March Council Meeting Notes

The Winston County Natural Resources Council met on March 20, 2014 at the Bankhead National Forest Ranger District office in Double Springs. Andy Baril, James Burnett, John Creed, LaVerne Matheson, Allison Cochran, and Eric Schmeckpeper attended the meeting. The following items were discussed. April 17th WCNRC Meeting. Meet at Double Springs, Bankhead District Office at 0900 for a short, 10 minute meeting. Field trip to shortleaf and longleaf pine sites on Bankhead National Forest. Allison Cochran will work with Tripp Gaskins & Jeremy McDonald to develop an agenda plan for a ½ day tour. Bankhead’s new District Ranger Dave Casey starts on March 31st. He has been invited to the April 17th WCNRC meeting to meet the Council. Brief discussion on Bankhead’s prescribed burning program. John Creed provided an update on the Tree Give Away. There was a poor turnout, despite the same level of publicity as past events. Discussion of Walker County events and taking trees to students. Also a discussion on selection and possibly getting more fruit trees and shrubs for sale as we have done in the past. James Burnett updated the Council that he is trying to get the Vinemont State Troopers helicopter pilots to come to a Firefighter Association meeting in Winston County soon. These helicopters are often used in local Search & Rescue operations. Andy Baril shared two Extension efforts related to Tourism and Economic Development. Had discussions on both the Alabama Hiking Trail and the Alabama Scenic River Trail. There was discussion on how the Council could support these efforts. It was suggested that the Alabama Hiking Trail Society might speak at one of the future Council meetings in efforts to learn more. LaVerne Matheson gave an update on the Water Commission. Additionally, Alabama Water Watch is planning a septic tank program for the area. LaVerne will keep us posted on the specifics. April 25th there will be a public meeting of the Winston County Smith Lake Advocacy Inc at 7 pm at the Traders & Farmers Bank in Arley. April 10th there will be a public meeting of the Bankhead Liaison Panel at 6 pm at the First National Bank in Double Springs.