Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – In an effort to alleviate flooding in South Foley, Alabama, officials have announced plans to remove a substantial beaver dam, which notably includes its own hot tub among water-blocking components. The city initially undertook a project in July to clear debris and sediment from the Bon Secour River, a task necessitated by the aftermath of Hurricane Sally in 2020.

Darrell Russell, the Public Works Director for Foley, stated that while the initial debris removal was successful, the river continued to experience drainage issues. Greenco, the company contracted for the cleanup, had cleared the designated area but found that downstream obstructions remained.

Upon further investigation, a "massive, massive beaver dam" was discovered, according to Russell. The dam even contained a hot tub, presumably washed into the river during Hurricane Sally. Russell emphasized the importance of removing the dam, stating that failure to do so would render previous efforts futile.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich confirmed that crews had successfully cleared a significant amount of debris from the stream but noted that drainage issues persisted at the southern end of the city's property. Plans are now in place to trap and remove the beavers and demolish the dam to restore proper drainage to the area.