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> Forever Wild Program Land Tracts
Indian Shell Mound Park | North Alabama Birding Trail | State Parks | Wildlife Management Areas | Forever Wild Program Land Tracts
The Forever Wild Program was created to preserve Alabama’s natural heritage through land acquisition and maintenance of unique lands and waters of Alabama. Amendment No. 543 which was ratified in 1992 allows for the Forever Wild Board to direct the purchase of land throughout the state of Alabama. Funding for land acquisition is derived primarily from royalties from offshore gas leases. This funding will be available through fiscal year 2012-2013. Acquisition Process The State Lands Division receives a written nomination, which can be presented by the land owner or someone nominating property belonging to another owner. If the owner of the nominated property is a willing seller, the tract is evaluated and presented to the Board of Trustees. The tracts are evaluated under four categories: nature preserve, recreation, wildlife management area and state park. The tracts are presented to the Board of Trustees based on their rank within each category and an overall rank. The Board of Trustees selects the best properties available, with a consideration to acquiring property evenly within northern, central and southern regions of Alabama. The State Lands Division, at the request of the Forever Wild Board coordinates the purchase process. The Forever Wild Land Trust has purchased 31 tracts totaling 89,666 acres. Forever Wild Tract Management All lands are managed under a multiple use management principal, to ensure that all resources including recreation, hunting, fishing, boating, hiking, aesthetics, soil, water, forests and minerals are protected or enhanced. The State Lands Division writes the management plan that is presented to the board for approval within one year of purchase. Forever Wild Land Program Land Tracts [ image ]
Date of Purchase: September 13, 1994 The Monsanto Tract was acquired with the assistance of the Nature Conservancy as a gift from the Monsanto Corporation for the explicit purpose of enhancing Guntersville State Park for the public and to provide habitat for bald eagles. The Monsanto Tract visible from the park campground, is a good spot to watch for eagles during the peak winter months. Because of the eagles, visitation through the tract is strongly discouraged during winter months and absolutely no hunting is allowed at any time. Spring, Summer and Fall are good times to fish along the shores, explore the trail-less woods and study the diverse flora and fauna. A good pair of high-lace walking boots and a walking stick are a good idea and you might want to bring lunch, water, binoculars and a good camera. The tract can be accessed by boat to the shoreline or from a public boat ramp along the south end of the Section 15 boundary line. There are no developed bathroom, food, water or trash disposal facilities provided. Please help to prevent any litter, traffic or parking problems on adjacent privately owned lands.
Date of Purchase: October 28, 1994 The Wehle Tract was purchased with the reservation of a life estate from Mr. Robert and Mrs. Gatra Wehle. Eventually the property will be opened up to the public for wildlife conservation, environmental education and outdoor recreation. The life estate means that the Wehles will be allowed to occupy, maintain, protect and improve the property until the passing of Mr. Wehle. For the time being the property is not available for unaccompanied visits or use by the public. However, the Wehles have funded the construction of the WEHLE NATURE CENTER on land they deeded to the State Lands Division. This center is currently available for use and enjoyment by appointment through the State Lands Division. When the property is opened to the public, roughly a third of it will be added to the Barbour County Wildlife Management Area to increase acreage available for public hunting. The other 2/3rds of the property will be used for natural science education and non-consumptive recreational activities such as nature study, photography, hiking, picnicking, horseback riding and general field related activities.
Date of Purchase: February 1, 1995 The Coon Creek Tract was purchased to provide the public with outdoor recreational opportunities, a nature preserve and an environmental education study area. Two semi-developed recreational points of interest are the boat ramp to Yates Lake through the southern edge of the property and a picnic area along the northeastern edge. With the exception of old woods roads and skid trails, the remainder of the tract is undeveloped. The entire area is open to public hunting and fishing subject to current Alabama laws and regulations with the exception that high-powered rifles and deer-hunting dogs cannot be used on the tract. Small arms, shotguns, bow and arrow and squirrel dogs can be used. Outside of hunting season, the site is open for use by any individual or group to explore or study. Visitors are asked to help keep the property in a wild, unspoiled state for the perpetual enjoyment of others. The boat ramp may be accessed from the south by Coon Creek Landing Road via Macedonia Church Road and Hicks Store Road. The picnic area may be reached from the north by Sulphur Springs Road. All vehicular traffic is confined to the public roads leading into these two attractions and the respective parking areas. All other access through the tract is by foot traffic only. There are no food, drink or bathroom facilities on the property. Please bring what essentials you will need and carry out all refuse that you generate.
