Friday, May 18, 2012

Public Tour at Coopers Rock State Forest Saturday, May 19, 2011

The West Virginia Division of Forestry will conduct a public tour at Coopers Rock State Forest on Saturday, May 19, 2012.

This is an informational tour for the public to learn about plans for a proposed timber management project prescribed to meet recreational, wildlife and forest management objectives.

Project plans include constructing a designated parking area along Pisgah Road and developing a 2.4 mile road/trail loop.

Wildlife objectives include increasing young forest habitat and food sources.

Other plans include creating savannahs and varying habitats for different bird species, including turkey, grouse and songbirds like the golden-winged warbler.

This is the opportunity for the public to tour the proposed project area and ask questions prior to providing written comments.

The proposed project area is located within the main body of Coopers Rock State Forest, south of Interstate 68, east of the Scott Run trail and west of Pisgah Road (Preston County Route 73/2).

ABOUT COOPERS ROCK STATE FOREST

At approximately 12,747 acres, Coopers Rock State Forest is the largest in the West Virginia State Forest system.

Located 13 miles east of Morgantown and eight miles west of Bruceton Mills, Coopers Rock is easily accessed by Exit 15 of Interstate 68.

The spectacular scenic view from the Coopers Rock Overlook and the numerous hiking and biking trails make this State Forest one of the most visited areas in West Virginia.

Monday, May 07, 2012

Daily G-Eye™: 05.07.12

Thursday, May 03, 2012

GSC Baseball Team Helps Spruce up Yeager Airport

In their first season of intercollegiate baseball since 1983, the Glenville State College Pioneers have struggled through growing pains that were to be expected from a first-year program.

A small roster of mostly young inexperienced players has led to a 5-38 record.

However, the record belies the hard work and dedication that the team has demonstrated both on and off the field.

During the course of this first season, the Pioneers have not only put in the long hours required for practice travel and playing so many games, but they also found time to give back to their community and their state.

On Friday, April 20, 2012, prior to an afternoon double-header with the Yellow Jackets of West Virginia State University, the Pioneer Baseball team spent the morning beautifying the entrance area to Yeager Airport in Charleston, West Virginia. The players and coaches landscaped and planted Rhododendrons and other decorative plants near the new airport sign.

“It was an honor for the baseball team to represent Glenville State College with the beautification of Yeager Airport. I believe that it is our duty to in some way repay the community for the support and opportunities that we are given as athletes,“ said GSC Head Baseball Coach Tom Gilbert.

“The Glenville State baseball team was a tremendous help in the ongoing beautification efforts at Yeager Airport. Their teamwork was evident as they planted shrubs and placed mulch around the entrance sign to the airport.  We are so pleased with the tremendous partnership that has been forged between GSC and Yeager Airport, said Rick Atkinson, Airport Director.

The morning’s work was the latest effort by the Glenville State College ‘Adopt an Airport’ project which started in 2009. The project is a partnership between the Glenville State College Land Resources Department and Yeager Airport to environmentally reclaim the land that was disturbed during the extension of the runway. GSC students, faculty, staff, and volunteers have spent many hours planting trees on the slopes around the airport that had been cleared for runway extension. To date, the GSC initiative has resulted in the planting of more than ten-thousand trees at the site.

“The work that was done by the GSC baseball team is some very nice window dressing for the reclamation that has already been accomplished at the airport. We plan to include yearly beautification projects as part of our Earth Day activities and our ongoing effort to help Yeager Airport,“ said Dr. Bob Henry Baber, GSC Major Gifts Officer who has spearheaded the ‘Adopt an Airport’ project.

The planting at Yeager Airport was just the latest community service project conducted by the GSC baseball team. The team has also spent time visiting with residents of the local nursing home on a few occasions, assisted the Gilmer County Recreation Center with some moving chores, and helped raise money for the GSC Relay for Life.

“As a team, we really enjoyed our service projects. It is good to get out in the community and meet the public and let them get to know us. These types of activities helps build character and brings us more together as a team,“ said Brock McClung, Pioneer pitcher/third baseman. McClung is a sophomore Environmental Science major from Point Pleasant (Mason County), West Virginia.

Friday, April 27, 2012

An Eco-Idea Yields “A Sleeping Giant” Art Sculpture at Coopers Rock State Forest

A giant rests against a tree in the picnic area at Coopers Rock State Forest.

He began his nap on Earth Day, April 22, 2012, and will remain in place until nature reduces him to his components of woven twigs, grass, mud, muss and natural materials.

“The Sleeping Giant is an eco-sculpture,” explained Forest Superintendent Matt Baker. “‘The Giant’ group project is an art concept of West Virginia University art sculpture major Ben Gazsi and was created by Gazsi and group members Amanda Smyer and Taylor Bray.”

The sculpture was unveiled to the public on Earth Day and is located next to the main overlook parking lot of Coopers Rock State Forest, in the picnic area.

The sleeping giant eco-sculpture is approximately six feet tall by four feet wide and 10 feet long and was constructed of natural objects found on the forest. The art project was an assignment for WVU art students to make a piece related to human form and designed to be displayed in public for viewing.

Gazsi, who assists the Coopers Rock Foundation in trail maintenance work, contacted the forest superintendent and gained permission for the sculpture placement and creation.

The sculpture will remain in place until nature returns the giant to the forest floor.

Coopers Rock State Forest is 13 miles east of Morgantown and 8 miles west of Bruceton Mills. Its 12,713 acres are bisected by Interstate 68. Coopers Rock offers hiking and biking trails, rock climbing, camping and picnicking areas for outdoor recreation.

For more information about the forest and activities, visit www.cooperrockstateforest.com.

