Army Corps of Engineers awaits funding for Helene cleanup
CLARKS HILL LAKE, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - While cleanup and pick-up have been underway across most of the CSRA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is still waiting on funding for debris removal around their sites at Clarks Hill Lake.
“That is our main struggle right now is funding. We are ready to rock and roll but the only thing we are waiting on is the money,” said Henry Way, chief park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has not received any supplemental funding since Helene hit 145 days ago.
Allergies on the rise in Georgia: What you need to know
If your allergies have been acting up this past week, Georgia medical professionals say you are not alone.
They need funding to hire debris removal services for their 51 recreation areas around Clarks Hill, but until they get it, trees remain scattered around.
“First, we have to remove the debris. Once we remove the debris, we have to assess the infrastructure damage. Then we have to repair that damage. So, it’s going to be a long process, but we can’t start that process until we get that funding,” said Way.
Since they’re a federal agency, they are not eligible for FEMA relief, but they have reached out to other sources.
Ga., S.C. Helene debris cleanup ramps up before winter weather
As winter weather approaches, crews are working to remove Helene debris in Georgia and South Carolina.
“The first path is through the USACE Regular Supplemental Funding Request Process that goes up to our headquarters. And the second one is through the Federal Highway istration. They have a program called ERFO for short, but it’s emergency relief for federally owned roads. We have submitted a funding request to them as well, and we are just waiting to hear back at this time,” said Way.
The Corps does not currently have any volunteer opportunities for cleanup, but Way says there are other ways you can help.
“Do encourage folks if they do want to help to their local officials and let them know their concerns,” said Way.
Here’s what plants are and aren’t safe for your furry friend
In recent years the ASPCA Animal Control Center reported 8% of calls were related to pets ingesting toxic plants.
The Corps has already made a location ready to store debris once they receive funding.
“We have a temporary debris storage and processing site. It’s about 20 acres that we’ve cleared and that’s where we will take all our debris to store it, process it and eventually dispose of our debris,” said Way.
The Corps has been able to open 20 of its 51 recreation areas so far. Mainly for access to boat ramps, but the other 31 that are closed will remain closed until that funding is obtained.
Even if any area is open, continue to use caution with debris still around.
Copyright 2025 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
