Wake County has approved its One Water Plan, becoming the first county in North Carolina to take a comprehensive, long-term approach to managing water resources. The plan, developed in collaboration with municipal partners, focuses on protecting water supplies, improving public health, reducing flood risk and ensuring clean, reliable water for both current and future generations.
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 50-year plan brings together drinking water, wastewater, stormwater and groundwater planning into a single, coordinated approach known as One Water,” said Wake County Commissioner Shinica Thomas. “By recognizing that all forms of water are connected, the plan helps Wake County prepare for population growth, changing land use and more frequent climate extremes.”
The County will lead this work through the Wake County Water Partnership, sharing resources and working closely with municipal partners. Implementation will happen in phases, with short- and medium-term actions over the next one to five years and additional projects planned over the following 10 to 20 years.
“The One Water Plan gives us a roadmap to protect this essential resource,” said Nancy Daly, Water Resources program manager. “By working together across jurisdictions and treating water as a shared, limited resource, we can protect our water supply and make the most of every drop through conservation, reuse and recycling.”
Wake County’s population is projected to grow to more than two million residents by 2070, while water demand is expected to more than double. At the same time, heavier rain events and longer dry periods are increasing flood risks and placing added stress on water infrastructure.
The One Water Plan responds to these challenges with shared solutions that support the community and protect 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.
The One Water Plan was developed with leadership from the Wake County Water Partnership and includes extensive input from residents, municipalities, community organizations and technical experts through surveys, workshops and stakeholder meetings.
The Wake County Water Partnership provides expert guidance on water-related issues affecting the community and serves an advisory role to help identify emerging challenges and opportunities for the County.
To learn more about the Wake County One Water Plan and view the full document, visit wake.gov/onewaterplan.
