CSC FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
BUFFERS
Where can I find information about buffer rules and non-point source pollution? Buffer rules help protect rivers from non-point source pollution, which is polluted runoff that drains into bodies of water such as rivers, streams, lakes, and estuaries. It occurs when rainwater, snowmelt, or irrigation doesn’t soak into the ground, but flows over streets, parking lots, construction sites, farms, yards, and other sites. Along the way, the runoff picks up fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, oil, animal waste and other items, which then drains directly into water bodies and storm drains that flow to water bodies. For information about non-point source pollution and buffer rules that help protect bodies of water, check the following Web site: http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/nps/.
ENDANGERED SPECIES
Where can I find information about endangered species, both animals and plants? The Natural Heritage Program provides listings for freshwater mussels, fish, plants and animals at the following Web site: www.ncnhp.org/Pages/publications.html.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service provides lists of endangered species for the nation at the following Web site: http://endangered.fws.gov/. If you want them for just North Carolina, check this Web site: www.fws.gov/raleigh/es.html
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Plant Conservation Program, provides a list of protected plants at this Web site: http://www.ncagr.gov/plantindustry/plant/plantconserve/plist.htm.
GREASE, FAT AND OIL
What do I do with the grease, oil and fat left over from cooking? Leftover grease from cooking can cause backup and overflow problems for residential, restaurant and municipal sewer systems. For information about the proper management of oil, fat and grease, check the following Web site: www.p2pays.org/food/main/oil.htm Telephone: (800) 763-0136 or (919) 715-6500.
SMALL BUSINESS
Do you have money available for small business loans and/or grants? The Small Business Assistance Program does not provide money. Our staff offers free, confidential technical assistance on environmental concerns. If you need help with environmental information, you can contact us toll-free at (877) 623-6748 or visit our Web site at www.envhelp.org/pages/sb.html . Loans are available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) through commercial lenders. The Web site address for the SBA is: http://www.sba.gov/localresources/district/nc/index.html . The Small Business Technology Development Center will assist you in developing business plans as well as provide management counseling and other educational services. The Web site address is: www.sbtdc.org . The Business License Information Office the NC Department of Commerce is an excellent resource for new business startups. The Web site is: www.nccommerce.com/servicenter/blio.