Lock and dam No. 1 closed for repairs

RIEGELWOOD, NC (WWAY) — The recreation and river areas of Lock and Dam No. 1 in Riegelwood are closed until March. The dam is undergoing some long-awaited construction.

Repairs include filling a 40-foot hole, adding boulders to make a natural looking dam, repaving the road and fixing up the boat ramp. The rocks added to the dam will create pools where fish can rest during their migration.

“With one stone we’re knocking out two things,” park ranger Tom Charles said. “We’re reestablishing the dam’s integrity the structure, and then we are also providing a habitat for the fish, so we’re accomplishing two missions.”

Boaters will still be able to access the lock on a limited basis. Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance. To make a reservation, call (910) 874-0883 or (910) 655-2605.