although not presently in the County can afford employment and stimulate other industry in the County. There are major deposits of phosphate in Pamlico County that can be operable at a later date. 31 Commercial Timber Companies There are a number of large companies who own land in Pamlico County with the main plants operating in neighboring counties as those in Craven and Beaufort. TABLE 16 Companies Ownership in Pamlico County Weyerhaeuser 20,660.92 acres Pamlico Timber 16,336.00 acres International Paper ll,100.07 acres Taylor 14,051.20 acres Total 62,148.19 acres These companies conduct proper forestry activities and provide access to their landholdings for hunters and other recreational activities. In conjunction with the forestlands and the natural features of the County, recreational activities could be developed on a commercial basis. Hunting, fishing, and water sports have the potential of drawing from well outside county lines. The supplying of facilities and services to vacationers,.hunters and fishers could become one of Pamlico County's most productive businesses. These forest lands are shown on the existing land use map. Private and public recreation lands are shown on the existing land use as well. 32 Agricultural Economy The increased interest in industrial and commercial development trends to over -shadow the agricultural segment of the economy. However, agriculture is one of the nation's largest industries. Although the trend is toward fewer workers because of mechanization the income from farming will increase due to the necessity to meet the nation's increas- ing need for food. In addition to the farmer's direct support of the overall economy by his own production, he supports other segments of the economy through purchases of machinery, tractors, equipment, fuel, fertilizer, utility services, etc. Products from farms are utilized in meat packing, fer- tilizer, cannery, textile, and other industries. North Carolina ranks high among the states in agricultural employ- ment and capacity being first in farm population, first in flue cured tobacco, first in total tobacco production, first in value of home con- sumption from crops and livestock, first in cash receipts from farm forestry, first in sweet potato production and fifth in cash farm income. In 1969, approximately 21.0 percent of Pamlico County's 216,128 acres of land area was devoted to farming. Total cropland acreage represented 26,767 acres while harvested cropland represented 20,533 acres. In 1976, 61 percent of the County's 183,243 acres in tracts of 10 acres or more was in farmland. Harvested cropland totaled 31,440 acres, an in- crease in over 10,000 acres since 1969. 33 TABLE 17 Average Size of Farms in Pamlico County Year 1959 1964 1969 1974. Size 132.6 acres 172.1 acres 158.9 acres 205 acres The number of farms in Pamlico County is steadily decreasing. However, it is unusual to note that the average farm size actually decreased between 1964 and 1969. However,'in 1974, farm size again increased. It is evident that mechanization is playing a more dominant role in farming, requiring that former unskilled farm labor be retrained for other job opportunities. In 1969 there appeared to be a downward trend in agriculture even though the trend was slight. Money from total farm products sold was down from $3,787,850 in 1964 to $3,714,163 in 1969. Crop production suffered the sharpest decline with forest production, livestock and poultry production showing minimal gains. This decrease in production is caused by the reduction in farm land from 56,789 acres in 1964 to 45,446 acres in 1969. It is a little unusual that both farm size and total farm acreage is decreasing in a rural county such as Pamlico. However, this 1969 slump reversed itself and by 1973 croplands and estimated farm income were on the increase. Productive agricultural lands are shown on the existing land use map. 34 TABLE 18 Agricultural Economic Trends in Pamlico County 1964 1969 1974 Total farm products sold $3,787,850 3,714,163 7,241,000 Average sold per farm 11.478 12,986 32,181 Crops including nursery 2,944,458 2;567,576 6,298,000 products and hay Forest products 36,426 47,885 148,000 Livestock, poultry, and 806,821 1,098,702 793,000 their products TABLE 19 Pamlico County Farm Acreage & Income Year Acres of Harvested & Idle Estimated Farm Income Cropland 1963 29,455 $4,907,847 1964 30,779 5,346,744 1965 30,785 5,047,636 1966 31,007 4,549,204 1967 31,886 5,226,195 1968 31,012 5,330,478 1969 29,897 5,529,000 1970 29,752 5,668,671 1971 33,553 5,021,454 1972 32,526 5,817,000 1973 N/A 8,786,000 1974 25,452 N/A 35 w cN TABLE 20 ACRES DEVOTED TO MAJOR CROPS, YIELD PER ACRE, AND VALUE OF PRODUCTION PAMLICO COUNTY Corn for Grain Soybeans Tobacco Acres Bushels Value' Acres Bushels Value' Acres Pounds Value' County Harvested Per Acre (million $) Harvested Per Acre (million $) Harvested Per Acre (million $) Pamlico 6,400 90.0 0.8 16,500 28.0 1.9 605 1,965 1.0 North Carolina 1,280,000 80.0 $151.6 1,165,000 25.0 120.2 339,700 2,003 580.9 'Value of crop production is not equivalent to "cash receipts from farm marketing" SOURCE: North Carolina Department of Agriculture, 1974. North Carolina Agricultural Statistics, 1973-74 Annual. Prepared in cooperation with U.S. Department of Agriculture. Raleigh, 72 PP. HOUSING In June of 1980, Pamlico County adopted a County Housing Element prepared by the Neuse River Council of Governments Rural Initiative. Project funded through a grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. This Housing Element responds to Federal requirements for housing elements as required by the US Department of Housing and Urban Developments Compre- hensive Planning Assistance '701' Program. This Element should be considered the primary data source.in reference to housing in Pamlico County. The following is a discussion of the housing conditions taken from the County Housing Element. Plumbing Facilities The closest indicators of housing conditions that we have from the 1970 Census are data on the lack of plumbing facilities. 1The figures cited in Table 21 indicate dwelling units "lacking one or more plumbing facilities." This single factor is not the best indicator as to the suitability of a dwelling unit as a place in which to live; but it is the best such indicator available at the present time. Pamlico County has a total of 1067 units which lack complete plumbing. This represent approximately 35.8% of a total housing stock of 2979. Overcrowding Overcrowding is defined as "the number of occupied housing units with 1.01 or more persons per room". A total of 340 units in Pamlico County or 11.4% of the year-round units are overcrowded. 1Defined as the total number of housing units lacking complete plumbing. 37 Rent and Value Housing values and rents are influenced by many factors. Foremost t among these are location, size, quality of construction, availability, and adequacy of utilities and sewers and market demand. The average monthly rent in Pamlico County according to 1979 updates was $55.00, while the average home was $11,500. Vacancies Vacancy rates are an important consideration in a housing study. Vacancy rates are an indicator of the extent to which poorer families are able to occupy dwellings vacated by the higher income as they move into more expensive housing units. This process is known as the "filtering process." The number of vacancies in an area also determines the amount of choice a housing consumer has in locating a dwelling unit that meets the needs and budget constraints of a family. Vacancy rates also impact upon the supply and demand factors since when supply exceeds demand (particularly in rental units), the prices are more likely to stabilize or decrease. The average vacancy rate in Pamlico County is approximately 3%. Owner -Occupied A relatively large number of homes in Pamlico County are owner -occupied. According to 1979 updates approximately 83% of the housing units in Pamlico County are owner -occupied. There was little variation in this rate throughout the county. In summary, as of 1979 updates, approximately 35.8% of all housing in Pamlico County is "lacking one or more plumbing facilities." Interpreting this another way, approximately 35.8% of all housing in Pamlico County is substandard. 38 *Source: U.S. Census of Housing TABLE 21 Fifth County Summary Tapes Pamlico County Growth Factor 1.045 Selected Housing Characteristics - 1979 Lacking one or 1.01+ Persons Aver. Monthly Aver. Vacancy Owner Occupanc Area - All Units1 Number Ell 1 316 I 126 ED 2 104 b� % 402 Number 25 X 7% $ 61 $ 7,640 No. X 4 12 No. 259 .7, 82" 62 17 16 Less than 40 12 100 12 11 84- 81 ED 3 217 56 26 17 8 60 12,600 ED 4 185 63 34 17 9 78 13,000 F:D 5. 368 218 59 57 16 55 14.400 ED 6 396 98 25 40 10 56 12,000 ED 7 197 71 36 17 8 ED 8 110 32 29 9 8 51 _ 10.300 1- ED 9 341 118 35 48 14 55 8,900 0 11$St_ ED 10 11 � 173 37 21 6 4 59 n0 78 12 15 6 8 Less than 40 0 0 64 82 ED 12 208 94 45 42 20 Less than 40 11,500 1 ' 175 84 ED 13 286 78 27 39 14 62 12.100 20 7 __ 84 Pamlico lur�y79 1067 _ 35.87 340 11.4? 55 11 500 86 3' 2471 83;. romrT TTCTnMC The population of Pamlico County has stabilized over the last ten years ( and is expected to increase only moderately for the foreseeable future. The loss of population projected in the early seventies should not occur. The natural population increase of the County coupled with minor retirement and resort development should serve to neutralize the expected continuation 91 of out -migration. The population of the County is growing older and generally becoming less economically disadvantaged, when compared to the state as a whole,than in earlier years. The young adults leaving the county in search of employment are being replaced by older financially established adults seeking the benefits of retirement in Pamlico. Major changes in these trends are not expected with- out additional employment sources for the younger citizens. Many other Pamlico residents enjoy the natural environment of the county while commuting to work in surrounding areas. Continued growth in the County is expected r I. as the education attainment of county citizens increase and the income levels of residents become more in line with those of the state. A primary problem though largely difficult to identify to what extent is the degree of incompatibility between the three major county income producers of forestry, agriculture, and the seafood industry. The first two are at present considered compatible however, they may contribute _the-waxer—pollution found in many areas and indirectly if not directly affect the seafood__Industry,Another major factor is the potential pollution problem resulting from increasing numbers of seasonal and permanent residences located along the many creeks and rivers. Housing is also an area where improvement is badly needed. Substandard housing,however, can best be viewed as a primary result of the economic conditions. Major housing improvement will require both assistance from state and federal programs and improved economic conditions in the county. rc Forestry remains the largest land use in the county followed by agriculture. Timber production is one of the three most important economic resources of the county. Agriculture trends nre following those of the state and nation with fewer and larger farms. Harvested crop land is not expected to increase significantly in the future; however, agriculture will remain the most important income. The commerical seafood industry is very important and should remain an income producer in Pamlico County. Phosphate mining within the county boundary is not anticipated in the near future. ' Existing problems as discussed can be divided into two areas. Those associated with the economic conditions of some county residents, and those resulting from the less than ideally compatible three major income producers in the county. In 1979, over thirty-five percent of all housing units in the county lacked one or more plumbing facility. Income levels despite.significant increases are still low in comparison with the state and national averages. Skilled industrial employment is practically non-existent. The county continues as a rural agriculturally oriented society with the classic causes and effects. In conclusion, Pamlico exists today much as it always has with this being one of the major beauties and attractions of the area. Growth and change, however, have not completely passed the county by. Many new residents are coming to live and retire in the county. New and expanded services are being expected by county residents, and young people are as always seeking employment to allow them to remain in the county. The County is growing and existing conditions have and are continuing to improve. The potential of the County is excellent when the many substantial natural resources are combined with a population determined to improve its quality of life. 41 C. EXISTING LAND USE 42 EXISTING LAND USE Introduction In order to make proposals and projections for future land use it is first necessary to analyze existing land use patterns in an effort �o=nsistances to identifyor problems as they now exist. In the analysis of the Pamlico County existing land use a number of techniques were used. The windshield survey was of prime importance in gathering needed data along with the use of aerial photos, tax maps and records, and variety of census data. The mapping of existing land use was updated in March of 1980. 1980 land use is shown through the use of an overlay of the 1976 land use map. Category Color Code Urban and Built -Up Yellow Residential Red Commercial Violet Industrial Transportation, Communication Gray and Utilities Dark Blue Government and Institutional Cultural, Entertainment and Recreation Green Undeveloped Land White Agriculture Brown Hatched Forest Lands Green Hatched Water Light Blue Wetlands Light Blue Hatched Barren Brown Originally a complete set of maps at the scale of 1:400 was completed showing the land use in great detail. .This was also transferred to U.S.G.S. maps at the scale of 1:24,000. A copy of the existing land use map with 1980 update is shown on page 50. 43 In an effort to better analyze Pamlico County's land use patterns as they presently exist each township will be discussed as to the types of land use for that township separately and as a part - of the County. Pamlico County consists of five townships. The total acreage of the County is 364,400 with 151,000 acres being water and 213,400 being land. The major categories composing the 213,400 acres are: forestry 157,000, crops and pasture 33,500, marshland 19,000 and urbanized 2,900. Though Pamlico County does not have any major urban area within the County's boundaries there are a number of small towns and villages. There are thirteen small towns ranging from 1978 a population of 930 in Bayboro to 150 people in Minnesott Beach. The majority of urban oriented land use is clustered around the communities or stripped along Pamlico's primary highways between communities. The 1970 census listed 3,583 dwelling units in Pamlico County of which 509 were mobile homes. 623 seasonal dwelling units were scattered throughout the County. The 1980 Pamlico County Housing Element estimates 2,979 housing units in the County. 35.8% of these units lack one or more plumbing facility. Pamlico County is primarily a rural County with the majority of its land in production. Pamlico County depends primarily on agriculture, forestry and fishing as is evident by the percentage of land use equated with these activities. Pamlico County has a great deal of fragile land due to its large amount of shoreline and the lack of appreciable elevation throughout the County. Pamlico County has approximately 263 miles of primary and secondary roads which provide fair accessibility to the clusters of population. 44 The highest average daily traffic count in Pamlico County is on Highway 55 between Grantsboro and Alliance. This average daily count was a relatively low 4,500 in 1978, and average daily increase of 500 vehicles from 1974. The lack of north -south transportation has "haunted" the peninsula on which Pamlico County is located since the transition from water transportation to vehicular transportation. This fact continues to be a major "stumbling block" in the development of the County and the utilization of the County's assets. The matter overshadows any other transportation problem in the County to such an extent that it is the only major matter covered in the thoroughfare plan. The system of roads -is one of many factors which directly affects the development of urban type development in an area. Currently there are no major identifiable land use compatibility problems in Pamlico County outside of the overall problem of the envir- onmentally sensitive geographic location of the County. Residential dwellings in the County are predominantly single family with conventional septic tank systems. The compatibility of these systems with the surround- ing environment is very questiona tP in man areas due to poor soil conditions. Non point sources of pollution in addition to the septic systems are those associated with agricultural run off from fields and pastures, extensive mosquito drainage ditching, and high yield forestry practices. The extent to which each of these have contributed to the pollution of the Neuse River cannot be substantiated. These problems associated with relatively unplanned or poorly planned development are those found in many counties in eastern North Carolina. The problems stemming from unpaved roads in older subdivisions, poor drainage in subdivisions, and to a lesser degree, very mixed land uses in 45 some areas are relatively common to Pamlico County. The lack of significant population growth, however, has spared Pamlico County the major problems normally associated with unplanned growth and development. The predominant land use has not changed from forestry and agricul- ture and with minor exceptions is not expected to change during the next ten years.. Exceptions may occur in Minnesott Beach and Oriental which are becoming retirement communities and are continuing vacation areas. Residential development in Pamlico County has recently been limited to these areas. The only major change in the predominant land use expected in the future is the mining of phosphate which, though large deposits exist in the northern portion of the County, is not expected to occur during the planning period. Identifiable Areas of Environment Concern located in Pamlico County are estuarine waters, coastal wetlands, public trust areas, and estuarine shorelines. Existing land uses within AECs are generally compatible with development criteria of the Coastal Resources Commission. There are no existing major uses which directly conflict with the intent of-AECs. Current uses include those normally permitted through the various AEC criteria. TABLE 22 Existing Land Use Land Use Acres Percent Forestry 157,000 94.0 Crops & Pasture 33,000 15.7 Urban & Built -Up 2,900 1.4 Marshland 19,000 8.9 Total 213,000 100.0 46 Township No. 1 Township One is the western most township in Pamlico County and therefore the closest township to an urban center, New Bern. The Township extends from the northern to the southern limits of the County with the northern portion being forested pocosin. Scattered agricultural and residential development occurs south of Highway 55 with urban type uses located predominantly at the cross- roads at Grantsboro and in Reelsboro. In 1979, Township One had 763 permanent structure homes of which 124 were seasonal. There were also 141 mobile homes of which 15 were seasonal units. 