Monday, April 23, 2012

Daily G-Eye™: 04.23.12

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Warm Winter Doesn’t Necessarily Mean More Insects

Although it’s a common belief that warm winters result in larger numbers of insects come spring, the reality is that cold temperatures are barely a factor in the number of bugs you’re likely to see in warmer months. Warm weather may mean they might emerge earlier in the year, and that they may be active for a longer portion of the year, but it doesn’t necessarily mean there will be more insects.

“Perhaps one of the greatest factors when considering insect populations is our own perceptions. Most insects live, breed and die with little notice from the human race. We only pay attention to the numbers of the ones that really “bug” us,” said Agriculture Commissioner Gus R. Douglass.

“You’d think that the mild winter would cause greater survival of insects. But you’ve got to remember that less than three percent of insects are considered pests,” said West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) entomologist Berry Crutchfield, Ph.D. “Plus, if there’s more of a particular insect because of a warm winter that probably means that there’s going to be a greater number of insects that prey on them.”

Booms and busts of specific species of insects are well documented, but there are a host of factors in the mix when it comes to the dizzyingly diverse insect world. Many insects have adaptations that preserve populations regardless of cold weather. Some overwinter as eggs, others actually produce compounds similar to antifreeze before they enter dormant phases in winter. Honeybees warm their hives by beating their wings to generate body heat.

A larger factor can be sudden early freezes that knock down populations before winter actually arrives. Or late freezes following unseasonably warm weather that kill prematurely emerged insects.

“They’re ready for summer. If you get a cold snap, it could wipe most of them out,” Crutchfield said. “All the insects that came out early could end up dying. You really can’t predict what’s going to happen.”

Insect life-cycles also play a major role. Some go through multiple generations in a year, and food supply and predator populations can have major effects at different times of the year. Some may have only one life-cycle a year where food and predators are only a factor at one time.

Other limiting factors can be heavy rains that can drown soil-dwelling insects, or promote the growth of fungal diseases that affect insects. Overall moisture levels can also affect plants that serve as food sources, and pools that serve as breeding grounds for insects such as mosquitoes.

The permutations are practically endless. But, just like the weather, insects are a major topic of discussion in the agriculture community.

“I just hope that whatever factors are involved that we don’t get a greater number of brown marmorated stinkbugs in the eastern panhandle,” said Commissioner Douglass. “This is a pest of major concern to our fruit growers, some of whom have already been hit by late freezes, and other farmers who also have suffered terrible stinkbug losses in recent years.”

Friday, April 13, 2012

Governor Declares April Arbor Month

By official proclamation, Governor Earl Ray Tomblin designated April to be Arbor Month throughout the state of West Virginia.

“West Virginians value trees and forests,” Governor Tomblin said. “Our 12 million acres of forestland provide clean air and water, beautify our landscape, provide shelter and food for our wildlife and support employment for thousands of workers.”

West Virginia’s official Arbor Day is the second Friday of April, April 13 this year. However, celebrations are scheduled throughout the month in communities all across the state.

Certified Tree City USA communities will hold Arbor Day celebrations, including

  April 13: Huntington, Williamstown and Petersburg
  April 17: Bluefield
  April 19: Hinton, Ronceverte and Lewisburg
  April 27: Elkins, Parkersburg and Summersville
  April 28: Harpers Ferry
  May 02: Follansbee
  May 04: Charles Town

Several facilities, including the Veterans Administration Hospital in Martinsburg, have events planned as well.

National Arbor Day is the last Friday of April, April 27 this year. Many states observe Arbor Day on different dates according to the best tree-planting times.

For more information about Arbor Day and Arbor Month, contact Urban and Community Forestry Program Coordinator Bob Hannah at 304-825-6983 or visit the Division of Forestry’s website, www.wvforestry.com.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Fire Threat Is More Due to Mild Winter and Lack of Snow

The mild winter in West Virginia is one of the root causes of a spring forest fire season that has kept firefighters busy.

West Virginia Division of Forestry Regional Forester Rudy Williams says the lack of snowfall, especially in the eastern mountains, has created conditions ripe for wild fires.

“The snow does two things,“ Williams said. “It packs down the dry vegetation and as the snow melts it seeps into the ground and the moisture causes everything to stymie the fire damage.“

Williams says the snow did not come this year and that has left the current conditions.

“This year we didn’t get the snow, didn’t get the moisture, we had early high temps and wind. It’s making for a good fire season this spring,“ he said.

The fire threat has stretched into northeastern states that usually do not have a problem this time of year—-all because of a lack of snow.

Williams, who has 30-years’ experience, says the fire danger was down Wednesday but he expects another high alert period this weekend.

His area covers the northern and eastern panhandles.

He says the northern counties are in a little better shape.

The U.S. Forest Service has been fighting a fire in the Wolf’s Gap area of Hardy County.

The wildfire began in Virginia and consumed about 550 acres.

Saturday, March 31, 2012

Daily G-Eye™: 03.31.12

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Safe Outdoor Burning Tips

A windy March day is great for flying a kite, but not for burning brush.

That is why state foresters are asking residents to be extremely cautious this month with outdoor fires.

“One spark can easily start a forest fire,” said Assistant State Forester Walt Jackson. “Help us keep the woods safe by using common sense and not burning debris on windy days.”

Since January 01, 2012, foresters have recorded 148 forest fires throughout West Virginia. Half of those fires, 74, were caused by sparks from debris fires or the escape of the fires themselves. The second leading cause of forest fires in 2012 is equipment use that has led to 32 fires. Arson or incendiary fires account for 26 fires so far this year.

Jackson offered several tips to keep down fire danger when burning outdoors.

