New trail opens for mountain bikers, hikers at Oak Mountain State Park
SHELBY COUNTY, Ala. - A new trail named Room Service at Oak Mountain State Park opened recently, as members of the Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP) christened it with a group ride.
The new 1.5-mile multiuse trail connects the Slingshot and Centipede trails and is...
ACES: 4 ways to participate in National Bird Feeding Month
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. - February is among one of the most important months for feeding birds in Alabama, as backyard songbirds have limited access to their favorite foods during the winter. Grab a camera and join the Alabama Cooperative Extension System outdoors to participate...
Rainer: Shipp leaves lasting legacy in marine fisheries
When I reflect on my 30-plus years of covering the outdoors in Alabama, several people who influenced and contributed to my writing come to mind. No one on that list is more prominent than Dr. Bob Shipp, who died last week at age 81.
“It’s...
Black panthers: Uncovering another big cat mystery
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. — From high-school mascots to the Marvel Universe, black panthers have appeared in many forms in today’s culture. However, is this big cat real or just an illustrated piece of fiction? Alabama Cooperative Extension System wildlife experts are here to help...
Begin 2024 with a First Day Hike at an Alabama State Park
Alabama State Parks is hosting 11 First Day Hikes as part of a national program designed to celebrate the new year and the great outdoors. The hikes will take place at parks throughout the state, from Gulf State Park on Alabama's Gulf Coast to...
Cullman’s Jake Burkey finds success as off-road vehicle titan
CULLMAN, Ala. - Sometimes finding the right career path means going off the beaten path – literally. That’s the lesson of Cullman, Alabama resident and business leader Jake Burkey.The 2009 graduate of Tennessee Tech University is now the CEO of Busted Knuckle Off Road,...
4-H Adventure Classes begin in January
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Extension Office announced an exciting new set of educational courses for Cullman County’s 4-H program in 2024. Three new Adventure Classes will introduce children and teens aged 9-18 to hiking, kayaking and camping.
“The goal of this new club...
Cullman County’s Ryleigh Jordan places in Alabama National Fair Youth Sheep Show
Alabama National Fair preserves decades of tradition
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Smells of fresh pine shavings and a buzz of excitement hung in the air around Teague Arena as youth showmen and their parents prepared for the 70th Alabama National Fair. Exhibitors from across the state...
Ivey issues statewide ‘No Burn Order’
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday signed a statewide Drought Emergency Declaration – often referred to as a “No Burn Order” – prohibiting all outdoor burning in Alabama. This order is effective Nov. 9, 2023. at 8 a.m. CST.
“Alabama is currently experiencing extremely dry...
ADCNR: Celebration of bats continues at Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Bats are ubiquitous during the Halloween season, but these creatures deserve celebration year-round for their contribution to our sustainable food production. By eating insects by the billions, bats save U.S. agriculture as much as $3.7 billion per year in pest control....
Dance2Fit in Art Park
CULLMAN, Ala. - Every Tuesday and Thursday night, Kelsey Wooten gears up, grabs her sneakers and heads to southwest Cullman’s Art Park for her Dance2Fit outdoor classes.
Teaching a dance fitness class wasn’t Wooten’s plan for her future; in fact, she was attending classes at...
ADCNR: Wetumpka man arrested for killing black bear in Elmore County
Black bear is a protected species in Alabama
Black bear NOTE: This is NOT the black bear that was killed in Elmore County. (Billy Pope, ADCNR)
ELMORE COUNTY, Ala. - Michael Watkins, 32, of Wetumpka, Alabama, has been arrested and charged with killing a black bear...
Ivey proclaims National Hunting and Fishing Day
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday, Sept. 21, signed a proclamation celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day, which is Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023. Since 1972, the fourth Saturday in September has been designated as National Hunting and Fishing Day to highlight the...
BOARsighted: A look into wild pig management
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – Wild pigs are arguably one of the most detrimental wildlife species. These animals have the potential to decimate crops, wildlife habitat and food plots. Virtually every natural resource can be affected by these creatures. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System encourages...
‘Connecting with Conservation’ highlights funding for state wildlife agencies
How conservation and outdoors recreation are funded throughout the nation is somewhat of a mystery for most people.
