FAWN Thank You Cards and Journal Entries

Click here to see all the FAWN thank you letters and journal entries.

Winston County Natural Resources Council November Meeting

WCNRC November 2018 Meeting Minutes by secretary Kerri Roberts

Members present: Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, Andy Scott, John Creed, Lauranne James, Casey Hammock, J.D. Snoddy, Andy Baril, Travis McDonald.

• Mike discussed allowing Meek, Addison, and Double Springs Middle Schools to use the bus funds that were allocated for FAWN for another field trip since they did not get to attend FAWN this year due to the rain cancellation. Addison and DSMS had requested the funds be for a trip to the movie theatre as a treat to the students. The council okayed the use of the bus funds for the schools as long as it wasn’t to a sporting event. The amounts allocated were $300 to DSMS and $150 each to Meek and Addison.

• Andy Baril discussed the Kayak 101 course they offered in Walker County for adult beginner kayaking. They used the Winston 4-H kayaks for the program. He worked with the Health Action Partnership to present the program to promote healthy living and being active. It was a hit and he suggested one be offered in Winston County. 

• Mike gave an update on the Scott’s potting soil donation. He and Casey had just gone to get a load for the schools and ARC raised bed gardens the day before our meeting. 

• Travis reported there had been another case of CWD in Mississippi and it was within a 50 mile radius of Fayette County. 

• Andy S. reported there is an upcoming Bankhead Liaison Panel meeting on December 11 at 6:00 pm at the Bernice Hilton Walker Building in Double Springs.  Travis will speak on feral hogs, there will be recreation and ecosystem restoration updates and the year-end review.  

• Mike said there will be an upcoming youth trapping workshop in Red Bay on December 15-16.  Mike Sebring, former employee of DCNR, will conduct the youth trapping workshop.  

• Mike said he is working on two grant proposals to the county commission. One would be for the fishing derby and the other for 4-H projects.

• Kerri brought up the Bankhead Centennial celebration topic that was discussed in September.  Andy S. said he hasn’t been able to follow up or work on it so no decision has been made as to whether or not an event will be held. The council had agreed to pay up to $1000 towards the event if it is held. 

• Mike said Allison wanted to host a Landowner Tour and that there is a short leaf Pine farm in the area that may be willing to host the workshop, but the owner wanted a couple people to come out beforehand to see if it would be a good location.  Mike said he and Allison may go take a look and hopefully there will be a tour in the near future.

• Lauranne reported that the RC&D had recently held their quarterly meeting at Lakeshore. There will be more technical outreach meetings held in Winston County next year. 

The meeting concluded with a photo around the Alabama Forestry Commission truck full of potting soil.  The next meeting will be January 17, 2019.

Bankhead Liaison Panel Meeting Scheduled

The next meeting of the Bankhead Liaison Panel will be held Tuesday, December 11th, at 6:00 p.m. at the Bernice Hilton Walker Building, Traders and Farmers Bank, 64 Main Street, Double Springs, Alabama.  Meeting topics will include an update on the proposed 2019 Southern Pine Beetle Mitigation and Restoration project, feral swine program update, and recreation program updates, including waterfall and river trails and the Houston Recreation Area.   The District Ranger will also review the Bankhead National Forest Fiscal Year 2018 accomplishments and plans for Fiscal Year 2019.  The meeting will adjourn by 8:30 p.m.  The meeting is open to the public.  Anyone interested in the management of the Bankhead National Forest is invited.  If you have any questions, please call 205-489-5111.

November Council Meeting

This month’s council meeting will be held at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 15.  Topics on the agenda include the Scott’s Soil donation, possible landowner tour, and FAWN program evaluation.  We’ll also have the River Kids/Firewise trailer with the newly applied logos for council members to inspect.

Bankhead National Forest Liaison Panel Meeting Scheduled

The Bankhead Liaison Panel will meet on Tuesday, December 11 at 6 p.m. at the Bernice Hilton Walker Building, Traders and Farmers Bank in downtown Double Springs.  Anyone interested in the management of the Bankhead National Forest is invited to attend this public meeting.

For additional information, call the Bankhead Ranger District Office at (205) 489-5111.

Chronic Wasting Disease Found in Pontotoc County, Mississippi, White-tailed Deer

https://www.outdooralabama.com/node/2468

Bankhead Lead Timber Marker Position now open

The Bankhead Ranger District of the National Forests in Alabama is currently seeking highly motivated candidates for one (1) permanent, full time Forestry Technician (timber sales prep) position (GS-0462-06/07) in Double Springs, AL.  The selected candidate will lead a crew of three forestry technicians in primarily timber sale preparation work. As part of a highly integrated unit, he/she will have opportunities to work in all aspects of the district, including fire, silviculture, biology, recreation, and heritage. Please send to those who may be interested.

