BOLIVIA, NC (WECT) - There's no better time to go birding than right now in Brunswick County!

The Bird Island Preservation Society Stewards, in partnership with the N.C. Coastal Land Trust and the N.C. Division of Coastal Management will be hosting guided educational walks to Bird Island this summer from June 12 to August 28.

OAK ISLAND, NC (WECT) – Walking down the beach can be a relaxing experience for those who enjoy the coast, but leaders in Oak Island are worried about a problem that keeps popping up.

Town leaders say they have a problem with giant holes on the beach, creating a safety hazard for beach-goers.

Some holes are large enough for a small child or a pet to fall inside and hurt themselves if they aren't paying attention.

Jo Tilghman has spent hours walking along the shore ever since she was a child.  But now, she does more of a dodge, avoiding the large holes that can be a problem.

"I'm concerned for people's safety," said Tilghman.  "It's fun to dig holes but it's a hazard for walkers."

While town leaders encourage people to have fun while visiting the beach, it's against the law to dig holes if the sand isn't replaced.

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (AP/WECT) – The Wilmington metropolitan area is getting smaller, at least as far as the federal government is concerned.

There are reports that Brunswick County has been moved into the Myrtle Beach, SC Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The move by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget reflects 2010 Census figures showing much of the growth in southern Brunswick County nearer the South Carolina state line.

Congressman Mike McIntyre released the following statement on Brunswick County being removed from the Wilmington Metropolitan Statistical Area:

“It makes no practical, economic, or common sense for Brunswick County to be pulled out of the Wilmington Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) and placed in the Myrtle Beach MSA.  Our office is working with local officials and leaders to gather information so that we can appropriately respond to this unfortunate decision.  We will do all that we can to reverse this decision.”