Forrest H. Dutlinger Natural Area

Coordinates: 41°28′11″N 77°52′39″W / 41.4697°N 77.8775°W / 41.4697; -77.8775
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Forrest H. Dutlinger Natural Area
An educational sign found at the Natural Area
Map showing the location of Forrest H. Dutlinger Natural Area
Map showing the location of Forrest H. Dutlinger Natural Area
Location within Pennsylvania
LocationClinton County, Pennsylvania
Nearest townCross Fork
Coordinates41°28′11″N 77°52′39″W / 41.4697°N 77.8775°W / 41.4697; -77.8775
Area1,521 acres (616 ha)

The Forrest H. Dutlinger Natural Area is a protected area in Clinton County, Pennsylvania, United States.[1]

History[edit]

The Dutlinger Natural Area was named after Forrest H. Dutlinger, a Commonwealth forester from 1909 to 1959, who had begun his career at a time of massive clear cutting of forests without any reforestation by the timber companies, along with rampant wildfires. Dutlinger became known for his efforts to revive the forests of the region, and he also attempted to ameliorate the spread of chestnut blight.[2]

Features[edit]

The natural area measures a total of 1,521 acres (616 ha), and includes a tract of old-growth forest measuring 158 acres (64 ha).[3] The area is known for its very large trees.[4] The old-growth forest once lay on the boundary of two lumber companies, but was apparently spared because of a dispute over a surveying error.[1]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b Fergus, Charles (2002). Natural Pennsylvania: Exploring the State Forest Natural Areas. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books. pp. 183–186.
  2. ^ Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. "Forrest H. Dutlinger Natural Area". Archived from the original on December 24, 2012.
  3. ^ "Susquehannock State Forest Wild and Natural Areas". Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources. Retrieved 2023-12-16.
  4. ^ Mary Byrd Davis (23 January 2008). "Old Growth in the East: A Survey. Pennsylvania" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 2009-12-29.