This is the position announcement, not an outreach. Note: this position requires competitive service and/or other authorities to apply (see announcement for details). It closes 11/01/18.

https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/514273400

Trapping Workshops Share Historical, Biological Aspects of Furbearer Management

Online registration for youth and adult workshops now open

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is offering a series of youth and adult trapping workshops throughout the state this winter. The workshops are free to attend, but registration is required. To register, visit www.outdooralabama.com/trapping-workshops.
These educational workshops provide instruction on the historical aspects of trapping, biological information about furbearers and furbearer management, and the proper techniques of using trapping as a sound wildlife management tool.

All workshops are limited to 25 participants. The youth workshops are recommended for ages 7 and up. Youth ages 7-15 must be accompanied by an adult. Youth over 16 are not required to have an adult present, but it is recommended.

Youth Trapping Workshops

• December 8-9, 2018, in Citronelle, Ala.
• December 15-16, 2018, in Red Bay, Ala.
• December 29-30, 2018, in Greensboro, Ala.
• January 12-13, 2019, in Atmore, Ala.
• February 9-10, 2019, in Scottsboro, Ala.
• February 16-17, 2019, in Spanish Fort, Ala.

Adult Trapping Workshops

• November 3-4, 2018, in Hamilton, Ala.
• February 23-24, 2019, at Portland Landing in Dallas County, Ala.

For more information, contact Mike Sievering with the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division at Mike.Sievering@dcnr.alabama.gov or call 205-339-5716.

The workshops are a cooperative project between ADCNR, the Alabama Trappers and Predator Control Association, USDA Wildlife Services and Safari Club International. To learn more about trapping as a wildlife management tool, visit www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/trapping-alabama.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.

Hurricane Michael Damage to Alabama Agriculture

Hurricane Deals Heavy Blow to Alabama Agriculture

AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala.—Hurricane Michael caused almost $204 million in agricultural damage alone as it moved across Alabama. Alabama Cooperative Extension System Director Gary Lemme called it a devastating blow to farmers in the state’s Wiregrass region.

“Cotton farmers suffered the greatest losses,” said Lemme. “But the storm affected every portion of Wiregrass agriculture, including row crops, livestock, poultry and timber as well as fruit and vegetable production.”

Alabama Extension professionals spent the days following Michael evaluating actual losses in eight counties—Barbour, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Russell.  

“Houston County alone suffered more than $100 million in storm damage to agriculture and agribusinesses,” said Lemme. “Geneva County was battered for an almost $39 million loss, and Henry County accounts for more than $30 million.”

Damage to the region’s more than 200,000 cotton acres reaches almost $108 million. Peanut losses are more than $11 million, while combined losses to corn and soybeans total more than $1.7 million.

While farmers did not suffer high livestock deaths, their operations sustained significant harm to fencing. Fence replacement costs total almost $18 million with another $5.6 million in debris removal expenses.

The region’s poultry houses weathered the storm better than those in neighboring Georgia. Poultry damages total about $1.4 million.

Farm structures including irrigation systems and agribusinesses, such as cotton gins and peanut buying points, took extensive damage as well. About 200 center pivot irrigation systems were destroyed by the storm. Damage to those systems alone accounts for $9.6 million, while structural damage on farms and at agribusinesses reaches another $11.9 million.

Pine forest stands were ravaged by the storm’s high winds that snapped some trees at midtrunk while toppling others. Destroyed timber is valued at almost $20.9 million.

“The forest impact goes beyond downed trees to pine straw production,” said Lemme. “We estimate pine straw losses at about $11.8 million.”

Lemme noted that smaller producers face potentially catastrophic situations.  

“One grower lost his entire cucumber crop. Tomato growers are looking at losses in the 60 to 75 percent range,” he said. “Combined with greenhouse losses and pecan losses, the storm destroyed another almost $3.5 million.” 

Lemme said Extension staff working with United States Department of Agriculture and agribusiness leaders used a systematic approach to estimate losses. The damages represent the first part of a report Alabama Extension will submit November 1 to the state’s congressional delegation and the USDA.

“With agriculture damage estimates complete, we now must begin to evaluate the total economic loss to the region,” he said. “Farm income directly affects the health of the area’s local businesses.” 

Lemme added that the November 1 report will reflect the impact that agricultural losses will have on the region’s overall economic health. 

“We are starting at $204 million in ag losses alone, but the economic impact will be much greater,” said Lemme. “It is far too easy to focus only on actual losses. We must also understand the total impact on the region’s economy in the coming months and years.”

