West Hill State Forest

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West Hill State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 5) is located two miles north of the village of Painted Post, in the town of Hornby, Steuben County.

Spring Thaw on West Hill

History
The first settlers in the Hornby arrived around 1796 The town was formed in 1826. As noted in numerous other state forest descriptions, agricultural abandonment occurred relatively early (1910-1929) on the hilltop lands of this state forest.
The majority of this property was acquired by the State between 1930 and 1940 under the terms of the Hewett Amendment to the State Constitution and the authority of the Enlarged Reforestation Act. A significant addition was made in the early 1960's using the Parks and Recreation land acquisition bond act. The current size is about 887 acres.
While the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) did conduct activities in this forest, tree planting was not undertaken by the CCC at this location. Most of tree planting was done by Department crews from the mid 1950's to the mid 1960's.
This area was, at one time, much more highly populated than at present. There is a fairly extensive cemetery (West Hill Cemetery) located on private lands near the center of the forest. Immediately adjacent to the cemetery is a school house lot for Hornby District #8.

Field Notes
Recreational opportunities on this state forest focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. There are no formally designated trails. Town and county roads provide mountain biking opportunities. Hunting and trapping are also pursued by both local residents and by those from outside the local area.
This forest is somewhat unique in that the softwood plantations are fairly young. The red pine plantation along the east side of West Hill Road is currently suffering an aggressive attack by the Ips beetle. This beetle is also known as the engraver beetle. It forms tunnels beneath the bark which will kill the tree.
There is significant mineral activity immediately adjacent to this forest. The Wilson Hollow gas field is managed by Fortuna Energy, Inc. Sun Logistics owns a petroleum pipeline right-of-way through the southern portion of the forest. Visitors should expect to see natural gas and petroleum pipelines.
The pipeline corridors provide access to portions of the interior of the forest (foot or horseback travel only, please!)
Today, West Hill and all state forests in New York are managed for multiple benefits to serve the needs of the people of New York. Sustainable management practices ensure a perpetual supply of timber, a diversity of wildlife habitats, compatible recreational opportunities and clean water.

State Forest Regulations
Anyone enjoying the use of this state forest must observe the following rules which protect them and the forest environment:
1. Do not litter. Carry out what you carry in. Burying of refuse is prohibited.
2. If you build a fire, do so with care and use wood from dead and downed trees only. Never leave a fire unattended. Fires should be well away from natural gas wellheads or pipelines.
3. All motorized vehicles are restricted to access roads posted as motor vehicle trails. Off road use of motorized vehicles, such as ATVs, trail bikes and four-wheel drives is not allowed, except where specifically permitted by signs, posted notice or by DEC permit.
4. Camping for more than three nights or in a group of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. Camping is prohibited within 150 feet of water, roads or trail.
5. No permanent structures should be established, including tree stands or blinds.

Directions
To gain access to this state forest, from Painted Post, proceed north on West Hill Road. This road bisects the forest.

Important Telephone Numbers
Fire and Law Enforcement : 585-226-6706 or 911
State Forest Office (M - F; 8:30 am to 4:45 pm) 607-776-2165