Date of Purchase: May 7, 1996 The Grand Bay Savanna Tract was purchased to serve as a State-owned nature preserve. It is being managed primarily for the preservation and restoration of species and communities endemic to or dependent upon the Coastal Lowlands of Alabama. The Grand Bay Savanna Tract provides an opportunity to observe, study and conserve species and ecosystems that cannot be found in any other part of Alabama. The unique landscape presents many opportunities and some obstacles for human visitors. Spring and Summer present the best times to see and photograph many beautiful wildflowers unique to coastal lowlands but is also the peak season for yellow flies and mosquitoes. Fall and Winter present opportunities to hunt for small game such as rabbits; although deer are occasionally seen on the tract. No high-powered rifles or deer dogs are allowed. Small caliber arms, shotguns, bows and quail or rabbit dogs are allowed. Hiking, picnicking, fishing, swimming, exploring and nature study are allowed during the day. No overnight camping is allowed. The best access to the Grand Bay Savannah Tract is from Bayou La Batre University Road to This takes you a parking area provided for visitors. Access is also available by means of the Henderson Camp Road from Grand Bay. From either of these points, one may walk to any part of the tract that will support your weight. No 4-wheelers or other vehicles are allowed beyond the gates. Visitors are encouraged to bring high watertight boots, food and water, binoculars, insect repellent and other gear appropriate for allowable activities and current weather conditions. Please remove all refuse generated and show courtesy to adjoining landowners, community residents and other users.
Date of Purchase: September 26, 1996 The Riggins Tract is operated, along with other federal and state land acquisitions in the area, as part of the Lowndes Wildlife Management Area. It is used primarily for public hunting. The Riggins Tract is in one of Alabama’s prime hunting areas. Deer and furbearer populations are high; rabbit and squirrel populations are good; quail, dove and duck populations are fair; and the turkey population is moderate. General hunting is by permit issued at several local businesses or by Area Biologist Chris Jaworowski at 125 Davis Circle; Lowndesboro, AL 36752; Phone (334)874-4471. In addition, deer and turkey hunting requires a Big Game Management Area License. Hunting seasons, bag limits and allowable weapons are the same for the Riggins Tract as for the rest of the Lowndes WMA with the exception that only bow hunting is allowed within the 40-acre block shown on the tract map. There are no shooting stands or houses provided but portable stands or blinds may be brought in, used and removed on a daily basis. Deer hunting is by stalking only. Dogs are only allowed to hunt fox, quail, rabbit, raccoon and squirrel outside of deer season. The area is under constant monitoring by Conservation Enforcement Officers. The Riggins Tract is easily accessed along its southern end by Lowndes County Road 40 and from the western side by Newport Landing Road. Parking areas are provided along both roads. Gates may or may not be locked to control traffic and prevent dumping. Only foot travel is permitted within the Riggins Tract; no 4-wheelers or other vehicles are allowed for non-Conservation personnel. Exterior boundary lines are well painted and marked with State Property and Wildlife Management Area signs. Please observe safe, legal and ethical hunting practices while respecting the rights of adjoining, private landowners and other community residents. Please do not litter.
Date of Purchase: May 27, 1997 The Fort Toulouse Tract was purchased to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for the public, to protect the diverse natural communities of the site, to provide opportunities for ecological education and to protect and interpret significant historic features of the immediate area. These forests, an open field, streams, ravines and the bottomland hardwoods along the Tallapoosa River all provide diverse natural habitats waiting to be discovered, explored and enjoyed. Access through the tract is by foot or horse back. For the time being, there are no established trails through the woods other than old logging roads. No off-road vehicles, metal detectors, digging tools, camping or hunting are allowed on the property. Camping or lodging, food and refreshments are available either from adjacent Fort Toulouse/Jackson Historic State Park or nearby Wetumpka businesses. This property is accessible from and through Fort Toulouse which is located just south of Wetumpka, Alabama about 2 miles west of U.S. 231 at the end of Fort Toulouse Road. Visitors to the Forever Wild property should leave their vehicles in the Fort Toulouse parking lot, or other designated areas within the park.