1979 estimates indicate 593 dwelling units. Kennels Beach has the highest intensity seasonal population in the County. The township has a fair network of roads with two arteries, Highway 55 and 306 and secondary roads south of Highway 55. Most of the residential development occurs along the major highways and along the Neuse River in the southern portion of the County. Township No. 2 Township Two extends from the center of Pamlico County to the Pamlico Sound at the eastern limits of the County. The western half of the Township is forested pocosin and the eastern portion along the sound is marshland. There,is scattered agricultural activity among the four major communities of Township Two, Stonewall, Pamlico, Whortonsville, Florence and Merritt. The network of highways in the Township is not very extensive and serves primarily the area around Stonewall and to the south and east. 47 Residential development is concentrated mainly around Stonewall with other scattered locations. In 1970, Township Two had 395 permanent residences of which 71 were seasonal. There were 78 mobile homes and 25 of which were seasonal units. 1979 estimates indicate 451 dwelling units in the township. Township No. 3 Township Three is located in the north central portion of the county and contains the county seat, Bayboro and three other towns, Vandemere, Mesic, and Alliance. Alliance and Bayboro have generally contiguous boundaries and are stripped along most of the western portion of Highway 55 within the Township. These areas provide the majority of the commercial areas for not only the Township but for the entire County. This is also the primary area of governmental activity within the county since Bayboro is the county seat. Approximately two-thirds of the land area in the Township is forested pocosin in the northern part of the Township and shifts to agriculture in the south and finally developed land along the southern most area _ of the Township. The road system in the Township is good immediately north and south of Highway 55 with almost a total absence of state main- tained roads in the northern reaches of the Township. Residential development is located along the major road network concentrating in the four primary areas. There were 775 permanent structure homes in 1970 of which 39 were seasonal. Township Three had 92 mobile homes, 6 of which were seasonal units. 1979 estimates indicate 874 dwelling units in the Township. 48 Township No. 4 Township -Four is located in the northeastern corner of the County and is the most isolated of the townships, the majority being located on Goose.Creek Island. A portion of the Township is included in Goose Creek Wildlife Management Area in the west bounding the inter -coastal waterway on both sides. Approximately one-third of the Township, along • its eastern boundary, is marshland. The Township has two small villages, Hobucken and Lowland in which most of the urban type development, in- cluding residential development occurs. Township Four had 261 permanent structured residences in 1970, and 17 of which were seasonal. There were also 41 mobile homes of which 10 were seasonal. 1979 estimates indicate 316 dwelling units. The road system in the Township is poor providing a general lack of access. The quality of the living environment in the Township is very rural and centers around the water. Township No. 5 Township Five is located in the southeastern portion of the County and has a long shoreline of high banks on the Neuse River. The Township has some forestlands and a fairly large percentage of agriculture. The Township has a fairly good system of roads, and development has occurred around the three towns in the Township, Oriental, Minnesott Beach, and Arapahoe. The Township has the highest concentration of seasonal residences in the County. There were 239 permanent structured dwelling units in 1970, 88 of which were seasonal units. 1979 estimates indicate 745 units, a major increase in township housing units. The Township has an extensive water front with high bluffs and beaches. Most residential development in Pamlico County has in recent years occurred in Township Five. Oriental and Minnesott Beach have become small retirement centers. Seasonal residences also have a large influence in this township. 49 f + f t � 0 V N •to C F 0 R t (f w A. 0 t� _ v/ „» r 0 C 0 S •10 _ r E yw , ♦ 101 0 r list DAY pww 10. / lam;' n/ i1 O,w�. �• t � , �7 . w. Mww. ♦ >• ..,. r ...'• �t i _ . jTONE WALL •"' s ow SPY 1700 / �luw twt� i c R o u N ♦ P O C O S I N ol • AWWDR COON am SAM / cm .j us mmumn♦. w Z AMA y 30 taw a IJ co tad' "` r'frr r rr r+r r /i art trw V tow■ u■ , . �' �• ' 4 ur ' ust �ol j �� to PAMLICO COUNTY EXISTING LAND USE RESIDENTIAL ur COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL � um_ " � _ "" GOVERNMENT 6 INSTITUTIONAL AmW .• CULTURAL. ENTERTAINMENT / 6 RECREATION t , t.r • AGRICULTURE WATER WIS, Lug WETLAND PAMLICO COUN ' ,,\ NORTH CAROLINA =`fit . ;fir. , -- - •p ,.-' ,�_��, � ��• 1980 to 3M' To"s O C2 is PAMLIC.0 COUNTY NORTH .CAROLINA • D. CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES, AND REGULATIONS 52 CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES, AND REGULATIONS Local, State, and Federal Regulations, Plans and Policies Pamlico County has a variety of local ordinances, plans, and codes as well as being subject to State and Federal regulations. enforcement of these codes is handled by county, state, and federal authorities • depending on the type and origin of the regulations. SUMMARY OF EXISTING PLANS Plans & Policies The following plans and policies will be discussed in relation— ship to Pamlico County: A. transportation B. community facilities C. utilities extension policies D. open space policies E. recreation policies F. prior land use plan G. prior land use policies H. housing A) A thoroughfare plan for Pamlico County was adopted by Pamlico County, February, 1971. It was adopted by the North Carolina State Highway Commission, May, 1971. The Thoroughfare Plan shows existing and proposed minor collector roads. B) A water and sewer plan was prepared for Pamlico County by Paul M. Van Camp Associates, Inc. (1968). This Plan discusses the needs of the communities in the County.as well as the cost of the proposed facilities. Since this Plan has been completed, Bayboro and Oriental and their surrounding areas have completed 201 planning studies addressing the need and cost of waste water facilities. 53 Pamlico has also began operation of a countywide water system. This system will eventually serve the entire county; currently it serves approximately 500 users in the Bayboro, Alliance, and Stonewall area: The County began this service with the purchase of the Bayboro municipal water in December, 1979. Full operation of the first phase of the system is anti- cipated in the fall of 1980. The system will serve approximately 2,300 users at that time. The service is available for a tap on fee to all potential com- mercial and residential users with existing lines. Extensions to new areas (residential, commercial or industrial), will be considered individually, on a cost benefit analysis. C) A Community Facilities Plan was completed by the N.C. Division of Community Planning in 1970. This Plan is the only existing plan for community facilities in Pamlico County. D) "An Appraisal of Potentials for Outdoor Recreational Development in Pamlico County" was completed in 1974 by the U.S-. Soil Conservation Service. There are no open space or recreation policies for the County. E) The existing Pamlico County Land Use Plan was adopted in May of 1976 to comply with the Coastal Area Man- agement Act of 1974. Land use policies prior to that date did not exist. F) Pamlico County adopted a Housing Element in May of 1980. The element meets Federal requirements of U.S. 54 Department of Housing and Urban Development's Com- prehensive Planning Assistance "701" Program. LOCAL ORDINANCES AND MEANS OF ENFORCEMENT A) Zoning Ordinance: A zoning ordinance for Pamlico County was adopted in 1970. Towns in the. County r may come under the zoning ordinance if they desire. At this,,time the Towns of Stonewall and Vandemere adhere to the County zoning ordinance. These two towns are the only areas of the County where the ordinance is in affect. The County zoning admin- istrator (building inspector) enforces the zoning ordinance. B) Subdivision Regulations: The Board of County Commissioners approved the county subdivision re- gulations with an effective date of December 3, 1973 in accordance with the provisions of North Caro-. lina General Statutes Chapter 153, Article 20A. C) F_loodway Ordinance: There is no floodway ordinance in effect however, the County complies with the regulations of the National Flood Insurance Program. D) Building Inspection: Pamlico County enforces the North Carolina State Building Code. The code is enforced by the County Building Inspector. E) Septic Tank: .Septic tank regulations are enforced by the Pamlico County Health Department in compliance with the State of North Carolina regulations. 55 F) Pamlico County has no ordinances, codes, or regulations, or exercises any enforcement powers relevant to historic districts, nuisance, dune protection, sedimentation,. or environmental impact. FEDERAL AND STATE REGULATIONS This list has been compiled by NRCD and is available for inspec- tion in the Departments Field Office in Washington, N.C. 56 E. CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY 57 Physical Limitation to Development Man -Made Hazard Area There is only one man-made hazard area in Pamlico County. This area, located at Brent Island is a bombing target area for the US Marine Corps Air Station at Cherry Point in Craven County. Natural Hazard Areas Pamlico has two major categories of hazard areas within the County. These two categories are areas of excessive erosion and coastal flood plains. Although these are the only two categories of hazard areas found in Pamlico County they are very extensive and effect a major part of the County. Excessive Erosion Areas These areas are defined as the land area extending from the mainland - water interface, landward to a prediction line indicating the probable Y shoreline 100 years hence. Development within these areas are subject to the damaging process of erosion unless special development standards and preventive measures are employed. The objective of these special standards will be to insure that development occurring.within the 100- year erodibility line is compatible with the dynamic nature of the erodible lands thus minimizing the likelihood of significant loss of property. Pamlico County has 348 miles of bay and estuary shoreline and no ocean shoreline. The 348 miles is further divided into beach shoreline with 51 miles and non -beach shoreline with 297 miles. There are 30 miles of critical and 24 miles of non -critical erosive shorelines. The remaining 294 miles is classified as non -eroding shoreline. 58 The vast majority of the 348 miles of shoreline is undeveloped. There nre only two miles clnsnifird nA public recrentton, ten miles of private recreation, 24 miles of non -recreational development and the remaining 312 miles as undeveloped. The areas subject to erosion in Pamlico County are limited to the shoreline of the Neuse River and portions of creeks and streams extending southeast from Kennels Beach around Wilkinson Point then northeast to a point approximately halfway between .Janiero and Oriental, then continuing from a point just west of Coddle Creek to a point just west of Broad Creek. The positions of the shoreline from Wilkinson Point northeast are generally low and also subject to flooding while the shoreline southwest of the Wilkinson Point area are high banked shorelines dropping off sharply where the land meets the water. Coastal Flood Plains - Coastal flood plains are defined as the.land areas adjacent to coastal sounds, estuaries or the ocean which are prone to flooding from storms with an annual probability of one percent or greater (100 year storm). These areas are analogous to the 100 year flood plain on a river. They are subject to wave action as well as flooding during severe storms or hurricanes. These are lands where uncontrolled, incompatible, or improperly designed buildings, structures, facilities, and development can unreasonably endanger life and property. Generally these areas are not subject to severe erosion or dynamic action unless they lie directly adjacent to an estuary or the ocean. The objective of establishing policies in these areas is to insure that all buildings, structures, facilities, and developments are properly designed and built M to maintain their stability, integrity, and safety in the event of flood surge from a 100 year storm. ` 59 Pamlico County has a very large portion of its land area classi- fied as subject to coastal flooding. Although the detailed flood prone { maps for Pamlico County are not available, as yet, preliminary infor- mation indicates that all lands lying below 14 feet mean sea level are subject to flooding from a 100 year frequency flood. The majority of the land lying east of Highway 306 which marks the extent of a previous seashore lies below 14 feet.mean sea level and is subject to inundation during periods of flooding. There is a minor area of flooding west of this ancient duneline along upper Board Creek and Goose Creek. This area extends from the Neuse River northward almost to Highway 55 and is subject to coastal flooding. It is evident that an extensive amount of land area in Pamlico County must be subject to some type of standards which will reduce the risk to life and property damage in these hazard areas. This f would not eliminate development or use of these areas; however, it would require that the potential.for danger is recognized and appropriate steps be taken to minimize possible damage resulting from either coastal flooding or erosional activities. Soils Soils are probably the most important natural feature to consider in determining the best use of land. Soil characteristics such as percolation rate, shrink -swell ration, load -bearing potential, drainage, and slope obviously determine and affect the use and manage- ment of land. The Soil Conservation Service has grouped the soils in the County into seven soil associations. The soils that constitute an association are similar in origin, color, and structure. However, they may differ slightly in drainage, slope and other characteristics that may affect soil management. Each soil's association normally consists of one or more major r, 4 soils and at least one minor soil, and is named for the major soil in the order of their dominance in the association. Soil interpretations based on the generalized soils map are shown with the Appendix. The table gives the suitability of the principal soils for general agricultural and forest uses. In addition, it also indicates the limitations of soils when used for non -farm purposes, such as campsites, picnic areas, intensive play areas, dwellings with septic'tank absorption fields or sewage systems, and foundation for light industries and roads. The table reveals that most of the soils in Pamlico County present moderate to severe limitations for most non -farm uses. As a result, careful attention must be exercised in selecting areas of the County for future development. A general description of the seven soil associations in Pamlico County is contained in the Appendix. A progressive soil survey program was initiated in.the County in January of 1978. The US.Soil Conservation Services should be consulted for detailed soil information. 61 Source of Water Supply Pamlico County is underlaid by about 3,500 feet of sediment ranging in age from cretaceous to recent. These sediments that are eocene age and younger will be considered here due to the belief that older formations contain relatively highly mineralized water and not considered as current sources of ground water supply. The Castle Hayne limestone is a highly productive artesian aquifer in Pamlico County and the principle source of water supply. This aquifer ranges from 200 to 400 feet in thickness and is com- posed of indurated shell limestone, domestic shell limestone, and beds of calcareous sand. Domestic wells, penetrating only a few feet of the aquifer, yield 20 to 50 gallons per minute, and large diameter commercial wells yield several hundred gallons per minute with very little drawdown. The Yorktown aquifer overlying the Castle Hayne contains inter- bedded sands, marls, and clays. The sands and marls yield moderate quantities of water and small diameter wells that are generally ade- quate for domestic use. The shell beds found at various horizons in the aquifer provide most of the water withdrawn from the aquifer. The non -artesian aquifer is most extensively used as a source of water supply in the western part of the County. The surficial sands reach their greatest thickness in this area of higher elevation, and provide an adequate source of supply for shallow dug or, driven domestic wells. This aquifer is used less extensively as it changes in lithology to include a greater percentage of clay along the beach ridge on the Pamlico terrace. 62 Water Quality - The chemical quality of water from the Castle Hayne aquifer is very similar to that of the overlying Yorktown aquifer. Both contain water that is characteristically hard, have a PH in the range of 7.2 to 8.2 and in which the iron content ranges from .06 to .05 parts per million. The chloride content in water from both the Castle Hayne and the Yorktown aquifer is low, falling generally in the range of 10 to 40 parts per million. At depths exceeding 300 feet, water from the Castle Hayne aquifer contained very small amounts of chloride. The relatively low chloride content of the water at this depth in Pamlico County pro- bably reflects the close proximity to the recharge area of the aquifer, the high permeability of the aquifer and the height of the piezometric surface about sea level, all of which would contribute to the flushing of residual seawater from the aquifer or retarded seawater encroach- ment. Higher concentrations of chloride occur in the water of the York- town in areas adjacent to bodies of brackish or saline water. Water from the Castle Hayne aquifer, in the eastern part of the County, emits a strong odor of hydrogen sulfide. Water from the shallow, non -artesian aquifer is generally soft and free of odor. It commonly contains up to three parts per million iron and is usually slightly acid and corrosive. The water in this aquifer was found to be free of chloride contamination in the inland areas. Along the coast, however, where the aquifer is hydraulically connected with the brackish water of the sound and rivers and subject to inundation by high storm tides, chloride concentrations are higher. 63 Water Use - Presently all water supplies in Pamlico County is developing a water system to serve the entire County. The system presently serves 500 users and will expand to approximately 2,300 users by the fall of 1980. The system will have 6 wells into the Castle Hayne aquifer. These wells will produce 2650 gallons per minute. Users other than those on the water system must rely on private wells. Public System at Minnesott Beach - The Town of Minnesott Beach purchased a private water system serving a newly developing portion of the Town. The town will continue to expand the existing system to serve all residents of the Town. This existing water system consists of 75,000 gallons elevated storage tank, 18,600 feet of 8", 6", and 3" diameter mains and valves. Also included are 18 fire hydrants, chlorination equipment, and a jet pump with a capacity of 240 gallons per minute. The proposed expansion would include another well and site, water softening equipment and housing, and nine fire hydrants. Extension of mains would include 3,200 feet of 8" mains, 3,800 feet of 6" mains, and 60 service lines. Topography and General Elevation Pamlico County is typical of most eastern North Carolina Counties in that the topography for the most part is flat and generally lacks much elevation. The land east of Highway 306, which marks the shoreline of the historic Pamlico Sea, is almost totally subject to inundation by 64 a 100 year frequency flood. This area represents almost two-thirds of the County with riverine flooding occurring to some extant west of this line. The County also has the problem of three major areas of pocosin or upland swamps in the north, northwest and center of the County. Although these ^seas have elevations in some cases up to 43 feet mean sea level these areas are wet and swampy most of the year. There is only one minor portion of the County which has any appreciable slope. This area is located in the southern and western portions of Township Five and in this southeastern portion of Township One. This area ranges in elevation from a few feet up to 42 feet just west of Arapahoe. This area is somewhat unique for area along the Neuse in that the banks drop off in a steep slope from around 20 feet down to the water line. This area offers a somewhat unique terrain for a coastal county as well as having a high potential for development due to its elevation and the proximity to the Neuse River. In contrast to the aforementioned area the eastern portion of Pamlico County is characterized by flat marshlands with very slight elevations. These areas are subject to continuous flooding and due to their general lack of elevation are only suitable natural areas for vegetation and land and aquatic animals. Pamlico County's general lack of appreciable elevation and the extensive amount of marshland and upland swamps make Pamlico County typical among coastal eastern North Carolina counties. 