Environmental steward David Cohen

A 27-year old Georgia native is spending his work summer alone in the wilds of the national forest in Oconee. That’s where David Cohen is camping and serving as a steward in the vicinity of the Chattooga River and one of Oconee County and South Carolina’s landmarks—Ellicott’s Rock. Cohen is there as part of a partnership between the U-S Forest Service and his employer, the Wilderness Society. There are enough other visitors to Ellicott’s Rock to allow Cohen to converse with them about why they like to rec-reate there. Other than the occasional visitor, Cohen during these summer days and nights sees the occasional wildlife. To help pass the time, Cohen enjoys fly-fishing in the Wild and Scenic Chattooga—a good body of water for mountain trout. This year is the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act and the 40th anniversary of the Wild and Scenic designation of the Chattooga River. The Forest Service and its community partners are hosting a celebration Saturday, September 27. Activities for all ages and ability levels are planned at the Oconee State Park, the Sumter National Forest, and the Chattooga Belle Farm.