Date of Purchase: September 18, 1997 and September 15, 1998 The Indian Mountain Tract was acquired with the assistance of the Conservation Fund for the purpose of completing the Pinhoti Trail hiking corridor. Although this tract was purchased primarily to facilitate long-distance hiking, other appropriate public land uses include nature study and primitive camping. Hunting is allowed for the area subject to State hunting regulations and limited to shotgun or bow use only; no high-powered rifles or deer hunting dogs are allowed. All food, water, hiking gear, camping gear and other equipment and supplies will have to be packed in and out by foot. Please stay on the trail, help protect the tread from erosion, maintain the wild character of the scenery and help to keep liter and vandalism under control. The best access to the tract is by means of the well-maintained country dirt road. The only significant landmarks to look for when traveling to the area are Salem Church and the two trail markers where the trail crosses the road about 0.4 miles west of the church. For the time being, vehicles brought to this point will have to be parked on the roadside where the trail crosses the road. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail. 8. THE BLAKELEY TRACT in Baldwin County consists of 420 acres of upland pine-hardwoods and bottomland hardwood forests on hilly land at the edge of the Mobile Delta marshlands. In addition to the wild, undeveloped landscape there are also several historical features to interpret and recreational opportunities to take advantage of. This tract has been used by prehistoric Indian societies, European pioneers, early American settlers, Civil War soldiers and generations of farmers. It is being manages as a park addition to Historic Blakeley State Park. Date of Purchase: January 28, 1998 The Blakeley Addition Tract was purchased to provide public outdoor recreational opportunities, protect the site’s diverse natural communities, provide opportunities for ecological education and protect significant archeological and historic resources. A nature trail, complete with a long plank boardwalk across Boggy Branch, provides an easy, quiet walk through most of the various ecosystems of this tract. Portions of the trail are handicapped and/or horseback accessible. No off-road vehicles, metal detectors, digging tools, primitive camping or hunting are allowed on the property. Camping or lodging, food and refreshments are available either from adjacent Blakeley Historic Park or nearby Spanish Fort businesses. This tract is located about four miles north of Spanish Fort just west of State Highway 225 that runs between I-65 and I-10. Access to the Forever Wild property is through the main gate of Blakeley Historic Park. The main paved road forks about 3/4th mile from the gate; the left fork goes to the Forever Wild property while the right fork goes to the Historic Park. Visitors should leave their vehicles parked only in designated areas Remove all trash generated.
Date of Purchase: April 15, 1998 The Blowing Spring Cave Tract includes maternity cave habitat that is vital to the federally listed endangered grey bat, Myotis grisecscens. The Natural Heritage Section of the State Lands Division is responsible for managing this site for the grey bat and numerous other terrestrial and aquatic species associated with karst land features. In the long run, careful management of this site will contribute to the recovery and down listing of the gray bat in the southeastern United States. Because of the sensitivity of the grey bat to disturbance, only scheduled and guided group tours are allowed for this site. Appointments can be made with the Natural Heritage Section for groups of adult conservationists and/or scientists by calling the State Lands Division office by phone.
Date of Purchase: September 4, 1998 The Big Cats Creek Tract was purchased to expand opportunities for outdoor recreation and conservation education provided at and by Monte Sano State Park. This site offers peaceful and yet challenging opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, caving, primitive camping and nature study. Rules of Monte Sano State Park regarding these activities apply to this Forever Wild property as well. No off-road vehicles or hunting are allowed. There are no water or waste disposal sites available; please help to protect the natural integrity of the site and remove all trash generated. Developed camping or lodging, food and refreshments are available either from the State Park store or private businesses in nearby Huntsville. The Big Cats Creek property is easily accessed from Monte Sano Park’s first parking site for hikers on the right as you come into the park. Safe parking and disembarkment facilities are provided. The Forever Wild property is an approximately two mile hike along established trails from the parking site. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty and wonder of Blue Springs, McKay Hollow and the Natural Well located on existing State Park property. The Big Cats Creek Tract itself is roadless and trailless. You will have to choose your own path but please leave only footprints and take only memories.