65 For the most part the lack of sufficient slope is the major problem in Pamlico County due to the prohibitive effect on natural drainage. Only a small portion of the County is well drained. These well -drained areas are mostly confined to areas that border streams, particularly along the Neuse River where the slope of the land is most pronounced. Most of the County is artificially drained by small, open ditches - which. flow into canals or into natural out- lets. For the most part, artificial drainage has been tied to either agricultural or health department programs for mosquito control. Poor drainage is an inhibiting factor in the development potential of Pamlico County. Natural drainage is inadequate due to the level characteristics of the terrain in certain areas of the County. These areas should be utilized for forestry, wildlife, and recreation purposes. 66 Fragile Areas Coastal Wetlands Coastal Wetlands are defined as any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through natural or artificial watercourses), provided this shall not include hurricane or tropical storm tides. Coastal wetlands contain some, but not necessarily all, of the following marsh plant species: (1) Cord Grass (Spartina alterniflora) (2) Black Needlerush (Juncus roemerianus) (3) Glasswort (Salicornia spp.) (4) Salt Grass (Distichlis spicata) (5) Sea Lavender (Limonium spp.) (6) Bulrush (Scirpus spp.) (7) Saw Grass (Cladium jamaicense) (8) Cat -tail (Typha spp.) (9) Salt Meadow Grass (Spartina patens) (10) Salt Read Grass (Spartina patens) Included in this definition of coastal wetlands is "such conti- guous land as the Secretary of NR&CD reasonably deems necessary to affect by any such order in carrying out the purposes of this Section." (G.S. 113-230 (a)). Pamlico has a great deal of land area along creeks, rivers and the sound which are considered as marshlands and designated as Areas of Environmental Concern. Altogether, Pamlico County has approximately 60,019 acres of both low tidal and upland marshland. The majority of these marshlands are 67 located in northeastern Pamlico County adjacent to the Pamlico Sound although marshland is found along most creeks and rivers in the County. Marshlands play an important role in the coastal environment. In most cases those marshlands do not possess attractiveness for develop- ment. It is important to the overall coastal environment if these areas are retained in their natural state and allowed to perform their natural functions. Estuarine Waters Estuarine waters are defined in'G. S. 113A-113 (b) (2) as "all the water of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary•of"North Carolina and all the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and -tributaries there- to seaward of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and in- land fishing waters, as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wild- life Resources Commission and the Department of Natural Resources and Community Development filed with the Secretary of State, entitled 'Boundary Lines, North Carolina Commercial Fishing -- Inland Fishing Waters', Revised to March 1, 1965." Water classified as estuarine in Pamlico are identified as follows: Pamlico River (1) . . . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below N. & S RR bridge at Washington Lower Goose Creek (2) . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine waters below a line from Pasture Point to Long Neck Point. Dixons Creek (3) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Patons Creek (4) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Wilson Creek (5) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Eastham Creek (6) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters - waters below Watson Fishhouse Upper Spring Creek (7) . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below N.C. 304 Bridge Oyster Creek (8) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Clark Creek (9) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Middle Prong (10) . . . . . . Estuarine Waters James Creek (11) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters - Pamlico Sound (12) . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Porpoise Creek (13) . . . . . Estuarine Waters Drum Creek (14) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Bay Creek (15) Estuarine Waters Gale Creek (16). . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Chadwick Creek (17) . . . . . Estuarine Waters Bear Creek (18) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Vandemere Creek (19) . . . . . Estuarine Waters below N.C. 304 Bridge, Inland Waters above Trent Creek (25) . . . . . . . Inland Water above, Estuarine r Waters below Thomas Creek Masons Creek (26) . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Moore Creek (27) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Rices Creek (28) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Ball Creek (29) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Cabin Creek (30) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Riggs Creek (31) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Spring Creek (32) . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Greens Creek (33) . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Neuse River (34) . . . . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below Pitch Kettle Swan Creek (35) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Lower Broad Creek (36) . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below Old Mill Site 69 Greens Creek (37) . . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Pittman Creek (38) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Burton Creek (39) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters - Brown Creek (40) . . . .. Estuarine Waters Spices Creek (41) . . . . . . . .'Estuarine Waters Gideon Creek (42) . . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Tar Creek (43) . . . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Parris Creek (44) . . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Orchard Creek (45) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Pierce Creek (46) . . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Whitaker Creek (47) . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Smith Creek (48) . . . . . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below a point one mile above mouth Greens Creek (49) . . . . . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below a point one mile _ above mouth Kershaw Creek (50). . . . . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine - Waters below a point one mile ` above mouth Dawson Creek (51) . . . . . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below a point three- quarters mile above mouth Tarkiln Creek (52) .. Inland Waters Gatlin Creek (53) . . . . . . . . Inland Waters Little Creek (54) Inland Waters Mill Creek (55) Inland Waters - Beard Creek (56) Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below a point three-quarters • mile above north Lower Duck Creek (57) . . . . . . Inland Waters Goose Creek (58) . . . . . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below the Narrows fP Upper Broad Creek (59) Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below Flatty Creek Flatty Creek (60) . . . . . . . . Inland Waters Long Creek (20) Inland Waters _ Smith Creek (21) Estuarine Waters .Chapel Creek (22) . . . . . . . . Inland Waters above, Estuarine Waters below N.C. 304 Bridge Raccoon Creek (23) . . . . . . Estuarine Waters Neals Creek (24) . . . . . . . . Estuarine Waters A nunber of Federal, State and Local projects and or studies are currently impacting on the waters and surrounding areas of Pamlico County. Among these are the Upper Bay River Watershed project, which includes 50,000 acres, 81.6 miles of channels, and a 3.7 mile dike, Neuse River. to New Bern, Smiths Creek, and Hobucken Bridge. These studies or projects should be consulted when considering constraints to development in these ` areas. The definitions stated in this section, both those given previously and those which follow are State/Federal definitions. Pamlico County does not necessarily agree with all criteria or conditions of each circumstance. This is especially true with the following definition of public trust waters. These definitions are included in this plan in an effort to provide a general statement of constraints as most likely interpreted by state and federal permitting and regulating agencies. 71 Public Trust Areas Public trust areas are all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction; all natural bodies of water subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high water mark; all navigable natural bodies of water and lands there- under to the mean high water level or mean water level as the case may be, except privately -owned lakes to which the public has no right of access; all water in artificially.created bodies of water contain- ing significant public fishing resources or other public resources which are accessible to the public by navigation from bodies of water in which the public has rights of navigation; and all waters in artificially created bodies of water in which the public has acquired rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other means. In determining whether the public has acquired rights in artificially created bodies of water, the following factors shall be considered: 1. the use of the body of water by the public. 2. the length of time the public has used the area, 3. the value of public resources in the body of water, 4. whether the public resources in the body of water are mobile to the extent that they can move into natural bodies of water, 5. whether the creation of the artificial body of water required permission from the state, and 6. the value of the body of water to the public for navigation from one public area to another public area. 72 Pamlico County has a great deal of water area which would be categorized as public trust waters. The County has 348 miles of bay and estuarine shoreline and numerous navigable streams and creeks within the County. There are 29 bays, rivers, creeks and streams which make up the public trust waters in Pamlico County. These waters are generally tidal and contain warm water. The use is generally restricted to fishing and boating except in the rivers; bays, and sounds. The recreational use for sportfishing or boating in these waters is very important to the County and area. Commercial fishing in the bays and rivers is also very important while the creeks and streams provide spawning for both shell and finfish. Estuarine Shorelines Estuarine shorelines are those non -ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water and are intimately connected to the estuary. This area extends from the mean high water level or normal water level along the estuaries, sounds, bays, and brickish waters as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife Resource Commission and the Depart- ment of Natural Resources and Community Development (described in Regulation .0206 (a) of this Section) for a distance of 75 feet land- ward. The entire shoreline in Pamlico County with exception of a few isolated areas where minor cliffs exist is subject to flooding. Erosion areas in Pamlico County are defined on page 59. 73 Ocean Hazard Areas Ocean Hazard Areas are considered natural hazard areas along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline where, because of their special vulnerability to erosion or other adverse effects of sand, wind, and water, uncon- trolled or incompatible development could unreasonably endanger life or property. Ocean hazard areas include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas in which geologic, vegetative and soil conditions indicate a substantial possibility of excessive erosion or flood damage. There are no ocean hazard areas in Pamlico County. Coastal Areas That Sustain Remnant Species Coastal areas that sustain remnant species are those areas that support native plants or animals determined to be rare or endangered (synonymous with threatened and endangered), within the coastal area. Such places provide habitats necessary for the survival of existing population or communities of.rare or endangered species within the coastal area. Determination will be made by the commission based upon the listing adopted by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission or the federal government listing; upon written reports or testimony of experts indicating that a species is rare or endangered within the coastal area; and upon consideration of written testimony b; of local government officials, interest groups, and private land owners. No areas containing remnant species have been identified in Pamlico County. 74 Complex Natural Areas Coastal complex natural areas are defined as lands that support native plant and animal communities and provide habitat qualities which have remained essentially unchanged by human activity. Such areas may be either significant components of coastal systems or especially notable habitat areas of scientific, educational, or aesthetic value. They may be surrounded by landscape that has been modified but does not drastically alter conditions within the natural area. Large pocosin areas in Pamlico County should be considered complex natural areas. The two largest and most.significant are the Bay City Pocosin located north of NC Highway 55 between the western county line, Goose Creek Island, and Beaufort County and the Light Ground Pocosin in central Pamlico County between Minnesott Beach and Bayboro. These pocosin areas should be considered fragile and should only be used on a limited basis by select farming and forestry operations. Any mining of the large peat deposits located in these pocosin areas should be performed with strict compliance to relevant environmental regulations. Unique Coastal Geologic Formations Unique coastal geologic formations are defined as sites that contain geologic formations that are unique or otherwise significant components of coastal systems, or that are especially notable examples of geologic formations or'processes in the coastal area. Such areas will be evaluated by the commission after identification by the State Geologist. The only potentially unique geologic formation in Pamlico County is located on Benner's Plantation in the Dawson Creek area. The site contains pleistocene marine invertibrate fossils and feuestrial vertibrate fossils. 75. Significant Coastal Historic Architectural Resources Significant coastal historic architectural resources are defined as districts, structures, buildings, sites or objects that have at least local significance to history or architecture. The only identified site with more than local significance in Pamlico County is the China Grove House located one-half mile east of Dawson's Creek Bridge on State Road 1302. This house was constructed in 1790 and is a frame centerhall plan house with -it gable roof incorporating double tiered porches. A recent survey by the North Carolina Department of Archives and History identifies architectural sites of local significance. This survey should be consulted for detailed information. 76 F. CONSTRAINTS• Capacity of Community Facilities 77 CAPACITY OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES Water and Sewer Pamlico County is currently establishing a water system to serve the entire County. The system will service approximately 2,300 users by the fall of 1980. The County system began in late 1979 with the purchase of the Bayboro municipal system. This system will be capable of meeting all water needs in Pamlico presently existing and estimated during the planning period. A completed description of design capabilities of the system is available from the Pamlico County Water Department. Sewer Major existing waste treatment facilities in Pamlico County are limited to the County Courthouse system and the systems operated by the School system. Pamlico Courthouse system: Design capacity: .003MGD Current flow: .0025 MGD Receiving stream: Bay River (SC) Treatment: extended aeration, cholorination Adequacy: adequate % Utilization: 83% No other major facilities exist in Pamlico County. 201 Facility Plans have been prepared for Bayboro and Oriental but not implemented. P These plans should be consulted for specific waste water treatment information. The Pamlico County Board of Education should be contacted for specific data concerning school sewer systems. 78 Schools The Pamlico County Board of Education operates four schools within.the County at the present time. The Pamlico County School System had a total enrollment of 2,297 students during the 1975-76 school year. The school system capacity is 2,350. All schools serve the entire county for their respective grades with exception of one elementary school. Table 23 on the following pages gives more detailed information on school populations. 