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Virginia Tech Tackles Helene's Environmental Legacy
11 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Virginia Tech leads research into Hurricane Helene's environmental impacts.
- An $8.8 million grant funds field work starting early 2026.
- Research will identify areas needing remediation for safety and ecosystem restoration.
Virginia Tech's Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation is leading a significant research initiative to understand the long-term environmental consequences of Hurricane Helene. The project, bolstered by an $8.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will commence field operations in early 2026.
The research teams will concentrate on impacted watersheds in North Carolina and Virginia, aiming to pinpoint areas needing critical remediation. This includes assessing risks such as mudslides and debris jams, and evaluating the safety of vital infrastructure like bridges and culverts.
