OVERVIEW

The 45-acre Ellison Ridge Field and Forest represents an opportunity to create a classic family legacy for the next ownership, or to carefully craft a rural residential project for future home sites. The terrain is typical of the region and considered rolling to mountainous, with upland hardwood flats and ridges separated by narrow hollows that flank the lower lying drainage of the small stream.

The property is a quality Oak and yellow Poplar dominated Appalachian timber investment with a ready to harvest timber resource. Situated near the heart of the recreation mecca of the greenbrier River and new river gorge, the property offers rural estate qualities with the upside potential for future development. Mountain wildflowers can be enjoyed every spring and summer including the spectrum of mountain irises to daffodils. Spectacular long views and little light pollution creates a wonderful natural setting for the whole family.

Ellison Ridge Field and Forest offers more than just a stunning view of the of the mountain range, it presents tremendous opportunities for adventure, recreation, and relaxation that will satisfy the whole family whether you are drawn to water sports, fishing, hiking, ATV riding or simply enjoying nature on a peaceful day in the mountains of Wild Wonderful West Virginia.

Recreational enthusiasts will find this beautiful mountain property a haven that caters to the outdoors lifestyle. With trails to walk or ATV riding throughout the property will give ample opportunities for game watching birdwatching and photographers. Must see property for the hunters, recreational enthusiast, nature enthusiast or that forever home that would be a lasting legacy for generations to come.

HIGHLIGHTS

• 45 acre +/- parcel surrounded by large farm fields and woodland tracts
• Approximately 5 ac fertile crop and pasture land
• 40 acre +/- mature hardwood timber ready to harvest
• Easy access to 1-77 and 1-64 US Rt. 19 and US Rt. 460
• 30 minutes from Winterplace Ski Resort
• 30 minutes from the New River
• Nearby are the Greenbrier River, Bluestone River, New River and 2000-acre Bluestone Lake
• Excellent year-round paved road access
• Electricity on site
• Well on site
• Hatfield and Mccoy Trails nearby

LOCATION

The Ellison Ridge Field and Forest is located in the scenic, mountainous region of south-central West Virginia. The surrounding Summers – Mercer – Raleigh County landscape is part of the southeastern Ridge and Valley Region, a scenic tapestry of elongated hardwood Allegheny & Appalachian Mountain ranges. Much of these counties County remain undeveloped and is characterized by its scenic farm valleys, small communities and large expanses of hardwood forest.

Charleston is West Virginia’s state capitol and is an easy 90-minute drive. Charleston is WV’s largest city with a population of some 50,000 and a metro area of 225,000. It is the center of government, commerce, culture and industry. There is a commercial airport with daily flights to most major hubs.

Hinton is 30-minute drive.  Hinton has a population of about 2,400, serves as the county seat and is the sole municipality within Summers County.  Banking, excellent healthcare facilities, pharmacies, grocery shopping and great restaurants are available in Hinton.

Beckley is a 40-minute drive, has a population of 34,000, and is the county seat of Raleigh County. All amenities are available in Beckley. Beckley is located at the intersection of I-77, I-64 and US 19, so easy access to Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Charleston and Cincinnati is just around the corner.

Princeton, the Mercer County seat, is 50 minutes’ drive. All amenities are available in Princeton including banking, excellent healthcare facilities, pharmacies, big box stores, grocery shopping and great restaurants.

The quaint village of Athens, home to Concord University, is just 40 minutes away.

Historic Lewisburg is located just 90 minutes away with all the charm of a small town and all the amenities of a larger city. Voted “Coolest Small Town in America”; fine dining, arts and entertainment flourish in the Lewisburg area while “big box” stores like Walmart and Lowes are also available along with the Greenbrier Valley Medical Center and other medical services. The Greenbrier Valley Airport has direct flights to O’Hare and Dulles.

Within an hour to two-hour drive are located some of the finest recreational facilities in West Virginia. Winterplace Ski Resort (10 minutes), Snowshoe Ski Resort, whitewater rafting / fishing on the Greenbrier, New River and Gauley River, 2000-acre Bluestone Lake, 3000-acre Summersville Lake, 919,000 acre Monongahela National Forest and the 80,000 acre New River National Gorge National Park & Preserve. Five other area state parks and state forests offer unlimited hiking, horseback riding, ATV riding and rock-climbing opportunities.

