When the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve redesignation went into effect hunters were left holding the short straw as we were now permanently excluded from 4,385 acres of what was once public hunting access.
“We had public hearings and we heard everybody and the hunting community came out forcefully, especially those who hunted portions of the area,” said Senator Capito.
Both Senators Manchin and Capito recognized this issue and have been working with other parties to add land to the Preserve section of the NRG to offset the hunting access lost. Recently 963 acres were added to the preserve portion of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve through the use of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Along with the 45 acres added earlier this year, this acquisition is a step in the right direction to off-setting the access lost to hunters in the New River Gorge.
We are heartened to see progress on this important issue and look forward to continuing to restore hunting access for West Virginians and other sportsmen and women who travel to these special places and contribute to the state’s economy.
About West Virginia BHA
Our chapter is dedicated to serving the interests of conservation and access to clean public lands and waters. Through planning, collaboration, and dedication, we will make a difference.