Public comment period opens for New River Gorge NP Fire and Vegetation Management Plan

GLEN JEAN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The National Park Service (NPS) has announced the opening of a public comment period for the Environmental Assessment (EA) of a proposed Fire and Vegetation Management Plan for New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Gauley River National Recreation Area, and Bluestone National Scenic River.

The new plan is designed to update fire management practices across these parks to align with federal fire policies, support ecosystem restoration, and protect cultural and natural resources, as well as public safety.

The EA outlines a preferred alternative that would expand hazardous fuel reduction and prescribed fire activities to cover more areas, including oak forests and meadows, which are vital to maintaining important vegetation communities.

The public can review the EA starting September 1 on the NPS planning website and submit comments until September 30, 2024.

In addition, the NPS will host a public meeting on Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center in Lansing, to provide information on the proposed plan and answer questions.

For those unable to access the internet, comments can be mailed to:

Superintendent, Attn: FVMP EA

PO Box 246

Glen Jean, WV 25846