79 TABLE 23 Existing School Information 1969-70 Site Class- Enroll- Cons. _Name Location Size Grades rooms Capacity ment Date Arapahoe Elementary . Arapahoe 15 ac. K-8 12 300 241 1918 Fred A. Anderson 1 temporary Elementary Bayboro 70 ac** K-4 26 702 657 1967 Pamlico Grammar Stonewall 20 ac. 5-9 38 900 859 1952 Pamlico County 5 temporary High Bayboro 70 ac** 10-12 27 400 540 1951 Science Special Name Gym Auditorium Cafeteria Laboratory Library Classrooms Speech (1) ' Arapahoe Music (1) Elementary Yes No Yes No Yes Reading (1) Fred A. Audio - Anderson No Yes Yes No Yes Visual (1) Elementary Bandroom (1) Pamlico Special Ed. (3) Grammar Yes No Yes Yes (1) Yes Speech, Read. (1) Yes (1) Pamlico County (3 additional Shops (3) High Yes Yes Yes equipped Yes Bandroom (1) classrooms *Excluding use of temporary classrooms **Combination site size for both schools ***Excluding libraries, laboratories, special classrooms, etc. SOURCE: Principal of each school and Superintendent of County Schools. NEI Road System Pamlico County does not have an extremely well developed primary or secondary road system. Highways 55, 304, and 306 form the.primary road . network for the County. As of January, 1978, there were a total of 187.79 miles of paved roads and 75.03 miles of unpaved roads in the County. This included 47.53 miles of rural primary roads. Access to the County is limited due to the confluence of the Neuse and Pamlico Rivers into the Pamlico Sound. The major access is by Highway 55 which runs east -west from New Bern to Bayboro where it turns to.the south and terminates in Oriental. The secondary road system of Pamlico County.is also not well developed due to the quality of land in certain portions of the County as well as the sparce population. The secondary road system is made up of 119.35 miles of paved rural secondary road and 71.9 miles of unpaved rural secondary roads. The secondary road system is most densely developed around the growth centers ' of the County. The road system for the County is not well developed although it is considered adequate to serve both existing and projected development in the County. Access is a primary factor which limits the potential of Pamlico County and it would be very expensive to span the Neuse and Pamlico Rivers to improve egress and ingress to Pamlico County. Should these bridges be built, the thoroughfare plan calls for the rerouting and four-laning of Highway 306. Currently, the most highly used section of road in Pamlico County is along Highway 55 between Grantsboro and Alliance with an average - drily traffic count of 4,500. This is well within the design capacity of this road. 81 G. ESTIMATED DEMAND 82 %4 Population and Economy Ten Year Population Estimate it The Department of Administration figures for future population in Pamlico County are based on past trends with annual up -dates. The County population has decreased since 1940 and has only recently stablized. The Department of Administration projected 1990 population for 1990 is 9,700. The County population in 1970 was 9,467 and was estimated at 9,500 in 1979 by Department of Administration. The County agrees with this population estimate and no circumstances are foreseen which would substantiate any change in the eventual reality of this projection. Seasonal Population Seasonal population in Pamlico County during peak periods represents no more than 10 to 20 percent of the total county population. The seasonal population is not expected to increase more than 5 to 10 percent during the next ten years due to the limited areas where seasonal population can be accommodated without endangering the environment. Foreseeable Social and Economic Change No major changes in the social or economic structure of Pamlico County are anticipated. The major income producers of Agriculture, Forestry, and commerical fishing will continue in that order. Income levels should rise and Pamlico County with an addition of limited industry will continue to increase in ranking of income levels as com- pared to other North Carolina Counties. 83 The main basic industry is, and shall continue to be, seafood processing with timber products being second. Farm products added to these cover most of the County's exports and constitute the basic industries. Present cost of farm production will place more and more pressures for farm consolidation. Although the trend is toward fewer farm workers because of mechanization the income from farming will Y increase due to the necessity to meet the world's increasing need for food. Although phosphate lands have been purchased by mining companies these are reserves that are not expected to be mined in the next fifty years. A local labor supply is increasing with the displacement of farm workers due to mechanization. However, before the local labor pool can be utilized certain obstacles must be overcome. Two prime deterrents to industrial development in Pamlico County are apparent. These deterrents are: 1) lack of sewer facilities 2) lack of north -south transportation route Bayboro has constructed a public water system and is in a 201 wastewater treatment planning area along with Alliance, Stonewall, Vandemere, and portions of Mesic. Oriental has completedconstruction of a public water system and Minnesott Beach also operates a water system. Ferries are now operating across the Pamlico and Neuse Rivers giving Pamlico County a north -south route. Hopefully, enough usage will merit a bridge across these two rivers giving even better access to and from Pamlico County. These systems should in time assist in strengthening the economy of the County. 84 Another important segment of Pamlico County's economy is its tourist trade. The water resources of Pamlico County are a great recreational attraction. There are five summer camps in operation in the County located along the water. There were 623 seasonal dwelling units in Pamlico County in 1970, which were predominantly owned by non - county residents. These visitors bring outside money into the County and help stimulate the local economy. It is expected that an even greater number of tourists will come to Pamlico County in the future with the possibility of some settling permanently in the area. The influx of new people, even seasonally, must be planned for.if they are to benefit from the County to the fullest extent. Water and sewer facilities needs must be anticipated and subdivisions must be developed properly if the natural resources of Pamlico County are to be conserved. Non -intensive recreation is Pamlico County's main attraction and should continue to stimulate the County's economy. Future Land Needs Population projections for Pamlico County indicate only minor population growth over the next ten years. However, inter -county population shifts are occurring with the migration of the County's younger citizens away from the area, and migration of water oriented tourists and retirees into the areas of highest water recreational potential. Although there are no areas designated developed, transition areas have been designated by the County. These areas are necessary to accomodate the present and future population. This is due to generally poor soils for septic tanks in an area where water and sewer facilities are most feasible. 85 The County's transition area will be the only area change from its existing land use pattern. As noted above this will be from a health and environmental standpoint rather than a large population increase.. Current land use patterns, and population and development . densities are expected to continue. The County population estimate in 1977 of 29 people per square mile in 1977 is not expected to increase. Community Facilities Demand Because of a no growth population projection, the ten-year populations were not used to determine facilities demand. Water and sewer needs were based on generally poor soils for septic tanks, a high water table, and a need for a more potable source of water. The County has addressed the water problem through the establishment of a county wide water system. This system which began with the pur- chase of the Bayboro municipal system will eventually service most water users in the County. Sewer needs in Pamlico County can be met through implementation of the Bayboro 201 Facility Plan which.includes the towns of Alliance, Bayboro, Stonewall, Vandemere, and Mesic, and surrounding Pamlico County (see map page gg ). No other new facilities will be required to meet future population demands in Pamlico County. 86 v BAYBORO FACILITY PLANNING AREA u p r ,t �t ,n. i R p x• _� 1 s e 0 0 "> O S / ,y I P MOIIWRIE, N A Y C 1 T Y� o .» b� ta. u» •M 1 a �+. ; �•r a '�!�'� ,v rr W ..M •�. .M 'i,t AU LANa i .. moammmm®m®®o, � iew . t 'V R O (. N O FOLLOW Pamlico/Beaufort Co Line East Long 760 37.5' South Lai 350 7' West Long 760 52.5' North FROM Int. Pamlico/Beaufort Co Line and Long 76 52.5' Pamlico/Beaufort Co Line Long 760 37.5' Lat 350 7' USA .11.tn . w 1972 STATE OF NC HIGHWAY MAP TO Long 760 37.51 Lat 350 7' Long 760 52.5' Point of Beginning H. LAND CLASSIFICATION RM Description of Land Classification System The land classification system for the coastal area and Pamlico County consists of five classes listed as follows: (1) Developed (A) Purpose. The purpose of the developed class is to provide for continued intensive development and redevelopment of existing cities. (B) Description. Areas to be classified developed include lands currently developed for urban purposes at or approaching a density of 500 dwellings per square mile that are provided with usual municipal or public services including at least public water, sewer, recreational facilities, police and fire protection. Areas which exceed the minimum density but which do not have public sewer service may best be divided into a separate class to indicate that although they have a developed character, they will need sewers in the future. w (2) Transition (A) Purpose. The purpose of the transition class is to provide for future intensive urban development within the ensuing ten years on lands that are most suitable and that will be scheduled for provision of necessary public utilities and services. The transition lands also provide for additional growth when additional lands in the developed class are not available or when they are severely limited for development. .e (B) Description. (i) Lands to be classified transition may include: (1) lands currently having urban services, and (2) other land necessary to accommodate the urban population and economic growth anticipated within the planning jurisdiction over the ensuing ten year period. (ii) Lands classified transition to help meet the demand for developable anticipated population and economic growth must: (1) be served or be readily served by public water, sewer, and other urban services includ- ing public streets, and (2) be generally free of severe plysical limitations for urban development. In addition, the Transition class should not include: (1) lands of high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction, or land falling within extensive rural _ areas being managed commercially for these uses, when other lands are available; (2) lands where urban development might result in major or irreversible damage to important environmental scientific, or scenic values or (3) land where urban development might result in damage to natural systems or processes of more than •local concern. Lands where development will result in undue risk to life or property from natural hazards (including inlet hazard areas and ocean erodible areas as defined in 15 NCAC 7E) or existing land uses shall not be classified transitions. 91 (iii) If any designated area of environmental concern is classified transition, an explanation shall be included stating why the area is felt to be appropriate for high density development. (iv) In determining the amount of additional transition lands necessary to meet projected urban population and economic growth, the county may utilize estimates of average future urban population density that are based upon local land policy, existing patterns and trends of urban development within the county, and densities specified in local zoning, if any; an estimate of additional Transition class lands should be based upon a guideline density of 2,000 persons or 500 dwellings per square mile. (3) Community (A) Purpose. The purpose of the community class is to provide for clustered land development to help meet housing, shopping, employment, and public service needs within the rural areas of the county. (B) Description. Lands to be classified community are those areas within the rural areas of planning jurisdictions characterized by a small grouping of mixed land uses, (residences, general store, church,.school, etc.), and which are suitable and appropriate for small clusters of rural development not requiring municipal sewer service. 92 I (4) Rural (A) Purpose. The purpose of the rural class is to provide for agriculture, forest management, mineral extraction and other low intensity uses. Residences may be located within "rural" areas where urban services are not required and where natural resources will not be permanently impaired. (B) Description. Lands that can be identified as appropriate for resource management and allied uses include lands with high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction; lands with one or more limitations that would make development costly and hazardous; and lands containing irreplaceable, limited, or significant natural, recreational, or scenic resources not otherwise classified. (C) Pamlico County will also allow subdivision development within rural class lands. Subdivision development will be contracted through the strict enforcement of the County subdivision ordinance and state health regulations. (5) Conservation (A) Purpose. The purpose of the conservation class is to provide for effective long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas. This management may be needed because of its natural, cultural,.recreational, productive or scenic values. These areas should not be identified as transition lands in the future. 93 (B) Description. The conservation class should be applied to lands that contain: major wetlands; essentially undeveloped shorelands that are unique, fragile, or hazardous for development; necessary wild -life habitat or areas that have a high probability for providing necessary habitat conditions; publicly owned watersupply watersheds and aquifers;.and forest lands that are undeveloped and will remain undeveloped for commercial purposes. (C) Pamlico County will allow development within conservation class lands to insure public access. Examples of this type will include boat ramps, docks, power easements, etc. 94 Projected Description by Township The following is the next ten year policy for the land classification for development by township for Pamlico County and a map of the described areas is found on page 50. The ten year population projection is not utilized as the basis for determining land demand for land classification since no growth is projected. Lands classed Transition, Community and Rural were based on local objectives and environmental requirements. Township I The land in Townhsip I should remain predominantly rural. There are no developed or transition areas; however, there are areas of community designation. These communities and their approximate acreages are: Olympia 162.0 Reelsboro 306.0 Grantsboro 216.0 Kennel's Beach 43.2 Conservation areas are those marshlands situated along the Upper Broad Creek and its mouth along the Neuse River, Goose Creek, and Beard's Creek. These areas are also Areas of Environmental Concern. All the estuarine waters, creeks and Neuse River adjoining Township I lands and an area of erosion along the Neuse River near the mouth of Beard's Creek are classified as conservation land. Township II Township II land will remain predominantly rural. There are no areas of developed classification and one area of transition. This area of transition is along Highway 55 (10 acres) leading into Stonewall and in Stonewall (91.80 acres) along a portion of State Road 1337. This total area is approximately 100.9 acres and has been designa- ted transition because water and sewer facilities are needed from a health standpoint. Soils are very poorly suited for septic tanks. 95 �• •w to •:.. ��,: •J �`, :;,,•': •o • • coos css *wM C-3 .. ... ......... X, 0 �OUYVILLE = 6 P U C O S I.\' B A Y C!- T Y ' ,a n++ • 1 ;V ERE Ta 8I w - 'at a1v V s�w• _Sw fig. .3114_._. • , ' �V < 1. ~�''••ad� /-.i" .Yl ♦ �• SAY60R0 'a a. - ti" ,+s s•^ '�' M •� ,yiar►.• a .\ ••4STONE All , - »+ ,. '•s •w •ar+4. _ • / u •�as.. ;. n� " �^ h- ALLIANCE i,q�gi•„n Z •��, -• r., j , - •+w, roa sn ww'.1� �f. ,.� - a j 3 `' un r W 1 • .U^ \ 0• '/`/ "'ice .. a h�Ai yin' w cry � 13-tl• - : PAMLICO COUNTY P O C 0 S I N "• ' �+3 n FUTURE LAND USE ���� u +• �'f`� J'.. TRANSITION %// COMMUNITY 7.RURAL, (White) l dwX. / t •- CONSERVATION ARA►AHOE , WATER ` -- - .. : a- PAMLICO COUNTY \---- - / r. •�� ,=' ( NORTH CAROLINA The four acres designated communities and their approximate acre- ages are: Florence 270.0 Pamlico 46.8 Whortonsville 158.4 Merritt 144.0 Conservation areas will be the marshlands along the Neuse and Bay Rivers and the marshlands along their creeks. These areas are also designated -Areas of Environmental Concern. Other conservation areas in Township II are the estuarine waters of the Neuse and Bay Rivers, their creeks, and the areas of erosion along the Neuse River. Township III The land of Township III will also remain predominantly rural. There are no developed areas; however, this is the largest area of transi- tion in the County and is located in Township III. This area (actually two adjoining areas) is Bayboro and Alliance. This transition area is approximately 171.23 acres in Alliance and 181.35 acres in Bayboro for a total of 352.58 acres. This area has been designated transition because water and sewer facilities are needed from a health standpoint due to the population density and poor soil. Soils in these areas are generally not suited for septic tanks. These three areas and their acreages designated community in the Township are: Maribel 208.8 Vandemere 234.0 Mesic 522.0 Conservation areas in Township III are those marshlands along the Bay River and its creeks and these marshlands around Jones Bay. These con- servation areas are Areas of Environmental Concern. 97. Township IV There will be no developed or transition classification designa- ted in Township IV. Two community classifications and their acreages in the Township are: Hobucken 424.8 Lowland 415.6 Conservation areas will be all marshlands surrounding Goose Creek Island, and all the estuarine waters surrounding Goose Creek Island. Rural lands will be the remaining interior land.of Goose Creek Island and that portion west of the Goose Creek Wildlife Management Area. Township V The majority of Township V land is also rural. The only transition area is the 7bwn of Oriental a total of approximately 288 acres. The designated communities of the Township are: Dawson's Creek 180.0- Janiero 151.2 Minnesott Beach 691.2 Arapahoe 439.2 These'communities have a fluctuating population that peaks during the summer months. Conservation areas will be those marshlands along the Neuse River and the creeks. Conservation areas also include erosive areas along the Neuse River, estuarine waters of the Neuse River and the creeks and China Grove Plant- ation House. 98 SECTION III Policy Statements 99 PAMLICO COUNTY LAND USE Issues and Policies A common feature of nearly every land use plan is the land use map. These maps have historically shown where development is planned and should occur in any given future time period. Conversely they also show where major facilities should not be constructed. These maps appear in this plan and at first glance may appear to be the single outstanding feature of the Pamlico County Land Use Plan. Maps are certainly the most visible and usually do receive the most attention regardless of who the plan reviewer may be. In the Pamlico County Land Use Plan; however, these maps are not -and should not be considered as anything more than a graphic display of the written policies stated on the following pages. Pamlico County has addressed issues from the perspective as required in the Guidelines of the Coastal Resources Commission. The broad topic areas are: - Resource Protection - Resource Production and Management - Economic and Community Development - Continuing Public Participation Many subtopics are discussed within these broad areas. The County has attempted to address issues and develop policies as required by the Coastal Resources Commission; however, in Pamlico County and most likely in many other communities issues and policies cannot be addressed or simp- lified sufficiently to fit any guidelines concisely. The policies which follow are in the opinion of the County both in the best interest of Pamlico County and within the general framework of the Commssion's Guidelines. 100 Goals and Objectives - 1976 The 1976 Land Use Plan of which this plan should be considered an Update lists the following as goals of Pamlico County: Employment To provide adequate employment opportunities and prevent further out -migration of young adults from Pamlico County. Road System To provide an adequate transportation system in Pamlico County. Water and Sewer To encourage installation of public water supply and sewage disposal systems and to discourage use of individual septic tanks where soils and the water table make such use unfeasible. These areas should be those of high density areas posing the greatest threat to health and environment. Industrial Development . To encourage selective industries to locate within Pamlico County. Land Use Controls To protect Pamlico County from future mixing of incompatible land uses. To increase recreational opportunities for all age groups within the County. Agricultural and Forestry Production To protect and promote the utilization of desirable agricultural and forestry lands. Marine Habitat Protection To protect shellfish and other marine habitat from man -instigated pollution. 