Billmeyer WMA
In the 1920s and 1930s, wildlife biologists
concentrated on raising game birds to help bolster low populations
in the wild. The Billmeyer WMA was purchased for this purpose and
game birds were raised in hopes that surplus populations would
spread to adjacent lands. Nearby, the Bellgrove WMA was used
exclusively for raising wild turkeys. Today this 710-acre tract in
Allegany County is no longer a game bird farm. Forests and fields
abound with wildlife, providing natural beauty and recreation for
many outdoor interests.
Billmeyer is situated within the ridge and valley
physiographic province, which is characterized by steep slopes.
Elevations range from 800 feet in the hollow along Terrapin Run to
a high of 1,200 feet along the ridge tops. The property is
dominated by mixed oak forest with a few patches of conifers,
mostly Virginia pine, with about 25 acres in fields or small
wildlife openings
What To See
Turkeys are abundant here. Hens with their chicks, called "poults,"
can often be seen pecking through the fields for seeds and insects.
In the spring, ruffed grouse drum out their territory and breeding
condition on fallen logs. White-tailed deer are a common sight,
leaping across the roads and fields. Forest management techniques,
which benefit wildlife and produce valuable timber, are
demonstrated.
What To Do
Hunters can pursue white-tailed deer, grouse, turkeys, squirrels,
woodcock and rabbits. Trapping is also available by permit. Several
trails and old logging roads make for an exhilarating day of
hiking, with great nature shots for those armed with
cameras.
Area Regulations
Use of Billmeyer WMA is generally permitted seven days a week
throughout the year Hunting is allowed in accordance with open
seasons and shooting hours No special permits or drawings are
required to hunt this area, except appropriate licenses and stamps.
Trapping by permit only Camping is not permitted, but is available
on nearby Green Ridge State Forest.
Non-hunting Users Guide
Non-hunting visitors are welcome. Be aware of open hunting seasons
and visit accordingly Season dates available in newspapers, on the
Internet, and at some area stores Trails are maintained but not
actively marked Bird watching, hiking and mushroom hunting are
popular uses of this area.
Site Management Goals
Billmeyer WMA is managed to provide opportunities for wildlife
related recreation. Billmeyer's habitat supports good populations
of white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, ruffed grouse, woodcock, gray
squirrels, and cottontail rabbits. County roads are open for
year-round access, however maintenance roads and woods trails are
gated and closed to vehicular traffic. Walk-in access is
permitted.
NOW FOR THE CACHE SEARCH INFO
…
Located along The Historical National Road, Route
40. Take the Orleans Road exit off of I-68, and proceed north to
Scenic Route 40. Turn left and travel toward Town Hill Mountain.
Near the top you will locate a pull off that Overlooks the
Billmeyer WMA Area.
Hidden along the Roadway near this pull off is
this Regular cache, cammo’d to match its environment and
suited for all-weather environments.
Enjoying the Scenic area will provide cover for
your Search
Cache has been loaded with SWAG, Log Book, Stash
Note and writing utensil. Plenty of Room from Travelers as
well.
Congratulations to Md8baller and Wirtz for
the FTF !!!