•  Burn only after 5:00 PM — it’s the law — and put your fire out completely by 7:00 AM.

•  Put debris in several small piles instead of one large one

•  Never burn on dry, windy days

•  Select a safe place away from overhead power lines, phone lines or other obstructions and where the fire cannot spread into the woods or weedy or brushy areas

•  Clear at least a 10-foot area around the fire and make sure the area is clear of all burnable material

•  Have water and tools on hand to extinguish anything that may escape the burn area

•  Be conscientious of neighbors and don’t burn debris that produces a lot of smoke at times when smoke does not rise. If the smoke spreads out near the ground instead of rising, put out the fire and burn another time

•  Stay with the fire at all times until it is completely out. Leaving a fire unattended for any length of time is illegal.

•  Call 911 immediately if a fire does escape

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Eastern Redbuds Announce Spring’s Arrival; Seedlings Available from State Tree Nursery

The Eastern redbud (Cercis Canadensis) has announced spring in the Mountain State for centuries.

Clusters of pink, purple or white flowers bloom in early spring, bringing much-needed color to the not-yet-green landscape.

In autumn, the tree’s heart-shaped leaves turn yellow, making redbud a fall favorite among leaf peepers.

Redbuds are shade tolerant and prefer moist to wet growing sites.

The tree is small in height and usually reaches about 40 feet, making it perfect for ornamental plantings in yards or landscapes or as understory trees in woodlots and on forested sites.

The Eastern redbud is native to West Virginia, which means it will grow well throughout West Virginia.

It also is beneficial to local wildlife.  Birds eat the seeds, white-tail deer browse the foliage and honeybees visit the blossoms.

Clements State Tree Nursery sells bundles of bare root Eastern redbud seedlings.

Each bundle contains 25 seedlings and prices start at $25 per bundle.

For a complete catalog of seedlings for sale at Clements State Tree Nursery, visit www.wvcommerce.org/resources/forestry/treenursery.aspx or call the nursery at 304.675.1820.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

Evergreen Seedlings Good for Wildlife

When considering which trees to plant in your woodlot or landscape, don’t overlook evergreens.

Species like white and Virginia pine and Norway spruce make great choices for spring plantings.

Both white pine and Virginia pine are native to West Virginia which means they will grow well throughout the Mountain State.

Red squirrels and some birds feed on seeds from Virginia and white pines, and both trees provide shelter for grouse, songbirds, birds of prey and small mammals.

Songbirds use white pine and Virginia pine needles for nesting material.

Although Norway spruce is not native to West Virginia, it does grow well in the state.

Some birds and small mammals consume the seeds.

Norway spruce also provides good winter cover for birds and makes good roosting territory for hawks and owls.

Clements State Tree Nursery has all three species in stock.

Prices range from 25 cents per tree to $1 per tree, depending on the number of seedlings ordered.

There is a 20% discount offered on orders of 5,000 or more.

Seedlings are sold in bundles of 25 – plenty for you to plant and share with friends and family.

Orders can be placed online at www.wvcommerce.org/ClementsNursery; mailed to Clements State Tree Nursery, 624 Forestry Drive, West Columbia, WV 25287; or phoned in to 304.675.1820. Order forms and a catalog are available at www.wvforestry.com.

Orders for spring 2012 will be accepted only through mid-April.

Thursday, March 01, 2012

WV Spring Forest Fire Season Starts Thursday, March 01, 2012

West Virginia’s spring forest fire season starts March 01, 2012, and runs through May 31, 2012.

During these three months, daytime burning is prohibited from the hours of 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Outdoor burning is permitted only between the hours of 5:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

State law requires a ring or safety strip around outdoor fires to keep them from spreading into the woods.

This safety strip must be cleared of all burnable material and be at least 10 feet wide completely around the debris pile.

Additional requirements of the state’s fire laws include staying on-site until the fire is completely extinguished, and burning only vegetative materials like leaves, brush and yard clippings.

Anyone who allows a fire to escape and cause a wildfire or forest fire will be subject to fines ranging from $100 to $1,000. An additional civil penalty of $200 also will be assessed.

The only daytime burning that is allowed during fire season is that done by public utilities and people burning in conjunction with commercial, manufacturing, mining or like activities.

This type of commercial burning requires a burning permit that costs $125 and is issued by a local Division of Forestry office.

A permit is required for each site where this type of burning is taking place.

Private landowners burning during the course of agricultural activities must have a permit to burn during the day, but are exempt from the $125 permit fee.

Burning permits are not issued for residential burning of small amounts of yard debris such as leaves, branches or yard clippings.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Groundhog Day with French Creek Freddie at the West Virginia State Wildlife Center

West Virginia State Wildlife Center’s official weather prognosticator, French Creek Freddie, is poised to forecast the onset of spring on Thursday, February 02, 2012, at 10:00 AM.

French Creek Freddie has undertaken his annual ritual at the West Virginia State Wildlife Center since 1978.

“Celebrating Groundhog Day at the Wildlife Center has become a very popular event,” said Wildlife Center Biologist Gene Thorn.  “Each year several visitors gather with anticipation to witness Freddie’s first glimpse of the New Year and his annual prediction,” added Thorn.

The tradition of Groundhog Day is rooted in early European legend.  According to tradition, Groundhog Day stems from similar beliefs associated with Candlemas Day. For centuries, early Christian clergy would bless candles and distribute them to the people.  During the conquest of the northern country, Roman legions supposedly brought this tradition to the Teutons, or Germans, who concluded that if the sun made an appearance on Candlemas Day, the hedgehog would cast a shadow, thus predicting six more weeks of bad weather. The Germans would recite: For as the sun shines on Candlemas Day, so far will the snow swirl until the May.

