LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION This rugged, heavily-forested 4,000-acre wildlife area lies one mile south of Powhatan Point and seven miles north of Clarington off State Route 7 in Monroe County, Salem Township. The rough terrain consists of deep narrow valleys and narrow ridge tops interlaced by small streams, most of which are dry during the summer. Elevations range from 800 to 1,268 feet above sea level. Approximately 80 percent of the area is forested. Mixed size hardwoods dominate the ridges and upper slopes. Maple, beech, tulip, elm, ash, and sycamore are common along the lower slopes and streams. Open fields cover less than 10 percent of the area and openland is mostly reclaimed strip mine land. Portions of area border the 637-acre Sunfish Creek State Forest which is open to public hunting.
HISTORY AND PURPOSE
The Consol Coal Company has deep-mined the area and approximately 10% has been strip mined and is being reclaimed. This mine produced coal and was the primary employment for local people. In 2006, the ODNR Division of Wildlife entered into a cooperative agreement permitting public hunting. Management work will include protection and improvement of existing woodlands and selective management of shrubby coverts and openland. The main emphasis is on forest game management. Hunting is the major recreational use. Other uses include fishing, mushroom and berry picking, hiking, nature study, and bird watching.
WILDLIFE
White-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, wild turkey, squirrel, and cottontail rabbit are the principal game species. All furbearers common to the region are found on the area. A rich variety of woodland songbirds are present in association with the diverse forest types.
HUNTING
The area is most popular for hunting gray squirrel, white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, wild turkey, and cottontail rabbit. Oak-hickory stands and beech groves scattered throughout the area provide good squirrel hunting and excellent habitat for the wild turkey. The Division of Wildlife enforces all state laws on these lands including hunting regulations. Enforcement priorities include prohibiting litter, off-road vehicle use, and timber theft and destruction.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The nearest wildlife district office is at 360 East State Street, Athens, Ohio 45701; telephone (740) 589-9930.
Any questions please call Ohio Land expert Brian Bauer (614) 949-6764
