The North Carolina Coastal Federation Pelican Awards annually recognize the exceptional work of people to protect and restore our coast. The 2026 winners have shared their time and talents through leadership, education, hands-on projects, and volunteer efforts to inspire others and create lasting change. Congratulations to all of our winners!
A Toast to Tradition Each year, we are blown away by the love shown for one of our signature events, and this year was no exception! After a weekend of…
As we settle into the New Year, we’re excited about everything this year has in store, from fan-favorite events coming up quickly to a renewed commitment to protecting and restoring our beautiful coast. The Federation’s staff is expected to have another busy year of oyster work in the Pamlico Sound, with several restoration projects set to begin soon, dozens of educational outreach events planned, and we’re getting closer to a major milestone in the fight against marine debris.
This October, we invite you to join us for some fantastic gatherings—from our much-anticipated Oyster Roast to engaging musical performances that celebrate our local culture. Your involvement is vital as we advocate for the protection of the Lower Cape Fear River and educate future generations about the importance of sustainable practices.
As we transition into fall, there’s a palpable excitement in the air here at the Coastal Federation. September is bustling with activities, from our much-anticipated Taste of the Coast Celebration to National Estuaries Week. We’re thrilled to highlight our remarkable Pelican Award honorees, who embody the spirit of stewardship that drives our mission forward. With ongoing projects aimed at protecting our coastal habitats and water quality and upcoming events to celebrate our vital ecosystems, there’s no better time to get involved and support the health of our coast.
The Pelican Awards annually recognize exceptional contributions to protecting and restoring the North Carolina coast. 2025’s winners have shared their time and talents, through leadership, education, hands-on projects, and volunteer efforts, to inspire others and create lasting change.
We’re excited to share the latest happenings and opportunities along our beautiful North Carolina coast. From hands-on educational experiences with local students to inspiring events that celebrate our rich oyster heritage, there’s something for everyone to engage with and enjoy. Discover ways to support our initiatives, engage with local experts, and celebrate the vibrant environment that makes our coast so special. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to our mission, we invite you to connect, learn, and make a difference.
As we dive into the heart of summer, we’re excited to share updates, and to highlight some of our most recent achievements like the launch of our new salt marsh nursery and share with you some upcoming events that celebrate our coastal heritage.
This month, we’re excited to share highlights from our recent Coastal Summit, where voices from across North Carolina came together to discuss the future of our coast. From inspiring keynote speeches to stories of engaging field trips with local students, our ongoing efforts to preserve and improve coastal ecosystems continue to gain momentum. In this edition, we also share some upcoming volunteer opportunities and ways you can support our vital work. Together, we can ensure a healthier and more vibrant coastal environment for generations to come!
Planting for Future Restoration Construction has officially begun on the first-of-its-kind ‘Donor’ Salt Marsh at the Coastal Federation’s North River Wetlands Preserve. The one-acre salt marsh will provide thousands of…
Celebrating Community, Restoration, and Commitment at the Coast. Recently the Federation organized marine debris clean-up efforts. This year’s annual Hatteras Island Oyster Roast was one for the record books, thanks to everyone who joined us.
As we dive into a new year here at the coast, we’re already gearing up for some exciting events for our members and friends. From annual oyster roasts to new exciting happenings, we have a lot in store for 2025 as we work to protect and restore the coast.
Oysters are often considered just a tasty dish at one of your favorite restaurants, but they actually play a vital role in the health of the coastal ecosystems they inhabit.
The Coastal Federation is looking back on a successful year. The oyster sanctuary network is celerbating a big milestone, and a new outside study shows just how valuable they are. Plus there are plenty of gifting options for the holidays that also support our work.
NC Coast wins big in state budget, Shellebrate the mighty oyster, building better docks, Jockey’s Ridge living shoreline progress and more!
Read our summer news roundup including 20 years of Pelican Awards and Taste of the Coast, the Farm Act, STEM career day, saying goodbye to our summer interns and more.
Join us for our upcoming Pelican Awards and Taste of The Coast Celebration, learn about the Cedar Island Oyster Sanctuary, Jones Island cleanup, Empower Wilmington and more!
News Roundup: Getting ready for hurricane season, restoring wetlands, State of Change on PBS, upcoming celebrations and a landmark year for oysters.