The state has okayed one hurdle for a proposed Martin Marietta rock quarry in Beaufort County, N.C., despite concern from local residents about possible pollution.
The 1,600-acre limestone quarry would be located off Welbourn Road near Vanceboro, N.C. There is concern that wastewater from the mine would end up in Blounts Creek, a recreational fishing hot spot.
The N.C. Division of Water Quality approved the water quality certification for the quarry. Martin Marietta is also seeking a national pollutant discharge elimination system permit from the state to address a proposed discharge to tributaries to Blounts Creek.