USDA hopes to restore portions of Cherokee National Forest after Helene damage

A proposed extensive and wide-reaching project hopes to restore and repair areas of the Cherokee National Forest that Hurricane Helene damaged, and officials are looking for the public’s suggestions. The U.S. Forest Service announced last week that it was initiating a proposed project focused on damaged infrastructure in the forest that is used by the public. The Forest Service wants to repair, build, rebuild and stabilize sites across roughly 1,307 acres of the national forest. Work could include repairs and replacements of Appalachian Trail shelters, grading and drainage improvements, reconstruction of bridges, access roads and parking lots, and repairs to campsites and boat launches. The Forest Service is asking those who use the national forest to provide feedback by identifying possible issues and concerns that could potentially be addressed with the project.