Date of Purchase: October 2, 1998 The 3,924 acre Coldwater Mountain Tract was acquired to provide outdoor recreation and environmental conservation in the east central part of Alabama. For the time being, Coldwater Mountain is a diamond in the rough. A design for developing recreational opportunities for people while also protecting environmental quality is in the earliest planning stages. There are certainly good opportunities for short and long distance hiking, nature study and picnicking. Another consideration will be in providing views of the scenery around the mountain: Kentucky Mountain in the Talladega National Forest; the Choccolocco Creek Valley; developments in Oxford, Hobson City, Anniston, Cobb Town and Eulaton; the Anniston Ordnance Depot Military Reservation; and Blue Mountain and Mount Royal within Fort McClellan Military Reservation. In the meanwhile, there are no authorized avenues for public access onto the mountain. Stay tuned to this website for updates on development.
Date of Purchase: January 20, 1999 The Pike County Pocosin Tract was purchased to protect the biodiversity of the natural communities on the property, to provide opportunities for ecological education and research, and to provide such recreational opportunities for the public as the tract can accommodate. The property supports two unique plant communities. The Pocosin occupies about 3 of the property and consists of an unusual evergreen plant community in a deep ravine. This ecosystem is not a true Pocosin but was so named because it looks as similar to the true Carolina wetland Pocosins as any other vegetative type. While several of these types of plant communities were described by State Geologist Rolland Harper over 100 years ago, today this Forever Wild Nature Preserve is the last undisturbed representation. The rest of the property consists of an uncommon scrub-hardwood/longleaf pine/reindeer moss plant community. The property is located about two miles east of Troy, Alabama. From U.S. 231, County Road 26 and an un-paved, un-named county road provide access to the tract. Visitors must park on the road side and walk in; no off road vehicular traffic of any type is permitted. The public may hunt, fish and trap in accordance with pertinent federal, state and local laws and regulations in effect for the area in general. Forever Wild does not allow dog-hunting for deer on this tract. No overnight camping or fires are allowed. Ecological research must be coordinated through the State Lands Division, Natural Heritage Section. Please help protect this site from litter, vandalism and over use.
Date of Purchase: February 4, 1999 The Eagle Roost View Tract is Forever Wild's smallest property acquired to date. It was purchased primarily to provide a convenient point from which to observe Alabama's winter population of bald eagles. The property itself is a steep, mixed pine-hardwood forested slope between Alabama Highway 227 and Lake Guntersville. The wide roadside along 227 provides a safe parking area from which to view the eagles in the winter and Lake Guntersville and the Town Creek gorge all year long. The site is managed by personnel of Guntersville State Park and is used in their January Eagle Awareness Program. No hunting is allowed on this tract. Please help them protect this attractive area from littering, vandalism and wildfire. This property is located halfway between Huntsville and Gadsden on the eastern side of Lake Guntersville. Hwy 227 can be accessed either from Interstate 59 at Gadsden or from U.S. Highway 431 at the town of Guntersville. Eagle Roost View is approximately seven miles north of the front entrance to Guntersville State Park on Highway 227.
Date of Purchase: June 14, 1999 The Sipsey Sullivan Tract was purchased to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for the public, to protect the biodiversity of the property's natural communities and to provide opportunities for ecological education and research. This tract lies in the middle of the Sipsey River watershed which was selected by the Alabama Environmental Council as one of Alabama's 10 Natural Wonders. This bottomland wetland site is vegetated predominantly by an oak forest type, interspersed with tupelo-cypress stands in the many sloughs, ox-bow lakes and ponds. These attributes, and the Sipsey River itself, provides great opportunities for canoeing, fishing, bird watching, nature study and exploring during most of the year. An extensive trail system provides good access throughout the tract for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Camping is permitted in designated areas only. Four wheelers are allowed during hunting season, only as a means of facilitating hunting activity. Regular area hunting regulations apply except that feral hogs can only be hunted during other regular game seasons; dogs may not be used to hunt deer, hogs or coyotes; and only primitive weapons and shotguns with slugs may be used to take game. This tract is located about twelve miles west of the Tuscaloosa/Northport area. The ONLY access is by means of Highway 82 to County Road 140 to Buhl, then south for about one mile on Sipsey Valley Road to Jack's Road which takes visitors a few hundred feet west to a designated parking area. Vehicles must be left in the parking lot and all gear (including canoes) must be carried to and from the Forever Wild property by foot, bike or pack horse. A canoe put in/take out station is located on the north end of the tract; about 2 mile from the parking lot. Please keep litter, vandalism and waste material from becoming a problem.