101 Wildlif e To provide for the proper management of wildlife areas and the preservation of certain species of wildlife within the County. The 1976 Plan also establishes a.list of objectives intended to enhance accomplishment of each goal. The 1976 Plan should be -consulted for these specific objectives. The County of Pamlico believes these goals remain as valid and important today as they did in 1976. The County does not envision any conflict between the goals of the 1976 Plan and the more specific policy statements of the 1980 Update. The County considers the policy statements of 1980 to be a natural progression from the goals of 1976. 102 A. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICIES 103 Resource Protection Policies A. Areas of Environmental Concern ESTUARINE SYSTEM CATEGORIES The first AECs discussed collectively are those water and land areas of the coast that contribute enormous economic, social, and biological values to North Carolina and Pamlico County as compon- ents of the estuarine system. Included within the estuarine system are the following AEC categories: estuarine waters, coastal wet- lands, public trust areas, and estuarine shorelines. Each of the AECs is either geographically within the estuary or, because of its location and nature, may significantly affect the estuary. MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE OF THE ESTUARINE SYSTEM It is the objective of Pamlico County to give high priority to the protection and coordinated management to estuarine waters, coastal wetlands, public trust areas, and estuarine shorelines, as an interrelated group of AECs, so as to safeguard 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. 1) Coastal Wetlands . Coastal wetlands are defined -as any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through natural or artificial watercourses), provided this shall not include hurricane or tropical storm tides. 104 Coastal wetlands contain some, but not necessarily all, of the following marsh plant species: (1) Cord Grass (Spartina alterniflora), (2) Black Needlerush (Juncus roemerianus), (3) Glasswort (Salicornia spp.), (4) Salt Grass (Distichlis spicata), (5) Sea Lavender (Limonium spp.), (6) Bulrush (Scirput spp.), (7) Saw Grass (Cladium jamaicense), (8) ' Cat -tail (Typha spp.), (9) Salt Meadow Grass (Spartina patens), (10) Salt Reed Grass (Spartina cynosuroides). Included in this definition of coastal wetlands is "such contig- uous land as the Secretary of NR&CD reasonably deems necessary to affect by any order in carrying out the purposes of this Section." (G.S. 113-230 (a)) (a) Policy Objective To give highest priority to the protection and management of coastal wetlands so as to safeguard and perpetuate their biological, social, economic and aesthetic values; to coordinate and establish a management system capable of conserving and utilizing coastal - wetlands as a natural resource essential to the functioning of the entire estuarine system. (b) Appropriate Land Uses Suitable land uses shall be those consistent with the manage - went objective in this Rule. Highest priority of use shall be allocated to the conservation of existing coastal wetlands. Second priority of coastal wetland use shall be given to those types of development activities that require water access and cannot function elsewhere. Unacceptable land uses would include, but would not be limited to, the following examples: restaurants and businesses; residences, 105 apartments, motels, hotels, and trailer parks; parking lots and private roads and highways; and factories. Examples of acceptable land uses may include utility easements, fishing piers, docks, and agricultural uses, such as farming and forestry drainage, as permitted under North Carolina's Dredge and Fill Act and/or applicable laws. In every instance, the particular location, use, and design characteristics shall be in accord with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public trust areas. (c) Development Policy Alternatives Development policy alternatives for coastal wetlands in Pamlico County include the following: (1) county or public acquisition for open space uses; (2) prohibition of private development through regulation; (3) regulated development of appropriate land uses; and (4) action by the Coastal Resources Commission to remove the AEC designation from the area.. The County does not consider acquisition feasible for several reasons. First and foremost is the cost of such areas. Secondly and almost equally important is maintaining such extensive areas for public use. The County does not have the financial resources to accomplish either purchase or maintenance. Removal of coastal wet- lands from AECs is not considered desirable by Pamlico County and therefore, is not considered a realistic alternative.. The desired alternative to accomplish the policy objective • is to regulate development insuring appropriate land uses in coastal wetlands. Appropriate land uses are listed under section (b). Pamlico County believes all these uses to be appropriate within the various coastal wetlands located in the County. 106 (d) Implementation/Enforcement Pamlico County will implement and enforce the Coastal. Wetlands policy objective through strict and vigorous county enforcement of AEC regulations, full cooperation with state and federal permitting and en- forcement agencies. (2) ESTUARINE WATERS Estuarine waters are defined in G.S. 113-A-113 (b) (2) as "all the water of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary of North Carolina and all the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries thereto seaward of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and inland fishing waters, as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife Resources Commission and the Department of Natural Resources and Community Development filed with the Secretary of State, entitled 'Boundary Lines, North Carolina Commercial Fishing --Inland Fishing Waters', Revised to March 1, 1965." (a). Policy Objective To give the highest priority to the conservation and management of the important features of estuarine waters so as to safeguard and perpetuate their biological, social, aesthetic, and economic values; to coordinate and establish a management system capable of conserving and utilizing estuarine waters. (b) Use Standards Suitable land/water uses shall be those consistent with the management objectives in this Rule: Highest priority of use shall be allocated to the conservation of estuarine waters and its vital components. Second priority of estuarine use shall be given to those types of development activities that require water access and use 107 which cannot function elsewhere such as simple access channels; structures to prevent erosion; navigation channels; boat docks, marinas, piers, wharfs,'and mooring pilings. (c) Development Policy Alternatives Pamlico County estuarine waters should be considered"a most valuable public asset. Policy alternatives considered were: (1) total and complete conservation of estuarine waters and (2) limited use consistent with public requirements for access. The County does not believe total conservation to be a realistic alternative. Many areas can be used with the value of use far outweigh- ing any harmful effects on these waters. Appropriate uses of these areas are the uses stated in the Use Standards section (b). (d) Implementation/Enforcement Pamlico County will implement and enforce the estuarine waters policy objective through strict and vigorous county enforcement of AEC and county health regulations. The County will cooperate fully with state and federal permitting and enforcement agencies with jurisdiction over estuarine waters. In every instance, the particular location, use, and design characteristics shall be in accord with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public trust areas. 3) PUBLIC TRUST AREAS Public trust areas are all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction; all natural bodies of water subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high water mark; all navigable natural bodies of water and lands thereunder 108 to the mean high water level or mean water level as the case may be, except privately owned lakes to which the public has no right or access; all water in artificially created bodies of water containing significant public fishing resources or other public resources which are accessible to the public by navigation from bodies of water in which the public has rights of navigation; and all waters in artificially created bodies of water in which the public has acquired rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other means. In determining whether the public has acquired rights in artificially created bodies of water, the following factors shall be considered: (1) the use of the body of water by the public, (2) the length of time the public has used the area, (3) the value of public resources in the body of water, (4) whether the public resources in the body of water are mobile to the extent that they can move into natural bodies of water, (5) whether the creation of the artificial body of water required permission from the state, and, (6) the value of the body of water to the public for navigation from one public area to another public area. (a) Policy Objective To protect public rights for navigation and recreation and to preserve and manage the public trust areas so as to safeguard and perpetuate their biological, economic and aesthetic value. 109 (b) Use Standards Acceptable uses shall be those consistent with the management objectives in (c) of this Rule. In the absence of overriding public benefit, any use which significantly interferes with the public right of navigation or other public trust rights which the public may be found to have in these areas shall not be allowed. The development of navigational channels or drainage ditches, the use of bulkheads to prevent erosion, and the building of piers, wharfs, or marinas are examples of uses that may be acceptable within public trust areas, provided that such uses will not be detrimental to the public trust rights and the biological and physical functions of the estuary. Projects which would directly or indirectly 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 are generally considered incompatible with the management policies of public trust areas. In every instance, the particular location; use, and design characteristics shall be in accord with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public trust areas. (c) Development Policy Alternatives Pamlico County public trust waters should be considered a valuable public asset. Policy alternatives considered were: (1) total prohibition of use and conservation of public trust waters and (2) limited use consistent with the use standards of section (b). Pamlico County does not believe the first alternative to be realistic. Many areas can be used without violating the public 110 trust of the waters with the use value far outweighing any harmful effects created. The second alternative is considered desirable. (d) Implementation/Enforcement Pamlico County will implement and enforce the public trust waters policy objective through strict and vigorous enforcement of AEC and county health regulations. The County will cooperate fully with state and federal permitting and enforcement agencies with jurisdiction over public trust waters. 4) ESTUARINE SHORELINES Estuarine shorelines are those non -ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water and are intimately connected to the estuary. This area extends from the mean high water level or normal water level along the estuaries, sounds, bays, and brackish waters as set forth t in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife Resources Commission and the Department of Natural Resources and Community Development (described in Regulation .0206 (a) of this Section) for a distance of 75 feet landward. (a) Policy Objective. To ensure shoreline development is compatible with both the dynamic nature of estuarine shorelines and the values of the estuarine system. (b) Use Standards (1) All. development projects, proposals, and designs shall be to substantially preserve and not weaken or eliminate natural barriers to erosion, including, but not limited to, Peat marshland, resistant clay shorelines, cypress -gum ill protective fringe areas adjacent to vulnerable shorelines. (2) All development projects, proposals, and designs shall limit the construction of impervious surfaces and areas not allowing natural drainage to only so much as is necessary to adequately service the major purpose or use for which the lot is to be developed. Impervious surfaces shall not exceed 30 percent of the AEC area of the lots, unless the applicant can show that such a limitation will allow no practical use to be made of the lot. (3) All development projects, proposals, and designs shall comply with the following mandatory standards of the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973: (A) All development projects, proposals, and designs shall provide for a buffer tone along the margin of the estuarine water which is sufficient to confine visible siltation within 25 percent of the buffer zone nearest the land disturbing development. (B) No development project proposal or design shall permit an angle for graded slopes or fill which is greater than an angle which can be retained by vegetative cover or other adequate erosion -control devices or structures. (C) All development projects, proposals, and designs which involve uncovering more than one acre of land shall plant a ground cover sufficient to restrain erosion within 30 working days of completion of the grading, provided that this shall not apply 112 to clearing land for the purpose of forming a reser- voir later to be inundated. (4) Development shall not have a significant adverse impact on estuarine resources. (5) Development shall not significantly interfere with existing public rights of access to, or use of, navigable waters or public resources. (6) No major public facility shall be permitted if such facility is likely to require extraordinary public expenditures for maintenance and continued use, unless it can be shown that the.public purpose served by the facility outweighs the required public expenditures for construction, maintenance, and continued use. For the purpose of this standard, "public facility" shall mean a project which is paid for in any part by public funds. (7) Development shall not cause major or irreversible damage to valuable documented historic architectural or archeological resources. (c) Development Policy Alternatives Development policy alternatives for Estuarine Shorelines in Pamlico County include the following: (1) County or public acquisition of shoreline; (2) prohibition of private development through regulation; (3) regulated development of appropriate land uses; or (4) action by the Coastal Resources Commission to remove the AEC designation from the area. The County does not consider acquisition feasible for several reasons. First and most Prohibitive is cost of these areas. The County does not have the financial resources to purchase these areas. Secondly the County believes these areas have appropriate uses which 113 the County could not afford to provide. Prohibition of all private development through regulation is not considered legal by the county without just compensation to current owners. Financial resources as discussed do not permit this. Removal of estuarine shorelines from designation as an AEC is not considered desirable by the County and is not viewed as a realistic alternative. The desired alternative to accomplish the policy ob- jective is regulation of development insuring appropriate land uses along estuarine shorelines. Appropriate land uses are listed under section (b). Pamlico County believes all these uses to be appropriate along the various estuarine shore- line located within Pamlico County. (d) Implementation/Enforcement Pamlico County will implement and enforce the estuarine shoreline policy objective through strict and vigorous county enforcement of AEC and county/state health regulations. The County will cooperate fully with state and federal permitting and enforcement agencies. S) OCEAN HAZARD CATEGORIES The next board grouping is composed of those AECs that are considered natural hazard areas along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline where, because of their special vulnerability to erosion or other adverse effect of sand, wind, and water, un- controlled or incompatible development could unreasonably en- danger life or property. Ocean hazard areas include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas in which geologic, vegative and soil conditions indicate a substantial possibility of excessive erosion or flood damage. There are no Ocean Hazard category AECs within Pamlico County. 6) PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY CATEGORIES The third broad grouping of AECs includes valuable small surface water supply watersheds and public water supply well 114 fields. There are no identified Public Water Supply category AECs within Pamlico County. 7) GENERAL The fourth and final group AECs is gathered under the heading of fragile coastal natural and cultural resources areas and is defined as areas containing environmental, natural or cultural resources of more than local significance in which uncontrolled or incompatible development could re- sult in major or irreversible damage to natural systems or cultural resources, scientific, educational, or associative values, or aesthetic qualities. There are no identified general category AECs within Pamlico County. B. CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT Constraints to development are discussed on pages 56-67. The following are the Pamlico County policies on resource protection in these areas. (1) Man -Made Hazard Areas. The only man-made hazard area in . Pamlico County is the U.S. Marine Corp Brant Island Bombing Range. Pamlico County is concerned .that some county residents as a result of the range are facing a situation which is detrimental to their health, welfare, and economic well-being. Aircraft using the Brant Island Range are required, by the location of the range, to make their approach runs at low altitude over populated areas, causing dishes to rattle in cupboards and cracks in walls within some homes in the approach route. The past day/night use of the range has dis- rupted normal rest habits of the populace and contributes to emotional unrest. (a) Policy Objective - The following resolution which has been adopted by the County Commissioners should be considered the official county policy. (Resolution on Next Page) 115 PAMLICO COUNTY RESOLUTIONS WHEREAS the Board of County Commissioners of Pamlico County as the duly elected representatives of the Citizens of Pamlico County are responsible for the Economic well-being of those citizens; and WHEREAS the Board of County Commissioners of Pamlico County as the duly elected representatives of the citizens of Pamlico County are responsible for the health and welfare of those citizens; and WHEREAS the existence of the Brant Island Bombing Range in its present location creates a situation which is detrimental to the health, welfare and economic well-being of citizens of Pamlico County; and WHEREAS the existence of Brant Island Bombing Range in its present location causes unnecessary expenditure of increasingly precious petroleum products by necessitating wide detours by fishermen using Pamlico County ports; and WHEREAS the movement of the bombing range to a location recommended by the Division of Marine Fisheries, nearer to MCAS, Cherry Point, will conserve on the same increasingly precious resource and additionally enhance the health, welfare and economic well-being of citizens of Pamlico County; NOW BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Governor of the State of North Carolina is hereby requested to use the powers of his office to expedite the moving of the aforesaid bombing range thereby enhancing the life quality of citizens of Pamlico County. 