Raleigh – As North Carolina braces for another year, the state is gearing up to tackle its persistent flooding issues head-on. With nearly 280 flood-reduction projects approved, communities across the state can expect significant improvements in their flood resilience. These initiatives, part of the Streamflow Rehabilitation Assistance Program (StRAP), aim to enhance local waterways by removing debris, restoring eroding banks, and repairing critical flood-control structures.
The N.C. General Assembly has allocated approximately $19.5 million to the NCDA&CS Division of Soil and Water Conservation for this ambitious program. An additional $4.7 million has been secured from the Department of Environmental Quality’s Flood Resiliency Blueprint, underscoring a strong commitment to addressing flooding challenges.
“This fall we awarded grants to 111 local governments, Soil and Water Conservation districts, and nonprofits for these projects, and I know these communities will be better for it,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler. The funding has enabled multiple projects in some areas, bringing the total planned projects to around 280. Already, work on 25 projects has been completed, with the Soil and Water Conservation Division finalizing contracts to facilitate further engineering and stream work in the upcoming year.
The Impact of Previous Projects
This marks the second round of funding for StRAP, following an initial allocation in the 2021-2022 fiscal year. The benefits of completed projects from the first round are already evident. Local leaders have reported improved drainage and reduced flooding in areas where StRAP initiatives were implemented, particularly during severe weather events.
“No amount of preparation would have prevented Helene’s catastrophic impact. However, stream debris removal completed through StRAP had a positive impact during this event,” noted Mark Byrd, director of the Mitchell Soil and Water Conservation District. His district is now advancing with StRAP funding to remove additional debris from other streams and floodways in Mitchell County.
The planned projects span 72 counties and cover 15 of the state’s 17 river basins, indicating a comprehensive approach to flood management across North Carolina.
Community Collaboration and Future Goals
David Williams, director of the NCDA&CS Division of Soil and Water Conservation, expressed optimism about the collaboration with local partners. “We look forward to working with our partners in Soil and Water Conservation districts, local governments, and other entities to make this second round of StRAP another success,” he said. “We are committed to making their communities more resilient to flooding.”
The proactive measures being taken through StRAP reflect a growing recognition of the need for sustainable flood management strategies. As climate change continues to exacerbate weather patterns, North Carolina’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure is crucial for safeguarding communities against future flooding events.
The comprehensive nature of these projects not only addresses immediate concerns but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience. By investing in the restoration of natural waterways and improving flood-control systems, North Carolina is taking significant steps toward mitigating the impacts of severe weather.
For those interested in learning more about StRAP and viewing a complete list of projects, additional information can be found at [NCDA&CS Soil and Water Conservation](https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/soil-water-conservation/programs-initiatives/strap).
As 2025 unfolds, North Carolina stands at a pivotal moment in its fight against flooding. With substantial funding and a clear plan in place, communities can look forward to a future where they are better equipped to handle the challenges posed by heavy rainfall and rising waters. The collaborative efforts between state agencies and local entities signal a united front against one of nature’s most unpredictable forces.