U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Finishes Waterway Debris Removal Within Asheville

This week, the City of Asheville announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) completed waterway debris removal operation within the city of Asheville. This announcement marks an important milestone in recovery from Helene with the removal of debris that posed a threat to infrastructure, life, or public safety throughout the waterways that flow through Asheville.  

With this phase complete, the City is now completing smaller-scale debris removal projects. The City of Asheville will continue to work with other state and federal programs along with non-profit organizations to help address debris removal in lower-risk areas. These partnerships are essential to ensuring recovery efforts remain community-centered and responsive to local needs. 

Additionally, the City is working with Buncombe County to asses and plan for long-term streambank stabilization throughout Asheville. This project will work to focus on strengthening the resiliency of local waterways and reducing the risk of future erosion or flood-related damage.  

To support innovative, short-term recovery initiatives, the City has also launched the Temporary Activation Program (TAP). This program facilitates the temporary use of City-owned property and right-of-way in Helene-impacted areas for projects that support economic or natural resource recovery. Eligible projects may be proposed by community groups, non-profit organizations, or private businesses. TAP is grounded in the belief that coordinated efforts across sectors yield stronger and more impactful results. 

The City of Asheville appreciates the community’s cooperation in keeping our streets and neighborhoods clear of debris. For more information visit the City’s storm debris management webpage.