Dunloup Creek Voluntary Floodplain Buyout Update

MORGANTOWN, WV, September 24, 2009 —Applications for the Dunloup Creek Voluntary Floodplain Buyout exceeded program expectations. The program is a voluntary buyout for threatened properties within the 100-year floodplain. From June 1 to September 1, 2009, a total of 255 parcels were entered into the program. At least 128 applications are for primary residences which are susceptible to repeated flooding from Dunloup Creek. Applications have also been received for rental properties, commercial buildings, churches, businesses, vacant residences and lots.

Citizens have turned out for two information events on the project. In August, a Question and Answer session attracted 155 people to the Glen Jean Armory. A Housing Fair held at the same location was attended by realtors, builders, and residents.

Local project sponsors include the Fayette County Commission, the City of Mount Hope, the West Virginia Conservation Committee, and the Southern Conservation District. The Dunloup Creek Watershed Association is the driving force behind the project and provides coordination between the residents and project sponsors. Funding for the project comes from the Small Watersheds Program through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) with a state match through the West Virginia State Conservation Agency (WVCA).

Planning for the Dunloup Creek Watershed was re-initiated in 1995 in response to repeated flooding to the communities of Kilsyth, Mount Hope, Glen Jean, Red Star, Harvey, and other settlements along Dunloup Creek. The project was planned under the authority of the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act (PL-93-566, as amended). Approximately 290 properties and associated infrastructure have suffered repeated flooding––with two devastating floods in 2001 and 2004. Measures such as dams, channels, floodwalls, dredging, and floodproofing were evaluated in an effort to find a solution to the flooding. The most cost-effective and feasible option for the communities is a voluntary floodplain buyout.

Flood damages will be reduced 100 percent for those property owners that participate in the voluntary buyout and relocate outside of the floodplain. There are incalculable benefits to reducing risk to life and property, improving the quality of life to a distressed community, and restoring environmental integrity to the natural floodplain.

For more information on the Final Watershed Plan – Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Dunloup Creek Watershed, go to http://www.wv.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/watershed/dunloup/2007dunloupFEIS.pdf, or contact Pam Yost, Agricultural Economist, at 304-284-7540.

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