Located just 30 minutes from I-77, year-round access to the property is excellent.

Internal access is considered excellent. Several forest trails provide access to nearly all corners providing for recreational opportunities including nature viewing, hiking, horseback riding and ATV riding. They also provide access to stands of timber.

Address: 5618 Ellison Ridge Road, Flat Top, WV 25969.

Drive Times

Towns/Interstate Highways

• I-77 Camp Creek Exit 20: 30 minutes
• I-77 Ghent Exit 28: 30 minutes
• Athens and Concord University: 45 minutes
• Beckley: 40 minutes
• Hinton: 30 minutes
• Princeton: 50 minutes

Airports

• Mercer County Airport, Bluefield: 1 hour
• Raleigh County Memorial Airport, Beckley: 45 minutes

Recreation

• Avian Center – Three Rivers Avian Center: 40 minutes
• Golf – Black Knight Golf Course, Beckley: 40 minutes
• Golf – Glade Springs Resort Golf Club: 40 minutes
• Golf – Grandview Country Club: 40 minutes
• Golf – Pipestem Resort State Park: 45 minutes
• Golf – Willow Wood Country Club and Golf Course: 35 minutes
• Golf – Woodhaven Golf Course: 35 minutes
• Historical Park – John Henry Historical Park and Monument: 35 minutes
• Lake – Bluestone Lake: 30 minutes
• National Park – New River Gorge National Park and Preserve Visitors Center, Sandstone: 45 minutes
• Resort – Glade Springs Resort: 40 minutes
• Resort – Pipestem Resort State Park: 45 minutes
• State Park – Bluestone State Park: 30 minutes
• State Park – Camp Creek State Park and Forest: 40 minutes
• State Park – Little Beaver State Park: 40 minutes
• State Park – Pipestem Resort State Park: 45 minutes
• Skiing – Winterplace Ski Resort: 30 minutes

AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES

There is approximately five acres of clear land suitable for garden, row crops or grazing for cows, sheep, goats or horses. Several acres can be easily cleaned up for more farming activities.  Hay is being harvested from the fields by a local farmer.

FOREST/TIMBER RESOURCES

The forest’s predominately well-drained upland terrain has led to a resource dominated by hardwood species. Overall, the species composition is highly desirable and favors Appalachian hardwood types, consisting primarily of White Oak/Chestnut Oak, Red Oak Group, Poplar/Cucumber/Basswood, Sugar Maple/Soft Maple and a host of associate species.

The Abundant timber resource is well positioned for immediate timber income.  The timber has not been harvested in decades. With an attractive species mix, adequate stocking levels, and favorable diameter class distribution, the timber harvest represents a significant component to the value of the property.

The forest floor is home to several types of mushrooms, medicinal plants, wild ginseng, ferns and cool green mosses. One could spend a lifetime getting to know this inviting environ.

WILDLIFE

Ellison Ridge Field and Forest is an ideal wildlife preserve.  The property is surrounded by farm fields and a stream that runs along the edge of the property, and the Appalachian hardwood forest and the use of constant and adherence management goals have promoted overall wildlife health, facilitated by the harvest of game, and the development of food plot areas.  This increases the carrying capacity, and increases species diversity. The property has a mixture of mature hardwood species.  The diversity of tree species, coupled with the abundant of water supply and numerous fields around the property create a perfect wildlife habitat.  The edge effect created between creeks, hollows, ridges, and rock outcroppings on and around the property benefit all the resident wildlife.  Whitetail deer, black bear, wild turkey, squirrels, rabbits,  bobcats, raccoon, foxes and many species of songbirds, owls, raptors make up a resident wildlife population. The hardwood forest provides the essential nutrient source and produces tons of hardwood mass which include acorns, hickory nuts, and beechnut.  Ellison Ridge Field and Forest is a hunter’s or a nature enthusiast’s paradise.

WATER

A small dashed blue line stream that runs along the edge of the property.  There should be some water flow in this stream, especially during rain events and snow melt.