More Resources

• Photographs—Images are 300 DPI: https://filemover.auburn.edu/files/files/1540234644_damagephotos.zip

• Infographic

https://filemover.auburn.edu/fm_download.php?path=files/files/1540236399_hmagdamageinfographic2.jpg

• Video—Including interview with Max Runge, Alabama Extension economist, graphic and B-roll

https://filemover.auburn.edu/fm_download.php?path=files/files/1540300523_maxrungeinterviewhurricanemichaellos.mp4

Sprayer Calibration Program near Winfield

The Marion, Fayette, and Lamar County Extension Offices will host a hands-on demonstration, for best practices in calibrating small farm equipment on Monday, October 22, 2018, from 5:00pm – 6:30pm at the Winfield Experiment Station, located at 171 Experiment Loop, Winfield, AL  35594. The class will consist of a short in-class presentation on the How’s, Why’s, and Where’s for calibrating equipment followed by an onsite, hands-on demonstration. The hands-on demonstration will consist of a multi-nozzle 3-point hitch sprayer, as well as an ATV spray rig. Please contact the Marion County Extension Office at (205) 921-3551 to register.

September 2018 Meeting Minutes

WCNRC September 2018 Meeting Minutes

Members Present- Mike Henshaw- Vice Chair, Kerri Roberts- Secretary, Jeremy McDonald, Lauranne James, Andy Baril, Casey Hammock, Carl Godsey, Andy Scott

• -         Mike opened the meeting in Allison Cochran’s absence. He covered FAWN dates of October 15-16 and handed out draft programs. He reported the cost of the shirts for FAWN was $2000 and the proposed bus transportation cost for FAWN is $1200
• -         Mr. Godsey asked if anyone on the council has approached the BOE to see if they would help with the bus cost. Mike said they had not but he would talk to Jeff Hendrix at the bus shop.
• -        Lauranne reported there is a Winston County Outreach Meeting on September 21. It is sponsored by NRCS and Alabama A&M and all are invited to attend.
• -        Andy Baril said he is now back working in Winston County. He swapped regions with Spencer Bradley to stay in the NW part of the state as the Extension Forestry Agent. He reported there is a PLM in Fayette and Lamar counties September 28.  October 4 there is a NW Landowner’s Tour in Greene County. Walker County was the Natural Resources Council of the year winner. October 15 is the NRCS Landowner’s conference in Prattville.
• -        Jeremy reported they site prepped and burned the Payne Outdoor Classroom area. They are contacting area Ag teachers to see about their classes planting shortleaf pine to learn about reforestation practices. Transportation could be an issue and they might ask the council to sponsor this event in the future.
• -        Andy S. said they have written a proposal to the Land & Water Conservation Fund proposing to purchase 40 acres in the Sipsey Wilderness. He asked for letters of support from the council and Extension. The council agreed to support this effort.
• -        Mike, Kerri, and Andy S. brought up the Centennial anniversary of the Bankhead Forest, which officially was January 15, 2018. Andy said that no official events have been planned in celebration. Andy mentioned in order for FS to be in charge of planning something of that magnitude, it would have needed to be started months ago. He did say the FS would support another partner group hosting an event in the forest. Andy B motioned that the WCNRC take the lead as a partner group planning/hosting a centennial event. Carl seconded the motion. None opposed. Mike mentioned the Archeofest which was a hit in years past and wondered if the centennial event could look similar to that event. A list of 12 partner groups that might like to be involved quickly was brought to light including: Lawrence County, Back Country Horsemen, Sipsey Hiking Group, Wild South, Alabama A&M, RC&D, Local Retirees, Bankhead Liaison Panel, AFC, DC&R, Jasper Lumber/Grayson Mill, Al Forestry Assoc.
• -        Mike suggested there be a planning committee and that Kerri take lead. Jeremy offered to help on the committee. Andy said Double Springs Community Unity may want some organizing part too and Kerri said she would reach out to them and see in what way the WCNRC can be part of making this event happen.
• -        Mike closed the meeting. 

Minutes by Kerri Roberts, Secretary WCNRC

September Council Meeting

The Winston County Natural Resources Council will meet at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 20, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs.  We will review the draft FAWN programs, take a look at the FAWN t-shirts, and Kerri will introduce an educational youth program called iNaturalist.  Hope you can make it.

Mike Henshaw, WCNRC
V. Chair

Winston County Outreach Meeting

Farming Basics Online Course Available

AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala.—More people than ever are interested in giving farming a try.  In the past, people turned to farming family members for help.  Today, most people are generations removed from farming.
To help budding farmers get started, Alabama Extension now offers a free online course, Farming Basics. Launched Sept. 10, the course addresses critical topics in agriculture.

Alabama Extension director Gary Lemme calls the course a groundbreaking digital effort.

“Anyone who is considering farming but has little to no experience will reap rewards by completing the course,” says Lemme.  He adds that Farming Basics is a valuable tool for experienced farm owners as well.

“Established producers can use the course as a refresher in best practices,” says Lemme.  “Additionally, they can use it to train new employees.”

Jewell and Russell Bean of S & B Farm in Barbour County agree the course is exactly what beginning farmers need.

“Farming Basics is filled with good information,” Russell Bean says. “We recommend it as a resource not only for beginning farmers but seasoned producers as well.”

Farming Basics’ five chapters feature video presentations and additional resources which enhance the course’s content depth. A short quiz at the end of each chapter offers participants the opportunity to review and reinforce content concepts. The course takes about two hours to complete. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate.

