State survey finds pollution in Upper Neuse basin

The state has sampled fewer than one-third of the nearly 13,000 streams in North Carolina, according to Cam McNutt, environmental technician with the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The EPA does not require a complete inventory.

DENR, he said, is focused on streams with point source discharges, such as wastewater treatment plant, and streams where they have access. County and city governments may test streams within their jurisdiction, as Raleigh does.

Every stream monitored under Raleigh’s volunteer monitoring program has tested positive for water quality problems, including bacteria potentially from human, pet, and wildlife feces or leaky sewer pipes.