USACE Wilmington Harbor 403 Dredging Project
Overview
On September 12th, 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Wilmington District, released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Wilmington Harbor 403 Navigation Improvement Project. The proposed project would deepen and widen portions of the federal navigation channel at the Port of Wilmington to improve access and efficiency for larger vessels.
The Draft EIS evaluates the potential environmental, social, and economic impacts of the proposed project and alternatives in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The document has been provided to the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM) for review under the state’s federal consistency review process required by the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA).
Here is a link to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website covering the project in detail: Wilmington Harbor
Federal Consistency Review
Under the Coastal Zone Management Act, certain federal activities that may affect North Carolina’s coastal uses or resources must be found consistent with the state’s enforceable coastal policies. DCM received the Draft EIS for Federal Consistency review on October 17, 2025 and will determine whether the proposed project is consistent with the North Carolina Coastal Management Program.
As part of this review, public comments are invited.
How to Review the Draft EIS
The full Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and supporting materials are available on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District website:
Additional resources on the project can be found here
A printed copy is also available for public viewing at NC DCM’s Wilmington Regional Office.
- North Carolina Division of Coastal Management
127 Cardinal Dr. Wilmington, NC 28405
How to Submit Public Comments
DCM welcomes public comments on the federal consistency review for this project.
Comment period: November 6, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Scheduled In-Person Public Hearing: November 17, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
· Address:
Skyline Center
929 N. Front St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
Submit written comments:
Please include “Wilmington Harbor 403 Draft EIS” in the subject line.
· Email: Federalconsistencycomments@deq.nc.gov
· Mail:
Division of Coastal Management
ATTN: Federal Consistency Coordinator
400 Commerce Avenue
Morehead City, NC 28557