116 (b) Appropriate Uses - Appropriate uses for this area include only hunting, fishing, or other low intensity recreational or commercial fishing uses. County does not, as stated previously, agree with the use of this area as a bombing range. The County believes the current use is not compatible with best interest of area residents. (c) Development Policy Alternatives - A number of alternativeswere considered when the county adopted the resolution concerning Brant Island. The policy selected was obviously one of the more radical avail- able. The County could have reacted more passively and not opposed the current use of the site or only requested changes in the hours or type of use. The County, however, did not believe either to be an alter- native that would provide the relief needed. (d) Implementation/Enforcement - Implementation and enforcement of the policy objective will be accomplished only with and through the cooperation of the U.S. Marine Corps and Department of Defense. (2) Natural Hazard Areas - These areas in Pamlico County include two categories, 1) areas of excessive erosion and 2) coastal flood plains. (1)(a) Areas of Excessive Erosion Policy Objective - To prevent the undue and unnecessary loss of life or property due to excessive erosion. (1)(b) Appropriate Uses - Appropriate uses include those uses which do not unduly endanger life or pro- perty because of erosion. Inappropriate uses include any construction or use that will promote growth and development in a shoreline area predicted to suffer major erosion damage. 117 (1) (c) Development Policy Alternatives - The County considered two pltarnatfves. The first alternative was to prohibit all construction in high erosion areas. This alternative was viewed as unnecessarily restrictive. The second alternative and believed by the.County as the most appropriate is to allow any use which does not unduly endanger life or property as stated in section (b). The County does not promote development of any type in these areas; however, some uses and particularly those increasing waterfront access should be permitted. (1) (d) Implementation/Enforcement - The County will implement and enforce the policy objective through strict enforce- ment of County building codes and health regulations. The County will also cooperate fully with federal land and state enforcement and permitting agencies. (2) (a) Coastal Flood Plains Policy Objective - All development shall be in compliance with the Pamlico County Flood Plan Ordinance when adopted. Until adoption of a County ordinance (expected in fall of 1980) all development shall meet the requirements of federal flood insurance coverage. (2) (b) Appropriate Uses - Any use not in violation of the County flood ordinance, federal flood insurance regulation, or other Pamlico County Policy objective. 118 (3) Soils (2) (c) Development Policy Alternatives - Pamlico County considers the only alternative to be in compliance with all federal flood insurance regulations. The County does not believe any further regulation is necessary. (2) (d) Implementation/Enforcement - Pamlico County will implement and enforce the policy objective through strict participation in and strict enforcement of federal flood insurance regulations and programs. (a) Policy Objective - To support the programs of the US Soil Conservation Service. To insure adequate soil conditions for sewer and water in the future development through enforcement of State and Federal Health Regulations relating to soils. (b) Appropriate Uses - Any use which does not or which cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt to present a substantial hazard to the soils of Pamlico County. (c) Development Policy Alternatives - The only alternative consid- ered by the county was.to actively support the soil conser-- vation programs of the federal and state governments. (d) Implementation/Enforcement - Pamlico County will implement and enforce the policy objective through the use of the Y county building and health inspection departments. 119 C. Specific Local Resource Development Issues Relative to 15 NCAC 7H Pamlico County has not addressed specific resources development issues relative to 15 NCAC 7H. The County policies are the policies stated under Areas of Environment Concern. The County does not believe any policies beyond those stated in the AEC section are necessary at this time. D. Other Hazardous or Fragile Land Areas Other Hazardous or Fragile Land Areas are identified and discussed on pages 67-76. (1) Water Supply Sources (a) Policy Objective - To insure availability of fresh usable water from the aquifers providing the County water supply. (b) Appropriate Uses - Any use which does not endanger the County's subsurface aquifers either from pollution or overuse. (c) Development Policy Alternatives - Pamlico County considers the only realistic alternative to be one of support for and frequent review of state and federal programs and regulations regarding both ground water and subsurface aquifiers. The only other alternative identified was to leave the responsibility with state and federal agencies. (d) Implementation/Enforcement - Pamlico Health Department will be the responsible agency for the review as stated under section (c). 120 (2) Coastal Wetlands, Estuarine Waters, Public Trust Areas, and Estuarine Shorelines are discussed and policies stated under Areas of Environment Concern. (3) Unique Coastal Geologic Formations (a) Policy Objective - To protect and preserve the geologic formation on Benner's Plantation and any other subsequently identified sites. (b) Appropriate Uses - Any use which will in the opinion of the NC State Geologist not destroy the geologic value of the site. (c) Development Policy Objectives - Alternatives considered were: 1) total development prohibition through county ordinance; 2) limited development provided the geologic value of the site is not destroyed; and 3) development where the value of the development is greater than the value of.the geologic site. Pamlico County believes the second alternative to,be the most appropriate under normal circumstances. The County, however, reserves the right to follow the third alternative provided the County Commissioners agree with the assessed value of the development and the consequences thereof. (4) Significant Coastal Historic Architectural. and Archaeological Resources (a) Policy Objective - To protect and preserve the China Grove Plantation, all other structures identified in the recently completed survey by the NC Division of Archives and History, and any additional structures subsequently identified. 121 To protect and reserve existing or potential archaeological sites as identified by the Division of Archives and History. (b) Appropriate Uses - Any use which in the opinion of the NC Historical Commission and/or Pamlico County will not endanger, destroy, or remove the historic value of the property or site. (c) Development Policy Objectives - Pamlico County has considered the following alternatives: 1) total prohibition through county ordinance of any action which would destroy the value of a historic property or archaeological site; 2) no action by the County; and 3) support and enforcement of existing state and federal laws and regulations governing preservation of historic and archaeological site and properties. The County believes the third alternative to be the most approp- riate. The County does not believe local action is required at this time and feels that state and federal contracts are sufficient at the present time. A listing of state and federal regulations is attached. (d) Implementation/Enforcement - Pamlico County will implement and enforce the various rules and regulations in this area through the permitting policies of the County Building Inspection Department. The County will not attempt to control land use activities relevant to historic preservation beyond those identified through the County Future Land Use Map. 122 FEDERAL STATE FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL CONTROLS National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 The Archeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974, Public Law 93-291 Executive Order 11593, Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment, 16 USC 470 (Supp. 1, 1971) National Environmental Policy Act, Public Law 91-190, 42 USC 4321 EU. Seq. (1970) Community Development Act of 1974, Public Law 93-383: Environ- mental Review Procedures for the Community Development Block Grant Program (40 CFR Part 58) Procedures for the Protection of Historic and Cultural Properties (636 CFR Par 806) Comprehensive Planning Assistance Program (701) as Amended by Public Law 93-393 The Department of Transportation Act of 1966, Public Law 89-670 Identification and Administration of Cultural Resources; Procedures of Individual Federal Agencies G.S. 121.12(a) Protection of Properties in the National Register State Environmental Policy Act, Article 1 of Chapter 113A of the General Statutes Executive Order XVI Indian Antiquities, G.S. 70. 1-4 Salvage of. Abandoned Shipwrecks and Other Underwater Archeological Sites: G.S. 121-22, 23, 143E-62(1) g, (3) Archeological Salvage in Highway Construction, C.S. 136-42.1 Provisions for Cultural Resources in Dredging and Filling Operations, G.S. 113-229 123 E. Hurricane and Flood Plain_ Evacuation Needs and Plans Under North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 166 the Pamlico County Civil Preparedness Agency was organized. This Department of the County government coordinates all hurricane, flood evacuation and emergency plans for the County. (a) Policy Objective - The plans developed by the County Civil Preparedness Office are the official plans of the County and shall be those utilized when circumstances require. (b) Appropriate Uses - Appropriate uses of these plans shall be for the purposes of directing hurricane and or flood plain evacuations. (c) Development Policy Alternatives - Pamlico County did not consider any alternatives other than strict adherence to the existing County Plan. (d) Implementation/Enforcement - The Pamlico -County Civil Preparedness Director shall be responsible for implemen- tation of these plans as necessary. 124 B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES 125 The importance of agriculture, forestry, mining, and commercial fishing are discussed on pages 28-36. The 1976 CAMA Plan also discusses the importance of these areas to the economic base of Pamlico County. The Pamlico County Policy with respect to natural resource production and management recognizes the close relationship between the County residents' economic livelihood and the land and water resources of the area. (1) Recreation Pamlico County enjoys a wealth of natural resources which are very valuable for recreation purposes. Most easily identified are the resources available for hunting, sport fishing and water activities. (a) Policy Objective - Pamlico County supports recreation through preservation of the County's natural resources and the programs and activities of the County Recreation Department. (b) Policy Alternatives - Pamlico County recognizes the importance of recreation for County citizens. The County supports the programsof the County Recreation Department as the most appropriate and reasonable alternative. The County feels the responsibility for recreation should lie first with the citizen and only secondly with local government. (c) Implementation/Enforcement - The County will implement and enforce the recreation policy objective through the County Recreation Department primarily. Natural Resources protection will be the responsibility of various county permitting agencies. The County Recreation Department should be consulted for more information concerning specific recreation policies and programs. 126 (2) Productive Agricultural Lands County is economically dependent on the productive agriculture lands within the County. The County supports the preservations of these lands for agriculture purposes. Exception: The limited soils in the County often require the use of agriculture land for growth and development. The County supports limited growth on agriculture lands that will improve either the overall housing conditions of the County.or the overall economic conditions of the County. (b) Appropriate Uses - Any productive agricultural use which is not or cannot be proven to endanger or harm the environment. Any use proven to meet the conditions of the policy objective exception. The County only seeks to encourage growth in these areas which are designated .on the County's Future Land Use Map. (c) Development Policy Alternatives - The County did not consider additional land use controls to implement the policy objective. Basic alternatives were: 1) to restrict development completely on prime agricultural lands; 2) permit unrestricted growth through a noncontrol policy; or 3) encourage development only where the overall housing or economic conditions of the County can be shown to directly benefit. The County believes the third alternative to be the most appropriate and insures the least interference with the private property rights of county land owners. 127 (d) Implementation/Enforcement - The policy objective will be implemented through and by the County Planning Board using the County subdivision ordinance and Future Land Use Map. Agricultural lands are classified as Rural on the County's Future Land Use Map. (2) Forestry a) Policy Objective - Forestry is the largest land use in Pamlico County. The County supports the preservation of forestry lands and forestry management practices which do 7 not substantially harm the environment. Expection: The County will conditionally support the clearing of forests provided the future use of the land will either improve the overall housing conditions or overall economic conditions of Pamlico County. (b) Appropriate Uses - Proven. forestry management practices which are environmentally safe or any use proven to meet the policy objective exception. (c) Development Policy Alternatives - Basic alternatives considered were: 1) establish land use controls to prohibit development with forest lands; 2) permit unrestricted development or use through a no control policy; or 3) encourage development only where the overall housing or economic conditions of the County can be shown to directly benefit. The County believes the third alternative to be the most appropriate and insure the least interference with the private property rights of County land owners. 128 (d) Implementation/Enforcement- The policy objective will be implemented and enforced by the County Planning Board using the existing totals of the County Subdivision Ordinance and the Future Land Use Map. Forest lands are classified C(3)Minin) Large phosphate deposits exist under Pamlico County which will in as rural on the County's Future Land Use Map. the future probably be mined. The County at this time does not wish to make a policy statement regarding future mining. osition on phosphate mining will be determined by the County using all facts available at such time as phosphate mining within the County is imminent within the near future. The County reserves the right to establish a policy on mining. In the absence of an official policy, Pamlico County does wish to hasize the concern the County has for preservation of the very sensitive ironment of the areas where peat deposits are known to exist. (4) Commercial Fishing (a) Policy Objective - Pamlico County.supports the preservation of the productive fisheries located in and around Pamlico County. The County does not support any growth or development in which a reasonable expectation exists that damage will occur to the commercial fishing resources of Pamlico County. (b) Appropriate Uses-- Any use which does not permit over -fishing of the County waters or endanger the productivity of these fisheries. 129 (c) Development Policy Alternatives - Pamlico County believes the only reamonuble alternative in protection and premervn- tion of commercial fisheries surrounding the County. (d) Implementation/Enforcement- The County will enforce the policy objective through strict enforcement of all County Health and Sanitary regulations and fully support the activities of state and federal authorities. (5) Off -Road Vehicles- Pamlico County has no policy concerning the use of vehicles. 130 Co ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES 131 B ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES The 1976 Pamlico County Plan contained specific goals and objectives for employment, water, sewer, and industrial development. A common objective found throughout these goals was the desire of the County for moderate growth and preservation of the very sensitive natural environment The County believed these goals were possible and could be compatible if properly managed. The desire for growth was made while recognizing state projections indicating a decreasing population through the year 2,000. Recent projections and early reports from the 1980 Census indicate Pamlico County is experiencing moderate growth. The County supports this residential and accompanying commerical growth. The desire to maintain the basicially rural community identity is expressed on the Future Land Use Map of the County. A primary area of concern is the very poor housing conditions existing throughout the County and especially in low income areas. The County has sought to improve conditions in these areas by applying for federal Community Development funds. Past applications have not been successful, however, the County believes strongly that the need exists and will continue to seek funding. Pamlico County also seeks to encourage second home development and welcomes retired persons moving to the County. The County believes the seasonal and retirement population will provide increased tax revenues and, can be accommodated within reasonable limits without endangering the environment. No County policy should be constructed to be contrary to either of these objectives. 