In an effort to inform the public about where state wildlife and fisheries agencies get the money to conserve habitat and provide quality outdoors recreation, the Alabama...
ADCNR: Registration for 2023 youth dove hunts opens Aug. 21
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) provides several youth dove hunt opportunities throughout the state each fall. A simple hunting setup combined with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere makes WFF’s youth dove...
Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest opens Aug. 1
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The 2024 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest is now accepting entries. This year’s contest is a joint project between the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the Alabama Tourism Department. The deadline to enter is Oct. 31, 2023.
The 2024...
Sheriff Gentry issues lake safety tips
CULLMAN, Ala. – With an increased number of incidents on the water this summer the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) wants the community to be aware of their surroundings while on the water.
“I want to encourage everyone that comes to the lake to follow...
City reveals planned Depot Park transformation
CULLMAN, Ala. - Back in May, the City of Cullman announced it would be making improvements to Depot Park, including changes to the park’s infrastructure. On Tuesday, June 13, renderings showing what the park will look like in the future were released.
“These improvements will...
Zip in for some fun!
CULLMAN, Ala. – The ribbon was cut on the grand opening of Smith Lake Ziplines Friday, June 2, with representatives from the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce, Cullman County Commission and more on-hand to celebrate with owners Craig Chapman and Brian Waldrep.
Smith Lake...
Sportsman Lake Park ‘All Day Fun’ event June 3
CULLMAN, Ala. – This Saturday, June 3, Cullman County Parks and Recreation will host “All Day Fun” at Sportsman Lake Park.
Train rides will go until 9 p.m. and paddle boats and bikes will be available for rental until 7. The concession stand will be...
Memorial Day boating safety tips from the CCSO
CULLMAN, Ala. – Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, when many will be hitting the water at Smith Lake and other areas, Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry is advising residents to be safe on the water.
“Don’t boat under the influence, make sure everyone has the...
Cullman County parks summer events
CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman County Parks and Recreation and the Cullman County Commission have many fun events planned for the public this summer. Cullman County Parks and Recreation Director Doug Davenport and Cullman County Commission Chairman Jeff Clemons shared some details.
The Smith Lake Park...
Commission responds to community concerns about Sportsman Lake ducks
CULLMAN, Ala. – Recently, parkgoers have raised concerns about the ducks and the food available for purchase for them at Sportsman Lake Park. Worries are that the food lacks proper nutritional value and is having negative effects on the animals.
Concerns have been brought to...
Northern flicker: The story behind Alabama’s state bird
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – In Alabama, one of the most iconic and historic creatures is the Northern flicker. These distinguished birds are found in forests, neighborhoods and parks across the state–reminding residents of the species’ significant heritage. The Northern flicker, also known as the...
Editorial: Simple swaps toward sustainability
Today, April 22, is Earth Day! www.earthday.org/earth-day-2023
Sustainability can be a hot topic these days, and in a world as busy as ours, it's typically not on the top of our to-do lists. Between the day-to-day of school drop-off line, work, shopping and family time,...
WFF’s goal: Make public fishing lakes even better
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama State Public Fishing Lakes (PFLs) program is adapting to better serve the citizens of the state who depend on these lakes for recreational angling opportunities.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) Division...
Free admission to AL State Parks Sept. 24
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – All entrance and parking fees for Alabama State Parks will be waived on National Public Lands Day, which takes place Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.
“The past few years have shown us just how important outdoor recreation is to our health and wellbeing,”...
Sutton Mill Farm hosts inaugural dove hunt
CULLMAN, Ala. -- For most people this time of year means college football, bonfires and all things fall but for Sutton Mill Farm in the Duck River Community, it means dove season is here and they couldn’t be happier. This year Bruce Shaw and...
Guide to Alabama’s venomous snakes
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – Summertime is in full throttle, and outdoor enthusiasts are being extra cautious because of snakes. Most native Alabama snake species are not venomous. However, there are several toxic species that you need to be able to identify.
Venomous snakes in Alabama
According...
Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest opens Aug. 2
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The 2023 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest will begin accepting entries Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022. This year’s contest is a joint project between the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the Alabama Tourism Department. The deadline to enter is...
