Shawvers Run Wilderness Additions
The lower portion of Addition A (northwest) includes a section of
a major karst area with its characteristic sinkholes, caves, and
disappearing streams. According
to the Southern Appalachian Assessment, a large number of rare and unique
southern Appalachian species are associated with karst areas. A distinctive
feature of the area is the large spring that feeds the fish hatchery; US Fish
and Wildlife Service lands adjacent to the Jefferson National Forest are managed
for the protection of the spring. This unroaded, scenic area contains 15 acres
of possible old growth. About a third of the area provides opportunities
for back-country
recreation.
A key attraction of Addition B (southwest) is Hanging Rock, a 240-acre unique
geologic area with a panoramic view of Hanging Rock Valley and Middle Mountain.
The area contains about 207 acres of possible old growth.
The Forest Service identified Addition A to the Shawvers Run Wilderness in RARE
II, and again in the current inventory. The Forest Service did not identify Addition
B.
Approximate Size: Addition A 1,926 acres, Addition B 974 acres
Locatiom Craig County. south of VA 18, New Castle Ranger DIstrict
Topo: Potts Creek