Early German settlers in the New World found another burrowing animal, the woodchuck, or groundhog, to be more plentiful then the hedgehog. Thus, the groundhog replaced the hedgehog as the traditional “wise animal” in North America.

Woodchucks are true hibernators and spend all winter in burrowed-out dens.  They usually go in their den about mid-November and stay until early to mid-February, when they awaken and begin searching for a mate.

For more information about the annual Groundhog Day Celebration at the Wildlife Center, contact the West Virginia State Wildlife Center at P.O. Box 38, French Creek, WV 26218, phone: 304.924.6211 or visit the DNR’s website at www.wvdnr.gov.

Monday, January 16, 2012

Daily G-Eye™: 01.16.12

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

State Foresters Saw Drop in Fall Forest Fires in 2011

Assistant State Forester Walt Jackson said the implementation of new outdoor burning hours coupled with wet weather reduced the number of forest fires in West Virginia this past fall.

“From July 01 through December 31, the West Virginia Division of Forestry recorded 153 fires that burned just shy of 4,000 acres,“ Jackson said.

“Forest fires started from fires built to burn debris dropped from 42% in the spring to 22% in the fall. I believe changing the legal burning time to after 5:00 PM was a great help.“

The leading cause of fire this past fall was incendiary or arson-related and accounted for 31% of all the fires in West Virginia.

Equipment use rounded out the top three causes with 21%.

The other 26% of fires are attributed to children, lightning or miscellaneous causes or are still under investigation.

The spring 2012 forest fire season starts March 01, 2012.

Daily G-Eye™: 01.11.12

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Free Trees for Public Plantings

Volunteer organizations and municipalities with plans to plant trees on public property in 2012 are encouraged to apply with the Mountaineer Treeways program.

Officials will accept applications through March 16, 2012.

Urban Forestry Coordinator Bob Hannah said the program is open to civic organizations, municipalities, businesses, schools and other groups that will plant the trees on public property.

“Mountaineer Treeways works to enhance and beautify public areas across West Virginia through tree plantings. Volunteer groups and the Mountaineer Treeways program are a natural fit.“

All trees must be planted on public property in West Virginia.

Volunteers and paid employees of municipalities and other entities may conduct the plantings.

Matching funds are not required; however, a status report must be submitted by August10, 2012.

Division of Forestry staff will be available for technical assistance, species selection and planting advice.

Trees for this program are sponsored by a donation from Toyota Motors Manufacturing.

All trees will be distributed in early April.

To download the Mountaineer Treeways application, Click H E R E.

For additional information, contact Bob Hannah at 304.825.6983.

Friday, January 06, 2012

West Virginia Agriculture and Forestry Hall of Fame Nomination Deadline January 20, 2012

The West Virginia Agriculture and Forestry Hall of Fame (WVAFHF) is devoted to honoring individuals, businesses, organizations, institutions and foundations that have helped make this nation great through outstanding contributions to the establishment, development, advancement or improvement of the agricultural, forestry and/or family life of West Virginia.

This honor is bestowed only on those who have lived in West Virginia, had a long tenured association with agriculture, forestry and/or family life, have made outstanding, direct contributions to those industries and demonstrated the highest standards of leadership and contribution on a local, state, national and/or international level.

Nominations for this honor are currently being accepted. All nomination forms must be received by January 20, 2012.

Nominations forms are available from:

  WV Farm Bureau (LeVera Gillum, 304.472.2080, “verag@wvfarm.org”)

  WVU Davis College of Agriculture, Forestry and Consumer Sciences (Denise Hunnell, 304.293.2395,“dhunnell@mail.wvu.edu”)

  WV Forestry Association (Hope Goff, 304.372.1955,“wvfa@wvadventures.net”)

  WV Department of Agriculture (Robin Gothard, 304.558.3200, “rgothard@ag.state.wv.us”)

  WV Division of Forestry (Patsy Carpenter, 304.558.2788, “Patsy.L.Carpenter@wv.gov”)

  Downloaded from the WV Agriculture and Forestry Hall of Fame website at www.wvagriculture.org/WVAFHF/index.htm.

Selected nominees will be officially enshrined during the WVAFHF Enshrinee Recognition Dinner that will be held July 21, 2012, at Jackson’s Mill.

The WVAFHF is a program of the WVAFHF Foundation, which is an incorporated, independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization. Membership is composed of West Virginia Agriculture and Forestry organizations and individuals.

Monday, December 26, 2011

Ash-Borer Study Providing Results

Traps for emerald ash borers have been placed in trees nationwide and are helping agriculture officials learn more about the invasive insect, which has killed tens of millions of ash trees in North America.

The 61,500 traps installed in 48 states are part of a survey led and funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to track the emerald ash borer, a species native to China and Eastern Asia that was first detected in the United States in 2002.

The invasive pest likely arrived inside wood packing material from Asia and has since been detected in 15 states through the national survey that has been done annually since 2008.

The USDA already has quarantined West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois and the lower peninsula of Michigan. Certain areas of other states, such as Virginia, also have quarantines, which means that ash trees, logs or nursery trees cannot be transported out of that specific area.

The 2011 survey shows the tiny, green beetle hasn’t been detected outside of the states where it is already known to exist, but the bug has been found in about 60 more counties in those states, said Sharon Lucik with the USDA’s emerald ash borer program. Some states have not yet completed their reports.

