The owner of Allegheny Wood Products (AWP), which recently closed eight locations across West Virginia, has agreed to sell a significant 2,700-acre parcel of land in Tucker County to the U.S. Forest Service.
This land deal, involving John Crites, the owner of AWP, is set to transfer ownership of key areas within the Blackwater Canyon, adjacent to Blackwater Falls State Park and the Monongahela National Forest, as well as a section of the Blackwater River. This purchase is particularly noteworthy because it includes land visible from Lindy Point, a famous overlook in Blackwater Falls State Park often referred to as the "scenic crown jewel" of West Virginia. Additionally, it encompasses the Big Run Bridge on the Blackwater Canyon Trail, a structure that was recently damaged by a landslide.
The land, which was previously privately owned, will now be publicly maintained by the Monongahela National Forest, resolving questions about trail maintenance responsibilities. Friends of Blackwater Director Judy Rodd highlighted the significance of this acquisition, noting that, once finalized, the area will be almost entirely under public ownership, enhancing conservation efforts and public access. Sen.
Joe Manchin (I-WV), who has been involved in efforts to secure this land transfer for nearly two decades, emphasized the impact this deal will have on outdoor recreation and tourism in the region. The sale is expected to bolster tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth, providing new opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore one of West Virginia’s most scenic areas. The U.
S. Forest Service is anticipated to finalize the purchase by the end of the year for approximately $14 million, utilizing funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. This transaction marks a significant step forward in preserving and enhancing West Virginia’s natural beauty and recreational assets.
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