Dr. Ayanava Majumdar, Farming Basics project leader, says more than 200 people have already pre-registered for the course.

“Farming is challenging for experienced farmers, and it can be overwhelming to people new to it,” says Majumdar.  “Our goal with Farming Basics is to help new producers develop knowledge and critical skills, enabling them to reduce mistakes and achieve profitability more rapidly.”
The course covers farm management and marketing, pesticide safety, food safety, basic crop production and pest management. Find the course at https://aces.catalog.auburn.edu/.

Farming Basics follows the proven model of Beef Basics, Alabama Extension’s first online agriculture course.

Lemme says these courses serve as the foundation of the organization’s growing commitment to online learning.

“Because of programs like this, we are becoming a nationally recognized leader in digital learning.”

This course is part of Alabama Extension’s overarching Beginning Farmer program, a collaborative effort of a wide range of institutions, producer organizations and nonprofit agencies. The Alabama Beginning Farmer Program is funded by a grant from the USDA Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Development Program.

Currently, the Beginning Farmer program provides intense on-farm guidance to more than 60 beginning farmers, including military veterans, women and socially disabled individuals. The advisory service has an 85 percent adoption rate and has increased yields by improving crop quality and reducing insecticide use with pest prevention.

Alabama Extension operates as the primary outreach organization for the land-grant functions of Alabama A&M and Auburn Universities.

Contact: Katie Nichols
Alabama Cooperative Extension System
(334)412-7328
klw0028@auburn.edu

What Does A Healthy Forest Have to Do With Clean Water?

Click this link for printable flyer.

Minutes of August Council Meeting

On Thursday, August 16th, the Winston County Natural Resources Council met. Members present were: Mike Henshaw, Vice Chairman, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, Johnna Franks, Treasurer, Matt Brock, John Creed, P. J. Gossett, Jeremy McDonald, Andy Scott, J.D. Snoddy, and guests Marsha Terry and Donna Shanklin.

• Kerri presented about the 4-H Wildlife team traveling to the national competition in Winter Harbor, Maine. She thanked to council for offering to sponsor the trip with $500, but it wasn’t necessary due to other funding sources.
• Mike talked about FAWN and gave dates of October 16-17. Andy Baril will still be able to attend and do “Flag a Tree”, Andy Scott and Allison Cochran will not be able to attend, There will be a new guide from the Smith Lake Advocacy helping this year, Mike will contact Alabama A & M to confirm the Water Quality Station, Andy Scott said Houston Recreation area would be fine for FAWN location again. 
• Mike discussed Extension’s Grass Roots meeting that is coming up on August 23. He asked all present to attend or fill out the paper survey. 
• Johnna reported the balance is $9,059.23. We spent $573.64 on the fishing derby. There was member discussion about paying for FAWN t-shirts. It was decided to let Jeremy use the same place as last year unless Matt can get a better price in Fayette County. 
• Andy updated that 7 Forest Service employees are out or have been out on fire detail fighting wildfires out west. One is Allison, the WCNRC Chair, which is why she was not in attendance.
• There are 3 ongoing FS projects. 1) Forest health and restoration cuts due to pine beetle infestation. 2) Mulching of the Stenson Gap area. 3) Using Title 1 funds for road maintenance including side boom mowing. The FS has added $15,000 to county funds for this project. 
• Andy reported the Caney Creek Falls parking dilemma is still ongoing and it is just a long process through NEPA. J.D. wondered if the county commission could get easements to make that process easier. 
• J.D. is concerned about the state spraying the sides of roads on Highways 278, 195, and 33. As a board member of the Mountain Lakes, he questions if there are other methods for controlling vegetation that are not such an eyesore at high tourist times. Mike answered that other areas of the state use different methods and it was decided J.D. would ask our state employee. 

Kerri Roberts

Secretary, WNCRC

August Council Meeting

The August meeting of the Winston County Natural Resources Council will be held at 9:00 a.m. at the U. S. Forest Service office on Thursday, August 16. 

Please mark your calendar for Winston County’s FAWN dates, they are October 16-17, at Houston Recreation Area.

On the agenda is several upcoming events in the area and a report from Kerri Roberts on the 4-H Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Team's trip to Maine to compete in the national competition.

July Meeting Minutes

The Winston County Natural Resources Council met on Thursday, July 19, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs.  Present were Jimmy Madison, Mike Henshaw, John Creed, Tim Malone, and Jeremy McDonald.  Johnna Franks, Treasurer, emailed the balance of the treasury which was $9,058.48.  The following items were discussed:

• Jimmy gave a report on possible severe weather that could impact the area over next couple of days.
• The Winston County 4-H Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Team placed first in the State competition and will attend the National competition in Maine later this month.  The council approved up to $500 to support the team as needed.  The team also has support from the State 4-H Foundation and the State 4-H Staff.
• Jeremy gave a report on the Forestry Judging activities both with FFA and 4-H.
• Reviewed a flyer for a Forestry Equipment Operator Training to be held in Double Springs starting in August.
• Tim Malone gave an update on the FSA Elections, the Farm Bill, and the Outreach meeting to be held at 10 a.m. after the council meeting.
• Briefly discussed the upcoming FAWN program to be held this fall.

