Greenwood State Forest

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Greenwood State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 1) is located ten miles south of the village of Canisteo, in the town of Greenwood, Steuben County.

Fawn on Greenwood

History
This area was settled beginning in approximately 1796. The town of Greenwood was formed in 1827. As noted in numerous other state forest descriptions, agricultural abandonment occurred relatively early (1910-1929) on the hilltop lands occupied by this state forest.
The majority of this property was acquired by the State in 1930-1932 under the terms of the Hewett Amendment and the authority of the Enlarged Reforestation Act. Significant additions were also made in the early 1960's under the authority of the Parks and Recreation acquisition bond act. The current size is about 907 acres.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was very active in this forest in the early days. The DEC's annual report for 1932 lists 271 acres planted with approximately 275,000 trees.
This area has also been involved in mineral extraction. Local history sources indicate that the first gas wells drilled on reforestation properties were drilled on Greenwood State Forest starting in 1934. Paying oil wells were drilled to the west of the state forest much earlier.

Field Notes
Recreational opportunities in 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.
As many of the plantations established by the CCC reach the end of their natural life (75-100 years of age), they are being converted to natural hardwood stands. As noted above, this forest also has significant mineral activity. The Greenwood natural gas storage field is located on this property and is managed by Columbia Gas Transmission Co. Visitors should expect to see natural gas wellheads and pipelines. The pipeline corridors provide excellent access to the interior of the forest (foot or horseback travel only, please!)
Today, Greenwood 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 Canisteo, take State Highway 248 heading south. Immediately north of the hamlet of Greenwood turn west onto Steuben County Route #62 (Rock Creek Road). The first road to the south (Brown Hollow Road) will provide access to the central portion of the state forest. Significant walking will be required to see the interior of 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