Government Looks to Buy West Virginia Flood Land

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is launching a pilot project to reduce flood damage along Dunloup Creek in southern West Virginia.

Dunloup Creek flows through Fayette County. The USDA is hoping that 198 landowners will voluntarily agree to sell their property to the federal agency.

The creek has flooded several times in recent years and some homeowners have had up to seven feet of water in the houses.

Carol Durham, who works with the USDA, says it’s hoped that flooding damage can be reduced by removing any buildings and returning the property to its original state.

The agency will hold an informational meeting on its proposal on Aug. 12 in Glen Jean.