Date of Purchase: North Delta - 6/12/99 Clearwater - 10/5/99 The Mobile Delta Tract was purchased to protect the site's diverse natural communities, to provide public outdoor recreational opportunities and to provide opportunities for ecological research and education. This property is comprised of bottomland hardwoods and cypress/tupelo swamps, bogs, marshes and a variety of other wetland habitats interspersed amid abundant waterways of rivers, creeks, sloughs, ponds and lakes throughout the property. Over 50 rare and endangered plant and animals are currently known to inhabit this area. When the delta is not flooded, the Mobile-Tensaw Delta's unique attributes and scenery provide tremendous opportunities for canoeing, fishing, bird watching and nature study. An extensive canoe trail is being planned to provide over 100 miles of optional routes for day and overnight trips. Camping is permitted in designated areas. Federal wetland grants and private donations are being sought to make additional land acquisitions and improvements in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. During hunting seasons, all other recreational activities are curtailed. This property is managed as part of the Upper Delta Wildlife Management Area for hunting and fishing purposes. A WMA permit is required in addition to regular hunting and fishing licenses. Seasons as well as allowable firearms, fishing gear and bag limits are provided on the WMA permit. Permits are available from the Spanish Fort office of the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division. There is only one access road to the higher ground on the north end of this property. St. Luke Road leads west into the tract from State Highway 59 about halfway between Stockton and the Tensaw community in north Baldwin County. 75% or more of the property is accessible by boat only. There are several private boat launches available in Baldwin and Mobile Counties. The only authorized motorized boat launch within the Forever Wild property is from St. Luke Road.
Date of Purchase: June 13, 2000 The Ruffner Mountain Addition Tract was purchased to enhance environmental education and outdoor recreation opportunities in the densely populated greater Birmingham metro area. The mountainous pine-hardwood forestland of the Ruffner Mountain Addition Tract is immediately adjacent to facilities and similar lands of the Ruffner Mountain Nature Center. Both properties together present great opportunities for nature study regarding forest, field, cave and urban ecosystems. In addition, nature trails with of varying levels of difficulty provide exercise by hiking and jogging. As a bonus, vestiges of Indian, American Pioneer and early 1900 Mining activities provide backdrops for lessons on local historic periods and events. All access to Forever Wild's Ruffner Mountain Addition Tract is through the Ruffner Mountain Nature Center; located on the east side of Birmingham. From the Interstate 59/Interstate 65 interchange, travel east on I-59 past the I-20 interchange and get off at the 1st Avenue North/Parkway East exit. From here, travel east on Parkway East to 83rd Street. Turn south onto 83rd Street and travel about 6 blocks to Rugby Avenue. Continue 5 or 6 blocks on Rugby Avenue to 81st Street. Turn south onto 81st Street and Center is located at the end of the road. Parking, restroom and picnic facilities are provided at the Center. Center personnel and literature will inform visitors of rules and regulations that apply to both Center and Forever Wild properties.
Date of purchase: November 2, 2000 The Bayou Canot Tract in Mobile County consists of 1,933 acres of various wetland habitats in the west-central portion of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta; just south and west of Interstate 65. A $1,000,000 grant from the North American Wetlands Conservation Program permitted this purchase of unique habitats essential for avian conservation, as well as several rare, threatened species of plants and animals. The Mobile Tensaw Delta is the nations second largest river delta. This highly productive delta provides habitat for the rare red bellied turtle, herons, kites, water snakes and game fish. The delta has over 50 rare and endangered plant and animals known to inhabit its vast bottomlands, wetlands, and waterways. When the delta is not flooded it provides opportunity for canoeing, fishing, bird watching and nature study. An extensive canoe trail is being planned to provide over 100 miles of optional routes for day and overnight trips. Camping is permitted in designated areas. The Bayou Canot Tract as with many of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta public lands has undisturbed tupelo/cypress and old growth bottomland forests. The waterway edges support various sedge beds and the natural levees support a variety of trees. The interior forest has a large shallow lake. All of this is connected by various streams and bayous. The best access is at the Dead Lake Marina.
