WINSTON-SALEM - The Yadkin Riverkeeper submitted a request Tuesday in a state administrative court requesting a declaratory ruling to determine the true ownership of the Yadkin River bed in Stanly County in order to protect the state's interest from Alcoa Power Generating, Inc..

Yadkin Riverkeeper Dean Naujoks said based on recent uncovered deeds, the N.C. Department of Administration is overdue in challenging Alcoa’s assertions of ownership of the Yadkin riverbed; and that citizens of North Carolina are the rightful owners of the river itself as a Public Trust Resource, according to a news release from the Riverkeeper's office.

Naujoks said these deeds suggest that the State of North Carolina may be entitled to request additional payments from the owner of the deeds.

In its investigation, attorneys for the Yadkin Riverkeeper uncovered a series of five land grants filed with the Register of Deeds of Stanly County dating back to 1899.

The grants w

NORTH CAROLINA - In order to help reduce the number of wildlife-related automobile crashes, the N.C. Department of Transportation reminds motorists to be aware of the increased presence of deer on state roads during the fall months. 
 
More than 19,500 animal-related crashes were reported each of the last three years, and 90 percent of those involved deer. Since 2008, the incidents have resulted in 3,453 injuries to people, of which 17 were fatal, and nearly $136 million in property damage.
 
“Deer are constantly on the move this time of year, especially in densely populated areas,” said NCDOT Director of Mobility and Safety Kevin Lacy. “Drivers need to be alert at all times. However, if you can’t avoid a deer, it is better to hit it than to lose control of your vehicle and cause a bigger accident.”

CHARLOTTE -  When summer really heats up, there is nothing more refreshing than drinking a tall glass of ice water, taking a quick dip in the pool, or running through the backyard sprinkler with the kids. But what many people do not realize is clean, fresh water is as important to birds and other wildlife as it is for humans.

Not only that, but birds actually enjoy splashing around and frolicking in the water just like we do.