MINERAL RESOURCES

All rights the owner has will in title will convey with the property. West Virginia is one of the states in the US that has two ownership titles, those being SURFACE RIGHTS and MINERAL RIGHTS. A title search for mineral rights ownership has not been conducted. A mineral title search could be conducted by a title attorney at the same time when the surface title search is being conducted.

BOUNDARIES AND SURVEY

The property is being sold by the boundary and not by the acre.

UTILITIES

• Electric – on site
• Propane – available locally
• Landline Phone – on site
• Internet –  available at roadside; also Starlink or other satellite provider
• Sewer – Private septic installed but will need an upgrade
• Water –  Drilled water well on site
• Trash Pickup – at curbside
• Cell phone coverage – good
• USPS and Overnight Couriers deliver to the area

ACCESS/FRONTAGE

The property is accessed by Ellison Ridge Road.  The access to the property is a four -season, state maintained road.

ZONING

Mercer County is subject to some zoning and subdivision regulations. All prospective buyers should consult the County Commission and also the Health Department for details regarding zoning, building codes and installation of septic systems.

DEED AND TAX INFORMATION

Deed Information: DB 211 Pg. 550

Jumping Branch District
Summers County, West Virginia
Acreage:  45 acres +/-
Tax Map 23, parcel 3

2025 Taxes:  $450.66

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Summers County School District

Public Elementary School:
Jumping Branch Elementary School

Public Middle School:
Summers County Middle School

Public High School:
Summers County High School

College:
Concord University, New River Community, WVU Tech

RECREATION AT ELLISON RIDGE FIELD AND FOREST

Nature viewing is first in line of recreational activities. Attentive wildlife management has been geared not to just larger animals. Equal consideration has been extended to increasing the numbers and diversity of species including neo-tropical songbirds, butterflies, turtles, frogs, rabbits, chipmunks, dragonflies, owls, eagles and hawks. White tail deer, black bear, red/gray fox, bobcat, wild turkey, grouse, duck, squirrel, raccoon, fox and rabbit make up the resident wildlife population. It is hard to find a property that has a better mix of wildlife.

Stargazing-Planet Observation
Total or near total darkness can be still be found on the property, thereby affording the opportunity to view the night sky in all its brilliant wonder.

Shooting-sports devotees find all the land and privacy needed to enjoy:

• Paintball-Airsoft-Laser Tag-Archery tag
• Shotgun sport shooting including Skeet, Trap, Double Trap and Sporting Clays
• Rifle & Handgun shooting: bullseye, silhouette, western, bench rest, long-range, fast draw
• Archery and Crossbow competition shooting
• Plain ole’ plinking: Grandpa’s old 22 single shot rifle and a few tin cans make a fun day

All Terrain Motorsports
The property is perfect for experiencing the property from an ATV or UTV. Riders are welcome to ride all public roads that do not have a painted dividing line and there are miles and miles of open roads in the area. These exciting machines handle the wide variety of the forest’s terrain.

Dirt bikes can also be a lot of fun and they come in all sizes and horsepower to fit anyone who enjoys being on two wheels.

Mountain Biking, Horseback Riding and Hiking
The nicely laying land and abundant forest trails may be used for conventional and mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding and the area offers several state and national parks geared for these activities.

WINTERPLACE SKI RESORT

Winterplace Ski Resort is located in Ghent, West Virginia on Raleigh County’s Flat Top Mountain, just five minutes off of I-77 at Exit 28. The southernmost ski resort in West Virginia, Winterplace is a popular attraction to skiers from VA, NC, KY and OH, due to its proximity to Interstate 77. It operates in conjunction with The Resort at Glade Springs, a four-season golf resort and spa. Winterplace Ski Resort is the most accessible skiing area in West Virginia, even during heavy snowstorms. The Resort features 12 lifts, 27 trails, two terrain parks and WV’s largest snowtubing park, offering 16 lanes of fun, and much more.

The Resort at Glade Springs is located eight miles north of Winterplace in Daniels, West Virginia, near the intersection of I-77 and Interstate 64. It operates a spa and three golf courses. The Cobb Course and the Stonehaven Course have been rated among the top five courses in West Virginia by Golfweek Magazine; the Cobb Course, designed by George Cobb, was rated West Virginia’s best golf course in 1995. Glade Springs is also the home course for the WVU Tech men’s and women’s golf teams Glade Springs also offers horseback riding and whitewater rafting on the New River.