132 The following are the policy objectives of the County for specific areas: A. Industrial Development Pamlico County supports and is actively seeking light industrial dev lopment. The most desired industry is the relatively small employer providing approximately 25 to 100 high wage skilled positions. Ideally this type of industry would be clean, without fumes, noise, or other pollution causing by product. The County also believes additional development is possible without the fishing, seafood, and forestry areas. Particularly development of a dry dock facility to service the commercial fishing fleet is supported by the County. Heavy industry employing large numbers of people with the accompanying environmental problems is not desired. The objective of industrial development is based on the desire of Pamlico County to first provide jobs for County citizens and secondly to diversify the major employment sources now existing. High wage jobs are required to: 1) decrease the out migration of young county residents; 2) improve income levels within the County; and 3) reduce the high percentage of substandard housing in the county. These problems are discussed in greater detail in the Description of Present Conditions section of this plan. Major employment sources presently are confined to five industries. They are commerical fishing, agriculture, forestry, Cherry Point Marine Air Station in Craven County, and Texas Gulf in Beaufort County. The demise of any one of these industries would have a catastrophic effect on the economy of Pamlico County.. Without diversified industry, the labor force is by necessity walking a very tight rope. 133 Seven industrial -sites and an industrial park are indicated on the Industrial Site Map of the County. The County will also consider additional locations especially for industry requiring water access as in the case of a dry dock facility. B. COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING SERVICES The first priority for providing public services in Pamlico County are the transition areas of the Future Land Use Map. These areas in- clude the Towns of Bayboro and Oriental and the industrial park north of Minnesott Beach on Highway 306. The County has implemented and is committed to a Countywide water system. Phase one of this system is near completion. When finished, this system will be available to most potential users in the County on a fee basis. Bayboro, Oriental and surrounding areas are within EPA 201 Facility Planning Areas for sewer service. These communities have not actively pursued implementation of these plans to date. With the exception of the 201 areas, financial constraints will most likely prevent the County or it's municipalities from providing sewer service in the near future. All other County services including refuse collection, law enforce - went, fire protection, etc. that are presently available to all county residents will be extended upon request to any new facility. Services beyond those presently provided and not previously discussed (water and sewer) will not normally be provided by the County. Pamlico County, how- ever, reserves the right to establish other services on an individual basis after performing a cost benefit analysis. The County Manager is the primary official with responsibility for providing services. The Manager is assisted by various county department heads, including the water system superintendent, the health department director, and others. 134 O V - V Q Sites o PAMLICO COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA • Site. ■ fkrk The County has and will continue to seek additional financing for major services through federal and state grant and loan programs. Most used programs to date are those of the Farmer's Home Administration and the Economic Development Administration. C. Urban Growth Desired Pamlico County supports urban type growth only within the designated transition areas of the County. However, the County does support less dense residential growth compatible with the County Subdivision regulations in both the Community and Rural classified lands. The County believes this growth should follow the pattern of small towns and communities now existing. Pamlico County does not support extensive urban growth which would create major changes in the present population density of the County or place additional stress on the environment. The County will insure its' current development pattern through the strict enforcement of both county subdivision regulations and state health regulations. These regulations which are enforced by the County Planning Board and Health Department respectively will continue to prevent undesirable high density development due to generally poor soil.conditions and accompanying waste disposal problems. One significant fact is the County's desire to allow subdivision develop- ment in land classified as rural. The County believes this is a necessary exception to the normal land classification system. The extensive shoreline and limited soils combine to force development pressure outside the present communities. The County believes growth in rural areas is required if growth is to be accommodated in a reasonably low density environmentally safe fashion. The County believes the previously mentioned controls combined with AEC regulations will both prohibit undesirable development while permitting the desired lower density growth. 136 D. Redevelopment of Developed Areas Pamlico County .has attempted for several years to receive HUD Community Block Grant funding for a housing rehabilitation demolition, and relocation program. The County; however, has not been successful in receiving federal funding. The target areas for the 1979 HUD application were for the un- incorporated communities of Florence and Pamlico. This program was sought by the County in contrast to the "no action" alternative under which re- habilitation, etc., is being left to the private market. Without funding the consequence has been very little private action to improve housing conditions. A complete analysis of housing conditions is available from the 1980 Pamlico County Housing Element. Basic needs with goals and objectives are discussed and included within this document. The County through its planning department will continue to seek funding ' to improve housing conditions. Assistance from various agencies including the Neuse River Council of Governments and the NC Department of Natural Resources and Community Development will be utilized to the greatest extent Possible in development of future grant.applications. Redevelopment in areas other than housing is not necessary at this time since the County does not contain any major urban areas with associated de- caying residential neighborhoods, commercial areas or industrial complexes. E. Committment to State and Federal Programs Pamlico County is generally supportive of state and federal programs including erosion control, public water access, highway improvements, and construction, port facilities; dredging, military facilities, etc.. There are no federal or state programs at present which create either overriding interest or concerns in Pamlico County. Areas where state and/or federal programs assistance may he requested are: 137 (1) Four laning of NC 55 from Grantsboro west to New Bern. (2) Additional marinas in Oriental. (3) Dredging of Eastham and Gideon Creeks (4) Facility to accommodate the commercial fishing fleet. (5) Air facility near Oriental (6) Legislative control over indiscriminate.forestry • practices. The County is willing to commit resources to these projects if funds are available. Pamlico County reserves the right to review and comment and to support or oppose other projects individually. The County is an active member of the Neuse River Council of Governments and reviews all state and federal projects included under the A-95 Project Notification and Review System. All official comments are directed through the County Manager's Office. F. Assistance to Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment Pamlico County supports both Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment projects provided the benefits gained can be proven to be greater than the resulting cost whether financial or to the environment. The County supports the Corps of Engineers' program to maintain and improve the Intercoastal Waterway as an avenue of commercial and recreational traffic. Given the economic importance of the waterway, there is no real alternative to this position. The County will assist the Corps and State agencies in maintaining adequate channels in the Pamlico County area to the extent possible. More specifically, the County will assist, if requested, in obtaining easements for work and in identifying sites for "borrow" material and for deposition of "spoil" material. 138 G. Energy Facility Siting and Development Pamlico County has no specific policy on energy facility siting or development at this time. However, the county is generally opposed to developing or locating of any major energy facility within Pamlico County. The County does not believe a facility can be located which will not be an extreme hazard to the natural resources of the area. The County growth policy is not compatible with establishment of an energy facility. The County reserves the right to and will comment on the locating of any proposed energy, but only after extensive review of benefits and accompanying hazards. H. Tourism, Beach, and Waterfront Access Pamlico County receives substantial economic benefits from tourism. Tourism; however, is not a major income producer in the County with the potential benefit an untapped resource. The popularity of Pamlico County as a tourist area is the result of.the county being nearly surrounded by water. The large undeveloped areas and water create many opportunities for hunting, fishing, sailing, and other outdoor recreational pursuits. Water access is discussed further under the Attachment B Issues. The policy of Pamlico County is to promote tourism as an important segment of the economy. The County, however, does not desire to change the present overall social -economic character of the county into one of a major tourism center experiencing a mass influx of seasonal visitors. The County does not support major tourism increases which will over -extend the capability of the County to provide support services or threaten environ- mentally sensitive areas. Alternatives to the stated policy would not be in keeping with the County objectives for protection of the environment or maintenance of the 139 generally low density, rural, small village nature of the population. Alternatives encouraging major growth in tourism would be very diffi- cult to manage without placing undesired controls on the existing population. Tourism can be promoted and increased in some areas of Pamlico County without conflict with other County objectives. These include the sailing industry at Oriental, continued use of summer camp facili- ties, sports fishing throughout county waters, golf and other recreational activities at Minnesott Beach, development of historic resources, and others. Accomplishment of County tourism objectives will be the result of both public and private efforts. The County Planner will be the primary person for County initiated efforts. Private agencies with responsibility in this area will be led by the Chamber of Commerce. 140 D.. ATTACHMENT B ISSUES 141 A'rTACNMENT B ISSUES The following issues are discussed in compliance with the require- ment of the Coastal Resources Commission. A. Seasonal Economic Problems Pamlico County is similar to many small rural eastern North Caro- lina counties. Unemployment rates are generally higher than average and income levels lower than average for the State. As seen in the Data Collection and Analysis section of this Plan significant progress has not been made since the original employment goal was developed in 1976. Seasonal employment created -by the fishing and agricultural industries contribute to and make the overall employment problem difficult to solve. Several alternatives exist regarding.seasonal employment in Pamlico r County. The County could as an alternative choose to ignore seasonal employment or as an alternative in the other extreme attempt to com- pletely industrialize eliminating the agricultural and fishing economies. Neither of these alternatives is feasible or desirable. The County's objective in this area is the same as for the total employment low wage problem. The County is actively seeking small, clean, industry to pro- vide a stable employment base for current county residents. Employment opportunities of sufficient wage and skill levels to provide in -county employment for the young adult segment of the population is the highest priority. Industrial sites have been identified and the County will work within its financial limits. to provide services to industry locat- ing within the County. B. Water Quality �-NeuseRi ve r Pamlico County is very concerned with the water quality of the 142 Neuse River. Closed shell fishing areas, fish kills, low productivity of estuarine w roblems associated with water qualit directly affect the economy of Pamlico County. Certainly there are a number of non -point sources of pollution in the County. The many sep- tic tanks located in poor soils near water and the water table, agri- culture runoff from farms, forestry management operations, and county mosquito control (ditching) programs all contribute to Neuse River water quality in varying degrees. Pamlico County, however, believes the majority of pollution occurs many miles upstream. Simple operations like the by-passing of a waste water treatment plant produces far more pollution than present activi- ties within Pamlico County. The County believes the only alternatives in the interest of Pamlico County regarding water quality are: 1) To maintain strict.enforcement of county permitting programs which either directly or indirectly relate to water quality; and 2) To maintain a strong advocacy role in support of water quality improvement in the Neuse River with responsible state and federal agencies. Alternatives involving no action passive support, or major financial cost are not appropriate from the County at this time. The general County government will assume the advocacy position with the lead role by the County Commissioners and the responsible person the County Manager. The primary enforcement role for implementing this policy will rest with the health department and the County AEC permit officer. Other action to improve water quality will be the general support of the 201 programs in Oriental and Bayboro by the County. The County also believes increased action by state and federal enforcement agencies using existing laws and regulations would be the most meaning- ful step to improve Neuse River water quality. 143 C. Water Access/Private and Public Marina Development Present public access areas to the waters surrounding Pamlico r County is very limited. At the present tithe the County does not own any pubI I(- I)o*u,Ilpm or uthor rot-raatI onnl hraaa nflac,ant to water. Thorp are three Wildlife boating ramps in use and also a public ramp at Vandemere. The County policy is to support and encourage the develop- ment of public facilities which will insure every county resident with easily accessible access to the water. Financial constraints limit the alternatives available to the County for implementing this policy. The County does not consider the alter- native of relying solely on private development as totally feasible since many citizens could not afford the costs normally associated with private development. The most reasonable alternative at this time is: 1) to identify any resources available that can be used to provide public water access; and 2) to participate any state and federal programs pro- viding funding for projects of this type. The County Planner will investigate various grant programs for im- proving water access including Wildlife Resources, Sea Grant, BOR, and others. The County will also assist any individual or private concern in locating sites acceptable for development of public water access areas. Existing marinas in Pamlico County are at or near capacity. This is especially true in Oriental which is a major sailing,port for the entire coast. The same problems.are also present when discussing marina development that are present when addressing waterfront access in general. However, the financial cost and difficulty in locating acceptable sites for marina development magnify the problem many times. Financially it is not a reasonable alternative for Pamlico County to attempt marina development with County funds. This could only be 144 considered as an alternative if a major grant funding source either public or private were subsequently identified. This is not considered a likely occurrence. The other alternative and the alternative selected is to actively support marina development in the county including within public trust waters. j In support the County will assist reasonable private developers r in locating sites and complying with necessary permits for marina de- velopment. The primary responsibility for these actions will rest with the County Planner and AEC permit officer. D. Second Home Development Second home development has increased in Pamlico County in recent years. These homes have placed some strain on the county services and have created real or potential pollution problems in some areas. Second homes constructed in recent years however, have met the requirements of county health and subdivision regulations. These homes have increased the.county tax base far above the cost of county services which they require. Several possible alternatives exist concerning second homes. The County does not feel a major discussion is presently necessary. Second homes are not considered a major problem in Pamlico County. The County policy is to encourage second home development meeting the County health and subdivision regulations. The County does not be- lieve that with these restrictions major second home development will occur or undesirable second home development will occur. The County will implement this policy through its continued coopera- tion with builders and developers of second homes and second home com- munities. 145 E. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES 146 CITIZEN PARTICIPATION A. Plan Update The original 1976 Plan was prepared following extensive public participation and education efforts. Meetings were held in every township in 1976 and approximately ten percent of all county residents • responded to a questionnaire concerning development and land use. 1980 efforts were based to a lesser degree on public information, primarily since the Act is now six years old, and more on development of defini- tive policy statements. Since no major changes are seen from the goals of 1976 and the policies of 1980 it should be safe to assume that sig- nificant percentage of county residents again agree with the direction of this Plan. In the preparation of this Plan update, citizen participation has R been encouraged through several methods. First,all County Planning Board Meetings are open to the public and held in the County Courthouse on the last Monday of each month at the same time. Second, detailed newspaper articles were printed by the County paper covering the happen- ings surrounding the Plan development. Third, the County Planning Board advertised in two newspapers for, and held,one public meeting specifically for the purpose of receiving public input into development of the policy statements. The draft of the Plan was placed on review in the County Courthouse and a public hearing was advertised again in two newspapers and held by the County Commissioners prior to Plan adoption. B. Public Education The County Planner is the person with principal responsibility for public education on planning issues. The Planner does this through appearances before numerous civic groups to discuss a variety of planning 147 matters. The Planner also maintains a close working relationship with the press, supplying much information to the public -through published interviews and occasionally, through radio and TV appearances. These activities are vital elements of the County's citizen participation program and will be continued in the future. The Secretary to the Planning Board also serves as County Building Inspector and AEC Per- • mit Officer. In dealing directly with the public in these areas he also is a valuable resource for continuing public education. C. Continuing Efforts The activities described above of both the County Planner and Building Inspector/AEC Permit Officer should be considered as on- going work elements. Additionally Planning Board activities will continue to be covered by the press and any proposed changes in County policy will be considered only after thorough opportunity for public examination and input concerning the issue(s). Changes of significance will be made through the same process as the Plan Update. 