2002 Map of Willow Island

About this map

The Ohio River corridor north of Parkersburg defines this landscape, where industrial infrastructure meets the steep wooded hills of the Wayne National Forest. Significant river engineering is anchored by the Willow Island Locks and Dam, while the river's ecological character is preserved within the Ohio River Islands Nat Wildlife Ref. Away from the water, the terrain rises sharply toward Middle Ridge and Hannah Ridge, revealing a traditional Appalachian settlement pattern of ridge-top roads and creek-bottom communities. Local history is deeply embedded in the rural landscape through family and community landmarks like the Pumpkin Knob Sch and several country churches, including Harness Ch and Nash Springs Ch. The map also documents the region's energy and extractive roots, showing numerous oil wells scattered across the drainages of Horseneck Run and Bull Creek, alongside active Strip Mines north of Willow Island.