FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, September 21, 2024
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West Virginia Week in Review
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Gov. Justice, Division of Forestry unveil new firefighting equipment ahead of fire season in West Virginia
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Gov. Justice and the West Virginia Division of Forestry announced the arrival of vital new firefighting equipment to be used across West Virginia.
The new equipment includes:
- Two Type 3 Bulldozers equipped with specialized forestry and firefighting packages.
- Three Type 6 Wildland Fire Engines designed specifically for combating wildfires.
- Six new drones equipped with thermal imaging technology to assist in fire detection.
- Eight UTVs outfitted with skid units and water tanks for improved wildfire response in hard to reach areas.
- Seventeen pickup trucks fitted with skid units for enhanced firefighting capabilities.
"With fire season just around the corner in West Virginia, it's perfect timing to get this new equipment," Gov. Justice said. "Our hardworking Forestry members deserve every bit of this new gear. These aren't just new dozers and trucks, they're difference makers in protecting our forests and citizens. The day they received this machinery, they immediately put it to use to tackle a fire. That's how bad these guys needed new equipment. We need to keep doing all we can to ensure they have what they need to protect our beautiful forests and keep our homes safe. This drought is also making things worse, and as it gets dry, things could really get bad. I'm really praying we get some rain soon, but we've got to be ready for whatever comes our way. At least we know that if disaster does strike, our teams are ready to face the challenge head-on with safe and reliable equipment."
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Gov. Justice announces winner of lottery hunt with Whitetail Frenzy
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Contest winner will be featured in an episode of popular hunting show
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Gov. Justice and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced the grand prize winner of a lottery deer hunt at Twin Falls Resort State Park with Whitetail Frenzy.
The contest, which Gov. Justice announced in July, was won by John Tipton, who will be featured in an upcoming episode of “Whitetail Frenzy,” a West Virginia-based show that follows hunters as they pursue mature whitetail deer while showcasing hunting strategies, techniques, and land management throughout the Appalachian Mountains.
“West Virginia is blessed with some of the most incredible hunting opportunities in the world, and I couldn’t be more excited for John as he embarks on this one-of-a-kind adventure with Whitetail Frenzy at Twin Falls Resort State Park,” Gov. Justice said. “Our state’s natural beauty and wildlife make it a true hunter’s paradise, and I know this experience will be one that he remembers for a lifetime.”
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Gov. Justice celebrates Fairmont State University's Middle College ribbon-cutting ceremony
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Gov. Justice announces popular elk management tours return to Chief Logan State Park
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Tickets for the guided tours are now available and are expected to sell out quickly
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Gov. Justice announced the much-anticipated return of Elk Management Tours, offering an exciting opportunity for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers to witness the majestic elk population in their natural habitat. Historically, tickets have sold out quickly so those interested are encouraged to book their tour today.
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Under Gov. Justice’s Administration, the Elk Restoration Project has flourished. Several elk have been introduced to the Tomblin Wildlife Management Area in Logan County, and the population is now estimated to be 130-140. Additionally, the WVDNR has recorded 60 native elk calf births since launching its Elk Restoration Project.
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Gov. Justice attends Barboursville Fall Fest parade
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Gov. Justice announces West Virginia’s archery and crossbow seasons open Sept. 28
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Hunters are reminded to purchase their license and stamps and review regulations
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Gov. Justice reminds hunters to prepare for archery and crossbow seasons for white-tailed deer, black bear, and wild boar, which will open on Sept. 28.
Hunters are encouraged to purchase their license and stamps at WVhunt.com before the seasons start.
“With the start of archery and crossbow seasons, West Virginia’s fall beauty will be on full display, giving hunters the perfect opportunity to experience the thrill of the outdoors,” Gov. Justice said. “I encourage everyone to get their licenses early and make the most of this incredibly exciting season. As a lifelong outdoorsman, I can tell you this is one of my favorite times of the year.”
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First Lady Justice welcomes newest Friends With Paws therapy dogs at Hampshire High School and Keyser Middle School
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First Lady Cathy Justice announced the newest therapy dogs through the Friends With Paws program are officially placed in two West Virginia schools.
Moose, a male Golden Retriever, was placed at Hampshire High School in Hampshire County.
Goldie, a female Labrador Retriever, was placed at Keyser Middle School in Mineral County.
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“I am absolutely thrilled to welcome two new therapy dogs to Hampshire High School and Keyser Middle School as part of our Friends With Paws program,” First Lady Cathy Justice said. “These wonderful dogs bring so much comfort, joy, and emotional support to our students, and I can't wait to see the positive impact they'll have on these school communities. Our students' well-being is always a top priority, and I'm so proud to expand this program to touch even more young lives across West Virginia.”
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