Our Wild & Wonderful Monongahela National Forest
The Monongahela National Forest is the crown jewel of West Virginia’s public lands. It’s home to more than 75 tree and 225 bird species, 60 nongame/forage fish species, 12 game fish species, and eight federally listed, threatened, or endangered bird, bat, salamander, and plant species.
In the Fall of 2021, WV Rivers held listening sessions to hear from folks who love and use the Mon. We wanted to hear thoughts, concerns, and visions for the future of the National Forest. What we heard from forest users will form the foundation of a pro-active campaign to bring additional support to the Monongahela Forest. You can download a copy of our report on the listening sessions.
Top Concerns Shared By Listening Session Participants
- Water Quality. The headwaters born in the Mon form 5 major rivers. These rivers flow into the Ohio and Chesapeake watersheds which provide drinking water to approximately 9% of the nation’s population.
- Trails. Trail systems through out the forest are in desperate need of development and maintenance. Volunteers, skill building, and funding are needed to serve these trails.
- Protect Wilderness. Ensure wilderness and sensitive areas are protected from overuse. Promote areas in the forest that receive less use.
- Access. Ensure people of all abilities can access the forest. Increase the use of public lands by communities traditionally left out of outdoor spaces. Promote lesser know recreational activities.
- Maps. Improve the accuracy and availability of forest and trail maps. Increase resources available for mapping.
- Invasive Species. Manage invasive species found in the forest.
- Safe River Recreation. Increase the number of U.S. Geological Survey Stream Gages, and permit bridge access to recreation locations.
- Funding. Develop an endowment fund and other funding for forest recreation.
