Duke Energy completes conservation, restoration projects near Dan River coal plant

Duke Energy completed several conservation and recreation projects near the Dan River coal plant in North Carolina.

The projects are related to a 2014 ash release at the facility. Following the ash release, water quality in the Dan River returned to normal in a few days, and drinking water remained safe. There was also no impact on the river’s aquatic life. But, there were temporary losses in fishing and recreational use of the river.

With input from stakeholders and state and federal agencies, Duke Energy selected several local conservation and recreation projects that community members said were important to them. One was the protection of three parcels of land along the Mayo River. Another was removing a dam on the Pigg River. They also improved Abreu Grogan Park in Danville, Va.; and created additional public access on the Dan River.

“These environmental projects conserve important land, improve aquatic habitat and allow more community access to nature and the outdoors,” Paul Draovitch, Duke Energy senior vice president for environment, health, and safety, said. “After collaborating with our neighbors, we moved forward quickly with restoration projects that would provide broad environmental and community value. We look forward to hearing the public’s feedback on this important work.”

The federal government is now seeking public comment on the Dan River restoration plan as part of the Natural Resources Damage Assessment and Restoration (NRDAR) process.