THE NEW RIVER GORGE NATIONAL PARK and PRESERVE

The 70,000-acre New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a unit of the United States National Park Service (NPS) designed to protect and maintain the New River Gorge in southern West Virginia in the Appalachian Mountains. Established in 1978 as a national river, the NPS-protected area stretches for 53 miles from just downstream of Hinton to Hawks Nest State Park near Ansted. The park was officially named America’s 63rd national park, the U.S. government’s highest form of protection, in December of 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a relief bill.

West Virginia is home to parts of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, a foot path that stretches more than 2,100 miles between Maine and Georgia; the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, which cuts through 16 states for 4,900 miles; the Bluestone National Scenic River; and Harpers Ferry National Historic Park. Now, over 70,000 acres of land, bordering 53 miles of the gorge, has earned the government’s protection.

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is rich in cultural and natural history and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities. New River Gorge is home to some of the country’s best whitewater rafting, mainly from the Cunard put-in to the Fayette Station take-out and is also one of the most popular climbing areas on the East Coast.

Home to the New River, which drops 750 feet over 66 miles, with its Class V rapids, has long drawn adventuresome rafters and kayakers to this whitewater area. The New River, which flows northward through low-cut canyons in the Appalachian Mountains, is actually one of the oldest rivers on the planet.

Rock climbing on the canyon walls, mountain biking and hiking on trails that flank the river, and wildlife viewing—bald eagles, osprey, kingfishers, great blue herons, beavers, river otters, wild turkeys, brown bats, snakes, and black bears—are all popular activities within the park.

The New River Gorge Bridge is a work of structural art. Construction of the bridge began in 1974, and was completed in 1977. The Bridge spans 3,030 feet in length and is the third highest bridge in the U.S., at 876 ft. During Bridge Day, an annual one-day festival celebrating the construction of the Bridge, BASE jumpers launch off the 876-foot bridge and parachute down to the New River. New River Gorge is the only national park in the U.S. that permits this extreme activity.

President Jimmy Carter signed legislation establishing New River Gorge National River on November 10, 1978 (Pub.L. 95–625). As stated in the legislation, the park was established as a unit of the national park system “for the purpose of conserving and interpreting outstanding natural, scenic, and historic values and objects in and around the New River Gorge, and preserving as a free-flowing stream an important segment of the New River in West Virginia for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.” The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve Designation Act was incorporated into the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, changing the designation to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Less than 10% of the original national river was re-designated as a national park, where hunting is no longer permitted, while the remainder is a national preserve with little change.

NEW RIVER REGION OVERVIEW

The New River is shared by boaters, fisherman, campers, park visitors and local neighbors. The waters of the New River system contain a mosaic of hydrologic features and aquatic habitats that support a highly productive aquatic ecosystem that includes distinct populations of native fish, mussels, crayfish, and a broad array of other aquatic life, including rare amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.

The 320-mile New River rises in the Blue Ridge region of North Carolina and flows northeastward through the Appalachian uplands to Radford, Va., where it turns northwestward and passes through a series of narrow valleys and gorges into southern West Virginia. It ends where it joins the Gauley River to form the Kanawha River. In WV, the New River is entrenched in a steep and narrow valley, the narrowest part of which is known as the “New River Gorge.”

In 1998, because of historical, economical, and cultural importance, President Clinton signed into law the New River as one of the very first American Heritage Rivers. Much of the river’s course through West Virginia was designated as the New River Gorge National River. In 2021, the area was designated as the United States’ newest National Park.

The New River is recognized as the “second oldest river in the world” and is estimated to be between 10 and 360 million years old. Its headwaters begin near Blowing Rock, NC, and is one of the few rivers in North America that flows northerly.

Class I, II, III, IV and V rapids dot the entire 320 miles of New River making it a great paddling, tubing, and white rafting adventure. Beautiful cliffs, bluffs, and mountain views make it one of the most scenic rivers on the east coast.

New River Gorge National Park includes 53 miles of free-flowing New River, beginning at Bluestone Dam and ending at Hawks Nest Lake. The New River typifies big West Virginia style whitewater. Within the park it has two very different characters. The upper (southern) part of the river consists primarily of long pools, and relatively easy rapids up to Class III. It is a big powerful river, but very beautiful, always runnable, and providing excellent fishing and camping. There are a number of different river access points, and trips can run from several hours to several days.

