Illegal mining adds pollution to storm-damaged Nolichucky River

Illegal mining adds pollution to storm-damaged Nolichucky River

An unpermitted gravel mining operation in Mitchell County is polluting the Nolichucky River with sediment runoff, compounding damage from Hurricane Helene. State regulators say the site lacked proper permits and restoration plans, raising concerns about long-term environmental harm to wildlife, drinking water, and the region’s outdoor recreation economy.