Advisories for Gallitzin State Forest
Gate Closures
January 16, 2024: To ensure public safety, Gallitzin Forest District has closed the gates on Buffalo, Shade, and Babcock Creek roads in Ogle Township, Somerset County.
Buffalo and Babcock Creek roads are part of the snowmobile trail network and are still open to snowmobiles, but closed to automobiles.
The district will monitor road conditions and open the gates when conditions improve. We apologize for any inconvenience that these closures create.
Chronic Wasting Disease
Chronic Wasting Disease, which is an always fatal disease to deer and elk, has been detected in all, or portions of Bald Eagle State Forest.
Hunters should be aware of special rules and regulations that apply to deer harvested within the Disease Management Area. It is recommended that those deer be tested for the disease.
More information about chronic wasting disease can be found on the
Pennsylvania Game Commission and the
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture websites.
In addition, the Pennsylvania Game Commission provides information about
deer processors in the Disease Management Area.
Don’t Move Firewood
To help protect the forest from invasive insects that can kill trees and devastate the ecosystem, please do not transport firewood over long distances.
Firewood can harbor insects such as emerald ash borer. Cut or purchase your firewood where you intend to burn it.