Agriplex holds 3rd annual Nature Day Camp
CULLMAN, Ala. - The North Alabama Agriplex’s third annual Nature Day Camp took children ages 10-14 on a journey, teaching them about Native American heritage skills including hiking, canoeing, fishing, heritage crafts and storytelling. Campers visited conservation sites and parks to explore their natural...
Voters overwhelmingly approve state parks amendment
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - By a wide margin, Alabama voters approved the amendment on last Tuesday’s ballot to provide as much as $80 million in funding for improvements and enhancements to Alabama’s 21 state parks.
“I would like to thank the voters of Alabama for their...
Alabama’s forests: clearing the air
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – One of the world’s largest sources of carbon can likely be found in your backyard. In fact, trees are some of most efficient carbon-capturing organisms in the world. Alabama’s forests work around the clock moving this element and making the...
Roads and parking areas at Lake Guntersville State Park paved with longer-lasting asphalt made from recycled tires
GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. - Officials with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the Alabama Department of Environmental Management on Tuesday showed off newly resurfaced roads and parking areas at Lake Guntersville State Park paved with asphalt made with materials from items...
Black bear cubs collared in northeast Alabama
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - To say Traci Wood has a passion for bears would understate her love for the small black bear populations on opposite ends of the state in northeast and southwest Alabama.
Wood, State Wildlife Grants coordinator with the Alabama Department of Conservation and...
Don’t be stumped by the 2022 timber market
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – The Alabama timber industry is successfully healing after the COVID-19 pandemic’s temporary crippling of the market two years ago. The virus’s impact on mill capacity rates and lumber prices started in early 2020, and it is still likely to cause...
Cullman celebrates 34 years as Tree City USA
CULLMAN, Ala. - “This is a fun one!” Those were Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs’ words as he prepared to open the 2022 Tree City Dedication/Arbor Week Celebration ceremony held Thursday, February 24, inside the City Hall auditorium.
ARBOR WEEK CELEBRATION
The ceremony began with Mayor Jacobs...
Financial relief will soon be available to assist Alabama landowners adversely affected by the non-native, invasive noxious weed, cogongrass
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Administered by the Alabama Forestry Commission, the Cogongrass Mitigation Program is made possible through a grant from the USDA Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Plant Protection & Quarantine (PPQ). The goals of this program are to reduce the number...
Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries announces special Youth, Veteran and Active Military Personnel Waterfowl Hunting Day
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) has designated Saturday, February 5, 2022, as the second of the 2021-2022 hunting season’s Special Youth, Veteran and Active Military Personnel Waterfowl Hunting Days. The first of the two special waterfowl hunting...
All oyster harvest zones to close January 21, 2022
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Pursuant to Section 9-12-28, Code of Alabama 1975 as stated by Rule 220-3-.02, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) Marine Resources Division (MRD) announces that all public water bottoms will close to the harvest of oysters at 2:00...
Cullman County Master Gardeners share 2022 initiative for feeding birds during the winter
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Alabama Master Gardeners are educators trained by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. During their last meeting, they discussed taking an initiative to feed birds in the winter to help them stay healthy during their migration. On December 9, the group...
Eagle Awareness Weekends in Guntersville planned for January and February
GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. – Lake Guntersville State Park will host its popular Eagle Awareness Weekends starting in January 2022, through February 2022.
The events will feature live bird demonstrations, programs delivered by notable speakers and guided field trips to view eagles in their natural habitat.
The Eagle...
National Wild Turkey Federation donates $122,000 for wildlife management
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) recently allocated $122,000 in Hunting Heritage Super Funds for wild turkey projects in Alabama. Of that total, $60,676 was donated to the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF) of the Alabama...
Greater Amberjack, Gray Triggerfish and Flounder season reminders
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) Marine Resources Division (MRD) reminds anglers that the recreational harvest of greater amberjack in federal and Alabama state waters closes November 1, 2021. The season will remain closed through April 30, 2022...
Begin deer season with food safety in mind
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala.—Withdeer season opening Oct. 15, Mark Smith, a wildlife scientist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, says hunters need a game plan to get venison from the field to the table safely.
“Hunters need a plan for managing heat, moisture and bacterial contamination,” said...