“I don’t know that we can say no news is good news, because we know that the beetle in low populations is difficult to detect,“ Lucik said, adding that the most important aspect of the survey is that they are learning more about the emerald ash borer. “With each new survey year we are acquiring a better understanding of where the pest is.  . . .  We are fine-tuning how it spreads naturally.“

The danger to all 16 native species of ash trees comes from the bug’s larvae, which tunnel beneath the bark, disrupt the tree’s ability to take food and water and eventually starve and kill it.

The agricultural impact to states where the beetle has been detected could be substantial and other effects include decreasing property values, losing the ash wood supply and decreasing air quality, Lucik said.

The unusual, 2-foot-tall traps that resemble a wayward kite are placed in trees during the spring and summer months, and are then taken down in the fall.

The traps’ outer walls are smeared with glue. Inside hangs a plastic bag of pungent manuka oil, broadcasting the scent of a distressed ash tree to insects.

Besides attracting the beetle, the purple color also elevated public awareness of the problem.

Lucik said people driving in their cars have seen the traps and curiosity gets the best of them, they’ll pull over and get out of their car and call the hotline number listed on a sign that says, “Do Not Disturb. USDA Emerald Ash Borer Survey.“

Public awareness of the issue is particularly important this time of year as the insect can be unknowingly transported in firewood and other products.

“Think of how many miles people travel when they go on vacation, camping, or recreating. So that’s why the human-assisted movement of infested material really expands substantially the widespread area where the emerald ash borer currently has been found,“ Lucik said.

The USDA plans to do the survey again in 2012 and also is looking at using stingless wasps, a natural enemy, as a possible biological control for the beetle.

The states where the insect has been detected are Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin. It also has been discovered in Ontario and Quebec.

Friday, December 23, 2011

G-Comm™: Protecting Our Hunting and Fishing Rights

As an avid hunter and fisherman, I will always protect our rights. I would never encourage, support, or vote for anything that would take away even one acre of land we are currently using for hunting and fishing in West Virginia. As Governor and now as your United States Senator, I have truly sought not only to preserve – but also to enhance – the resources we hold dear along with the tradition of hunting that is so important to our state and its people.

Earlier this year, at the request of my constituents, I asked the National Park Service to look at some of our state’s natural treasures in and around Tucker County. More specifically, we were looking for a way to preserve the Blackwater Canyon for future generations to enjoy.

Now, there are some who are worried that this National Park study could lead to an end to the long tradition of hunting and fishing in this area where we now enjoy exercising those rights. I have listened carefully to their concerns.

But let me be clear: I would never support turning any West Virginia hunting lands into a National Park if that would restrict the rights of hunters. As a Governor who expanded hunting education in our schools, started the Governor’s One-Shot and created new opportunities for West Virginians to hunt, I would fight to my last breath against anything that would take away the hunting and fishing traditions we all hold so dear.

With those protections in mind, a new designation could be a win-win: a win for West Virginia and the people of our state, and a win for the country.

This country would win a venue like nothing else as a part of the National Park system.

In West Virginia, we would win enhanced opportunities for tourism, job creation and an improved economy – while at the same time preserving all of our rights and traditions as West Virginians to continue to hunt and fish on those lands.

The role that a National Park designation plays in tourism is hard to overstate. In 2009, National Parks in West Virginia had more than 1.8 million visits, and it’s estimated that about $60 million was spent in local communities as a result. Tourism is a growing industry in our state that is creating jobs and helping to diversify our economy, and we should work together to strengthen our tourist attractions.

But West Virginia will only come away with a win if our quality of life and the way we use our property do not face any new impediments or interference.

Right now, we are at the beginning of several stages: a Reconnaissance Survey. All this means is that the National Park Service is undergoing a preliminary study of the significance of the area and whether there is interest to continue. If they want to go further, they next have to ask Congress to authorize another, more detailed study.

It only takes one Senator to block this formal study – and I can assure you, if I feel our hunting and fishing rights would be in danger, that one Senator would be me. With those ironclad protections in mind, I believe it makes sense to see if the National Park Service believes the Alleghany Highlands could qualify for a National Park designation.

If the formal study goes forward, the National Park Service will provide the public with the opportunity to make their voices heard loud and clear through workshops and public meetings. If West Virginians are in favor of the idea of park designation, then the Senate and House would have to pass legislation determining which areas would be included and what activities would be allowed before the National Park Service would receive the authority to redesignate the land. Congress has the authority to authorize hunting, fishing and continued land use in any National Park, preserve or recreation area – and has done so in the past. In fact, hunting is currently allowed in 69 areas that have a National Park designation.

The bottom line is this: My job is to make sure we look at every opportunity to enhance West Virginians’ quality of life and our way of life. You have my solemn promise that I am committed to always putting West Virginians and our great state of West Virginia first, looking at every opportunity and protecting the rights that hunters and fishermen have enjoyed for generations.

~~  by Joe Manchin ~~

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Glenville State College Receives Weyerhaeuser Grant

Glenville State College’s Land Resources Department is the recipient of a grant from Weyerhaeuser in the amount of $2,058.

The grant has been used to purchase equipment to enhance student knowledge of natural resource management through integration of field data with geospatial information.

GSC Land Resources Department Chair Dr. Milan C. Vavrek said, “The grant provides funds to compare equipment including iPads that will allow students to integrate field data collection and geospatial technology.  Using the results of the comparison, funds will be sought to purchase sufficient equipment for use in laboratory exercises. Because natural resources involve a spatial component, the new technical skills will enhance students’ ability to manage natural resources effectively and sustainably.”

GSC Associate Professor of Forestry Dr. Rico Gazal said, “Weyerhaeuser has always been very supportive of our programs in the Department of Land Resources. We are very grateful to Weyerhaeuser for awarding us the grant so we can continue to improve our hands-on laboratory in all our courses. This grant will provide our students with the state-of-the-art technology on GPS and field data collection.”

