September 30, 2025

Asheville to Clear Storm Debris from North Fork Reservoir

Asheville, September 30, 2025

News Summary

The city of Asheville is set to begin clearing storm debris from the North Fork Reservoir area, a project that will enhance water flow and reduce wildfire risks. City officials have assured residents that this operation, which will take place in sensitive watershed areas, is not driven by safety concerns related to the dam. Contractors are expected to work seven days a week during daylight hours, leading to increased truck traffic in the vicinity. The project aims to protect the drinking water supply and respond to rising wildfire risks.

Asheville is set to begin clearing storm debris from the North Fork Reservoir area in the upcoming weeks. This significant project aims to enhance water flow and reduce wildfire risks in sensitive areas surrounding the reservoir, which is crucial for the city’s drinking water system.

The clearing will take place in waterways and along roads within the watershed. City officials have confirmed that the project is not prompted by any safety concerns regarding the dam. The decision to move forward with this operation comes as part of a broader initiative to ensure the long-term safety and quality of Asheville’s water supply.

Contractors involved in the project are expected to work seven days a week during daylight hours. As a result, residents in the area can expect increased truck traffic on roads leading to and from the reservoir during the operation. This may cause temporary disruptions but is necessary for the timely execution of the project.

During the debris clearing, materials will be chipped on-site before being transported to a disposal facility. It is important to note that only storm-related vegetative material will be processed; trash, construction debris, and hazardous waste will not be included in this operation. City officials emphasized that operations will be monitored to ensure both safety and environmental protection throughout the project.

More information about the project can be found on the city’s project page, which may include further updates and details about timelines and operations.

Background Context

The North Fork Reservoir serves as a vital component of Asheville’s water supply. Following severe weather events, debris accumulation in the surrounding area can negatively impact both water quality and access routes. The city has undertaken this proactive approach to maintain the integrity of the watershed and safeguard its natural resources.

In recent years, wildfire risks have become more pronounced, causing communities to seek methods for mitigating these dangers, especially in areas adjacent to water supplies. This project aligns with those community safety goals by addressing potential hazards related to both storm debris and wildfire susceptibility.

Project Details Summary

Location: North Fork Reservoir area, Asheville.
Objective: Clear storm debris to improve water flow and reduce wildfire risks.
Timeline: Operations will begin in the upcoming weeks and will involve working seven days a week during daylight hours.
Impact on residents: Increased truck traffic on access roads to the reservoir.
Debris processing: On-site chipping and transport to a disposal facility, with only storm-related vegetative material handled.
Safety measures: Operations will be monitored for safety and environmental protection.

Getting Informed

Residents are encouraged to monitor the city’s project page for updates regarding the clearing operations and any new information that may arise during the project timeline.

FAQ Section

What is the purpose of the storm debris clearing project in Asheville?

The project aims to protect the city’s drinking water system and mitigate the risks of wildfires in sensitive watershed areas.

Where is the project taking place?

Clearing will take place in the North Fork Reservoir area, specifically in waterways and along roads within the watershed.

Will traffic be affected during the operation?

Residents in the area can expect increased truck traffic on roads leading to and from the reservoir during the operation.

What types of materials will be processed during the clearing?

Only storm-related vegetative material will be processed; trash, construction debris, and hazardous waste will not be included.

When will the project start and how long will it take?

The project is set to begin in the upcoming weeks, and contractors will work seven days a week during daylight hours.

Is there any safety concern related to the dam?

City officials have confirmed that the project is not prompted by any safety concerns regarding the dam.

How will the operations be monitored?

The city has stated that operations will be monitored to ensure safety and environmental protection.

Key Features Chart

Feature	Details
Location	North Fork Reservoir area, Asheville
Objective	Protect drinking water, reduce wildfire risks
Timeline	Starting in upcoming weeks, seven days a week
Traffic Impact	Increased truck traffic expected
Materials Processed	Storm-related vegetative material only
Monitoring	Operations monitored for safety and environmental protection