Press Release: Friends of Blackwater Applauds Forest Service Ruling Against Pumped Storage Proposal
The United States Forest Service has ruled against a proposal to build a massive industrial pumped storage facility on the edge of the Blackwater Canyon, earning praise from the conservation group Friends of Blackwater.
In a letter dated March 4, 2018, Monongahela National Forest Supervisor Shawn Cochran ruled that the proposal by Freedomworks, LLC was flawed because it conflicted with the approved National Forest Plan. Shawn cited to regulations that protect the Big Run Bog, a federal National Natural Landmark, which would have been affected by the proposal.
“Over one thousand people commented objecting to this ill-advised proposal,” said Judy Rodd, Director of Friends of Blackwater. “The Blackwater Canyon region is beloved by West Virginians, and our federal laws that protect this beautiful area must be respected and obeyed. We are pleased that public opinion and the law have prevailed.”
Rodd added, “This area is so rich in scenic beauty, rare species, and sensitive ecosystems. An industrial project of this scale just isn’t a good fit for the new tourism economy that is developing in Tucker County.”
A copy of the Forest Service letter is available on the Tucker County Commission website.
