A Productive Meeting with Rep. Chuck Edwards on Debris Removal

Helene already did so much harm to our rivers, we need to make sure we avoid unnecessary harm as we clean up debris from the storm. Last week our team took part in a meeting with Congressman Chuck Edwards. We want to thank him for his time and for the steps that he promised to take to improve this process. 

Landowners and community members shared their stories about lost habitat for trout, about banks stripped of vegetation, and about property owners with no say over major changes to their land. We all agree that it’s important to remove trash, as well as logs that are blocking the river, and debris that could make future floods more dangerous. We are asking that contractors do this work carefully, with respect for our water quality, wildlife, and property rights. 

Rep. Edwards helpfully committed to take these steps: 

• Call the Army Corps and ask them to address abuses, provide proper oversight, and follow guidelines from state agencies. 
• Go out on the water himself to see the debris removal process. 
• Make a statement that landowners should decide what happens on their property. 
• Ask county personnel to provide oversight of debris removal activities. 
• Ask anyone who sees debris removal abuses to call his office. 

We are very grateful for the Congressman’s commitment to improve this process. Only about 50% of the work has been completed so far, so we still have great opportunities to protect our rivers as we clean up from the storm.