West Virginians are proud of their home. If you are a West Virginian or just know a West Virginian, you know this. A West Virginia History class is required for all eighth-grade students in the state. We even award an eighth grader who excels in the course the Golden Horseshoe Award. We have our own hot dog (chili, slaw, mustard, onion), our own song (thank you, John Denver), and our own golden rainbow trout (Gold Rush). West Virginia State Parks are second to none and we have world-class hunting and fishing. Is it any surprise that West Virginia’s birthday is a state holiday? This June 20th, we celebrate West Virginia’s 162nd birthday and I hope you take the opportunity to check a few items off the bucket list you can find on page 27. I know I will.
West Virginia is 78% forested, with some of those forested areas considered old growth forests. What you won’t find in even those old growth forests, is an American chestnut tree. Even though they were gone before my time, I remember how hard the lumber was to find and how coveted the last of the wood was. Having a piece of furniture made of wormy chestnut lumber was one way to pay homage to the last of the great American chestnut. I remember seeing gun cabinets, dining tables, and even floors, made from this hard to find and still coveted wood. Now, thanks to research conducted in West Virginia research, restoration of the once common tree is more than just a dream. You can find out more on page 14.
Last month we introduced you to our newest state park. This month, I am excited to share the story of the Division of Natural Resources’ newest Wildlife Management Area, the Little Coal River WMA. While it’s the first in Boone County, it’s the 97th Wildlife Management Area for the state. The WVDNR takes great pride in our pivotal role in conserving and preserving public lands for hunting, angling and other wildlife related recreation in our state. I hope you take the chance to get out and explore.
If an adrenaline pumped activity is what you’re looking for, check out the feature on whitewater rafting on page 22. The Division helps provide oversight for the whitewater industry through the Whitewater Commission to help ensure you have a safe and fun trip. Whether you want a serene family paddle on the Shenandoah or to run the rapids of the New or Gauley rivers, West Virginia is just the place for you.
Brett W. McMillion, Director
Division of Natural Resources