ELKINS — The Friends of Blackwater delivered more than 3,000 petition signatures to Gov. Patrick Morrisey’s office on Wednesday that call for Morrisey and other state leaders to change a proposed Corridor H route.

The organization, which works to protect and promote the 10,000-acre Blackwater Canyon, is urging that a northern route be chosen for the portion of Corridor H currently scheduled to run near Davis and Thomas.

Proponents of the alternate northern route suggest that it will avoid irreversible damage to the Blackwater Canyon, while still delivering the completion of the Corridor.

“Choose the route that protects Blackwater Canyon, supports local businesses, and reflects the values of West Virginians who know that our natural beauty is one of our greatest strengths,” Friends of Blackwater President Judy Rodd said in a press release.

The petition was delivered in six boxes to the Governor’s Office during a press event at the State Capital Wednesday. Advocates, local business owners, and community leaders from Tucker County joined together to stress that the alternative route will protect the ecological integrity of the Canyon, preserve the scenic and recreational value that fuels tourism in Davis, Thomas and surrounding communities, and support sustainable economic growth rooted in outdoor recreation.

“Blackwater Canyon is not just a place on a map, it’s the heart of a thriving outdoor economy that supports small businesses, creates jobs, and draws visitors from across the country,” said Rodd. “We can complete Corridor H in a way that strengthens our communities without sacrificing the natural assets that make Tucker County special. The northern route does exactly that.”

The alternate route would connect just east of Parsons, crossing over Backbone Mountain and connecting with the existing portion of Corridor H at Davis.

Those who are against the state’s preferred route say it could easily disturb mine tunnels from a former strip mine that has not been reclaimed and are filled with acid mine drainage pollution.

For more information on The Friends of Blackwater, visit savetheblackwater.org or visit the organization’s Facebook page.