The purpose of this document is to improve preparedness for response and recovery operations following an acute waterway debris incident in North Carolina. This document outlines existing response structures at the local, state, and federal levels to facilitate a coordinated, well-managed and immediate response to waterway debris incidents impacting coastal areas in the State of North Carolina.

The Comprehensive Guidance Document serves as a complete reference for North Carolina incident waterway debris response. The accompanying Field Reference Guide only includes the most pertinent information for quick reference in the field and during emergency response operations.