Date of purchase: December 3, 2001 The Indian Mountain-Garner Tract in Cherokee County consists of 80 acres of mountainous upland hardwood forest along a route which will permit the connection of the Pinhoti Trail in the Talladega National Forest of Alabama with the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia. This tract serves as an addition to acquisition # 7( Indian Mountain Tract), which concludes purchase of all tracts originally nominated for this project. These tracts provide an opportunity for long distance hiking, nature study, primitive camping and hunting. While hunting is allowed the use of higher powered rifles and deer hunting with dogs is prohibited. The Indian Mountain-Garner Tract is only accessible through the hiking trails of the adjacent Indian Mountain Tract. The best access to the Indian Mountain Tract is off US Hwy. 278 northeast of Piedmont, AL. Traveling northeast on Hwy. 278 turn north on Cherokee county road 45, travel approximately .6 mile and turn east on an unnamed county road. The Pinhoti trail crosses the road approximately .4 mile west of Salem Church. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail.
Date of purchase: December 10, 2001 The Salco and Middle River Tract in Mobile County consists of 1,764 acres of various wetland habitats in the west-central portion of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta; just north of Interstate 65. A $1,000,000 grant from the North American Wetlands Conservation Program permitted this purchase of unique habitats essential for avian conservation, as well as several rare, threatened species of plants and animals. The Mobile Tensaw Delta is the nations second largest river delta. This highly productive delta provides habitat for the rare red bellied turtle, herons, kites, water snakes and game fish. The delta has over 50 rare and endangered plant and animals known to inhabit its vast bottomlands, wetlands, and waterways. When the delta is not flooded it provides opportunity for canoeing, fishing, bird watching and nature study. An extensive canoe trail is being planned to provide over 100 miles of optional routes for day and overnight trips. Camping is permitted in designated areas. The Salco property can be accessed from the Mobile River. The Middle River Tract is accessed from the Middle River and Bayou Matche.
Date of purchase: December 28, 2001 The Lauderdale and Freedom Hills WMA Tract Additions in Northwest Alabama. This 31,414 acre acquisition provides for 21 tracts that serve as public land additions to two Wildlife Management Areas which have been experiencing recent declines in acreage due to loss of leased land: 8 tracts totaling about 5,114 acres in Lauderdale County and 13 tracts totaling about 26,300 acres in Colbert County.
Date of purchase: June 28, 2002 The Middle River-West Tract in Mobile County adjoins the similarly named acquisition shown under tract #19. This purchase provides an additional 1,423 acres to the complex of wetlands acquired within the Mobile-Tensaw Delta since 1999. This acquisition was assisted by funds secured through the Environmental Section of the Alabama Attorney General's Office. The Mobile Tensaw Delta is the nations second largest river delta. This highly productive delta provides habitat for the rare red bellied turtle, herons, kites, water snakes and game fish. The delta has over 50 rare and endangered plant and animals known to inhabit its vast bottomlands, wetlands, and waterways. When the delta is not flooded it provides opportunity for canoeing, fishing, bird watching and nature study. An extensive canoe trail is being planned to provide over 100 miles of optional routes for day and overnight trips. Camping is permitted in designated areas. The Middle River-West Tract can be accessed off the Mobile River and Bayou Matche.
Date of purchase: August 29, 2002 THE SIPSEY - ROBERTSON TRACT addition in Tuscaloosa County consists of approximately 280 acres. This property adjoins the Sipsey Sullivan Tract acquisition, which is 2,998 acres of bottomland hardwood forest and swamp lands along the flood plains of the Sipsey River. As with the adjoining Sipsey Sullivan Tract, this tract was purchased to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for the public, to protect the biodiversity of the property’s natural communities and to provide opportunities for ecological education and research. This tract as well as the Sipsey Sullivan and Sipsey Randolph tracts (all adjoining) are located in the Sipsey River watershed and upper Tombigbee River basin. This area is located within the Eastern Gulf Coastal Plain physiographic section and Fall Line Hills district. This district forms the boundary or transition from the more rugged sections to the north and the sections with less relief to the south. It is typically mostly forested with oak, hickory and pine. These Sipsey River tracts are vegetated with oak, hickory and pine in the elevated portions, with tupelo-cypress stands interspersed in the many flooded backwater sloughs and beaver ponds. These properties provide great opportunities for canoeing, fishing, bird watching, nature study and exploring during most of the year. An extensive trail system allows good access for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Camping is permitted in designated areas only. Four wheelers are allowed during hunting season, only as a means of facilitating hunting activity. While hunting is allowed, the use of high powered rifles is not allowed. When hunting game other than small game with a gun, only primitive weapons and shotguns with slugs are allowed. Dogs are not allowed to hunt deer, feral hogs or coyotes. Feral hogs can be hunted during other regular game seasons only.
