Due to the prolonged drought around Smith Mountain Lake, Appalachian Power Company is urging the public to be cautious in the area. Some boat ramps and launch areas may be inaccessible due to the low water levels.

The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded Giles County a $200,000 grant. These funds are directed to support a reuse study for the decommissioned Appalachian Power (ApCo) coal-fired Glen Lyn Plant in Pearisburg, Virginia.