Cape Hatteras National Seashore is proposing to replace the current septic system serving the 14 park housing units near the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in Buxton. The current system includes a lift station (replaced in 2012), septic drain fields, wastewater systems, and all associated electrical facilities.

This septic system has been in operation since the late 1960s and requires replacement because pumps, alarm systems, and septic drain fields are failing. In addition, when the septic drain field becomes oversaturated it does not function properly.

The Seashore has prepared an Environmental Assessment to fully analyze the impacts of installing a new septic system within the park’s housing area that would meet the following project objectives:

—Relocate the housing septic system out of flood prone areas so that so that housing occupants can remain in place with an operational septic system that is more resilient to local flooding.

—Create a long-term septic system that would be in compliance with Public Health and Safety Regulations

—Improve maintenance operations of the housing septic facilities and septic drain fields

The Environmental Assessment is available for public comment for 30 days online at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/caha_BuxtonHousingSeptic from March 30 until April 29. Comments can also be mailed to Superintendent, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, 1401 National Park Dr., Manteo, NC 27954.