Categories: College University Athletics

Boone Begins Final Storm Debris Collection Effort

Residents of Boone organizing storm debris for collection

News Summary

Residents of Boone are encouraged to participate in the final storm debris collection following Hurricane Helene, which runs from February 3 to February 14, 2025. The Public Works Department is facilitating the collection to help restore the community, urging residents to sort debris into specific categories. As recovery progresses, local businesses are reopening with limited services, and patience is requested from the community. Additionally, a curfew remains in effect for Watauga County amid ongoing recovery efforts.

Boone Kicks Off Final Storm Debris Collection After Hurricane Helene

Residents of Boone, it’s time to get your yard in shape and help the town recover from the recent hurricane damage! Starting today, February 3, 2025, Boone’s Public Works Department, along with SDR, is on a mission to collect storm debris from Hurricane Helene. This collection will run until February 14, 2025, so there’s plenty of time to gather up all that unwelcome debris from your property.

As we all know, Hurricane Helene left many areas of Western North Carolina in a bit of a mess. In Boone, we’re still under a state of emergency, but there’s a silver lining—many essential services and vital infrastructure are gradually working their way back to normal. Classes at Appalachian State University have resumed, and tourism is inching its way back into the picture.

Sort It Out!

To make the collection process run smoothly, residents are requested to sort debris into four specific categories. Here’s what you need to do:

Brush, Limbs, and Shrubbery: Gather up your twigs, branches, and any foliage that didn’t survive the storm.
Junk: Got some old furniture, carpets, or leftover building materials lying around? This is the category for you!
Large Appliances: If your refrigerator or washing machine didn’t make it through the hurricane, this is where it goes.
Electronics: Please place any broken or damaged electronics in this pile. It’s time to dispose of that old TV!

This organized collection will help the town clear the debris efficiently and safely. If you have any questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to contact Boone’s Public Works Department at (828) 268-6230.

Fueling Your Needs

If you’re in need of propane or heating fuels during this chilly season while recovering from the storm, Blue Ridge Energy has local offices that can help you out:

Boone: 2491 US Hwy 421 S, Phone: 828-264-3521
W. Jefferson: 2375 Hwy. 163, Phone: 336-846-2421
Lenoir: 100 Cooperative Way, Phone: 828-758-4401
Sparta: 1889 Hwy. 21 S, Phone: 336-372-1742

Patience During Recovery

As Boone and surrounding areas continue to recover, residents and visitors are encouraged to exhibit patience and show respect for the ongoing recovery efforts—many local businesses are still operating with limited hours and modified menus. Popular spots like Betty’s Biscuits, Black Cat Burrito, and F.A.R.M. Cafe are welcoming customers back, albeit with some adjustments.

In the meantime, keep in mind that a curfew is also in effect in Watauga County from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., which is a great reminder for everyone to stay safe. And for those looking to hit the great outdoors, be aware that the Blue Ridge Parkway is currently closed for all uses, which means you’ll have to wait a bit longer to enjoy those stunning views.

Conclusion

So, Boone residents, let’s all pitch in to make this debris collection as smooth as possible. It’s our chance to reclaim our beautiful town after the storm. Remember to sort your debris by the designated categories and don’t hesitate to reach out to local resources for help. Together, we can pull through this recovery—one brush and junk pile at a time!