One Water Plan

Water droplets hitting a puddle, with text "Our Water. Our Future. One Water Plan."

Wake County has released its One Water Plan. The plan is available for everyone to see and explains how the County will protect water, improve public health, reduce flood risks and ensure clean, reliable water for all.

Key focus areas of the One Water Plan include:

  • Optimized water supply: Protecting groundwater, expanding water reuse and promoting conservation to strengthen long-term water reliability.
  • Improved water quality and hydrology: Using green stormwater infrastructure and nature-based solutions to reduce pollution, manage runoff and protect streams and lakes.
  • Land conservation and preservation: Preserving open space, farmland and natural areas that absorb floodwater, recharge groundwater and support recreation.
  • Flood resilience: Reducing flood risk and improving public safety through infrastructure improvements, floodplain protection and community preparedness.
     

The One Water Plan addresses these challenges by identifying collaborative strategies that provide multiple benefits for the community and the environment. The plan also focuses on making sure everyone has access to clean water, working closely with local governments and agencies, and keeping the public involved every step of the way. Progress will be tracked through measurable outcomes, with strategies reviewed and updated as new information and data becomes available.

Wake County joins a small group of national leaders that have adopted the One Water approach, reinforcing the county’s role as a leader in sustainable, forward-thinking water management.

The One Water Plan was developed with extensive input from residents, municipalities, community organizations and technical experts through surveys, workshops and stakeholder meetings.