Important info about debris removal
South Toe Stewards
southtoestewards@gmail.com
FEMA-funded waterway woody debris removal is slated to begin in June on the South Toe River and its tributaries. We are concerned about the unintended consequences of excessive woody debris removal on our rivers and streams.
Heavy equipment in waterways poses many threats -- tearing up the riverbanks, crushing bottom-dwellers such as mussels, and destroying habitat for hellbenders, fish and other aquatic species. Down and dead wood in waterways is crucial and natural -- it slows down storm waters, stabilizes riverbanks, and provides habitat and food for fish and other aquatic life.
We are working with Yancey County Government and their contractor, Southern Debris Removal (SDR), who have asked for our help to make sure this work happens in the most ecologically sensitive manner possible.
We need your help to get the word out and protect our waters -- sign up here if you would like to volunteer with this effort. Check out our talking points sheet to help start a conversation with your neighbors. See the South Toe Debris Removal Info page for up-to-date info.
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For Concerned River or Stream-Front Landowners:
Debris Removal Operations cannot take place on a property without the landowner’s permission.
Landowners who have concerns about possible negative impacts from debris removal operations on their property have options:
Opt out of debris removal by NOT signing the SDR "Right of Entry Agreement"
Landowners can request a walk-through of the site with SDR and the subcontractor (Bryant Industries of Burnsville or 4M of Knoxville) BEFORE signing the "Right of Entry Agreement."
Landowners can talk with SDR representatives about adding conditions to the SDR “Right of Entry Agreement” before signing it. These may include: "no machines in water," or other provisions agreed upon between contractor and land owner.
Landowners can request to be notified when work will occur so that they can be present to oversee operations.
Landowners can contact South Toe Stewards to request a trained volunteer to attend the site walk-through and/or meet with landowners to discuss low-impact alternatives for removing waterway woody debris on your property. This can include removing woody debris by hand.
Landowners who have already signed the Right of Entry Agreement can still opt out at any point, before or after work has begun on your property. Contact us for more information