INDIANAPOLIS — Recently, Governor Mike Braun urged the United States Forest Service (USFS) to immediately withdraw the Buffalo Springs Restoration Project in the Hoosier National Forest, which would log 5,000 acres and burn more than 15,500 acres of public national forest land between Paoli, French Lick, and English in Indiana. Governor Braun insisted that the USFS instead focus on the completion of the Hoosier National Forest Management Plan.
“The Project area is treasured by Hoosiers and recreationists alike,” said Governor Braun. “Its forests are a favorite destination for horseback riders, hikers, mushroom foragers, hunters and campers. Many Hoosiers have voiced concerns that these resources and their enjoyment of the area will be harmed by the Project.”
The area impacted includes Tucker Lake, Springs Valley, Youngs Creek, and Lick Creek Trails. The Orange and Crawford County Commissioners and Paoli Town Council have unanimously passed resolutions opposing the Project.