MCAS Cherry Point Range Operations BT-9 and BT-11
MCAS Cherry Point Range Operations BT-9 and BT-11
Overview
The North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM) is reviewing a federal consistency determination submitted by Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point for proposed updates to training activities and operations within the MCAS Cherry Point Range Complex.
The overall proposal includes changes at several military training areas in eastern North Carolina. Of particular relevance to DCM’s review are proposed changes at Bombing Targets BT-9 and BT-11 in the Pamlico Sound and adjacent public trust waters. The Marine Corps has determined that the proposed action would affect coastal uses or resources of North Carolina and has submitted a Consistency Determination for review under the federal Coastal Zone Management Act.
Public Comment Period
The public comment period for this project is from September 15, 2026 to October 15, 2026.
DCM held a public hearing to receive comments from members of the public and other interested parties on September 29, 2026. Comments received during the hearing, along with written comments submitted during the public comment period, are being considered as part of DCM’s federal consistency review.
Proposed Changes at BT-9 and BT-11
The proposed action would modify training activities at BT-9 and BT-11 and change the areas of surrounding waters subject to access restrictions during military operations. The proposal includes:
• Expansion of the existing intermittent-use water restricted area/danger zone north of BT-11 to connect with BT-9;
• Establishment of a permanent 500-foot restricted area safety buffer around BT-11 (Piney Island, excluding the southern navigation canal);
• Increased unmanned aircraft system operations;
• Increased frequency of range clearance and munitions debris removal at BT-9 and BT-11; and
• Increased munitions expenditures at BT-11.
The map provided in the Consistency Determination shows the proposed expanded exclusion area extending between BT-11 and BT-9, as well as the proposed 500-foot safety buffer surrounding BT-11.
The Marine Corps’ Consistency Determination acknowledges that expansion of the restricted area would interfere with navigation and access to public trust waters while the area is activated. The proposal would require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to amend the existing restricted-area regulations in 33 CFR § 334.420 before the expanded area could be implemented.
Federal Consistency Review
Under the Coastal Zone Management Act, federal agency activities that have reasonably foreseeable effects on North Carolina’s coastal uses or resources must be carried out in a manner that is consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of North Carolina’s federally approved Coastal Management Program.
DCM is reviewing the Marine Corps’ proposal for consistency with applicable state coastal management policies, including policies governing estuarine waters, public trust areas, public access, and navigation.