Mike Henshaw
Vice Chair, WCNRC

Logging Equipment Operator Training in Double Springs

Next class begins August 27 in Double Springs.  For more info visit link below.

https://www.forestryworks.com/training/

July Council Meeting

The Winston County Natural Resources Council will meet at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 19, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs. 

The Winston County 4-H Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Team won first place at the state competition and will attend the national competition in Maine.  We’ll discuss possible ways to support the team’s trip to Maine.

At 10:00 a.m. at the same location, the Farm Service Agency will host an informational meeting regarding the 2018 Farm Service Agency County Committee Election process.  Producers, including minority, women and new farmers, are encouraged to attend the meeting and participate in the 2018 FSA committee election.

Bankhead Liaison Panel Meeting in Moulton

The next meeting of the Bankhead Liaison Panel will be held Thursday, July 26th, at 6:00 p.m. at the Moulton Rec Center, Alexander Park, 13550 Court St, Moulton, Alabama.  Meeting topics will include a Southern Pine Beetle update and proposed restoration treatments for off-site, at-risk pine-dominated stands, an update on current treatment activities related to restoration, and other topics to be determined. The meeting will adjourn by 8:30 p.m.  The meeting is open to the public.  Anyone interested in the management of the Bankhead National Forest is invited.  If you have any questions, please call 205-489-5111.

Minutes of June Council Meeting

The Winston County Natural Resources Council met on June 21, 2018, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs.  Present were:  Lauranne James, Casey Hammack, Tim Malone, Jimmy Madison, John Creed, Andy Scott, Mike Henshaw, Jeff Hendrix, Spenser Bradley, and Andy Baril.  The following topics were discussed:

• Fishing Derby – Mike and John reported that the event was very well staffed and was well attended by families.  57 youth participated in the event.  There were other activities in addition to fishing, such as, archery, casting contest, a fishing game, tick exhibit, firewise exhibit, WildSouth Exhibit, and food provided by the Double Springs Lions Club.
• 4-H STEM Day Camps
• Master Gardener Program being offered in Lawrence County
• $200 for 4-H Forestry Judging expenses for the Winston County team.
• $200 for the 4-H Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Team expenses for the Winston County team.
• Casey gave a report on the problems getting the potting soil this year.  While the potting soil donations have been postponed indefinitely, we will still try to pick some up if they decide to donate soil later this year.
• Andy and Spenser gave an overview on the SET1 for Forestry, Wildlife, and Natural Resources.  Spenser will be assisting Winston County later this year, and Andy will transition to another SET.
• Lauranne James said that NW AL RC&D Council is hosting the Lamb Jam at Sweetwater Depot in Florence on July 19.  The event will include live music and chef prepared lamb.  Tickets and tables are available in advance.
• Randy Moody has been on trip to Washington, D. C. this week to represent Alabama farmers.  He spoke to legislators on the benefits of the Farm Bill.
• Grant applications will be due this fall to the NW AL RC&D Council.  Applications are available at https://nwalrcd.org/
• Jimmy gave an update on possible severe weather moving into the area Friday.
• Tim Malone, County Executive Director of the Marion/Winston Farm Service Agency, conducted an outreach meeting about the County Committee Elections.
• Casey Hammack gave a cogongrass report including new sitings and spots that they have treated. 

Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair
WCNRC

4-H Day Camps

June Council Meeting

The Winston County Natural Resources Council will meet at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 21, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs.  We will review the recent Youth Fishing Derby and 4-H Forestry Judging Competition, and discuss the upcoming 4-H Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Competition.  Also, we have an update on the Firewise and 4-H River Kids programs. 

At 10:00 a.m. at the same location, the Farm Service Agency will host an informational meeting regarding the 2018 Farm Service Agency County Committee Election process.  Producers, including minority, women and new farmers, are encouraged to attend the meeting and participate in the 2018 FSA committee election.

Youth Fishing Derby on Saturday, June 9

Click here for printable flyer.

Shortleaf Pine Workshop in Cullman

Printable flyer link click here.

Shortleaf Pine Field Day

Bankhead Liaison Panel Meeting

The Bankhead Liaison Panel will hold a public meeting on Thursday, May 10th.  The meeting will begin at 6 P.M. at the First National Bank in Double Springs.  The meeting topics include aquatic species surveys updates, rare plant community management, Southern Pine Beetle status and Sipsey Wilderness partnership projects.  Everyone interested in the management of the Bankhead National Forest is invited to attend the meeting.

