NORTH CAROLINA - In order to help reduce the number of wildlife-related automobile crashes, the N.C. Department of Transportation reminds motorists to be aware of the increased presence of deer on state roads during the fall months. 
 
More than 19,500 animal-related crashes were reported each of the last three years, and 90 percent of those involved deer. Since 2008, the incidents have resulted in 3,453 injuries to people, of which 17 were fatal, and nearly $136 million in property damage.
 
“Deer are constantly on the move this time of year, especially in densely populated areas,” said NCDOT Director of Mobility and Safety Kevin Lacy. “Drivers need to be alert at all times. However, if you can’t avoid a deer, it is better to hit it than to lose control of your vehicle and cause a bigger accident.”

CHARLOTTE -  When summer really heats up, there is nothing more refreshing than drinking a tall glass of ice water, taking a quick dip in the pool, or running through the backyard sprinkler with the kids. But what many people do not realize is clean, fresh water is as important to birds and other wildlife as it is for humans.

Not only that, but birds actually enjoy splashing around and frolicking in the water just like we do.

The Carolina Thread Trail Governing Board has approved trail grant applications from 13 community projects along The Thread totaling $563,795. Trail implementation grants are reviewed by the Board on an annual basis to provide catalytic funding to communities to assist with trail corridor design, land acquisition and construction.

"Seven counties have created trail master plans and lots of local momentum," said Ruth Shaw, chair of the Carolina Thread Trail Governing Board. "This round of funding will help put trail miles on the ground -- a great example of thinking regionally and acting locally."

The recipients of Carolina Thread Trail implementation grants in 2010 are:

•   Kannapolis (Cabarrus)
•  Chester County
•  Kings Mountain Gateway Trail (Cleveland)
•  City of Kings Mountain (Cleveland)
•  Shelby (Cleveland)
•  Nation Ford Land Trust (York)
•  Cramerton (Gaston)
•  Belmont (Gaston)
•  Bessemer City (Gaston)
•  Lincolnton (Lincoln)
•  Mecklenburg County
•  Catawba Lands Conservancy, Long Creek and Newcombe Preserve (Mecklenburg)