Date of purchase: September 26, 2002 WEEKS BAY TRACTS in Baldwin County consist of a 91 acre parcel and a 19.467 acre parcel. These tracts, which are largely comprised of forest and marsh wetland habitats, were acquired with financial support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, through the National Coastal Wetlands program. Acquisition of these properties will benefit coastal wetlands by securing them from further development. Additionally these purchases will provide opportunities for ecological education and research as well as protection for Weeks Bay’s diverse natural communities. Weeks Bay was designated an Outstanding National Resource Water in 1992 and is located within one of Alabama’s fastest growing counties.
Date of purchase: November 18, 2002 THE GRAND BAY SAVANNA ADDITION TRACT in Mobile County consists of 662 acres, which were acquired with financial support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, through the National Coastal Wetlands Program. This tract serves as an addition to the property acquired in 1996, all of which is being managed primarily for the preservation and restoration of species and communities endemic to or dependent upon the Coastal Lowlands of Alabama. The Grand Bay Savanna Tract consists of coastal marsh, maritime forest and piney flatwoods. These habitat provide excellent food and cover for many plant and animal species. The Coastal Marsh provides essential food and cover for over 90% of marine fishes. This wetland ecosystem acts as a nursery for species like the spotted seatrout, red drum, flounder, blue crab and shrimp. The spring and summer months present best times to view beautiful wild flowers unique to coastal lowlands. The fall and winter months provide opportunity to hunt small game and deer. Deer hunting is allowed by still or stalk hunting only. Deer hunting with dogs or high powered rifles is not allowed. No overnight camping is allowed The Grand Bay Savanna Tract is in Mobile County adjacent Grand Bay, Pointe Aux Pines Peninsula, and Portersville Bay. The two closest municipalities are Bayou La Batre, located immediately to the east, and Grand Bay, located to the northwest of the property. There are two public roads which provide access to the property, Henderson Camp Road on the western side, and Marine Laboratory Road to the east.
Date of purchase: March 15, 2003 THE MOBILE-TENSAW DELTA-MCMILLAN 1, 2 & 3 TRACTS in Baldwin County consist of tract #1 181 acres, tract #2 151 acres, and tract #3 308 acres of wetlands dominated by flood prone hardwood timber adjoining previously purchased land along Bottle Creek and Mifflin Lake. A $1,000,000 grant from the North American Wetlands Conservation Program permitted this purchase of unique habitats essential for avian conservation, as well as several rare, threatened species of plants and animals. The Mobile Tensaw Delta is the nations second largest river delta. This highly productive delta provides habitat for the rare red bellied turtle, herons, kites, water snakes and game fish. The delta has over 50 rare and endangered plant and animals known to inhabit its vast bottomlands, wetlands, and waterways. When the delta is not flooded it provides opportunity for canoeing, fishing, bird watching and nature study. An extensive canoe trail is being planned to provide over 100 miles of optional routes for day and overnight trips. Camping is permitted in designated areas. These tracts are only accessible by water. Tract #1 can be accessed off the Tensaw river to the west or Tensaw Lake to the east. Tract #2 can be accessed off Bottle Creek via either the Tensaw of Middle Rivers. Tract #3 can be accessed of Little Bayou Jessamine or Fisher Lake to the northwest of Mifflin Lake to the south. All three tracts are located north of Interstate 65 in the vicinity of Aikin Island
Date of purchase: February 26, 2003 SHOAL CREEK PRESERVE TRACT in Lauderdale County consists of approximately 298 acres. Habitats across the site include fallow fields, mature upland hardwood stands and scenic creek bottoms. Waterways consist of Indian Camp Creek, Lawson Creek, Jones Branch, and Shoal Creek. Management objectives are preserving natural plant and animal species and habitats, while providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, canoeing, picnicking, bird watching, photography and nature study. Motorized vehicles are only allowed in designated parking areas and access roads. The tract is located approximately 7 miles from Florence, AL and 3 miles north of the St Florian community. Access is via an unimproved road off Lauderdale County Road 61. 