Minutes of April Council Meeting

April 19, 2018

Members Present: Allison Cochran- Chair, Mike Henshaw- Vice Chair, Kerri Roberts- Secretary, Johnna Franks- Treasurer, Andy Baril, Blake Addison, Jeremy McDonald, P.J. Gossett, and J.D. Snoddy.

Main topic of discussion was the council’s upcoming Bark Beetle Control on the Bankhead NF and Adjacent Landowner Seminar. The seminar is Thursday, April 26, at the Hilton Walker Bank Building in Double Springs. Three CFE’s and three PLM’s were approved for loggers attending this seminar. Mike said information about it was mailed, emailed and put in the newspapers. Johnna said they will also promote it on their Alabama Forestry facebook page. The council agreed to purchase biscuits for those attending.

Updates from members:
Allison said there will be a Bankhead Liaison Panel meeting on May 10. Pine Beetles are the hot topic. She also said the Fishing Derby will be on June 9. This is the second Saturday in June instead of the usual first Saturday. She requested $1500 from the WCNRC. The funds were approved. She has also requested funds from the National Wild Turkey Federation. She said the Smith Lake Clean Up was a success and that the encapsulated styrofoam is proving to be a big and heavy problem. She also reported that the Forest Service has done prescribed burns on over 16,000 acres this year. Allison also mentioned that on May 17 there is a Sustainable Forest workshop in Muscle Shoals from 9:00am-4:00pm. She proposed that the WCNRC members attend as their May meeting. This was agreed upon by members. It was decided to carpool there.  Also mentioned was the hiring of Shane Haskins as the FS Recreation Director to replace Mike Cook. 
Mike Discussed the Firewise funding of the fishing derby and FAWN programs. He also discussed the Title 3 fund and RAC funds. We are still waiting to hear about the RAC funds and Andy Scott (not present) is working to finalize this funding. Mike reminded all about the Alabama Water Watch (AWW) training that will take place at the Arley Fire Department April 27-28. Mona Dominguez from Alabama Cooperative Extension System will be teaching that.
Johnna reported the balance of the checking account is $10,228.14 after depositing the Firewise Funds.
Kerri reported on the 4-H shotgun championships, which happened April 13-14. WCNRC had given $200 in support. Also mentioned was the upcoming 4-H County Round Up which is on Thursday, April 26. The council supported the bus transportation of that with $200.
Jeremy announced the Payne Demo will be on May 3, 9:45am-1:30pm. He requested money from WCNRC for port a potties. The Council approved up to $200 for those.  He also reported on the success of local Forestry FFA teams. Winston County won the county contest and was competing in District on Friday, April 20.
Andy suggested the WCNRC give Pine Bark Beetle Seminar participants a Southern Pine Beetle Booklet and was going to check on availability of a case.
J.D. asked for numbers of participants at WCNRC sponsored events to promote the council. He also suggested we include Camp McDowell on meetings and events and that we may want to look into promoting things in the Smith Lake Living magazine.
Blake noted that he had sold one stand of pine beetle timber so that was a positive.

The meeting adjourned and the May meeting will be Thursday, May 17, at the Sustainable Forest workshop in Muscle Shoals.

Kerri Roberts

Secretary

Chronic Wasting Disease Seminar and Dinner

Click here to register.

Learn and Burn in Walker County

Click here for printable flyer.

Chronic Wasting Disease in White-tailed Deer

The Marion County Forestry Planning Committee will host a program for land owners, land managers, hunters or anyone interested in learning about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).  This disease has recently been discovered in Mississippi.  It is only a matter of time before Alabamians must deal with this dreadful disease!

Matt Brock, a wildlife biologist with the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries will be speaking about the history of CWD, the state response, the importance of testing, and the potential impact to humans.

This disease could have a huge impact socially but also economically and it is very important that the public understand what they can do to minimize it’s spread and impact.  Please join us at the Backside BBQ & Catfish located at 1717 Hwy 17, Hamilton AL 35570, May 3rd starting at 6:30 p.m.

The meal will be Dutch treat.  Please call the Alabama Cooperative Extension System office at 205-921-3551 no later than April 30, 2018 if you plan to attend in order for us to have an estimate of how many people to plan for.

Hope to see you there!


Robert Clement
Alabama Forestry Commission
AL R.F. 2225
164 Smokey Bear Road
Hamilton Alabama, 35570
Phone (205) 921-3843

April Council Meeting

The Winston County Natural Resources Council will meet at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 19, at the U. S. Forest Service office in Double Springs.  One item on the agenda will be the Pine Beetle Control Seminar that the council is hosting on April 26.  A printable flyer about the seminar is available at this link:

http://www.aces.edu/~henshmd/temp/BarkBeetleControlBankhead.pdf

Exhibit in Double Springs Featuring Photography of Bill Snoddy

Pine Bark Beetle Control Landowner Seminar

Click here for printable flyer

March Council Meeting Minutes

The Winston County Natural Resources Council met on March 15, at the U. S. Forest Service office in Double Springs.  Present were Andy Baril, Mike Henshaw, Allison Cochran, John Creed, Kerri Roberts, Andy Scott, and Blake Addison.  Agenda items included:

