Officials with the Monongahela National Forest have announced that the Lower Williams Liming Project will continue through late February. The project may be done earlier, weather permitting.
The Forest is using a helicopter to spread limestone sand in the project area. Limestone improves soil quality by reducing the effect of acid rain.
Two areas of the Gauley Ranger District (east of Dyer) continue to be closed to all public entry in order to provide for public safety while the helicopter is flying. The closed areas are:
North of the Williams River Road – including all national forest land in an area bounded by Forest Road 86/County Road 46/2 (the Williams River Road), Forest Road 133, the national forest boundary, and Forest Road 735.
South of the Williams River Road – including all national forest land in an area bounded by Forest Road 86/County Road 46/2 (the Williams River Road), Forest Road 101, Forest Road 82, Forest Road 272, and the top of the ridge between Johnson Run and Lick Branch, both tributaries of the Williams River.
Motorists may still travel on all typically-open forest roads, such as the Williams River Road, but are cautioned to watch for additional truck traffic.
For more information on the project contact Forest Soil Scientists Stephanie Connolly at 304-636-1800 Ext. 244 or Steffany Mellor at 304-636-1800 Ext.192.