In late September 2024, communities across the Appalachians fell victim to devastating flooding and destruction left in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Claytor Lake, a haven for outdoor lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, was one of many waterways thrown into disarray by the historic storm.“There was so much debris, not just wood, but hazardous materials and trash, that it appeared as though you could walk across the water,” says Laura Walters, chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors. “It looked …
