ROANOKE, Va., July 16, 2026 - Appalachian Power Company (APCo) has received approval from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for a variance related to water releases from the Smith Mountain Project, effective July 22, 2026.

The variance allows APCo to implement Trigger 3 of its Water Management Plan (WMP) before the September 30 date outlined in the plan. This action is part of APCo's aggressive, proactive approach to conserve water during the ongoing historic drought. To date, measures implemented under the WMP have helped conserve approximately two feet of water elevation within the project.

"We understand the significant impacts to local communities from this long-term drought," said Brannon Littleton, APCo's hydro manager. "We will continue to proactively work with our regulating bodies to seek options that allow us to bring better balance to recreational users, customers and downstream environmental impacts from the project."

Under the approved variance, APCo can further reduce water flows downstream of Leesville Dam. While these reduced flows will continue to support downstream ecology, it may affect recreational activities downstream. The variance will remain in effect until Smith Mountain Lake returns to full pond elevation of 795 feet.