The lower (northern) section of river is often referred to as “the Lower Gorge.” In a state that is justifiably renowned for colossal rapids, the Lower Gorge has some of the biggest of the big with rapids ranging in difficulty from Class III to Class V. The rapids are imposing and forceful, many of them obstructed by large boulders which necessitate maneuvering in very powerful currents, crosscurrents, and hydraulics. Some rapids contain hazardous undercut rocks.

BLUESTONE LAKE

Amidst the beautiful scenery of southern West Virginia lies the long, narrow 2,000-acre Bluestone Lake. This reservoir, the third largest lake in West Virginia, is popular for its fishing and other recreational activities. Bluestone Lake was formed by a concrete dam built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers across the New River to reduce flooding. Although the dam was started in 11351, its construction was delayed because of World War II, and it was not fully completed until 1952. The lake is nearly eleven miles long, with an area of 2,040 acres during summer pool, though the water level does change frequently. Water levels are drawn down four feet in winter to make room for melting snow and spring rain.

Bluestone Lake, Greenbrier River, Bluestone River, and the New River are great places for fishing, and it is said that New River is the best warm-water fishery in the state. Some of the species of fish available in the lake and river are bluegill, catfish, crappie, muskellunge, and various types of bass. New River bass have set some West Virginia state records.

In addition to fishing, Bluestone Lake is fantastic for enjoying all sorts of water activities, including boating, canoeing, water skiing, and wake boarding. The lake has several boat ramps and a commercial marina for the boater’s convenience, and there are no limits to the size of boats or motors that can be on the lake.

Bluestone Lake is part of the Bluestone Wildlife Management Area, which covers an area of 18,019 acres. The Wildlife Management Area is known for having some of the best hunting in the area, and hunters and trappers will be able to catch a variety of game including white-tail deer, turkey, fox, and other animals.

One great place to enjoy the lake is at Bluestone State Park. The park has ample accommodations for those who want to stay overnight. There are a variety of camp sites – or, if you prefer a more comfortable stay, there are 26 cabins with TV’s, showers, and other modern conveniences. Park visitors can take a walk on the hiking trails, play in the swimming pool, or rent game equipment to play croquet or horseshoes. The park also has weekly events with lots of fun activities.

HATFIELD-MCCOY TRAILS

The Hatfield-McCoy Trails System (HMTS) is made up of over 600+ miles of trails and located in the rich mountains of southern West Virginia. The 600+ mile HMTS is second only to the 2000 mile long Paiute ATV Trail in Central Utah.

As one of the largest off-highway vehicle trail systems in the world, HMTS is open 365 days a year and offers something for every skill level. The trail system caters to ATV, UATV, and motorbikes (dirt bikes), but hikers, mountain bikers, and horse riders can also use the trails. The trail system is a multi-county project, including West Virginia counties Logan, Kanawha, Wyoming, McDowell, Mercer, Wayne, Lincoln, Mingo, and Boone.

The name of the trail system is derived from the names of two families, the Hatfields and McCoys, who famously feuded near the West Virginia and Kentucky border after the Civil War.

Law enforcement officers patrol the trail to assure compliance with safety regulations. Motorized users of the trail system must wear a DOT-approved helmet and are prohibited from “doubling” (having a passenger), unless their vehicle is designed for two people. These rules, and a host of others, have allowed the trail system to enjoy a quality safety record, despite an increase in ATV-related injuries around the country.

PIPESTEM STATE PARK

Pipestem resort is located on the scenic rim of the Bluestone River Gorge.  Over 4000 acres the resort offers Guided mountain bike excursions, Rock climbing and Rappelling.  Splash Waterpark, Kayaking,  Stand-up paddle board tours, Tubing and Whitewater rafting.  Boating, golfing, horseback riding and hiking.

