New funding from North Carolina’s Department of Environmental Quality aims to help Clyde, a small town, combat flooding through natural methods. Over the past twenty years, extreme storms have wreaked havoc in the area. The recent storm, Helene, in 2024, followed in the footsteps of Ivan, Francis, and Fred, which all caused substantial flooding, damaging homes and businesses.
The DEQ is investing a little over $210,000 to restore native plants along a half-mile stretch of the stream. This project will stabilize nearly five acres next to the Pigeon River by planting native trees and shrubs. Stuart Brown, a program manager at DEQ, explains that this type of river restoration brings several public benefits. “Nature-based solutions,” he says, “can reduce flooding downstream and improve water quality, wildlife habitat, and recreational spaces.”
This funding is part of the Flood Resiliency Blueprint, a statewide initiative aimed at reducing flood risks in the most vulnerable communities. The Blueprint includes not just financial aid for environmental projects like this one, but also guidance for local governments and planning strategies for future disasters.
In partnership with environmental nonprofit Haywood Waterways, the project will result in the planting of hundreds of trees. Executive director Preston Jacobsen notes that recent storms have severely damaged the region. As climate change leads to heavier rains, Jacobsen is hopeful that these restoration efforts can help keep residents safer during extreme weather events.
“You’ll see a majority of that tree line along the bank be removed but replanted with native plants that won’t catch as much debris during storms,” Jacobsen explains. This approach aims to stabilize eroded riverbanks, helping to slow floodwaters and reduce debris.
Clyde’s River’s Edge Park project represents a second phase of flood mitigation efforts, featuring strategies used after 2004 floods that devastated the town. The park not only serves as a recreation area but also as a flood channel, helping to manage stormwater. Planting native species such as river cane can filter water and minimize soil erosion.
The town has faced economic challenges since storms led to significant job losses, including the closure of a papermill in nearby Canton. This has resulted in a series of buyouts, with 40 buyouts occurring in Haywood County after Hurricane Fred. Clyde’s mayor, Jim Trantham, acknowledges these buyouts but is optimistic about the new initiatives. “These measures will significantly reduce damage, ultimately benefiting Clyde and its residents,” he shares.
In addition to flood mitigation, Clyde is also planning a new subdivision on elevated ground and is collaborating with the Economic Development Administration to raise downtown buildings. These efforts reflect the town’s commitment to adapting to changing climate conditions while enhancing community resilience.
