ELKINS, W.Va., May 8, 2019 – Monongahela National Forest is closing an area in the Cheat-Potomac Ranger District to all public entry during helicopter timber sale operations in the Hogback Mountain planning area. The closure begins May 8 and could last several months. This closure is necessary to ensure public safety during timber sale operations. When helicopter operations are complete, the area will reopen to public use.
The closed area is east of Horseshoe Leadership Center near Lead Mine. Specifically, the closed area is bounded by the McKinley Run/Allegheny Trail (Trail 154/701) and State Route 16 (Close Mountain Road) on the north; the forest boundary on the east; the Forest boundary then down a ridge to the Forest boundary along Maxwell Run on the south; and State Route 7 (Horseshoe Run Road) on the west. Travelers on State Routes 7 and 16 may encounter flaggers when the helicopter is operating directly adjacent to these roads.
Recreationists may continue to use the McKinley Run/Allegheny Trail. It is part of the northern boundary, but not within the closed area.
Heavy log truck traffic is expected during times of active logging operations. Travelers are advised to use caution when driving in this area.
For a map of the closed area and the latest project information, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/