Latest news with #TerryFletcher
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Fun on the water should be tempered with caution: Heavy rains have short-term potential for debris, bacteria
Jul. 1—MORGANTOWN — As Morgantown residents look ahead to celebrating the Fourth of July this coming weekend, officials are advising caution on local waterways due to the recent flooding that has left behind debris and runoff in Cheat Lake and surrounding streams. The heavy rains that came through West Virginia may have subsided, but the impact on local waterways may linger—especially as crowds head to cool off during hot weather. "At this time, the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection is not aware of any major water quality issues stemming from the recent flooding in north-central West Virginia, " chief communications officer Terry Fletcher said. "However, it's important to note that WVDEP does not typically issue advisories related to recreational use or swimming." Even in the absence of official advisories, Fletcher emphasized that residents and visitors should still proceed with care. "After heavy rains or flooding, natural water bodies, such as Cheat Lake and nearby streams, can carry increased levels of bacteria, debris, or other runoff that may pose short-term risks to swimmers and boaters, " he said. "While these conditions often resolve fairly quickly, we recommend that citizens use their best judgment, particularly in areas with visible discoloration, floating debris, or strong currents." Floating logs, branches, and even manmade materials like plastic containers can carry bacteria into the water. Still, residents are still encouraged to enjoy their time in the water while staying mindful. Fletcher emphasizes, "While these conditions often resolve fairly quickly, we recommend that citizens use their best judgement." Safety tips for the water:—Avoid swimming in areas with murky or discolored water.—Watch for floating debris or submerged hazards.—If you are unsure about water conditions, wait at least 24-to-48 hours after a major rainfall before entering water.—Watch for local weather alerts.
Yahoo
22-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Adopt-A-Highway registration is open
GHENT, WV (WVNS) — West Virginia is known for its natural beauty. Tourists come from all over to visit our stunning state so it's to everyone's benefit that we keep its roadways clean. That's where the Adopt-A-Highway Program comes in. Milestone of 2,000 robotic joint replacement surgeries announced by WVU Princeton Community Hospital The Adopt-A-Highway Program is sponsored by the West Virginia Division of Highways and the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection. The program is geared towards cleaning state-maintained roadways in order to prevent damage to the environment and wildlife of the state, as well as to continue to promote the image of West Virginia's natural beauty to tourists. Terry Fletcher, Chief Communications Officer for the DEP, said it also allows West Virginians to take pride in their state. 'This is an opportunity for communities to come together and to make a visible difference across the state. Obviously, you know, the state doesn't always have the manpower to clean up every section of road every so often. So, we really try to rely on volunteers to help clean up their communities and just make an impact,' said Fletcher. Anyone over the age of twelve can register to clean up a two mile stretch of roadway. The adoption period lasts for two years and three clean ups per year are required. Fletcher said the program has continuously done very well over the years. 'Last year we had over two thousand volunteers from more than 240 groups come out and they collected seventy-five thousand pounds of litter from over 500 miles of West Virginia roadways. So, that's just a huge impact and it's just made possible by every day West Virginians,' said Fletcher. The DEP provides cleaning supplies to the volunteers and after the litter is bagged the DOH comes through and picks up the bags. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve saw record visitation in 2024 If you have questions about or would like to register for the Adopt-A-Highway Program, please visit the Department of Enivronmental Protection's website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
