McDowell County Continues Storm Debris Removal Efforts

Debris removal operations are actively ongoing throughout McDowell County. The contractor, AshBritt, working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is focused on clearing storm-related debris from primary and secondary roads. This service is intended for storm debris only; bagged household trash will not be collected as part of this operation. Resident Instructions: Residents in these communities should place storm debris within 10 feet of the right-of-way on any primary or secondary road. Please separate debris by type: vegetative, construction materials, appliances, electronics, and hazardous waste. Bagged household trash will continue to be collected through regular routes or should be taken to the landfill. Debris collection is happening in the following areas: Town of Old Fort Old Hwy 70 Mill Creek Road Graphite Road Different trucks are designated for specific debris types, so please continue to move items to the right-of-way for collection. This service will continue for many months, ensuring multiple passes in each area. The EOC, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will coordinate to ensure that all communities across the county receive this essential service in the coming weeks. For more information on debris removal, visit www.mcdowellgov.com/helene. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to restore our community.

Protect Your Health: Free Well Water Testing Available After Flooding

Following a flood event, it’s important for residents with private wells to consider testing their water for bacteria to ensure safety. The McDowell County Health Department is currently offering free bacteria testing kits (normally $60) for well water. Follow these steps to request your kit: Visit the McDowell County Health Department Website at foothillshd.org to print an application or stop by the Health Department to pick one up. Complete the Application and submit to the Health Department at 408 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752. After submission, an inspector from the health department will contact you to schedule the water sample collection. If you need a full panel well test (typically $150), it is available at a reduced cost of $90. For questions, please contact the McDowell County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division at (828) 652-6811, then dial 4. The department is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

 

Footbridge Installation Ongoing for Residents Impacted by Washed-Out Bridges

In addition to debris removal, work continues across McDowell County to install temporary footbridges for residents who have lost access to their homes due to private bridge washouts. Crews from the North Carolina Forest Service and BRIDGE are working tirelessly each day to restore essential access for affected households. We are immensely grateful for this partnership and the dedicated efforts of these teams in helping us rebuild and reconnect our community.