Escape to the mountains at Pipestem Park, the “Year round Crown Jewel of WV State Parks.” From its beautiful scenic overlooks of the Bluestone Gorge to its two lodges.  The Park name derives from pipestem, or narrowleaf meadowsweet, a locally common shrub historically used for making pipe stems.  The park’s features displays of native plants and animals, and offers nature programs. The Nature Center is open year-round, and includes the Harris Homestead, a reconstructed 1900s (decade) period historic house museum, barn and meat house.

Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops of West Virginia and beholding panoramic views of flourishing forest and river below on the Pipestem Zipline .  Adventure awaits, with the longest zip measuring up to 1600 feet and speeds up to 50 mph, the Pipestem Peaks Zipline Tour offers nine zips, a cable bridge and a belay to satisfy the adventure seeker and nature lover in all. Strap in and zoom then return to the beginning via aerial tram and witness a complete view of the Bluestone River Gorge.   Pipestem Peaks Zipline Tour consists of nine zips, one cable bridge and one belay with heights of up to 350 ft off the ground.

LOCAL COUNTY OVERVIEW

Historic Summers County
Hinton, the county seat of Summers County is a 30-minute drive. Hinton, founded in 1871, grew rapidly as the hub of a growing railroad industry serving the New River coal fields, passenger travel and coast to coast freight lines. Today, Hinton serves the growing tourist and technology industries.

Hinton, West Virginia

Summers County (2014 population—13,417) is in the southeastern region of West Virginia, scenically placed between the beautiful Greenbrier and New River Valleys. The City of Hinton (2013 population—2,588) serves as the county seat and is the sole municipality within Summers County.

The railroad boom of the early 20th century helped to build Hinton and Summers County. However, the county’s current economy is based primarily on tourism thanks to the Bluestone Dam and Lake along with the Bluestone, Greenbrier, and New Rivers which converge in Hinton. Further, the New River Gorge National River begins at Hinton and flows northward into neighboring Fayette County.

Summers County is also home to Bluestone State Park, Pipestem Resort, and a number of other facilities that provide lodging, camping, and a variety of recreational activities. The Hinton Railroad Museum, the Graham House, the Campbell Flanagan Murrell House, and other museums provide glimpses into the county’s history. The architecture of buildings in Hinton’s nationally registered historic district is of interest to many. A solid core of retail stores and professional service providers meet the needs of residents and visitors alike.

Residents of Summers County enjoy a wonderful small-town, laid-back quality of life. Service clubs such as the Kiwanis, Lions, Rotary, and Ruritans support a number of community initiatives, school programs, and special events. The Summers County Library supports the county school system and provides visitors with Internet access and other services. There are several denominations of churches in the area.

Summers County is served east-west by Interstate 64 and by north and south connections to Interstate 77. The New River Parkway, when completed, will improve access to Sandstone Falls by upgrading River Road from I-64 near Exit 139 Sandstone into Hinton. West Virginia Routes 3, 12, 19, 20, and 107 are the primary highways within the county. Amtrak also provides an important transportation link to Summers County with its Cardinal line from New York to Washington DC to Chicago. Stops are made three times per week to pick up and disembark passengers at Hinton’s historic Rail Depot.

The Summers County Appalachian Regional Hospital provides a fully-staffed emergency room and a variety of medical services. Summers County Emergency Services provides ambulance service. Law enforcement is provided by the Summers County Sheriff’s Department, a detachment of the West Virginia State Police, the City of Hinton’s Police Department and park rangers with the US Army Corps of Engineers, the National Park Service, and the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources. Similarly, the City of Hinton has a new fully-manned and equipped fire station complemented by six other volunteer fire departments throughout the county.

A picturesque Amtrak train ride from Hinton connects the area to DC, Philadelphia, Chicago, and many other locations. By car, DC is 5 hours away and Charlotte is only 3.

Historic Greenbrier County

The county and city host several fairs & festivals throughout the year including The WV State Fair, a professional 4-weekend Renaissance Festival, Chocolate Festival, Taste of our Town Festival (TOOT), antique car shows, Jeep Rally’s, Airstream Rally, and WV Barn Hunt Competition.

Lewisburg is also home to modern Robert. C Byrd Medical Clinic (300 employees), the WV Osteopathic Medical School (600 students) and the New River Community and Technical College. The area is a strong economic generator with a solid workforce employed in county/state government, tourism, hospitality, medical, education, retail, construction, wood products, mining and agriculture.