Brasher State Forest
The Brasher State Forest is located in the northeastern portion of St. Lawrence County and northwestern Franklin County is made up of several separate but contiguous State Reforestation Areas totaling 22,195 acres. The unit is bounded on the north by the confluence of the Deer and St. Regis Rivers near Helena, on the east into Franklin County, on the south by the hamlets of North Lawrence and Brasher Falls and on the west by State Route 420. Because of their proximity and similarity, two Reforestation Areas in neighboring Franklin County are being included in the unit management plan.
This unit is distinguished by its wetlands, softwood plantations and public usage. Wetlands, which comprise approximately 20 percent of the area provide ecological diversity as well as significant wildlife habitat. Softwood plantings done by the Civilian Conservation Corps over 60 years ago are evidenced by the 6000 plus acres of quality pine and spruce that are now present. These plantations together with mixed natural forests, have long been an active source of products for the timber industry. The size of this unit, diversity of habitat and accessibility provide for exceptional recreational opportunities including hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding, hiking, skiing, canoeing and biking as well as snowmobiling.
A draft unit management plan for this unit is in process but is not yet available for public review. There will be a public meeting and comment opportunities once the public draft is available.
