Neuse River estuary

The Neuse River Estuary is a large, productive waterway located in eastern North Carolina where freshwater from the Neuse River meets and mixes with saltwater from the Atlantic Ocean. This creates an estuary—a dynamic environment rich in nutrients that supports diverse plant, fish, bird, and aquatic life. The estuary plays a vital role in water filtration, shoreline protection, and supporting local economies through fishing and recreation. Its health depends on careful management, as pollution, development, and climate change can impact water quality and habitat stability in this vital ecosystem.