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North Carolina Online Resources: an Annotated List of NC Websites: Coastal & Marine

North Carolina Links Collection: Coastal and Marine

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NOAA Coastal Services Center:
The Center serves the nation’s state and local coastal resource management programs.  The site focuses on training, outreach, and GIS issues.

NOAA Sailing Charts:
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce, this site provides access to over 20,000 charts, maps, and other navigational aids to "...aid domestic and global commerce, promote safe and efficient marine and air transportation, and add to our understanding of the world's oceans."  A search interface is provided to assist users in quickly locating the  resources they seek.

North Carolina Division of Coastal Management:
This site, sponsored by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Coastal Management, contains news and resources focusing on the Coastal Area Management Act and other coastal issues.

North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries:
This site is sponsored by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources.  This group is responsible for the state’s marine and estuarine resources.  The site features a wealth of information on the subject of marine fisheries including laws for both commercial and recreational fishing, licensing information, and even a section for children.

North Carolina Maritime Museum:
This is the direct link to information on the Maritime Museum, located on the waterfront in Beaufort.  In addition to operating hours, the site includes both an online tour of the facilities and links to various educational programs that it sponsors.

North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve:
This is the gateway to resources for all ten of the areas included in the North Carolina Coastal Reserve system.  These areas operate as living laboratories for research, management, and education.  The site features links for teachers, researchers, and the general public.  It even includes an "Estuary Cam" that shows users the view from the Beaufort Inlet.

North Carolina Nautical Charts:
This site, sponsored by the NOAA Office of Coast Survey, seeks to "keep the waterways safe for navigation by providing up to date, accurate charts for the purpose of commerce." It includes an index that can be searched, or a heading can be chosen from such topics as hydrographic surveys, wrecks and obstructions, and research and development.

North Carolina Ports:
This site, sponsored by the North Carolina State Ports Authority promotes the ports of Wilmington and Morehead City.  In addition to information for businesses, the site includes sailing schedules, news, and educational links.

Sea Grant North Carolina:
As part of the NOAA National Sea Grant Office, the North Carolina office seeks to connect "university researchers to the people, businesses and governments that manage, use and enjoy coastal and marine resources" by sponsoring "dynamic research, education and outreach programs."  The site covers a wealth of subjects including coastal development, water quality issues, and seafood science and technology.

Tides Online:
This site is sponsored by the NOAA National Ocean Service Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services.  It offers tidal information for not only North Carolina, but the entire United States, accessible from an simple clickable map.