By: Lydia Crawley
The Parsons Advocate
After a 25 year campaign, the Blackwater Canyon has become a publicly owned natural and recreation resource, according to Judy Rodd, Director of Friends of the Blackwater. The transfer took place on Monday, December 30th, according to Rodd.
In a statement on the transfer, the Friends of the Blackwater said that the 10,000 acre canyon, including 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.” The statement goes on later to describe the Blackwater Canyon as “West Virginia’s Scenic Crown Jewel” as described by the late Senator Robert C. Byrd, who called for its full protection, according to the statement.
An agreement was forged by U.S. Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia between the U.S. Forest Service and the John Crites Family for the transfer of over 2,700 acres of privately owned forest land and river corridor in the Canyon to the Monongahela National Forest, according to the statement. Manchin was backed by Senator Shelley Moore Capito on the matter. “This agreement ensures that future generations will enjoy its breathtaking beauty and ecological richness,” the statement reads.
Former West Virginia Governor Cecil Underwood acquired 450 acres in the Blackwater Canyon for public ownership, according to the statement. These acres, the statement said, included the iconic Lindy Point overlook that is featured prominently in tourism brochures. Former West Virginia Governor Bob Wise added 500 acres to Blackwater Falls State Park, the statement said.
Rodd and Friends of the Blackwater expressed their gratitude to the Senators in their statement. “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,” the statement reads.
“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,” Rodd said. “Friends of the Blackwater remains committed to supporting ongoing conservation efforts and ensuring that Blackwater Canyon thrives as a haven for recreation, biodiversity, heritage tourism and inspiration.”
