Base official's would like to re-emphasize to the community the importance of no trespassing on Browns Island and remind users of the Atlantic-Intracoastal Waterway of the restrictions to the creeks and tributaries, shown below, leading to and around Browns Island to protect them from the frequent live-fire training exercises conducted in the area and the danger of unexploded ordnance (UXO).
Due to erosion from Hurricane Florence in September 2018, more previously-buried UXO has been exposed on the island. Base officials would like to remind the community to stay away from Browns Island and other impact areas for their own safety. In accordance with Base Order 3570.1A dated 29 Jan. 2018, Browns Island is strictly off-limits. Civilians and military personnel not specifically scheduled or prearranged to be on Browns Island are not authorized.
All rules and regulations originate and comply with the Code of Federal Regulations, specifically 33 CFR 334.440.
• Absolutely no unauthorized people on any part of the island.
• Boaters traversing the Atlantic-Intracoastal Waterway in close proximity to the island may not stop, tie up or disembark their vessels.
• No crab-pots, fishing with bottom dragging nets, anchoring, or any bottom disturbing activities are allowed anywhere in the vicinity of Browns Island.
• All navigable waters in the area between the south bank of Bear Creek and the north bank of Browns Inlet are base property and are strictly off-limits due to highly sensitive unexploded ordnance in this area.
• Bear Creek and Muddy Creek leading to the Intra-coastal Waterway to Bear Inlet are open to unrestricted navigation; however, an unknown element of risk exists in this area due to the possible presence of unexploded projectiles.
• Boaters may proceed through Browns Inlet without stopping during periods of nonmilitary use. For safety reasons due to the presence of unexploded projectiles, any contact with the bottom of the waterways or any bottom disturbing activity is strictly prohibited. Caution should be used through these waters.
• Military Police in concert with U.S. Coast Guard will continue to regularly patrol the area and issue citations to trespassers that will require an appearance before the federal magistrate in Wilmington. Violators can be imprisoned up to six months and fined a maximum of $5,000.
A printable PDF file containing this policy and a larger map may be accessed by clicking the following link.
• Click here to download and print the policy and a larger map.
For more information on this policy, please call the Communication Strategy & Operations Office at (910) 451-5655.
