View from Number 4 Bridge
The Tributaries
The Elk Headwaters begins its journey to the lowlands with the merging of many small streams and creeks. These streams flow down the west slopes of Cloverlick Mountain, the north slope of Elk Mountain and the east slopes of Red Lick and Gauley Mountains. Additionally, the streams of the western slopes of Cheat Mountain and Tallow Knob make several contributions. The tributaries flowing off Middle Mountain,Buzzard's Ridge, Valley Mountain, Mingo Knob, and Point Mountain are also included in this watershed, bring the total drainage acreage to over 85000.
The Elk Headwaters consist of over 100 miles of thirty plus tributaries and main stem river. From the head- waters of Old Field Fork, Big Spring Fork and Slatyfork, downstream to the small town of Slatyfork, the river begins the journey westward. Laurel, Props and Big Run are picked up along the way. Dry Fork, Falling Spring Run, Chimney Rock Run, and Valley Fork join the flow respectively. Hickory Lick Run, Abb Run, Big Run and downstream past Bergoo Creek also, are some of the more familiar tributaries in this vast watershed.
The Forests
The forests of the Elk Headwaters can be grouped into three types; Cove Hardwoods, Northern Hardwoods and Red Spruce.
The Cove Hardwoods , found in deep moist soil in protected coves, provide some of the best timber in the state. Red Oak, White Oak and Poplar are all found in the watershed. Black Cherry is also among these most important timber species, as well as 20 - 30 additional tree types. These rich and well protected spots have an abundance of ferns, shrubs and wild flowers. The thick undergrowth and variety of food sources create a haven for song birds, rabbit and deer. Wild turkey are also native to this region.
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Railroad Bridge Near Bergoo
Northern Hardwoods are generally found at elevations of 3000 to over 4000 feet. These trees form a narrow band on the mountain slopes, below the Spruce types. Hardwoods in this area mainly consist of Beech, Birch and Maple, as well as, Ash and Cherry. A mixture of hemlock can be found on the more northern slopes in many areas. The Northern Hardwoods are home to Deer, Black Bear, Beaver and Flying Squirrels. The Red Squirrel and Saw-Whet Owl may also be found in the forests, along with many other animals.
Red Spruce occupy the upper reaches of the tributaries of Crooked Fork, Big Spring and Cupp Run. They also grow on Laurel Run, Propst Run and Big Run, not to mention a number of other locations above 4,000 feet. Spruce flourish where the soil and atmosphere have abundant moisture. At higher elevations, spruce trees are able to compete with other species in the thin, moist soil. These forests of Red Spruce are home to the Snowshoe Hare, Rock Vole and Cheat Mountain Salamander. Brook Trout thrive in the cold, clear waters of these forests..
The origin of the name, "Elk River" came from the Indian word "Wapiti", which is what the local Indians once called the elk that inhabited these forests in a time long before the white man ventured into the Elk Headwaters Region. The trail along Old Field Fork and Big Spring Fork was known as the Seneca Trail. This trail followed the old elk and buffalo paths in the valley. The Indians used these paths to hunt and fish along the river. Eventually, the hunting trail became a wagon trail. Today, Route 219 generally follows the same Seneca Trail that was a corridor for game and settler pathways. Those that spend time along the old Seneca Trail are spending time with West Virginia's rich history.
The Elk Headwaters Watershed is home to many different businesses. Timber industries, agriculture, tourism,and second home developments make up the vast majority of the diverse groups within this watershed. Hunting, fishing, biking, hiking and sightseeing are some of the many uses found in the Elk Headwaters Watershed. The watershed organization was formed in March 2003 with 6 members. In February of 2004, the Mountain Resource Conservation and Development Council donated the startup funds to help the organization begin the process of developing an awareness of conservation in the Elk Headwaters.
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