NRCS Helps Communities After Tropical Storm

By Blake Jackson

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service continues helping Pennsylvania communities recover from severe flooding caused by Tropical Storm Debby through the Emergency Watershed Protection Program. The program works with local sponsors to repair damaged areas, reduce flood risks, and improve long-term watershed protection after natural disasters.

In August 2024, Hurricane Debby moved quickly into Pennsylvania after making landfall and weakening into a tropical storm. Heavy rainfall caused dangerous flash flooding across north-central Pennsylvania. Small streams quickly overflowed, damaging streambanks, bridges, homes, businesses, and local infrastructure. The steep terrain in many areas increased runoff and created sudden rises in water levels.

Following the storm, NRCS Pennsylvania quickly released information and surveys to local governments and communities to assess damage. Ten local government agencies agreed to sponsor Emergency Watershed Protection projects across 10 counties. Together, they identified 80 eligible project sites needing assistance. Fifteen of those sites were located in Tioga County.

Through a partnership with the Tioga County Conservation District, NRCS invested $1.1 million to stabilize more than 2,400 feet of damaged streambanks. The work helps protect nearby homes and businesses from future flooding and erosion. Officials said nearly all Tioga County projects were completed by the end of 2025.

“EWP is a flexible program that allows NRCS to work through sponsors, to help impacted landowners in an efficient and effective way,” said Mark Buckwalter, NRCS Pennsylvania EWP Program Manager.

The Emergency Watershed Protection Program provides technical and financial support for flood prevention, debris removal, land restoration, and streambank stabilization projects after disasters. The program also helps communities prepare for future storms and reduce risks to public safety and infrastructure.

Statewide, NRCS invested $5.4 million into Tropical Storm Debby recovery projects. The effort included 18 damage survey reports, 80 project sites, and partnerships with 10 sponsors across Pennsylvania. Officials said the work protected 96 homes and businesses along with three public utility locations.

NRCS leaders said the program demonstrates the importance of strong partnerships in helping communities recover, rebuild, and improve resilience after severe weather events.

Photo Credit: usda-nrcs