The ongoing struggle between the Navy and environmental and community groups in eastern North Carolina over the proposed Navy outlying landing field had a big development this week as the Navy released yet another report. Not surprisingly, they are still pushing for using the space (approximately 30,000 acres) out in Washington County, despite concerns raised by environmentalists, community members, and even some media. Aside from disrupting the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge with loud, polluting jet fighter planes, the location also is home to endangered red wolves, as well as hundreds of thousands of migratory birds that would inevitably be endangered, as well as cause flight hazards for pilots using the runways.

The Navy plans to hold public hearings in March and April, followed by a final decision in the fall. For more information regarding the hearings, visit the North Carolinians Opposing the Outlying Landing Field. Do you plan to attend any of the hearings to let your voice be heard?