In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Claytor Lake community faces the crucial task of restoring the lake’s environment and supporting local recovery efforts.
A key question has emerged: should the lake remain open for recovery, or be closed to the public?
Friends of Claytor Lake (FOCL), a nonprofit dedicated to the lake’s restoration, is advocating for the lake to stay open. While some closures and restrictions have been necessary, FOCL believes keeping the lake accessible is essential for both environmental recovery and the economic well-being of the surrounding community.
“Closing the lake would seriously hinder our restoration efforts and harm local businesses that rely on it,” said Jackson Beamer, FOCL president. “We need to keep it open to clear debris and support the community’s recovery.”
FOCL’s cleanup began immediately after the storm, collecting 1,950 tons of woody debris on top of various structures and hazardous materials. Through collaborations with FEMA and the US Army Corps of Engineers, additional debris and recreational vehicles have been removed, ecosystems have been restored, and structures have been salvaged.
A temporary closure was needed initially to remove hazardous materials for safety. FOCL worked hard to ensure the lake was safe before reopening. However, a second proposed closure, made without local input, would have disrupted peak fall tourism. FOCL supported Pulaski County’s efforts to prevent further closures.
“Closing the lake now would prevent businesses and residents from returning to normal,” said Laura Walters, FOCL’s Environmental Committee Chair. “We’re doing everything we can to ensure the lake is safe and accessible, and we need continued support from federal, state, and local governments, as well as our community, to make that happen.”
Pulaski County has been vital in establishing a weekly committee with the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), FEMA, FOCL, the State Park, and other agencies to minimize disruptions during the cleanup. FOCL also thanked federal, state, and local leaders, including Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, Congressman Morgan Griffith, Governor Glenn Youngkin, Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears, Senator Travis Hackworth, Delegate Don Scott, Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates, and Delegates Jason Ballard and Jed Arnold, for their support. Additionally, various state agencies, such as the Department of Wildlife Resources, Department of Conservation and Recreation, and Department of Environmental Resources, along with Pulaski County staff, EMS, Fire and Rescue, and PSA operations, have all contributed to the swift and effective cleanup.
Currently, the State Park boat ramp is closed, but a shuttle service is available to help boaters launch at the public ramp. Parking at the State Park is available, and salvageable docks are being collected for residents. Updates are posted on the Claytor Lake Home Owner’s Facebook page.
“We’re not just cleaning debris—we’re protecting the entire community,” Walters said. “The lake is vital to residents, businesses, and wildlife. The sooner we return to normal, the better. The lake remains open—please be cautious of remaining debris, especially in the lower lake.”
Learn more about FOCL and how you can get involved whether through volunteering your time or making a donation, every contribution makes a difference in preserving this vital resource for future generations. For more information and to get involved, visit focl.org.
A’me Dalton, FOCL