FloydFest — a music competition that takes place within the Blue Ridge Mountains in Floyd, VA — could also be canceled this yr on account of considerations from environmentalists that development would endanger uncommon turtle and butterfly species native to the realm. The occasion was set to maneuver to a brand new location this yr, just a few miles down the street from the farm the place it’s been held since 2002. However yesterday The Roanoke Instances reported that, although development had began on the bridges and roads required to placed on this yr’s competition, the organizers proceeded with out the right permits.
The Virginia Division Of Environmental High quality said in early March that the work didn’t have a state-approved storm water administration plan, and that development has already impacted the habitats of the lavatory turtle and the endangered Mitchell’s satyr butterfly, A letter despatched by Will Harlan, a biologist representing the Heart For Organic Range, raised considerations about impacting the ecosystem of the realm: “The lavatory turtle and their distinctive wetland habitat in Floyd County are particularly important and warrant the best stage of safety supplied by federal and state managing companies.”
Right now, FloydFest issued a statement addressing the state of affairs that leaves the door open for the opportunity of a relocation however makes it sound extra like FloydFest 23 is not going to proceed. “As a consequence of remaining allowing and logistical elements past our management, the brand new FloydFest website, FestivalPark, shouldn’t be at present viable for a 2023 competition, and we’re at present exploring all choices,” the assertion reads. “We will probably be again with extra data on April 6.”
“Make zero mistake — FloydFest and its future are robust, and this we do know: We’ll see every of you, our FloydFest Household, in July 2024, as we christen your new residence, FestivalPark. Extra data will probably be introduced subsequent week,” it concludes.
This yr’s FloydFest was scheduled to be headlined by the Black Crowes, My Morning Jacket, and Sheryl Crow, and the occasion was already bought out, with 14,000 folks anticipated to attend.