Tips and tricks to avoid picking up ticks
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Tick exposure can occur year-round, but ticks are most active during warmer months (April-September). Know which ticks are most common in your area.
Before You Go Outdoors
Know where to expect ticks. Ticks live in grassy, brushy or wooded areas, or even on animals....
Raccoon confirmed positive for rabies in Cullman; precautions advised
CULLMAN, Ala. - Earlier this week, the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) confirmed a raccoon to be positive for rabies after it attacked a person on a walking trail near a subdivision on Fox Hollow Road in Cullman. The raccoon attacked a bystander...
In Alabama, conservation Is for the birds
WASHINGTON D.C. - Whether called the Yellowhammer State or the Cotton State, an abundance of birds call the state of Alabama home. “Yellowhammer” in fact refers to the common name for the northern flicker woodpecker — which just happens to be the official state...
Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest opens August 2
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The 2022 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest will begin accepting entries on Monday, August 2, 2021. This year’s contest is a joint project between the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the Alabama Tourism Department. The deadline for entry...
‘Truth in Nature is tight lines, steady aim and a cleansed heart’
CULLMAN, Ala. - Truth in Nature held an educational day for the young men of the Cullman chapter Saturday, June 26. The first half the day began with the boys learning to build picnic tables with the instruction of Chapter Leader Brian Burchett. The...
ATF promotes fireworks safety
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives wants the public to be safe during the Fourth of July. Understanding the dangers associated with illegal or improperly used/manufactured fireworks can prevent severe injuries, disfigurement or even death.
Illegal devices are not fireworks,...
Guest Editorial: Protecting Alabama’s waters requires more than lawsuits
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Recent heavy rains put the spotlight on one of the most common yet difficult to resolve environmental concerns – untreated or partially treated sewage leaking into our rivers, lakes and streams. Inflow of rainwater through cracked pipes or faulty manhole covers...
Editorial: Don’t feed the ducks
A few years ago, I was employed in an area which harbored a substantial feral cat colony, 20 or so, with kittens. I was disgusted after showing up to work one day, only to discover they had been poisoned and suffered a brutal death.
It...
Federal, state programs guarantee boating access
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Hank Weldon is a native Alabamian and a traveling man. As a director of student and junior tournaments for Bass Anglers Sportsman Society, he’s seen a lot of fishing spots.
Few, he said, can rival those found in his home state.
“If you...
Wallace State’s Blackwood, Chambers lead at Bassmaster College Series event on Saginaw Bay
BANGOR CHARTER TOWNSHIP, Mich. — Despite a three-hour run and a slow start to the day, the Wallace State Community College team of Clent Blackwood and Bryar Chambers sacked up 21 pounds, 15 ounces of smallmouth bass on Saginaw Bay to take the lead...
Wallace State BASS Club anglers Bryar Chambers, Clent Blackwood compete this week in Michigan
HANCEVILLE, ALA. – Wallace State’s BASS Club anglers Bryar Chambers and Clent Blackwood continue their quest through the 2021 Carhartt Bassmaster Collegiate Series this week, competing Wednesday and Thursday at Saginaw Bay in Bangor Charter Township, Mich.
Chambers and Blackwood have fished in three previous...
Cullman’s Hopper and Franks get redemption in High School Classic
FORT WORTH, Texas — Implementing a two-stage game plan, Brody Hopper and Landon Franks of Alabama’s Cullman High School caught a five-bass limit of 13 pounds, 1 ounce to win the Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster High School Series Classic presented by Academy Sports +...
Palomino RV Resort hits full capacity for Memorial Day
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman’s investment in the development of an RV park, the Palomino RV Resort, at the Burrow Farm site on County Road 222 saw a great payoff this Memorial Day weekend.
Cullman Parks, Recreation and Sports Tourism Director Zac Wood shared that the...
Go Fish, Alabama! teaches basics of fishing
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Have you ever wanted to learn the basics of fishing, but didn’t know where to begin? The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF) has developed a beginner fishing course just for you.WFF’s “Go...
Duck River Reservoir boat ramps closing at 5 p.m. today
CULLMAN, Ala. - The City of Cullman has announced the temporary closure of its boat ramps at the Duck River Reservoir today, May 20 as water levels are lowered for inspection and maintenance of the Duck River Dam.
