Damaged municipal water systems, compromised septic systems, and contaminated drinking water caused by flooded private wells have state public health officials concerned.
Officially called the “Methane Emission Fee,” the fee aims to encourage oil and gas companies to invest in reducing methane emissions.
“People need to know that they’re safe in their house, at least for the time being, until we can get things back on track,” said state Rep. Lindsey Prather (D-Buncombe).
Earlier this month, Gov. Roy Cooper signed an executive order to expedite repairs, as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been called in to assess water systems, wastewater plants and dams across the state. Crews have been working 24 hours a day replacing broken pipes and patching up leaks.
In September, numerous Republicans, including North Carolina’s Sen. Ted Budd and Rep. Dan Bishop, voted against extending funding for FEMA. This isn’t the first time state Republicans have voted against disaster relief.
Hurricane Helene will go down in history books for destroying much of Western North Carolina. This part of our state will never be the same. And they greatly need our help.
Orphaned wells are inactive oil and gas wells with no proper owner and are deemed environmental hazards by the United States Department of Interior. The U.S. is home to an estimated 3.9 million abandoned oil and gas wells.
Natron Energy plans to bring more than 1,000 jobs and $1.4 billion to Edgecombe County by building a battery plant. The factory will manufacture sodium-ion batteries, a clean energy technology that can be used to power AI data centers and EV charging stations.
Until the hazards are dealt with, the National Park Service recommends avoiding swimming, fishing, surfing or wading in the affected area. If your skin comes into contact with contaminated sediment or water, the National Park Service recommends thoroughly washing the area with soap and water.
VP Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz have proven their dedication to reducing the amount of PFAS people come into contact with from drinking water to consumer goods. Both politicians have shown they understand the dangerous reality of these chemicals