ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Crews will begin clearing fallen trees and other debris left behind by Tropical Storm Helene along a stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville this month, part of an effort to reduce wildfire risks and improve safety.
The National Park Service said the first phase of the project will cover about 208 acres between mileposts 380 and 391. Work is expected to continue through spring 2027.
The storm left behind large amounts of fallen trees and other vegetation that could fuel wildfires and threaten nearby communities. The debris also poses hazards for firefighters, emergency responders, park employees and visitors.
“This project is critical to reduce wildfire risk for parkway neighbors and emergency responders, while taking care to steward and preserve the scenic character and resources of the National Historic Landmark District that attracts millions of visitors from near and far each year,” Parkway Superintendent Tracy Swartout said in a statement.
The Park Service worked with federal wildfire and forestry specialists to assess the amount of debris, evaluate fire risks and identify areas where cleanup should begin.
Three Western North Carolina contractors have been hired for the project.
Bryant’s Land and Development Industries Inc. of Burnsville will handle debris removal, while High Lonesome Timber, also of Burnsville, will conduct daily inspections to make sure the work meets contract requirements.
ERG-Terracon JV of Arden will survey natural and cultural resources before work begins and monitor operations to help protect sensitive areas.
The cleanup will also include efforts to protect the parkway’s landscape. Specialists will monitor the work, and some areas will undergo revegetation to help prevent erosion and support the forest’s natural recovery.
Drivers should expect occasional delays, with some sections of the parkway reduced to one lane while crews work.
The Park Service said no full road closures are planned as part of this project, particularly with October being one of the busiest months for parkway visitors.
Heavy equipment may be visible from the road, but crews will leave vegetation in place where possible to help preserve the parkway’s scenic views.
The project is part of ongoing recovery efforts along the Blue Ridge Parkway following Helene, which caused widespread damage across Western North Carolina in September 2024.