DAVIS, W.Va. (Nov. 11, 2015) – Two notable West Virginia state parks, Canaan Valley Resort and Black Waterfalls State Park, recently hired new superintendents.
Canaan Valley Resort announced the recent hire of Stan Beafore and Blackwater Falls State Park recently announced the hire of Matt Baker.
“Both of these gentlemen are well versed in the outdoor recreational opportunities in Tucker County and West Virginia. We are looking forward to working with both Stan and Matt on a variety of tourism projects,” said Jessica Scowcroft, Tucker County CVB director.
A native of Fairmont, W.Va., Beafore most recently served as assistant superintendent of Canaan Valley Resort State Park from 1999 to 2015.
“I fell in love with the outdoors at a very young age growing up in West Virginia. My father nurtured my love for trout fishing and golf,” Beafore said. “Tucker County offers an unmatched plethora of outdoor experiences for all ages, skill levels, and interests. I couldn’t be happier with this new opportunity.”
Prior to his work at Canaan Valley, Beafore served as superintendent of Cass Scenic Railroad State Park (1992-1999), superintendent of Cabwaylingo State Forest (1990-1992), and Law Enforcement Visitor Protection Ranger at Yellowstone National Park (1984-1990).
Beafore graduated from West Virginia University with a degree in wild land recreation management and geographic information systems. He is also a graduate of the National Park Service Law Enforcement Academy at Southwestern Technical College in Sylva, N.C.
Situated in one of the most scenic and tranquil settings in the Mid-Atlantic, with unlimited recreation and family-focused activities, Canaan Valley Resort is a four-season mountain destination providing the perfect escape from daily life. Fifteen miles long by three miles wide, Canaan Valley is the highest mountain valley east of the Rocky Mountains, with a base elevation of 3,100 feet. Canaan Valley Resort is nestled on a plateau overlooking the valley, offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks.
Originally from Delaware, Baker has served with West Virginia State Parks for 10 years. Most recently he served as assistant superintendent at Blackwater Falls State Park. Prior to that position, he worked as an assistant superintendent at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and Coopers Rock State Forest. He also worked seasonally in Delaware State Parks in maintenance, natural resource management, and naturalists’ capacities.
“I’ve had the distinct pleasure to serve at several unique West Virginia state parks over the years,” Baker said. “However, Blackwater Falls has quickly become my favorite place to work and live. Visitors flock here from around the world to appreciate Tucker County’s natural beauty. It’s no surprise the falls are one of the most iconic images of the state.”
Baker is a graduated of Davis and Elkins College in Elkins, W.Va. with a degree in recreation management and tourism.
Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the falls of the Blackwater River whose amber-colored waters plunge five stories then twist and tumble through an eight-mile long gorge.
The “black” water is a result of tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The falls are one of the most photographed sites in West Virginia.
Blackwater lodge, cabins and restaurant are open year-round and welcome visitors to enjoy winter sled riding, spring greening, cool summer evenings, and autumn foliage.
To learn more about the Tucker County, visit www.canaanvalley.org.