• Andy Scott gave an update on the U. S. Forest Service RAC proposal from the Winston County Commission.  He said that the Coop Roads agreement has been updated and submitted to the Supervisors Office in Montgomery.  He expects the funds to be allocated soon, and the county commission will have plenty of time to complete the road maintenance under the agreement.
• Discussed the upcoming Pine Beetle/PLM program.  Area loggers and private landowners will be invited to attend.  The program will be held at 7:30 a.m. on April 26, at the Bernice Hilton Walker Building in Double Springs.  The program will focus on the pine beetle outbreak, and measures the Forest Service is taking to address it.  Three (3.0) PLM points will be available.
• Allison gave an update on a Forest Service team that runs a stream simulation program that is being used to improve road and bridge design.  This, in turn, improves aquatic habitats for fish and other species.
• Andy Scott gave an account of a recent operation to rescue an incapacitated hiker from the Bee Branch area of the Sipsey Wilderness Area.  The operation was hampered by a lack of information, equipment breakdowns, difficult terrain and thick forest conditions.  Ultimately, the hiker was successfully transported to the appropriate facilities and is doing well.

  

  Andy Scott, left, describes hiker rescue.

• A RENEW OUR RIVERS clean up will be held on April 11-12 and will be headquartered at Yellow Creek,
• Kerri gave an update on the 4-H River Kids program and the Firewise Funding.
• Andy Baril said that there will be a Wild Pig Workshop in Bibb County on April 20.  He also noted that his SET region will be changing and he will be assigned to another group of counties located around Birmingham and Winston will no longer be in his region.  Winston County will likely be covered by Spenser Bradley under the new plan. These changes will take affect on October 1.
• Johnna texted that the balance of the treasury is $4,337.94.
• The Council's demonstration feral hog trap has been set up at Eddie Densmore's farm near Houston.
• The WCNRC agreed to support and participate in any "Learn and Burn" programs that may be held in nearby counties.  These educational programs involve landowners in actual prescribed burn operations on private property.  
• A small committee will work on plans for possible Shortleaf Field Day at a private landowner's property later this year.
• The Council approved the following slate of officers:  Allison Cochran - Chair, Mike Henshaw - Vice Chair, Johnna Franks - Treasurer, and Kerri Roberts - Secretary
• (Note added on 3/28 due to accidental omission:  up to $200 for 4-H Shotgun Shooting Sports Team, up to $200 for transportation for 4-H Wildlife Habitat evaluation team.  Youth Fishing Derby to be held on Saturday, June 9, 2018, at Black Warrior Work Center.)

Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair

March Council Meeting

The Winston County Natural Resources Council will hold its March meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 15, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs.  Agenda items include the RAC Funding for Winston County, the PLM/Pine Beetle meeting on April 26, and the Firewise funding for FAWN and the Youth Fishing Derby.

Alabama Invasive Plant Council 15th Annual Conference

Click here for printable flyer.

February Minutes

The Winston County Natural Resources Council met on February 15, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs.  Present were Lauranne James, Mike Henshaw, Kerri Roberts, Andy Scott, Jimmy Madison, Andy Baril, Carl Godsey, Jeremy McDonald, John Creed, and State Natural Resources Council Representative - Greg Pate.  Photo by Blake Addison.

The following items were discussed:

• Carl Godsey mentioned Smith Lake water levels have increased greatly after the recent rainfall.  Jimmy Madison mentioned that there is often confusion about flood zones near the lake that leads to extra expense for landowners.
• Greg Pate brought the council information from the Alabama Natural Resources Council for an opportunity to partner with them on offering landowner outreach.  They are especially interested in reaching new landowners about Farm Bill programs, and encouraging multiple use management.  They have allocated $380 for each council that holds such outreach meetings.  The council is interested in this partnership later in the year, but felt that a more urgent need was for a logger PLM program focusing on Bankhead National Forest timber sales to control the current outbreak of pine beetles.  The council will look into a landowner meeting in early summer that will include outreach by the Alabama Natural Resources Council.
• Blake Addison led the discussion about a possible PLM meeting about timber sales related to the pine beetle outbreak.  This three-hour program would address the bidding process, status of the pine beetle outbreak on the district, information on how to best treat an active pine beetle infestation, special considerations on federal land, such as snags for bat habitat, a local timber mill representative, and Best Management Practices.  The tentative date for this program was set as Thursday, April 26, 8:00 a.m to 11:00 a.m.  Location to be announced later.
• Lauranne gave an update on the next Northwest Alabama RC&D meeting that will be held at 10:00 a.m. in Russellville on February 21.  The program will be on Tombigbee Electric's Freedom Fiber internet access.
• Kerri mentioned the Firewise Grants that will cover the Fishing Derby, FAWN, and 4-H RiverKids.  She also said the 4-H Shooting Sports program has applied for a Friends of NRA grant to support that group.
• Andy highlighted the Cullman Forestry Tour.  He also said that the Extension System's SET maps may change in 2019, and his work area may change and Winston might have another REA for Forestry, Wildlife, and Natural Resources.
• Jeremy said they would be setting the date soon for the Payne Demo area program for Double Springs schools.  He also requested funding from the council to support either the transportation or the portable toilets.

