Plot is located on the western side of a large north/south running ridge line (Laurel Mountain). This mountain is geologically the same as Briery Mountain, Preston County to the north and Rich Mountain, Randolph County to the south. The east side this mountain is owned by the Monongahela National Forest and is dominated by an older red oak forest (see MONF.213). There are some noticable timber cuts on the air photos to the south. Unsure of the land ownership at this plot. The plot is located at least 1 mile from the nearest gated road. It is very quiet .;Young (approx. 40 years) climax forest growing on a gently sloping shoulder slope. The ridge top is very windy at the time of the survey. There is also a larger than average amount of windthrow found in the community. The overstory is a fairly even aged stand of red oak and red maple with a dense ground cover of hay scented fern. The fern has already began to yellow and die back for the season. The forest is very open with few shrubs. Probably a sign of heavy deer browse. Although the area has sawn stumps and has obviously been logged, there are no apparent skid trails. Fire scars found on the larger trees. Also charcoal was found in soil.
Representativeness
Large patch red oak - red maple - black cherry forest. Area was surveyed due to its similarity in geology, elevation, and aspect to the Briery Mountain WMA, Preston County. Looks similar but there is considerably less disturbance here.
