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DCNR to buy 3,000 acres in southcentral Pa.
Private woodlands abutting existing state forestland are always top on the “wish list” when it comes to DCNR land acquisitions. That’s why when the Shippensburg Water Authority was interested in divesting itself of 3,000 acres of prime woodlands in Franklin and Perry counties, DCNR was first at the negotiating table.
Last month DCNR and the authority came to a tentative agreement and are currently working on the final details to turn the land into state forestlands while continuing the authority’s ability to provide water to its customers.
The property is in Toboyne Township, Perry County, and Lurgan Township, Franklin County. Known as the Gunter Valley tract, it adjoins the southwestern portion of Tuscarora State Forest, and is divided by the Pennsylvania Turnpike as it passes through the Blue and Kittatinny mountains. The Turnpike Commission maintains ownership of the land over these two tunnels.
The tract contains the Trout Run watershed, an Exceptional Value stream and presently one of the water sources for Shippensburg. A 78-foot high dam forms a 35-acre reservoir.
DCNR intends to add the property to Tuscarora State Forest, currently 91,165 acres spanning Cumberland, Franklin, Huntingdon, Juniata, Mifflin and Perry counties. It will be managed for recreation, timber, wildlife habitat and water quality.
“We are glad to see these unspoiled lands will be protected for future generations,” said Bill Wolfe, manager of the Shippensburg Water Authority. “With these lands under DCNR management, the Trout Run Watershed will continue to receive the protection it deserves.”
The property, being purchased for $1.8 million using money from DCNR’s Oil and Gas Lease Fund, has one road, one dam and many miles of logging roads. Once acquired, DCNR will determine what public recreation is suitable for the lands.
Named from the Tuscarora Mountain, Tuscarora State Forest contains more than 150 miles of roads providing glimpses of wildlife and scenic vistas. The forest is popular for hunting, trout fishing and hiking. Portions of the Appalachian Trail cross the forest, as well as dozens of other short- and long-distance hiking trails.
For more information on Tuscarora State Forest, call (717)536-3191.
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