On December 11th, 2024 the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) issued an Aquatic Resource Alteration Permit to CSX Transportation Inc. for the repair of railroad infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Helene along 2.5 miles of track adjacent to the Nolichucky. The Scope of work includes borrow of rock above the ordinary high-water elevation from depositional point bars along the Nolichucky River, removal of other track material, and installation of rail piles to form a buttress wall. Borrow material will be placed behind the rail piles to reestablish the railroad bed. In response to a public hearing held earlier this week, TDEC has initiated a public comment period which is set to expire on March 28th, 2025. The concerns expressed by the Tennessee Backcountry Hunters and Anglers as well as other groups have to do with the incorrect statement of the ordinary high-water mark (OHWM) in the permit and the borrowing of material from the riverbed.
Why this matters:
The Nolichucky River is a public waterway with a diverse ecosystem that provides recreational opportunities for anglers and recreational paddlers. The river system is a destination for many out of state tourists and supports a community of guides, outfitters, and lodges. Please join us in asking TDEC to restore this ecosystem to its pristine state.
A call to Action: Participate in the public comment period (Due by March 28th, 2025)
We urge you to join BHA in advocating for the Nolichucky River. Here’s what you can do.
Contact the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation by email ([email protected]). Be sure to reference the permit number (NRS24.232) and the permit holder (CSX Transportation inc.) in the subject line as well as the body of your email.
Ask TDEC to do the following:
- Amend the permit to include the correct ordinary high-water mark.
- Prevent CSX Transportation inc. from removing borrow material below the correct ordinary high-water mark.
- Require CSX Transportation inc. to restore borrow material already removed below the correct ordinary high-water mark.
- Require CSX transportation to remediate any damage caused by the repair activities.
Thank you for taking the time to complete this public comment.
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