Allegheny National Forest

Established by presidential proclamation in 1923, the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) was created to restore the "Pennsylvania Desert" following decades of intensive clear-cutting. Today, it spans over 513,000 acres and is managed for "multiple uses," including timber, oil production, and world-class recreation. The forest is home to the North Country National Scenic Trail and contains the most valuable black cherry timber in the world. It stands as a massive monument to 20th-century conservation and reforestation efforts.