The Dare County Department of Health & Human Services, after consultation with Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore), is issuing an updated public health advisory for the Seashore’s Buxton Beach Access, also known as the Buxton Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS). Following a recent interim response action by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), approximately two-tenths-of-a-mile section of beach has been reopened, starting at the southernmost jetty in Buxton and continuing south.
The decision to essentially revert to the original three-tenths-of-a-mile closure area adjacent to the Buxton FUDS was made after factoring in the amount of contaminated soil and water removed by the Corps and the prolonged period of time between the last report of apparent petroleum sheens or odors in the area.
Due to the likelihood of contaminated soil and water still present in the beach adjacent to the Buxton FUDS, the Seashore will continue to monitor and keep this three-tenths-of-mile section of beach closed to the public.
To review the news release issued on December 19, 2024 by the Seashore, please visit: https://www.nps.gov/caha/
More information on public health advisories can be found at: www.darenc.gov/