Located on Roanoke Island, the institute's research focuses on: estuarine ecology and human health; coastal engineering and ocean energy; public policy and coastal sustainability; and maritime heritage.
"It is the mission of the UNC Coastal Studies Institute to undertake research, offer educational opportunities, provide community outreach programs, and enhance communication among those concerned with the unique history, culture and environment of the maritime counties of North Carolina."
The Cape Hatteras National Seashore extends from the town of Nags Head, NC south to Ocracoke Island. Resource preservation efforts are most obvious in the park's miles of undeveloped coastal habitat, but also include several historic sites including three light stations at Bodie Island, Cape Hatteras, and Ocracoke Island.
"Located on the Atlantic Ocean near the town of Duck, North Carolina, the FRF is an internationally-recognized coastal observatory. Instruments at the facility constantly record the changing waves, winds, tides, and currents. Central to the facility is a 1840 foot long pier and specialized vehicles."