George Washington and Jefferson

National Forests

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Cascades in Winter

Breaking News!

George Washington and Jefferson News Feed

ALERT: WINTER DRIVING ON THE NATIONAL FORESTS

Many forest roads were not designed for year-round use and can become hazardous when covered with snow and ice. Roads in remote locations are not plowed and may remain covered with snow long after a storm passes through an area. Drivers should also be aware that communication is limited in some areas of the forest and that they may not be able to call for help using a cell phone if they get stuck.

1/22/10 Patterson Mountain ATV Trail CLOSED Due to Adverse Trail Conditions

Updated 1/22/10: Snow Damage Temporarily Closes Some National Forest Roads and Trails on the Clinch, Eastern Divide and North River Ranger Districts

1/8/10 Forest Service Conducts Prescribed Burn in Botetourt County

1/8/10 Morris Hill Available for Firewood Collection

12/30/09 Friends of Mt Rogers Wins Forest Service Award

12/14/09 Birch Knob Road Remains closed Through Winter

11/10/09 Wythe Shooting Range Closed Due to Vandalism

Didymo - an invasive species on the forest.

Didymosphenia geminata, also known as "didymo," is a single-celled algae that is firmly established in at least three rivers below dams in Virginia: the Smith River, the Jackson River, and the Pound River. For more information on this invasive freshwater algae check out the following information.

Informational Poster http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/resource_management/fisheries/didymo2-poster.pdf

An informative video and other information can be found on the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/fishing/didymo.asp

Notice! All caves and abandoned mines on Forest Service property are closed for 12 months to protect bats against White Nose Syndrome.

Lady Beetles Appear in the Forest
Over the years, federal, state and private entomologists released the insect at a number of locations. But it was not detected in these places until some years after it had became established in Louisiana. In addition, accidental entries have occurred via imported nursery items at ports in Delaware and South Carolina. Thus, it is uncertain whether the beetle's establishment resulted from planned releases, accidental entries or both.

Lady Beetle FAQs | Lady Beetle Information Sheet

Our two forests stretch from one end of Virginia to the other, as well as extending into West Virginia, along the ruggedly beautiful Appalachians.

Virtually every type of outdoor recreation activity you can imagine is available. Of course hiking, fishing, mountain bicycling and camping lead the way, but don't forget hawk watching, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, nature photography, and orienteering.

If you have questions, or need suggestions for things to explore, just ask. We really want to help make your visit an enjoyable one you will long remember. [Photo inset: Lion's Tail Trail]

Whether you are driving a back-country road, enjoying our glorious fall colors, using binoculars to spot colorful neo tropical birds, or savoring the peacefulness of wilderness, remember that national forests are special places.

Managed carefully with respect, the national forests will a thousand years from today still be providing resources, recreation and inspiration. We who are charged with stewardship of these wonderful lands must carefully weigh the competing desires and values of all who use the national forests. With limited budgets, opposing demands and a shrinking workforce, the challenge is immense. Yet, we in the Forest Service welcome it.

Locate the Ranger Districts

Locate the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests Ranger Districts. [Photo inset: Red-winged Blackbird]

Make Selection Clinch Ranger District Glenwood/Pedlar Ranger District James River Ranger District Lee Ranger District Mt. Rogers Nat'l Recreation Area Eastern Divide Ranger District North River Ranger District Warm Springs Ranger District

Safety in Bear Country

The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are home to many black bears - though sightings are rare. It is best for bears, forest visitors and neighbors when a healthy respect and distance is maintained.

More on Safety in Bear Country

Learn more about Black Bears