Vavrek says the local Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund advisory committee members including James ‘Jimmy’ Jenkins were instrumental in securing the grant.

GSC Land Resources faculty, staff, and students are appreciative of Jenkins and his support of the donation.

Jenkins is a Raw Materials Specialist at Weyerhaeuser in Heaters, West Virginia (Braxton County) and is a member of the GSC Forest Technology Program Advisory Committee.

Students enrolled in the Glenville State College Land Resources program may choose from concentrations in applied science, business management, criminal justice, environmental science, forest technology, landman technology, and land surveying technology.

For more information about the grant and the program, contact Vavrek at “Milan.Vavrek@glenville.edu” or 304.462.6375.

Friday, December 02, 2011

Daily G-Eye™: 12.02.11

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Alaskan Internship Inspires GSC Student

Glenville State College junior Hillary Harold spent more than two weeks this past July as part of a scientific expedition in Alaska studying the effects of climate change on plant life.

She is a Natural Resource Management major from Widen (Clay County), West Virginia. Her Alaskan experience has reaffirmed her interest in environmental science and set her on a path that will include graduate school.

Harold was part of a team which included three undergraduate students and two graduate students who were selected to help the National Science Foundation (NSF) with research on how climate changes over the past thirty years have impacted vegetation.

Dr. Milan Vavrek, GSC professor of Natural Resource Management and Department Chair, accompanied Harold on the expedition as a mentor to the students. Vavrek had previously worked on similar research in Alaska.

“It was really a great experience for me. The landscape and climate are so different from what I am accustomed to. I had never flown before so the long flight to Alaska was like trial by fire. I really got to know Professor Vavrek better and saw first-hand that climate change is real and is affecting our planet,“ said Harold.

The team traveled the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay. The Dalton Highway is the road that truckers travel on the popular television show ‘Ice Road Truckers.‘ They stayed at Toolic Lake Field Station, a world-renowned Arctic long-term ecological facility located in the northern foothills of the Brooks Range. The facility is shared by the NSF and the University of Alaska. The research group also spent time backpacking and camping through the wilderness.

Their research included measuring and harvesting characteristics of vegetation, determining depth to permafrost, and setting up experiments.

“Hillary is an enthusiastic student.  She worked tirelessly in Alaska, sometimes under harsh conditions, and enjoyed the entire experience. Perhaps more importantly, she always wanted to learn more about the science underlying the research. She returned from Alaska with new confidence and has excelled at serving GSC and her fellow students with that confidence.“ said Dr.Vavrek.

Inspired by her experience in Alaska, Harold has conducted an independent study of the effects of the permafrost on plant life. Her abstract for this research has been accepted to be presented at the Ninth Annual Undergraduate Research Day at the West Virginia State Capitol on Thursday, January 26, 2012. This event will help members of the State Legislature and Executive Branch understand the importance of undergraduate research by talking directly with the students whom these programs impact. Harold and Dr. Vavrek will have an opportunity to visit with State Senators and Delegates to talk about their undergraduate research.

Harold is the current treasurer of the Glenville State College Student Government Association and is also active with the Glenville Environmental Organization. She and her husband Linzie live on a large farm in Newton (Roane County), West Virginia.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

WV Ginseng Digging Season Ends Wednesday, November 30, 2011

West Virginia’s ginseng digging season ends on Wednesday, November 30, 2011.

The season started on September 01, 2011.

Individuals who are in possession of ginseng roots have until March 31, 2012, to either sell them to a registered dealer or obtain a weight-receipt.

A weight-receipt allows the person to hold those roots until the next ginseng season and sell them to a registered dealer.

For a list of registered dealers or more information about ginseng, contact Robin Black at 304.558.2788

Friday, November 18, 2011

Daily G-Eye™: 11.18.11

Friday, October 28, 2011

WV Fall Foliage Report 2011: Eastern Panhandle Offers Colorful Foliage, Rest of WV Past Peak

With the exception of the state’s Eastern Panhandle counties and a few other scattered spots, state foresters report that the fall foliage season in West Virginia is quickly coming to an end.

Hickories and poplars are exhibiting stunning yellows and golden hues in Berkeley County.

Foresters recommend visiting Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area to see these leaves plus the beautiful reds and purples of the white oaks.

Leaves in Jefferson and Morgan counties are reported to be equally beautiful.

Foresters recommend a drive from Shepherdstown to Harpers Ferry along WV Highway 230 in Jefferson.

In Morgan County, the recommended drive is WV Highway 9 between Berkeley Springs and Paw Paw.

Other recommendations to see limited color include driving along U.S. Highway 220 through Pendleton County, taking U.S. Highway 19 north from Weston to the Lewis County line and venturing along WV Highway 16 from Welch to Coalwood in McDowell County.

Foliage in most other areas of the state is reported to be past peak.

Rain, wind and scattered frost have helped defoliate a good portion of West Virginia’s forests.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Daily G-Eye™: 10.24.11

Friday, October 21, 2011

WV Fall Foliage Report 2011: Color Peaking in Lower Elevations

Color should be at peak for the West Virginia Turkey Festival in Hardy County this weekend, October 21-22, 2011.

Leaves in the Eastern Panhandle counties are at 85% peak, according to the West Virginia Division of Forestry.

A recommended drive is Corridor H (U.S. Highway 48). Leaf peepers can expect excellent hues this year, with oaks displaying much color variation.

Other counties in the area approaching maximum color include Jefferson, Berkeley and Morgan.

Foresters recommend WV Highway 9 (George Washington Heritage Trail) for scenic drives.

