Autumn approaches, and with it comes one of nature’s great shows, the turning of the leaves. Where better to watch this spectacle than Lindy Point, the rock outcropping that juts over Blackwater Canyon, offering a world-class view--if you don’t mind getting arrested. A billboard straddles the path to the Point, proclaiming "no trespassing." Rent-a-cops patrol the area, ready to call the real cops if you dare tread the trail to that famous--and formerly accessible--overlook.

But by the time the leaves turn in Tucker County, things could be different. On October 7, the WV Supreme Court will hear arguments as to whether the sale of the Canyon was legal. If the sale was legal, then this Autumn only trespassing will get you to Lindy Point. And, we will have a lot of work yet to get the Canyon into public ownership, to stop the logging and potential development of Canyon-rim condos.

If the sale was not legal, then Allegheny Power Systems (APS) still owns the place, and the WV Public Service Commission (PSC) will have to be consulted and convinced the public interest is being served before APS can sell off the Canyon.

What is the public’s interest? Well, we can't really count on the PSC to be in touch with that. So, we’ll have to let them know.

Why not come on down to the WV Supreme Court October 7, about 10 a.m. (in Charleston at the Capitol Complex, Building 1, East Wing, 3rd Floor), to see the proceedings. The PSC ought to be noting the goings on, so it’d be grand if they saw the interested public there, protecting their interests. Or call in to listen to the proceedings at 558-1313.

And the public is indeed interested. Over 5,000 (and growing) folks have signed the WV Highlands Conservancy "Save Blackwater Canyon" petitions. Volunteers organizers Julian Martin and Mae Ellen Wildt say we could have thousands more if we had more volunteers collecting signatures.

If you would like to help with the Save Blackwater Canyon campaign, please contact Julian Martin, PO Box 35, Griffithsville, WV 25221, phone: 304-524-7609, e-mail: jumartin@wvwise.org.

You can attend an event to collect signatures, or you can send for petitions and collect them wherever you’d like. There are dozens of ways you can help in the campaign, so think of what you like to do, and think of how you can help us. Then talk to us!