The Fayetteville Public Works Commission (PWC) is calling on customers, business owners, community leaders and local residents to take action in response to the Town of Fuquay-Varina’s request for an Interbasin Transfer (IBT) permit that will significantly impact the Cape Fear River Basin and the communities who depend on it.

The Town Fuquay-Varina has submitted a proposal to withdraw up to 6.17 million gallons of water per day from the Cape Fear River Basin and discharge it into the Neuse River Basin after use. This type of transfer, which involves moving water from one river basin to another, could affect nearly 1 million residents and a large number of businesses across five North Carolina counties, including the 250,000 residents served by PWC.

“Protecting our community’s access to safe and reliable drinking water is our top priority every single day,” said Timothy L. Bryant, CEO/General Manager of PWC in a statement. “We cannot just sit by and let this harmful water grab go unchallenged. Water taken out of the Cape Fear River must be treated and returned to the Cape Fear River to ensure the sustainability and viability of all downstream communities. “

PWC warns that the proposed IBT will reduce river flow, especially during droughts, threatening water availability and potentially damaging critical infrastructure. If approved, PWC may be forced to implement Drought level 1 conservation measures immediately, impacting water use across the region.

PWC is asking residents to speak up at one of three public hearings the North Carolina Environmental Management Commission (EMC) is hosting to gather feedback:

Fayetteville, N.C.

Dec. 4, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (Sign-in begins at 5:30 p.m.)

Fayetteville Technology Community College, Cumberland Hall Auditorium, 2220 Hull Road

Raleigh, N.C.

Dec. 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (Sign-in begins at 5:30 p.m.)

Archdale Building, Ground Floor Hearing Room, 512 N. Salisbury Street

Parking available at Deck 64 after 5 p.m.

Pittsboro, N.C.

Dec. 11, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (Sign-in begins at 5:30 p.m.)

Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center, 1192 U.S. Hwy 64 West Business

Residents wanting to learn more about the impact of the proposed Interbasin Transfer can visit Fayetteville PWC’s website at www.FayPWC.com.