On Wednesday, the City issued this notice:
Duck...
Oak Mountain State Park Interpretive Center reopens May 22
PELHAM, Ala. - The Oak Mountain Interpretive Center (OMIC) at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama, will celebrate its reopening Saturday, May 22, with a daylong schedule of events for families and children of all ages. The event will feature guided tours of...
Bassmaster College Series stops at Smith Lake
CULLMAN, Ala. — Talented teams from across the country will converge on Lewis Smith Lake May 14-15 for the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops. The second stop on the 2021 schedule, the event was originally scheduled for Apr. 16-17 before heavy...
Deer: Attract or deter?
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – Deer in residential areas—homeowners either love the friendly visitors or wish they would leave plants alone. While hunting season has come and gone, traces of white-tailed deer in residential areas or on landowners’ property are nearing their peak. According to...
B.A.S.S., Alabama Power, Union Sportsmen’s Alliance & the Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources host dedication ceremony for new pavilion at Smith Lake
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Participation in angling has hit new highs in the past year, and a new public use pavilion built by skilled volunteers from the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance as part of an Alabama Power and B.A.S.S. conservation partnership is offering a much-needed place...
New license allows hunting of feral swine, coyotes at night
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - With Gov. Kay Ivey’s signature this week, new legislation will provide hunters in Alabama with another opportunity to harvest two specific animals. The legislation allows Conservation Commissioner Chris Blankenship to establish a season for hunting feral hogs and coyotes at night...
Alabama PALS kicks off 2021 “Don’t Drop It on Alabama” Spring Cleanup
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The 2021 statewide “Don’t Drop It On Alabama” Spring Cleanup will be held during the entire month of April. The cleanup is held annually and coordinated by Alabama PALS (People Against a Littered State), which also coordinates and implements the Alabama...
Oak Mountain State Park suffers tornado damage
PELHAM, Ala. – Severe weather, including an apparent tornado, moved through northern Shelby County Thursday and caused damage at Oak Mountain State Park.
The park suffered widespread tree damage in areas near Alabama Highway 119, as well as damage to the park’s campground and cable...
John Cox claims victory at Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit on Lewis Smith Lake
CULLMAN, Ala. (March 14, 2021) – After leading the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit presented by Bad Boy Mowers, Covercraft Stop 2 – Lewis Smith Lake for most of the event, it’s no surprise that Berkley pro John Cox of DeBary, Florida, pulled out...
Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit presented by Bad Boy Mowers Heads to Lewis Smith Lake
CULLMAN, Ala. – Major League Fishing (MLF), the world’s largest tournament organization, heads to Cullman, Alabama, this week, March 11-14, for the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit presented by Bad Boy Mowers, Covercraft Stop 2 – Lewis Smith Lake . This is the second...
Strawberry Festival is back, coming May 1
Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism touts active slate starting this week with archery and pro fishing tournaments
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman’s Strawberry Festival has been a community institution since its inception in 1939. The 2019 80th anniversary event saw record attendance numbers of more...
Hunting antler sheds
Late winter and early spring can often be a dull time for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Deer season is over, and turkey season has yet to begin, but people may still be looking for an excuse to get outside. Hunting for deer antler sheds...
ADCNR strengthens safeguards against nonnative species
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Due to ecological, economic, and human health and safety concerns related to the potential impacts of nonnative animals, Alabama Administrative Code 220-2-.26 has been amended to prohibit any person, firm, association, or corporation from possessing, selling, offering for sale, importing, bringing,...
Scaup limit reduced to 1; Sandhill crane registration opens soon
David Rainer, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
North America’s waterfowl breeding population annual survey is another aspect of the outdoors that has been impacted by COVID-19 restrictions.
Seth Maddox, the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries’ Migratory Bird Coordinator, said virus-related travel restrictions would not...
Good Hope anglers Arnold, Curington narrowly miss final round of Mossy Oak Fishing High School Championship
PARIS, Tenn. – Kentucky Lake is the site of this year’s Mossy Oak Fishing High School Championship and a pair of local boats were out on the water competing. Good Hope Fishing Team is represented on Kentucky Lake by Colton Williams and Landon Graham...
