Radford Watch
Public Safety

APCo to perform hydroelectric test at Claytor Dam

Jeff SingerJuly 29, 2026

APCo will test Claytor Dam generators July 30, raising New River levels ~2.5 feet near Radford. Recreational users urged to exercise caution.

Appalachian Power Company (APCo) announced it will perform a required test of its generating units at the Claytor Hydroelectric Project in Pulaski County on July 30. The test will temporarily increase downstream flows on the New River. Areas closest to the dam, including Radford, can expect river levels to rise by approximately 2.5 feet Thursday afternoon. Flows are expected to peak during the afternoon before decreasing throughout the evening. Recreational and commercial users of the river and shoreline areas are advised to exercise caution due to changing river conditions.