Linda Tracy Project Leader, Mountaineer 3D Seismic Survey Project
USDA Forest Service
200 Sycamore St.
Elkins, WV 26241

Dear Jared C Johnson,

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Mountaineer 3D Seismic Survey Project East of Richwood on the Monongahela National Forest.  This project could lead to gas drilling in a sensitive area of the Forest. 

The Seismic Survey as proposed allows for dynamite blasting, the use of large helicopters, ATV’s and vibrator units in tandem stretching 132 feet long and 28 feet high traveling on small Forest Service Roads and unroaded areas.  The shot lines follow high mountain streams which are tributary of the3 Cherry River and follow the main stem of the North fork of the Cherry which is a trout stream and the drinking water supply for the town of Richwood.  The seismic testing skirts Summit Lake and intrudes on the Highlands Scenic Highway.  The operation is in Management Prescription 4.1 Spruce and Spruce Hardwood Restoration areas of the Monongahela.  This is habitat for the endangered West Virginia northern flying squirrel which could be negatively affected.   The blasting may affect sensitive bat caves.  We believe this level of disturbance calls for an EIS.