Removing Debris from Smith Mountain Lake

As a body of water supplied by multiple rivers and waterways, SML receives natural debris and manmade trash on an ongoing basis. This is particularly true during high water and high flow/flooding events.

Debris enters the lake from tributaries, wind, and storms. It can be beneficial if properly managed. Debris and trash needs to be carefully managed to protect SML water quality and the aesthetics of the lake we all love and enjoy.

Abundant, complex woody debris benefits wildlife, the fishery and water quality. It also improves angling success. However, debris that is free floating can be a hazard to recreational users of the lake such as boaters, skiers, and swimmers. If not managed, floating debris can affect the aesthetic quality of the lake and surrounding properties.

Keeping SML clean and safe is not the responsibility of any one party. It takes the continuous efforts of the entire community of citizens, businesses, and our surrounding county governments.

The Smith Mountain Pumped Storage Project (Project) consists of two lakes, SML and Leesville Lake, and two hydroelectric generating facilities. Appalachian Power Company (APCo) operates the Project under a license agreement from the Federal Energy Management Commission (FERC).

In 2008, as part of their license through FERC, APCo implemented the Appalachian Power Company Smith Mountain Hydroelectric Project Debris Management Plan. The purpose of this plan is to identify debris removal and control measures within the project boundary. The plan identifies debris removal and control measures to maintain the aesthetic values, reduce access difficulties, and reduce boating hazards associated with floating debris while also benefiting the fishery and biological habitat of the lakes.

How does the lake get cleaned up?

Currently, APCo operates two barges to collect medium to large sized woody debris. APCo also operates a skimmer designed to collect smaller debris and also retains the services of an independent contractor with an additional barge on each lake to support the cleanup efforts.

Operation of debris removal equipment normally occurs from April through October of each year. APCo is required to perform a debris survey of both lakes each month during the months of April through October. The results of these surveys are shared with the agencies in consultation to determine what areas of the lakes APCo should work during the month.

During times of flooding or heavy water flow, APCo is required to perform additional debris surveys. These added surveys are triggered by a certain level of water flow upstream of the lake.

The equipment used by APCo and its contractor to remove debris does have limitations and cannot access areas with low water levels and limited area for mobility such as the back of narrow coves and the immediate area around and under docks and piers. Also, APCo does not access the shoreline or private property to clean trash and debris.

Certain types of debris will not be removed by APCo as it is considered beneficial habitat. Property owners may submit an application for a vegetation removal permit to APCo and such applications will be reviewed and permits are issued on a case-by-case basis. If a permit is issued, the property owner will be responsible for the removal. As part of the permit, a vegetation replacement plan may also be required to mitigate for the loss of habitat.

The debris management plan also establishes a priority system for debris removal whereby free-floating debris in the main channel that could pose a hazard to recreation and navigation is the highest priority for removal, followed by free-floating debris along the shoreline of the main channel that could re-enter the main channel as lake levels fluctuate and finally, other areas outside of the main channel will be addressed as time permits.

Volunteer your time to keep SML clean and safe

Keeping the lake clean and beautiful is the responsibility of the public and property owners as well as APCo and local governments represented by TLAC. As such, TLAC, the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber, and the Smith Mountain Lake Association (SMLA) organize an annual lake cleanup day.

The annual cleanup day involves hundreds of volunteers both on shore and by water with help from APCo and many local businesses. Historically, up to 100 tons of debris have been removed and properly disposed of at these events.

Landowners are also encouraged to remove debris and trash from the shoreline on an ongoing basis to prevent debris from entering the lake. Debris can be removed and disposed of by the property owner or by using private contractors.

Get involved! The annual lake cleanup day will be held on May 2. Information and volunteer sign-up forms are on the event website. You may also contact TLAC at tlac@sml.us.com, 540-721-4400 for more information and to volunteer your time to keep SML clean and safe.

Where do you report debris floating in the lake?

Report debris to the Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission (TLAC) at 540-721-4400 or by email at navigation@sml.us.com. There is additional information on debris removal at the TLAC website. After business hours, hazards can be reported to AEP at 800-956-4237.

This article was written and published by SMLA in collaboration with TLAC and APCo.