Two Warren County sites are among those proposed to be decommissioned by the U.S. Forest Service.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service is accepting public comments on a proposal to decommission structures at three vacated life estates on the Bradford Ranger District of Allegheny National Forest. Leases include the Hall estate in Hickory Township in Forest County, the McLaughlin estate in Sheffield Township in Warren County and the Jerko cabin in Mead Township in Warren County. The Hall Barn Wildlife Viewing Area, located along U.S. Route 62, is not included in the proposed activities.

According to Forest Service officials, the project involves the removal of outdated facilities on properties that were previously private but have since reverted to federal ownership under life estate agreements. The agreements allowed individuals to continue occupying the property for their lives while retaining federal oversight.

With many of the agreements now concluded, the Forest Service plans to decommission the structures and restore the land to its natural state.

“This project is a vital step toward maintaining the integrity of our forests,” stated a Forest Service spokesperson. “By removing these structures, we’re addressing safety concerns and contributing to the preservation of wildlife habitats and water quality.”

The agency invites public feedback to ensure the proposed actions align with community needs and environmental priorities. Comments can be submitted online at www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=67317. Verbal comments can be made by calling the Bradford Ranger District at 814-362-4613 during regular business hours Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., excluding federal holidays. Written comments can be sent by postal mail to Richard Hatfield, District Ranger, Bradford Ranger District, 29 Forest Service Drive, Bradford, PA 1670.

Public meetings will also provide additional opportunities for community members to voice their opinions and learn more about the project. The deadline for submitting comments is January 17, 2025.