148 APPENDIX SOILS DATA In North Carolina, the State Land Policy Act and the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 evolved to provide policy and guidelines for land use development throughout the state. Soils data is basic information used in developing such guidelines. This, coupled with the fact that modern soil surveys are still lacking for most of the Coastal counties, prompted the assembly of soils information. This was done by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Economic Resources, working in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service; the Department of Soil Science at North Carolina State University; and the Coastal Resources Commission. The following is an excerpt of their report entitled Soil Associations of the Coastal Area Management Region. Some users of this excerpt may wish further assistance in the interpretation of this data. More detailed interpretations of the data and/or a full report can be obtained by contacting the Division of Earth Resources, Department of Natural and Economic Resources, P. 0. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611. Additional informa- tion and copies of this report can also be obtained from the agencies listed below. 1) Agricultural Extension Service Department of Soil Science North Carolina State University P. 0. Box 5907 Raleigh, N. C. 27607 2) USDA Soil Conservation Service Federal Building P. 0. Box 27307 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N. C. 27611 3) Coastal Resources -Commission Department of Natural and Economic Resources P. 0. Box 27687 Raleigh, N.C. 27611 4) County Soil and Water Conservation Districts 151 A GENERAL SOIL .FEATURES General.features of a soil series include slope, position, flooding, depth to seasonal high water table (SHWT), drainage class, and factors affecting drainage. These features and their interactions are considered in determining suitability for the various land uses in Tables 2 and 3. Slope refers to the incline of the surface of an area of soil. It is an integral part of any soil as a natural body. Slope is the vertical deviation in elevation between a base point and a point 100 feet (horizontal distance) from the base ^ point. Thus, zero slope is a horizontal surface; 6 percent slope indicates 6 feet of vertical rise or drop at a point 100 feet from the base point. Position is the topographic location of a soil. Position is definT ed by the combination of physiography, relief, and/or slope; and underlying geology.. Together these descriptive factors tell whew a soil occurs on a landscape. Examples are positions such as uplands, flatwood, stream terrace, and flood plain. Flooding is the temporary covering of soil with water from overflowing streams, with runoff from adjacent slopes, and by tides. It is rated in general terms that describe the frequency of flooding. These frequency ratings are None - No reasonable possibility of flooding Rare - Flooding unlikely but.possible under abnormal conditions Common - Flooding likely under normal condi*_<^ns Occa ional - Less often than once in two years Frequent - More often then once in two years Depth to seasonal high water table (SHWT) is the vertical distance from the surface of the soil to the highest level that groundwater (at atmospheric pressure) reaches in the soil in most years. In Table 1, SHWT is recorded in terms of depth and period of months that the water table would influence any of the uses rated in Table 2. Drainage Class indicates the level of the ground water table in a soil in its natural state. A high water table can create seasonal or year-round management problems, and is indicated by gray soil colors in the subsoil. Surface runoff, internal movement of water, and depth to the water table influence soil drainage. Surface runoff is determined principally by slope; whereas, internal movement of water is determined by permeability. Where the water table level is at or near the soil surface.for long periods of time, soil development and soil physical appearance 152 ., 13 will be quite different from that of a soil which rarely has a water table near the soil's surface. There are seven soil drainage classes. These classes are: Very Poorly Drained - These soils have 10 inches or more of a black surface and gray subsoils. Water is removed from the soil so slowly that the water table normally remains at or on the surface of the soil for much of the year. Poorly Drained - These soils are dominantly gray throughout the profile. The water table usually stands at or very near the surface much of the year. Somewhat Poorly Drained - These soils are gray with brownish mottles from 12 to 24 inches below the soil's surface. Most crops need drainage. Moderately Well Drained - These soils are predominantly brown with gray mottles 24 to 30 inches below the surface. This indicates that permeability is slow or the water table normally fluctuates near the location of the mottles. Well Drained - These soils have red, yellow, or brown subsoils and are free of mottles within 30 inches of the surface. These colors indicate that the soil minerals are well oxidized. Well drained soils are suited for most uses. Somewhat Excessively Drained - These soils are free of mottling throughout. Most are sandy and rapidly permeable. Excessively Drained - These soils are generally coarse tt::xture:l and free of mottling throughout. Water runs through these soils rapidly and they are droughty if rainfall is limited. Factors Affecting Drainage - The restrictive soil features that affect the design, installation, and function of drainage systems are shown in this column. They are: Cutbanks cave - Walls of cuts are not stable Floods - Soil temporarily flooded Excess humus - Too r•uch organic matter Peres slowly - Slow internal movement of water Poor outlets - Suitable outlets may be lacking Slope - Affects the flow rate Wetness - Soils need drainage for most land uses 153 tr un INTERPRETIVE TABLE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES Seasonal High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slope Position Flooding Depth (ft.) Months Class Drainage Alt ►vista 0-6% Stream terraces that None to occasional 1.5-2.5 Dec. -Mar. Moderately Wetness, floods, drain the Piedmont into well drained some slopes _ 'the Coastal Plain qreater than 2 % Arapahoe 0-2% Level to nearly level on Occasional +.5-1.5 Dec. -May Very poorly Wetness, floods, Lower Coastal Plain - drained poor outlets, Pamlico Terrace cutbanks cave Auqusta 0-2% Low stream terraces None to common 0 - 1 Jan. -May Somewhat Wetness, floods that drain the poorly drained Piedmont into the Coastal Plain Barclay 0-2i Nearly level surface None 1.5-2.5 Nov. -Mar. Somewhat Wetness on Lower Coastal poorly drained Plain - Pamlico Terrace Bayboro 0-2% Nearly level or Common 0 - 1 Dec. -Apr. Very poorly Wetness, peres slightly depressional drained slowly uplands on Lower Coastal Plain Baymeade 1-6% Gently sloping uplands- None 4 - 5 Dec. -Apr. Well drained Not needed Lower Coastal Plain Belhaven 0-21 Level to nearly level Frequent +1 - 1.0 Nov. -July Very poorly Wetness, floods, areas - Lower Coastal drained peres slowly, Plain poor outlets Bertie 0-2TNearly.level uplands None 1.5-2.5 Dec. -Mar. Moderately Wetness, cutbanks Lower Coastal Plain - well drained cave mlico Terrace INTERPRETIVE TABLE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES Seasonal High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slope Position Flooding Depth (ft.)l Months Class Drainage Bibb 0-2% On flood plains of Common 0 - 1 Dec. -Apr. Poorly Floods, wetness Coastal Plain streams drained Wetness, floods, Bladen 0-28 Broad level flats - Common 0 - 1 Dec. -May Poorly Lower Coastal Plain drained percs slowly Blanton 0-12% Nearly level to sloping None More than 6 Moderately Not needed uplands - Coastal Plain well drained Bohicket 0-18 Level tidal flats Frequent +3 •- 0 Jan. -Dec. Very poorly Floods, peres drained slowly, wetness Bonneau 0-61 Nearly level to gently. None 2.5-4.0 Jan. -Apr. Moderately Not needed sloping uplands - well drained Coastal Plain Cape Fear 0-28 Nearly level stream Frequent +.5-1.5 Nov. -Apr. Very poorly Wetness, floods, terraces and low uplands drained peres slowly, Coastal Plain oor outlets Carteret 0-2% Level tidal marshes Frequent -Daily + 3-1.0 Jan. -Dec. Very poorly Wetness, floods, drained poor outlets, peres slowly, cutbanks cave Chewacla 0-28 Flood plains Common 0.5-1.5 Nov. -Apr. Somewhat Wetness, poor poorly outlets, floods, drained cutbanks cave Chipley 0-88 Nearly level to slop- None 2 - 3 Jun. -Sep. Moderately Cutbanks cave ing surfaces - Coastal well drained Plain INTERPRETIVE TABLE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES t,n rn Seasonal High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting soil Series Slope Position Floodingj Depth (ft.) Months Class Drainage Conaby 0-2i Broad level flats - Occasional +.5-1.5 Nov. -May Very poorly Floods, peres Lower Coastal Plain drained slowly, wetness Conetoe 0-5i Steam terraces i low None to rare More than 6 Well drained Not needed marine terraces - Coastal Plain Congaree 0-41 Flood plains Frequent 2.5-4.0 Nov. -Apr. Well drained Floods to moderately well drained Corolla 0-4% Nearly level flats Frequent 1.5-2.5 Jana -Dec. Moderately Wetness, floods between sand dunes well drained and somewhat poorly drain- ed Coxville 0-2% Nearly level uplands- None -Rare .0-2.5 Nov. -Apra Poorly drain- Wetness, peres Coastal Plain ed slowly Craven 0-12% Nearly level to slop- None .1.5-2.5 Dec. -Mar. Moderately Wetness, peres ing,uplands - Coastal well drain- slowly, some Plain ed slopes greater than 2% Currituck 0-1% Fresh water marshes Frequent +1-1.0 Jan. -Dec. Very poorly Flooding, poor and sounds along the drained outlets, cutbanks Atlantic Coast cave Uare 0-1e Level to nearly level Frequent +.5-1.0 Nov. -Aug. Very poorly Wetness, floods, organic soils - Lower drained peres slowly, Coastal Plain excess humus. 1poor outlets INTERPRETIVE TABLE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES Seasonal High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slope Position Flooding Depth (ft.) Months Class Draina e Dogue 0-121 Stream terraces that None 1.5-2.5 Dec. -Apr. Moderately Wetness, peres drain the Piedmont into well drained slowly nearly level Coastal Plain Darovan 0-2% Flood plains of tribu- Frequent < 0.5 Jan. -Dec. Very poorly Wetness,.flxds, taries of major streams- drained excess humus Coastal Plain Dragstnn 0-2% Nearly level stream None 1.0-2.5 Nov. -Apr. Somewhat Wetness, cu=banks terra: s - Coastal poorly cave Plain drained Ducks.ton 0-2% Shallow depressions Frequent 0 - 1 Jan. -Dec. Poorly Wetness, fl->cds, and nearly level drained cutbanks came flats between Coastal dunes Dunbar 0-2% Broad smooth uplands- None 1.0-2.5 Nov. -May Somewhat Wetness, peres middle and upper poorly slowly Coastal Plain drained Duplin 0-53 Nearly level to gently None 1.5-2.5 Dec. -Apr. Moderately Peres,slowl, sloping surfaces - well drained some slopes great, middle and upper Coastal than 2 percent Plain Engelhard 0-2% Nearly level surface occasional 0 - 1 Nov. -May Poorly Wetness, floods, around lakes - Lower drained cutbanks care, Coastal Plain poor outlets Exum 0-5% Nearly level to gently None 1.5-2.5 Nov. -Apr. Moderately sloping uplands - well drained Coastal Plain r 00 INTERPRETIVE TABLE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES ucawuaa High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slope Position Flooding Depth (ft.) Months Class Drainage Foreston 0-2% Nearly level uplands - None 1.5-2.5 Dec. -Apr. Moderately Coastal Plain well drained Fripp 2-30% Undulating to rolling Rare More than 6 Excessively _ Not needed dunes adjoininq near drained beaches and waterways 7I Goldsboro 0-5% Nearly level to slop- None j 2.5-3.5 Dec. -Mar. Moderately Some slopes ing uplands -Coastal + well drained greater than 2 Plain percent Grantham 0-23 Nearly level uplands - Poorly Wetness Coastal Plain None 0 -1.0 Dec. -Mar. drained Grilfton 0-2% Nearly level uplands None 0.5-1.0 Dec. -Mar. Poorly Wetness and stream terraces- drained ' Coastal Plain lio:onny 0-1£ Low nearly level to Frequent +1 - 0 Jan. -Dec. Very poorly Floods, poor level areas of the drained outlets, excess Lower Coastal Plain humus Clyde 0-2% Nearly level surface- Occasional 0 -1.5 Dec. -Apr. Very poorly Wetness, poor Lower Coastal Plain drained outlets I:Ivershiel 0-2% Level to nearly level None ! 1.0-2.0 Dec. -Apr. Somewhat Wetness, peres i poorly slowly drained Johns 0-28 Stream terraces and None -rare 1.5-3.0 Nov. -Apr. Somewhat Cutbanks cave uplands - Coastal , poorly Plain drained to I moderately well drained 0 9 r vl INTERPRETIVE TABLE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES Soil Series ISlope I Position Flooding seasonal High Water Table ( Depth (ft.) Months Drainage Class Factors Affecting Drainage +1.0-1.5 Nov. -Jun. Very poorly Wetness, floods. Johnston 0-21 .Nearly level flood Frequent p ains_coastal Plain drained poor outlets Kenansville 0-61t Nearly level to gently I None More than 6.0 Well drained Not needed slr.ping L;plands and stream terrace's - __ _ Coastal Plain _ Kureb 0-20% Gently sloping to None More than 6.0 Excessively Not needed sloping ridges - drained Coastal Plain Lakeland 0-15% Nearly level to steep None More than 6.0 Excessively Not needed uplands -Coastal Plain drained Leaf 0-2� Nearly level uplands- Coastal Plain Rare -common 0.5-1.5 Jan. -Apr. Poorly drained Wetness, peres slowly, floods Lenoir 0-2% Nearly level uplands- None 1.0-2.5 Dec. -May Somewhat Wetness, peres Coastal Plain poorly slowly drained Leon , 0-5% Nearly level to gently Infrequent 0 -1.0 Dec. -Mar. Poorly Wetness, cutbanks slo i:l Coastal Plain drained cave Levy 0-1% Loco, nearly level back -swamp areas and Frequent +2 - +1 Jan. -Dec. Very poorly drained Floods, peres slowly, wetness marshes LumLe�e 0-2% Nearly level Coastal Plain uplands, stream terraces Rare 0 -1.0 Nov. -Apr. Poorly drained Wetness, floods, cutbanks cave, poor outlets _ Lynchburg 0-2% Broad interstream up- lands and shallow depressions -Coastal None 0.5-1.5 Nov. -Apr. Somewhat poorly drain ed Wetness L"La L11 o� 0 INTERPRETIVE TAIJLE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES 5easonai High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slope Position Flooding Depth (ft.) Months Class Drainage Lynn Haven 0-2i Low, nearly level areas None 0 -1.0 Jun. -Feb. Poorly Wetness, cutbanks of Coastal Plain flat- drained cave woods Marlboro 0-61 Smooth Coastal Plain None More than 6.0 Well Not needed u lands drained Meggett 0-26 Level to nearly level None to common 0 -1.0 Jun. -Apr. Poorly Wetness, floods, surfaces -Coastal Plain drained percs slowly Murville 0-21 Flat or slight de- Frequent 0 -1.0 Nov. -Apr. Very poorly Wetness, floods, pressional areas- drained poor outlets Coastal Plain Nahunta 0-2i Nearly level surfaces- None 1.0-2.0 Nov. -Apr. Somewhat Wetness Coastal Plain poorly drained Newhan 2-30% Sand dunes - Coastal None -rare More than 6.0 Excessively Not needed Beach drained Nixonton 0-3% Nearly level surfaces None 3 -5.0 Dec. -Mar. Moderately Not needed Tidewater and Lower well Coastal Plain drained and well drained Norfolk 0-10% Nearly level to sloping None More than 6.0 Well drained Not needed upland - Coastal Plain Onslow 0-3% Nearly level to gently None 1.5-3.0 Nov. -Apr. Moderately sloping uplands - well drained Coastal Plain INTERPRETIVE TABLE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES aeasonai High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slope Position Flooding Depth (ft.) Months Class Drainage Osier 0-21 Level flood plains and Common 0 - 1.0 Nov. -Mar. Poorly drain- Wetness,.floods, depressions - Coastal ed Putbanks cave Plain Pactolus 0-5% Coastal Plain terraces None -rare 1.5-2.5 Jan. -Mar. Moderately Cutbanks cave and uplands well drained and somewhat poorly drain- ed Pamlico 0-1% Flood plains, level to Frequent +1.0-1.0 Nov. -Jul. Very poorly Wetness, floods, depressional areas - drained poor outlets, Lower Coastal Plain excess humus Pantego 0-2% Nearly level flats and None -rare 0 - 1.5 Nov. -Apr. Very poorly Wetness, poor slight depressional drained outlets areas Pasquotank 0-2% Nearly level surface - None 1 - 2 Dec. -Mar. Poorly Wetness, poor Tidewater and Lower drained outlets Coastal Plain Paxville 0-2% Nearly level and slight Rare 0 - 1.0 Nov. -Apr. Very poorly Wetness depressional areas - drained Coastal Plain Pettigrew 0-2% Broad level flats - Occasional +0.5-1.0 Dec. -May Very poorly Wetness, poor Lower Coastal Plain drained outlets, peres slowl Ponzer 0-2% Level surfaces on Frequent +1.0-1.0 Nov. -Jun. Very poorly Wetness, floods, Lower Coastal Plain drained poor outlets, excess humus INTERPRETIVE TAi:'.E 1 - GENERAL FEATURES J@dSORdl High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slo a Position Flooding Depth (ft.) Months Class Drainage Portsmouth 0-2% Nearly level surfaces - None 0 - 1.0 Jan. -Dec. Very poorly Wetness, poor Coastal Plain drained outlets Pungo 0-2% Level to nearly level Frequent +1.0-1.0 Nov. -Aug. Very poorly Wetness, floods, area - Lower Coastal drained poor outlets, Plain excess humus Rains 0-2% Nearly level flats and Rare -common 0 - 1.0 Nov. -Apr. Poorly Wetness, floods slight depressions - drained .Coastal Plain Rimini 0-6t Rims of Carolina Bays None More than 6.0 Excessively Not needed and smooth uplands - drained Coastal Plain Roanoke 0-2% Low streams terraces- Frequent 0 - 1.0 Nov. -May Poorly Wetness, floods,. Coastal Plain drained poor outlets, eres slowly _ Roper 0-2% Broad level flats- Occasional +0.5-1.5 Dec. -May Very poorly Wetness, floods, Pamlico Terrace drained poor outlets Seagate 0-3% Nearly level flatwoods- None 1.5-2.5 Nov. -Apr. Somewhat Wetness, poor Lower Coastal Plain poorly outlets drained Stallings 0-3% Nearly level inter- None 1.5-2.5 Dec. -Mar. Somewhat Cutbanks cave stream divides - poorly Coastal Plain drained State 0-76 High bottoms and low None -occasional More than 6.0 Well drained Not needed stream terraces drain- ing Piedmont into Coastal Plain z r 11 INTERPRETIVE TABU: 1 - GENERAL FEATURES Seasonable High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slope Position Flooding Depth (ft.) IMonths Class Drainage Tomahawk 0-3% Nearly level uplands- None 1.5-3.0 Dec. -Apr. Somewhat Cutbanks cave Lower Coastal Plain poorly drained and moderately well drained Tony)tley 0-2t Nearly level flats Rare 0 - 1.0 Dec. -Mar. Poorly Wetness, floods and depressional drained areas - Coastal Plain. Torhunta 0-28. Nearly .level stream Frequent +0.5-1.5 Nov. -Apr. Very poorly Wetness, floods, terraces and upland drained poor outlets, bays -Co stal Plain Nearly level to strong- cutbanks cave Wagram 0-15% None More than 6.0 Well drain- Not needed ly sloping uplands - ed Coastal Plain _ Wahae _ 0-2% Nearly level stream I Somewhat Wetness, perC5 terraces and marine poorly slowly terraces -Coastal Plain None 0.5-1.5 Dec. -Mar. drained dakulla �I0-10% Nearly level to gently None I More than 6.0 Somewhat Not needed sloping uplands -and i excessively I stream terraces - l drained c..jastal Plain , _ Wando 0-6% Nearly level to gently None I More than 6.0 Excessively Not needed sloping uplands on drained lower marine terraces - i Coastal Plain I ' Wasda ! 0-2R Level surfaces - Lower Frequent i 0 Jan. -Mar. Very poorly Wetness, flocs, ICoastal Plain drained excess humus I. - ON INTERPRETIVE ':..IILE 1 - GENERAL FEATURES J=00%jII[71 - High Water Table Drainage Factors Affecting Soil Series Slope Position Flooding Depth (ft.) Months Class Drainage Weeksville 0-2% Nearly level surfaces - None 0 - 1 Dec. -Mar. Very poorly Wetness Tidewater and Lower drained Coastal Plain Wehadkee 0-2% Flood plain Common 0 - 2.5 Nov. -Jun. Poorly Wetness, floods, drained poor outlets Wickham 0-15% Nearly level to steep None -rare More than 6.0 Well Not needed stream terraces drained Woodi:,gton 0-2% Nearly level uplands - None 0.5-1.0 Dec. -Mar. Poorly Wetness, cutbanks Coastal Plain drained cave Wrightsboro 0-4% Nearly level to gently None 2.0-3.0 Dec. -Feb. Moderately sloping uplands - well drained Coastal Plain Wysocking 0-2% Nearly level surfaces Occasional 0.5-1.5 Nov. -May Poorly Wetness, floods, around Lake drained cutbanks cave, Mattamuskeet poor outlets . c