The Handley Wildlife Management Area

 

The Handley Wildlife Management Area (WMA) was established in 1958. It is located on 784 acres (317 ha) northwest of Marlinton in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. It is near the headwaters of the Williams River in the Monongahela National Forest.

The area was originally used for logging and farming. In the early 1900s, a hunting and fishing club was established on the property. The club was eventually disbanded, and the land was acquired by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) in 1958.

The WVDNR developed the area as a wildlife management area. The primary goal of the WMA is to provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including deer, bear, turkey, and grouse. The area is also open to hunting, fishing, and camping.

The Handley WMA is a popular destination for outdoor recreationists. The area offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and hunting. The WMA is also home to a number of scenic overlooks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The Handley WMA is a valuable resource for the people of Pocahontas County and the state of West Virginia. The area provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species, and it offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The WMA is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and it is sure to continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.

Here are some additional details about the history of the Handley WMA:

• The area was originally known as the Handley Public Hunting & Fishing Area.

• The Handley WMA was designated as a protected landscape/seascape by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2018.

• The WMA is managed by the WVDNR in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service.