 Forest
Type
SAF 82: Loblolly Pine-Hardwood, 9 acres
Description
The Boiling Springs Natural Area was established
by the Atomic Energy Commission in 1957 on lands
acquired for the Savannah River Project in 1950.
The site is located along lower Three Runs Creek
just north of the Barnwell-Allendale County
Line, one mile north-west of the community of
Boiling Springs. The natural area is located
on a thin strip of government land, which extends
along the creek for approximately 10 miles from
the plant boundary to the Savannah River. Purpose
of acquisition of the land was as a buffer for
the creek, which receives occasional effluent
from teh reactors. In 1971, relatively high
or "hot" levels of radioactivity were reported
in the area by AEH personnel. 
This natural area is best known for its old
growth loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) with an average
height of 130 feet and an average diameter of
40 inches. Other species represented are yellow
poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) with an average
height of 112 feet and 28 inches diameter, American
beech (Fagus grandifolia), and magnolia (Magnolia
grandiflora).
Recognition of the value of the tract as a
natural area was expressed in 1953 following
an inspection of the AEC Savannah River, U.S.
Forest Service Cooperative Management Project
by the Southern Regional Forester.
The natural area is located on level stream
bottom site which supports the old growth timber.
It is one of the few sites in the Appalachian
natural area system where Souther Magnolia is
represented. The natural area is buffered by
other AEC lands on three sides and private ownership
on the fourth.
Location
Barnwell County, South Carolina, in AEC Reservation
Access
By foot along an old woods road, which runs
from the Stenson's bridge road, 3/10 mile, to
the fenced AEC line and natural area boundary.
For information contact
Forest Manager USFS-AEC
Box 8
Aiken, South Carolina 29801
A permit is necessary to enter this area.
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