TUCKER COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) — An unexploded ordnance (UXO) discovered late Wednesday evening in the Dolly Sods area was safely removed and disposed of Thursday morning, officials with the Monongahela National Forest confirmed.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, a member of the public reported the suspected ordnance on October 16, prompting an immediate response. Forest Service personnel verified the location and size of the UXO early Thursday before coordinating with West Virginia State Police and emergency responders from Tucker and Grant counties to secure and safely dispose of the device.
Authorities reminded visitors that Dolly Sods Wilderness was once used as a military training ground during World War II, and unexploded artillery shells or mortar rounds may still be present despite previous cleanup operations.
Visitors are urged to exercise caution and follow proper procedures if they come across any suspicious objects that may be unexploded ordnance:
- Do not touch, move, or dig near the object.
- Back away in the direction you came.
- Mark or note the location using GPS, a map, or nearby landmarks.
- Report the description and location immediately by calling 1-888-283-0303, a 24-hour reporting line.
Officials thanked the public for remaining alert and emphasized that safety is the top priority when exploring the region’s historic and rugged terrain.
