JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) announced that it has partnered with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) to restore fish habitat on Watauga Lake after Hurricane Helene, according to a release by TVA.

The storm that swept across the region in late September of last year destroyed or removed existing underwater fish habitat on the reservoir.

Using TVA funds, TWRA will install at least 75 large habitat structures.

According to TVA, the structures will provide long-term and high-quality habitat for various fish species, which will contribute to the ecological health and sustainability of the reservoir.

“TWRA’s longstanding partnership with TVA reflects our shared vision for conservation and resilience,” TWRA Fisheries Biologist John Hammonds said. “Our continued collaboration on Watauga Reservoir, especially in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, demonstrates how working together can restore critical fish habitat, support ecological recovery and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the fisheries resources and the people who enjoy them.”

The habitat structures will feature one to six trees tied to a weighted base, like concrete reef balls or other anchors. The structures will be placed so that the natural brush will be elevated off the reservoir bottom, one of the most effective and long-lasting methods for supporting fish populations, according to TVA.

Sunken trees and structures provide environments for fish to forage, shelter, and spawn.

“Healthy waterways are one of our region’s most valuable natural assets, and it takes partnerships like this one to keep these assets thriving for the benefit of the public,” TVA Vice President of Environment and Stewardship Michael McCall said. “The collaboration with TWRA helps support stewardship resiliency and economic prosperity through all types of extreme weather events.”

According to TVA, state data shows that tourism had a $53 million impact in Carter County in 2024.