Forest Service Invites Public to Review Vault Toilet Project and Provide Comments

Warren, PA, August 21, 2025 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service is accepting comments on a proposal to decommission, repair and replace vault toilets at eight locations across the Allegheny National Forest. The proposed structures are located at Webbs Ferry Boat Launch, Elijah Run Boat Launch, Morrison Trailhead, Hearts Content Recreation Area, Red Mill Pond, Laurel Mill Trailhead, Tidioute Overlook and Little Drummer Trailhead. 

Some vault toilets and walkways prioritized in this project will be updated to meet Architectural Barriers Act requirements, ensuring facilities are accessible for individuals with disabilities. Other structures will be permanently decommissioned based on deteriorated conditions and low usage. This project will enhance public health, safety, and access, improving visitors’ experience. 

For more information, a scoping document is available for download on the project website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r09/allegheny/projects/68637.Comments may be submitted by September 15, 2025 in the following ways:  

• Mail: Richard Hatfield, District Ranger, Allegheny National Forest, Bradford Ranger District, 29 Forest Service Drive, Bradford, PA 16701. 
• Email: Comments may be emailed to comments-eastern-allegheny-bradford@usda.gov. Include the project name (Vault Toilet Decommissioning Repair and Replacement Project) in the Subject Line of the email. Also, include your name and physical mailing address in the body of the email, along with your comments.
• Phone: Verbal comments may be submitted by calling the Bradford Ranger District Office at (814) 363-6000 during business hours. Normal business hours are 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. 

Please note that any comments received, including the names and addresses of those who submit comments, will be part of the public record and available for public inspection. For more information, please contact Recreation Program Manager, Jamie Feikls at (814) 335-3140 or Jamie.Feikls@usda.gov.