Toward the central part of the state, color is peaking in Upshur and Lewis counties this weekend as well, said Regional Forester Tom Cover, who works out of the DOF’s Beckley office.

“Most of the higher-elevation areas and counties are well past peak and most of the mountaintops have completely defoliated,” Cover said.

Rain and wind took a great many leaves off the trees, but some limited viewing can be found in McDowell and Wyoming, and in the southern portions of Monroe and Summers counties.

“The maples, ashes and hickories have been extremely beautiful this year,” Cover said.

This weekend will be the last chance to view fall foliage in Raleigh County.

The county is still showing some good color in and around Beckley.

A recommended drive is Grandview Road from I-64 to Grandview Park.

Farther east, color is approaching 70% peak.

Motorists on I-64 between Charleston and Huntington and I-77 between Charleston and Parkersburg can expect to view some good colors.

In Logan County, WV Highway 17 over Blair Mountain is at peak color.

TURNING OVER A NEW LEAF - Why Leaves Change Colors?

Each fall, leaves turn breathtaking shades of orange, purple, red, yellow and brown in a fantastic show of nature’s glory.

But why do leaves change color? Although Jack Frost gets most of the credit, the scientific reason for our beautiful fall foliage is a process called photoperiodism.

As the sun moves further south, the hours of daylight shorten and the temperatures fall.

This causes leaves to cease production of chlorophyll, the chemical that colors leaves green.

As the chlorophyll disappears, the underlying colors of the leaves are unmasked.

The next strongest pigment becomes dominant giving the leaves a “new"color.

Yellows

Ash, White - Yellow

Basswood - Yellow

Beech - Yellow

Birch, River - Dull Yellow

Birch, Sweet - Yellow

Buckeye, Ohio - Yellow

Coffeetree, Kentucky - Yellow

Cottonwood, Eastern - Yellow

Elder, Box - Yellow

Elm, American - Yellow

Hazel Nut - Brownish Yellow

Hickory, Mockernut - Dull Yellow

Hickory, Pignut - Dull Yellow

Hickory, Shagbark - Dull Yellow

Hickory, Shellbark - Dull Yellow

Hophornbeam, Eastern - Yellow

Locust, Black - Yellow

Locust, Honey - Yellow

Maple, Silver - Pale Yellow

Oak, Chestnut - Yellow

Pecan - Dull Yellow

Redbud, Eastern - Yellow

Shad Bush - Bright Clear Yellow

Tuliptree - Yellow

Walnut, Black - Yellow

Walnut, White - Bright Yellow

Willow, Black - Pale Yellow

Reds

Dogwood - Crimson

Gum, Black - Deep Red

Oak, Northern Red - Rusty Red

Oak, Pin - Crimson

Oak, Scarlet - Scarlet

Oak, Southern Red - Rusty Red

Oak, Swamp Chestnut - Dark Crimson

Sourwood - Deep Red

Sumac - Brilliant Red

Browns

Oak, Bur - Pale Brown

Oak, Post - Pale Brown

Oak, Shingle - Brown

Oak, Swamp White - Pale Brown

Multi-Colors

Hawthorn - Brilliant Varying Colors

Hazel Nut - Brownish Yellow

Hornbeam - Orange, Scarlet

Maple, Red - Red, Orange

Maple, Sugar - Yellow, Orange, Red

Oak, Black - Dull Red to Orange Brown

Oak, Blackjack - Dull Yellow or Brown

Oak, White - Pink or Red

Persimmon - Glossy Green with Yellow

Sassafras - Red, Orange, Yellow

Sweetgum - Yellow, Orange, Brown

Sycamore, American - Yellow, Brown

Witch Hazel - Bright Yellow-Orange

No Change

Magnolia, Umbrella - No Change

Holly, American - No Change

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Emerald Ash Borer Now Found in Clay County

The number of counties in West Virginia infested with an invasive beetle is growing.

The state Department of Agriculture said Thursday that the emerald ash borer recently was found in Clay County.

The discovery raises the total number of infested counties to 17.

Agriculture Commissioner Gus R. Douglass says invasive insects can spread through moving firewood from one area to another.

The emerald ash borer has been found in 11 counties this year alone.

The others are Brooke, Berkeley, Greenbrier, Gilmer, Hancock, Kanawha, Mingo, Summers, Webster and Wirt.

The borer has killed millions of ash trees in North America.

It also has been found in recent years in Calhoun, Fayette, Morgan, Nicholas, Raleigh and Roane counties.

Friday, October 14, 2011

WV Fall Foliage Report 2011: Bridge Day Weekend Awash With Color

Fall color is reaching its apex in the New River Gorge just in time for Bridge Day on Saturday, October 15, 2011.

Leaves in Fayette County are at 70% peak and visitors to the annual Bridge Day celebration this Saturday should expect a colorful backdrop for the BASE jumpers.

A drive on U.S. 19 from Oak Hill to Summersville is recommended for leaf peeping.

Color also is near peak in Braxton, Clay, Nicholas, Raleigh and Monroe counties, according to Regional Forester Tom Cover of the Division of Forestry’s Beckley office.

In Summers County, color is erratic as some colors peak around the New River and Hinton while the southern portion of the county will not peak for another week.

“Valley viewing from high elevation mountain ridges and peaks should be excellent this weekend, and next weekend should see additional color throughout the remainder of the region,” Cover said. “Virginia creeper, sumacs and hickories have shown brilliant color this year.”

In Roane County, where the Black Walnut Festival is taking place Thursday, October 13 through Sunday, October 16, 2011, color is at 80%.

Foresters recommend driving U.S. 33 or State Route 14 into Spencer to take in the festivities.

