FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Plum Orchard Lake Wildlife Management Area in Fayette County is undergoing a series of improvements aimed at enhancing public access, safety, and environmental conservation.
Delegates Elliott Pritt (R-Fayette) and Eric Brooks (R-Raleigh) met with representatives from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) on Friday to discuss ongoing maintenance and upgrades at the site.
DNR officials provided an update on both completed and upcoming projects, including the hiring of a new Wildlife Resources Specialist in October 2024 and a seasonal laborer to assist with maintenance work.
The agency has also contracted with the West Virginia Association of Rehabilitation Services (WWARF) to help maintain public-use facilities.
Infrastructure upgrades are a key focus, with plans to resurface the handicap fishing pier, dredge sediment from boat ramps, place rip-rap along walkways, and apply stone to access roads and parking areas.
Additional improvements include the installation of new lighting at the dam, a kiosk for informational signage, and buoys marking the no-wake zone and electric-only cove.
Fishing areas will also see enhancements, such as clearing brush along shorelines and treating aquatic vegetation to improve habitat quality.
Security measures are being strengthened with the addition of new regulation signs and a cellular security camera to help deter vandalism.
The shooting range has undergone a thorough evaluation, considering environmental and safety concerns and soil treatments have been implemented to prevent lead contamination.
Another major development is the preparation of a new Wildlife Management Area headquarters and storage facility, with construction set to begin this year.
Delegate Pritt says he and Delegate Brooks continue to advocate for more investment for Plum Orchard Lake.
