USFS Issues Draft Decision on Upper Warwoman

The U.S. Forest Service said it is providing the public with an early opportunity to preview the draft Decision Notice and final Environmental Analysis for the Upper Warwoman project in Rabun County.

Currently, 100 percent of the Upper Warwoman watershed is functioning at risk to forest resources such as native trout, wildlife and rare fire dependent trees.

Chattooga River District Ranger Ed Hunter said that over the next decade, this draft decision will allow for forest health and restoration activities on approximately 12,500 acres.

Key draft decision points include:

  • Prescribed fire is planned on an average of 1-2 thousand acres every year over ten years to improve wildlife habitat and support rare, native fire dependent trees and plants.
  • More than 800 acres would be allocated as old-growth forest with an average stand age of 140 years old. This incorporates public desire to conserve old growth.
  • Erosion would be reduced on 11 miles of Forest Service roads through improved drainage and road maintenance. Tuckaluge Creek Road/FSR 155 would not be relocated.
  • More than 90 percent of the project area would see no thinning whatsoever. Approximately six percent (785 acres) of the project area would be improved through commercial thinning. Three percent (330 acres) would be improved through noncommercial thinning.
  • All non-commercial thinning areas would be designated as public firewood cutting areas if accessible.
  • Young, open forest would be established throughout the project area to create essential habitat for ruffed grouse, wild turkey, and other wildlife.
  • More than 7 miles of trout streams in the watershed would be restored through increasing fish passage and minimizing erosion issues.
  • The project would help establish young oak stands and improve long-term oak regeneration.

In accordance with federal regulations, the Forest Service will offer a 45-day formal objection period on the draft decisions.

The legal notices are expected to be published during the week of June 21, 2015.