The US Forest Service (USFS) held a meeting with local stakeholders at the Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory (HRRO) yesterday. Brian Hirt, a volunteer at the observatory and hiking route, stated that the engineering assessment indicated that the structure needed to be repaired.The USFS cannot pay for it.
As reported by RealWV on December 3, 2024, the observatory was closed by the USFS due to structural problems.
“On November 7, 2024, the decking and support arches were determined to be unstable,” said Gwen Mason, Public Affairs Officer for the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Region 8. “The trails are still open, but the public is not permitted to enter the building until the observatory is stabilized.” Signs notifying the public are displayed on the premises.”
Then, on December 23, RealWV stated that a structural engineering investigation was scheduled to begin early January.
The findings of the study were shared with attendees at yesterday’s meeting at Gap Mills. Hirt stated that, while repairs were examined, the analysis found that replacement is the best option given the condition of the structure.
“The plan is to build another building that will look basically the same as the existing building but with modern more durable materials,” according to Hirt. “The design created by an independent engineering firm will need to be approved by the Forest Service before construction.”
In addition to the construction challenges, financing will be a concern. “The funding will need to come from a source besides the Forrest Service,” he informed us.
“We all agreed HRRO is something that needs to be restored and reopened for the public to enjoy as soon as possible,” Hirt said.
“We understand how much the public and our volunteer organizations value the observatory at Hanging Rock. “People enjoy watching bird migration from this unique vantage point,” stated Beth Christensen, Eastern Divide District Ranger, in late 2024. “We are working toward a solution and appreciate the public’s patience.”
The current observatory, as depicted above, will need to be replaced owing to structural issues. The USFS intends to rebuild a nearly identical structure, but with contemporary materials designed to endure the environment. Photograph by Jonathan Eggleston for RealWV.
The observatory, located in Gap Mills, West Virginia, is perched atop Peters Mountain on the Eastern Continental Divide. Birdwatchers and hikers from all over the world visit the spot. It is the only component of the national forest located in West Virginia, which has caused misunderstanding concerning jurisdiction throughout the years.
According to a volunteer-kept log book at HRRO, 12,528 people from 46 states and 29 countries registered as visitors in 2023.
The USFS did not immediately respond to a request for comment following Wednesday’s meeting.
Volunteers have agreed to generate donations either privately or through local and state government representatives.
Hirt remains optimistic that a constructive conclusion is in the works. “Working together, I’m confident this will happen.”
