Forest Service’s Marienville project open for comments

From staff reports

The Allegheny National Forest is proposing multiple activities to enhance forest health within Deadman Corners.

According to a Forest Service news release, the proposal includes, timber harvesting, reforestation, wildlife and aquatic habitat improvements, changes and improvements to forest roads, and the treatment of non-native invasive plants.

This project would allow the forest to achieve diverse tree species, contribute to a healthy and resilient ecosystem, while minimizing forest health threats.

“The Deadman Corners project’s proposed activities will implement forest plan goals and objectives as it addresses forest health concerns. It will also increase resiliency of the forest,” District Ranger Rob Fallon said.

The project, Fallon said, poses serious challenges to sustainable forest health and water quality.

“The scoping documents describe these challenges in detail, along with our proposals to address them. I am interested in hearing your concerns, issues or suggestions regarding our proposed activities,” he said.

“Your comments will help us determine whether we need to refine the proposed action or develop alternative ways to accomplish our objectives,” he added.

The opportunity to comment begins when the legal notice is published in the Kane Republican and ends 30 days after publication occurs. Comments may be submitted by:

– Mail: Rob Fallon, district ranger, Marienville Ranger District, 131 Smokey Lane, Marienville, PA, 16239.

– Fax: (814) 927-2285; attention to Rob Fallon.

– Email: comments-eastern-allegheny-marienville@usda.gov. Comments must be submitted in Microsoft Office or Adobe Acrobat compatible formats. Include “Deadman Corners Project” in the subject line and name and physical mailing address with comments.

– Phone: 8 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. weekdays at the Marienville Ranger District office (814) 927-5700.

For more information, go to www.fs.usda.gov.