27. THE MOBILE-TENSAW DELTA-MCMILLAN 2 & 3 TRACTS in Baldwin County consist of tract #2, 151 acres, and tract #3, 308 acres of wetlands dominated by flood prone hardwood timber adjoining previously purchased land along Bottle Creek and Mifflin Lake. A $1,000,000 grant from the North American Wetlands Conservation Program permitted this purchase of unique habitats essential for avian conservation, as well as several rare, threatened species of plants and animals. Date of purchase: March 15, 2003 THE MOBILE-TENSAW DELTA-MCMILLAN 2 & 3 TRACTS in Baldwin County consist of tract #1 181 acres, tract #2 151 acres, and tract #3 308 acres of wetlands dominated by flood prone hardwood timber adjoining previously purchased land along Bottle Creek and Mifflin Lake. A $1,000,000 grant from the North American Wetlands Conservation Program permitted this purchase of unique habitats essential for avian conservation, as well as several rare, threatened species of plants and animals. The Mobile Tensaw Delta is the nations second largest river delta. This highly productive delta provides habitat for the rare red bellied turtle, herons, kites, water snakes and game fish. The delta has over 50 rare and endangered plant and animals known to inhabit its vast bottomlands, wetlands, and waterways. When the delta is not flooded it provides opportunity for canoeing, fishing, bird watching and nature study. An extensive canoe trail is being planned to provide over 100 miles of optional routes for day and overnight trips. Camping is permitted in designated areas. These tracts are only accessible by water. Tract #1 can be accessed off the Tensaw river to the west or Tensaw Lake to the east. Tract #2 can be accessed off Bottle Creek via either the Tensaw of Middle Rivers. Tract #3 can be accessed of Little Bayou Jessamine or Fisher Lake to the northwest of Mifflin Lake to the south. All three tracts are located north of Interstate 65 in the vicinity of Aikin Island.
Date of purchase: April 4, 2003 THE SIPSEY RANDOLPH TRACT addition in Tuscaloosa County consists of approximately 153 acres dominated by flat river bottomland, and is bisected by old Highway 82 on the north end. The Sipsey River traverses the northwest corner of the property. The property adjoins the Sipsey Sullivan Tract acquired in 1999, and provides the public with a new point of road and river access to these state lands. As with the adjoining Sipsey Sullivan Tract, this tract was purchased to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for the public, to protect the biodiversity of the property’s natural communities and to provide opportunities for ecological education and research. This tract as well as the Sipsey Sullivan and Sipsey Randolph tracts (all adjoining) are located in the Sipsey River watershed and upper Tombigbee River basin. This area is located within the Eastern Gulf Coastal Plain physiographic section and Fall Line Hills district. This district forms the boundary or transition from the more rugged sections to the north and the sections with less relief to the south. It is typically mostly forested with oak, hickory and pine. These Sipsey River tracts are vegetated with oak, hickory and pine in the elevated portions with tupelo-cypress stands interspersed in the many flooded backwater sloughs and beaver ponds. These properties provide great opportunities for canoeing, fishing, bird watching, nature study and exploring during most of the year. An extensive trail system allows good access for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Camping is permitted in designated areas only. Four wheelers are allowed during hunting season, only as a means of facilitating hunting activity. While hunting is allowed, the use of high powered rifles is not allowed. When hunting game other than small game with a gun, only primitive weapons and shotguns with slugs are allowed. Dogs are not allowed to hunt deer, feral hogs or coyotes. Feral hogs can be hunted during other regular game seasons only.
Date of purchase: August 19, 2003 LILLIAN SWAMP SOUTH ADDITION TRACT The Lillian Swamp South Addition was purchased to support a large watershed acquisition project intended to facilitate a multi-state ecosystem protection effort. This tract is located within the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Perdido River Habitat Conservation Area and will compliment land currently owned by the Forever Wild Land Trust, the State Lands Division, the Mental Health Department and the Alabama Department of Transportation. Lillian Swamp is located in the Coastal Lowlands district of the Gulf Coastal Plain physiographic section. Habitats include coastal marsh, freshwater marsh, cypress-tupelo forests, atlantic white cedar forests and pine savanna. Several rare and federally listed species are known to occur within the area. Review of existing data indicate six federally listed threatened or endangered, eighteen state protected and twenty-seven rare species have been reported to inhabit the Perdido River wetland system. The Lillian Swamp South Addition is located north of Lillian, Alabama. In the vicinity of Caney Bayou off the Perdido River and Grassy Point on Perdido Bay.
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Official Web site of Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources © 2004 Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources | 64 N. Union Street, Suite 468 - Montgomery, Alabama 36130 |
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