THOMAS W.Va. (WVDN) — The West Virginia conservation group Friends of Blackwater is thrilled to announce the successful culmination of a 25-year campaign to ensure the full protection of the Blackwater Canyon in Tucker County — as a publicly owned natural and recreational resource.
The 10,000-acre Canyon, which includes Blackwater Falls State Park, is home to dozens of rare plant and animal species, and is an outdoor recreational centerpiece for the West Virginia Highlands economy.
An agreement forged by outgoing U.S. Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia between the U.S. Forest Service and the John Crites family will transfer over 2,700 acres of privately-owned forest land and river corridor in the Canyon to the Monongahela National Forest, marking a historic achievement for conservation and the people of West Virginia. This agreement ensures that future generations will enjoy its breathtaking beauty and ecological richness.
The late Senator Robert C. Byrd described the Blackwater Canyon as West Virginia’s scenic “Crown Jewel,” and called for its full protection. West Virginia Governor Cecil Underwood acquired 450 acres in the Canyon for public ownership — including the iconic Lindy Point overlook, featured on countless tourism brochures. Governor Bob Wise subsequently added 500 acres to Blackwater Falls State Park, and citizens selected the Canyon as the state’s most “special place.” Governor/Senator Joe Manchin then took up the cause, and after years of effort brokered the recent Forest Service acquisition, with the backing of WV Senator Shelley Moore Capito.
Friends of Blackwater Director Judy Rodd expressed her deep gratitude to the many individuals and organizations who have worked to make this achievement possible. “We all owe an immense debt of gratitude especially to Senator Manchin for his leadership in championing this cause, and to Senator Shelley Moore Capito for her support.”
“This is a victory for the people of West Virginia — and our many friends around the nation — who have supported this campaign, and who treasure the Mountain State’s natural beauty,” said Rodd. “Friends of Blackwater remains committed to supporting ongoing conservation efforts and ensuring that Blackwater Canyon thrives as a haven for recreation, biodiversity, heritage tourism, and inspiration.”
About Friends of Blackwater: Friends of Blackwater is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and advocating for West Virginia’s natural and cultural heritage. Through community engagement, education, and conservation efforts, we strive to preserve the unique landscapes and ecosystems of the Mountain State. www.SaveBlackwater.org.
For more information contact Judy Rodd at 304-552-7602; info@saveblackwater.org.
