NCDEQ and New Hanover Sheriff’s Office promote safety at Masonboro Island Reserve before July 4th

MASONBORO ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — As thousands of visitors prepare to celebrate the Independence Day holiday along North Carolina’s coast, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s (NCDEQ) Division of Coastal Management (DCM) and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office are encouraging the public to prioritize safety and environmental stewardship while visiting Masonboro Island Reserve.

The agencies are partnering to increase public awareness and provide additional safety resources during the busy July Fourth holiday at Masonboro Island Reserve, a protected research and dedicated state nature preserve known for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and natural coastal habitats.

“Masonboro Island Reserve is a vital coastal resource that provides important wildlife habitat, supports research and education and contributes to the health and resilience of North Carolina’s coast,” said DCM Director Tancred Miller. “As you enjoy Masonboro Island or any of our Coastal Reserve sites this July Fourth, we encourage you to act responsibly, respect wildlife and leave no trace. We’re grateful for our partnership with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, whose support helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for the many visitors who explore Masonboro Island Reserve each year. Together, we can help protect these special places for future generations.”

Officials stress that preparation is essential for a safe visit. Because the reserve has no facilities or visitor services, guests should bring adequate supplies, use reliable transportation to and from the island, and follow Leave No Trace principles by removing all trash before departing.

The agencies also remind visitors not to attempt swimming across Masonboro Inlet, citing the area’s dangerous currents and changing conditions. Safe boating practices are strongly encouraged, and visitors are asked to avoid activities that could damage the reserve’s natural resources.

Fireworks are prohibited on Masonboro Island Reserve, as they pose risks to both public safety and sensitive wildlife habitats.

Masonboro Island Reserve is one of North Carolina’s premier protected coastal areas, serving as an important site for scientific research, environmental education, and compatible recreational activities. The reserve provides habitat for numerous species of birds, sea turtles, and other wildlife while helping preserve the state’s unique coastal ecosystems.

The Division of Coastal Management, a division of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, works to protect, conserve, and manage North Carolina’s coastal resources across the state’s 20 coastal counties. Since its establishment in 1989, the North Carolina Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve Program has preserved more than 44,000 acres of unique coastal environments across 10 sites along the state’s coastline.

Officials encourage anyone planning a visit during the holiday weekend to review visitor guidelines and safety information before traveling to Masonboro Island Reserve.