EWP buyout DSR 21-05-25-5082-013 & DSR 21-05-25-5082-029 spring 2025 flooding in letcher county, KY for implementation of recovery measures and obstruction removal

The Department of Agriculture National Resources Conservation Service awarded a $26.878 million Cooperative Agreement to Letcher County Fiscal Court on September 30, 2025, under the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (CFDA 10.923) to implement recovery measures and remove obstructions from spring 2025 flooding in Letcher County, Kentucky. The award addresses imminent hazards to life and property through runoff retardation and erosion prevention measures in response to the natural disaster. Letcher County Fiscal Court, a rural Appalachian local government entity, serves as the project sponsor with legal responsibility for values threatened by the watershed emergency. Performance occurs in Kentucky with completion targeted for October 7, 2029. The EWP Program assists sponsors, landowners, and operators in implementing emergency recovery measures when the current condition of land or watershed impairment poses a threat to health, life, and property. The recipient is responsible for furnishing local cost-share, obtaining necessary land rights and permits, and carrying out operation and maintenance responsibilities. Work may be accomplished through federal or local contracts.