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September Editor’s Letter
I think the cover of this issue will become one of my all time favorites! The photo was entered into our annual native wildlife photography contest by Todd Hawkins. As Associate Publisher Kristi George said when we sent WVDNR cover options, “… it just couldn’t be outfoxed!” This year we had record-breaking submissions—and on pages 10-17, we feature some of the images that really stood out to us. Thank you to all who submitted. They were all fantastic—in fact, I’m sharing a few more above.
Speaking of photography, one of the state’s most photographed historic homes is the mansion on Blennerhassett Island. I recently watched the period drama series Bridgerton on Netflix, and I kept thinking the drama that unfolded at Blennerhassett Island deserves its own Netflix series. This is a wonderful historic and cultural asset for the state. If you’ve never been, I’m sure Mason Jack’s story on page 24 will inspire you to make the trip.
I realized after reading this issue that I really didn’t know much about the state’s wildlife management areas, but each of them is unique and plays an important role in contributing to biodiversity conservation in the state. Some, like the 23,000-acre Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area near Martinsburg in Berkeley County—which I recently visited—offer a variety of outdoor activities suitable for all experience levels. Among multiple campgrounds, hiking trails, and walking trails, at Sleepy Creek you can enjoy anything from a picnic with your family to a multi-day hiking and camping adventure. Explore the Tuscarora Trail, a long spur off the Appalachian Trail covering 33 miles, where you will find Sleepy Creek Lake, a 205-acre impoundment surrounded by rolling hills, perfect for a day on the water. Canoe or kayak, fish by the lake shores, or enjoy the incredible views while being greeted by beavers, otters, or soaring bald eagles.
On page 4, you’ll learn more about WMAs and efforts by wildlife resources specialists to plant designated grain fields to attract mourning doves. The Hillcrest WMA in Hancock County is one WMA that receives a significant amount of habitat management for doves. And then on page 18, we introduce you to Green Bottom, another unique WMA that is a favorite destination for bird hunters. This wetland habitat located in Cabell and Mason counties has a wooden boardwalk, perfect for leisurely strolls for avid birdwatchers. After reading these articles, I’m really interested in making a concerted effort to utilize these public wildlife areas—and I hope you are, too. When you visit a WMA, remember to take your camera so you can share your photos in next year’s annual photography contest!
Be be-wild-ered by the wonders of wildlife,
Nikki
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