Mike Henshaw, Secretary
WCNRC

February Council Meeting

The February meeting of the Winston County Natural Resources Council will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 15, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs.  Greg Pate with the Alabama Natural Resources Council will be attending and making a short presentation.  We also working on two Firewise proposals to the Winston County Commission.  Hope you will be able to attend.

AFC Names New Assistant State Forester

State Forester Rick Oates is pleased to announce that the Commissioners have approved the appointment of Bruce Springer as Assistant State Forester. Additionally, Brigetta Giles has been selected as Southeast Regional Forester to fill the vacancy left by Springer’s promotion. Both officially assumed their new responsibilities February 1.

More information on the announcement at this link:

Winston County High School Agri-Science Class Builds Feral Hog Trap Door

Winston County High School Agri-Science students built this "Poor Man's Hog Trap Door" from plans in an Alabama Cooperative Extension System publication.  The trap will be loaned out to a local landowner that is currently having extensive damage to his property due to feral hogs.  The rest of the trap will be constructed of cattle panels that the landowner will provide.  This feral hog control demonstration is made possible by a partnership between the Winston County Natural Resources Council, the Winston County Extension Office, the Winston County Commission, and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.  The students worked under the direction of Mr. Byron Tuggle, Agri-Science Instructor at WCHS.  Pictured from left to right are Stephen Nix, Ben Mitchell, Jacob Terry, Jarrett Daniel, Mason Franks, Kameron Young, Adrian Blancas, Michael Avery, and J. P. Cornelius.  (photo by Mike Henshaw, ACES)

NRCS Announces Funding to Address Feral Swine

Click here for printable version.

Bankhead Liaison Panel Meeting Scheduled

The Bankhead Liaison Panel meeting will be held on Thursday, January 25, at 6:00 pm at the Moulton Recreation Center at Alexander Park in Moulton.  The Moulton Recreation Center is located at 13550 Court Street in Moulton.  The meeting topics include the Southern Pine Beetle outbreak, two forest health projects, the 2018 prescribed burning program and rare aquatic species updates.  The meeting begins at 6 pm and will adjourn by 8:30.  The meeting is open to the public.  Anyone interested in the management in the Bankhead National Forest is invited. 

Invasive Plant Management Workshop

Click here for a printable flyer.

January Minutes

Photo by Andy Scott

The Winston County Natural Resources Council met on January 18, 2018, at the U. S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs.  Present were J. D. Snoddy, Jimmy Madison, John Creed, Mike Henshaw, and Andy Scott.  The following items were discussed:

• Invasive Plant Management class to be held in Cullman on March 29.  This class will include pesticide points for persons holding a commercial pesticide license.
• Bee Keeping in Alabama - a three class series to be held beginning February 20.
• Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and a walking program are accepting applications, for more information, call the Winston County Extension Office at 489-5376.
• Mike gave overview of the three Firewise proposals that have been submitted to the Winston County Commission.
• Andy gave an update on the progress being made on the Resource Advisory Committee proposal submitted to the Forest Service by the Winston County Commission.  He said that a Coop roads agreement had recently been signed, and that only a few steps remained until the funds would be committed and road maintenance work by the commission could begin.
• J. D. gave an overview of the Alabama Barn Quilt Trail project in Winston County.  He said that the Arts Council is a partner on the project and barns are being sought by the organizers.  For more info visit this website.
• The council agreed to provide funds up to $200 to purchase supplies to complete another demonstration hog trap for landowners to check out and return.
• Andy gave an update on the pine beetle outbreak and some of the control work being conducted on the Bankhead National Forest.  Priority is being give to pine beetle spots that threaten private landowners joining Forest Service property.
• Winston County Board of Education is in the process of having State land transferred to the Winston County BOE.  The Winston County BOE has applied for a Appalachian Regional Commission grant to fund a feasibility study on how to best use the property.
• Liaison Panel meeting will be held on Thursday, March 25, at the Moulton Recreation Center from 6-8:30 pm.

Mike Henshaw, Secretary

WCNRC

January Council Meeting

The Winston County Natural Resources Council will meet at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 18, at the U. S. Forest Service office in Double Springs.  Some agenda items include vacant officer positions, the Resource Advisory Committee funds, Firewise proposals, and the demonstration hog trap.

Article in AL.COM about Feral Hog Control Tests Coming to Alabama

http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2017/12/feral_hog_poison_field_tests_c.html