Other nearby counties at 75 to 85% peak are Calhoun, Doddridge, Gilmer, Jackson, Pleasants, Ritchie, Tyler, Wirt and Wood.

Visitors to the Bunner Ridge Fall Festival in Marion County Saturday, October 15, can expect color at 75%.

Foresters recommend a drive on County Route 218 from Farmington to Blacksville or U.S. 250 clear through the county.

Neighboring Monongalia and Wetzel counties are at 70 and 80%, respectively.

In Mineral County, the Allegheny Front is at peak, while leaves elsewhere are in transition.

Color is looking good, with lots of yellows and reds on display.

A recommended drive is U.S. 50 and State Route 42 in the mountains.

If you missed last week’s vibrant display in the eastern half of the state, there is still time to take in a scenic drive, Cover said.

“The higher elevations of Region 2 have some color remaining as they are past peak and leaf drop is occurring. The lower elevations of Pocahontas, Randolph, Webster and Greenbrier have good remaining color, especially where you find maples, hickories, gums and poplars, and these should be at peak this weekend.”

This also will be the last week to catch good color in Tucker and Pendleton counties.

Looking ahead to next week, foresters predict more counties in the southeast and the Eastern Panhandle will be approaching peak, with some parts of the state retaining color until the end of October.

Daily G-Eye™: 10.14.11

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Daily G-Eye™: 10.13.11

Saturday, October 08, 2011

Fast-Growing Yellow Poplars Are Popular Choice for Fall Color and Summer Shade

As the wooded West Virginia hills begin to show their autumn hues, look for a brilliant splash of yellow.

That’s the signature fall color of the native yellow poplar, also known as the tulip tree or tulip poplar.

Yellow poplars grow fast, tall and with a symmetrical shape. They rank among the tallest hardwoods, reaching 100 to 165 feet in height. The narrow crown spreads as the tree matures, providing summer shade. In spring, adult tulip poplars display tulip-shaped flowers. The yellow-green flowers, measuring three to five inches in length, produce a light fragrance.

Their quick, straight growth makes poplars a popular choice for timbering and for landscaping in areas that allow for their height. Yellow poplar is often used in furniture, fixtures and musical instruments.

Yellow poplars prefer deep, rich, well-drained but moist soils. One of the largest yellow poplars currently on record in West Virginia is near Inwood in Berkeley County. The tree is 107 feet tall and measures 236 inches in circumference at breast height. It is featured on the West Virginia Big Tree Register. To learn about it and other big trees, visit www.wvcommerce.org/BigTrees.

Yellow poplar seedlings are available from Clements State Tree Nursery, the only state-operated forest tree nursery in West Virginia.

The poplar seedlings currently come from seed produced in the nursery’s seed orchard.

Trees with characteristics for exceptional timber production were grafted onto rootstock and planted in the Clements orchard in the 1970s. They were later crossed with each other to produce genetically improved seed. Seedlings grown from orchard seed exhibit faster growth and higher quality timber than those produced from seed collected in the wild.

Clements sells bare root yellow poplars starting at $25 per bundle. Each bundle contains 25 seedlings.

For a complete catalog of seedlings for sale at Clements State Tree Nursery, visit www.wvcommerce.org/resources/forestry/treenursery.aspx or call the nursery at 304.675.1820.

Daily G-Eye™: 10.08.11

Friday, October 07, 2011

WV Fall Foliage Report 2011: Higher Elevations Still the Best Spots to See Foliage

West Virginia’s fall foliage season is in full swing despite an early snow in the mountains.

Last weekend’s snowfall did cause some leaves to drop, but foresters report there is plenty of colorful foliage left to see.

Places like Tucker County’s Davis and Thomas, as well as Canaan Valley and Blackwater state parks are still on the must-see list.

The Mt. Storm Lake area of Grant County is showing an abundance of reds and yellows with 75% of the leaves at peak.

A drive along State Highway 93 toward Davis is recommended.

And, if you are in the area, foresters recommend a stop at the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area where foliage also is reported to be at 75% peak.

The mountains surrounding Elkins are a colorful backdrop to this week’s Mountain State Forest Festival.

Foresters recommend driving along U.S. Highway 33 to Elkins to take in the festivities.

Foliage within Elkins is still a week or so from peak.

Higher elevations of Nicholas County are recommended again this week, including Richwood and Cherry River.

Maples are reported to be very colorful this year in those areas.

Overall, Nicholas County is at 65% peak this week.

Greenbrier and Pocahontas counties are at 75% peak.

The western portion of Pocahontas, which was at peak last week, has lost a lot of leaves, but the eastern portion should be at peak within the next week.

Webster County is at 70% peak.

Foresters recommend a drive along Elk River Road from Webster Springs to the Pocahontas County line.

Higher elevations of Upshur County have excellent color this week.

The recommended drive is along State Highway 20 from Rock Cave to the Webster County line.

If you are visiting Oglebayfest at Oglebay Park this weekend or the West Virginia Pumpkin Festival in Milton, be sure to stop by the DOF’s exhibits.

Foliage in Ohio County is at 5% peak; in Cabell County, foliage is at 10% peak.

Looking ahead to next week, foresters predict colors should be near peak for Bridge Day.

Fayette County is currently at 55% peak, and foresters recommend a drive along U.S. Highway 60 to get a sneak peek at the foliage.

Foliage will not be at peak for next week’s Bunner Ridge Fall Festival in Marion County, but foresters say there will be some color in the area.

Admission to the festival is free and proceeds from the event will go to rebuild the community center that was destroyed by fire two years ago.

Currently, foliage in Marion County is at 10% peak.

Leaves in areas of lower elevation mostly are yet to turn, but will be catching up quickly over the next few weeks.