Winston County Natural Resources Council Not Meeting in December

The Winston County Natural Resources Council will not meet in December.  We will resume our monthly meetings on Thursday, January 16th at the Bankhead National Forest office.

Alabama Water Watch Training in Double Springs

BANKHEAD NATIONAL FOREST WATER MONITORING WORKSHOP

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Jan 22,2020 - Jan 23,2020    Time: 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Alabama Water Watch, in partnership with the US Forest Service, is excited to announce the launch of a new water monitoring project in the National Forests of Alabama! Volunteer citizens will gather water chemistry and bacteriological monitoring data on select stream locations within the National Forests of Alabama.

This 2-day workshop will be held on January 22 & 23, 2020.

Day 1 - Double Springs Municipal Building (23415 Highway 195 S, Double Springs, AL 35553)

1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Day 2 - Bankhead National Forest

8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

This workshop will cover information related to the water environment, forests and watershed health, pollution, water quality standards, and data management. Workshop participants will be trained and certified in AWW Water Chemistry and Bacteriological Monitoring. During Day 2 of each workshop, participants will head outdoors to conduct monitoring practices and visit pre-selected monitoring sites on the National Forests. Participants must attend both workshop days to receive both certifications. Download or print and complete the Liability Form below and email to awwprog@auburn.edu or mail to the AWW Program Office at 559 Devall Drive, Auburn University, AL 36849. http://agwp.auburn.edu/alabamawaterwatch/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/11/USFS-AWW-Liability-Form-and-Adverse-Conditions-Statement.pdf

WCNRC November Meeting Minutes

Allison Cochran, Rollins Jolly and Mark Finley met briefly.

Zack dropped off some information and updates before running to another commitment.

Mark shared highlights from the Treasure Forest/Alabama Natural Resources Council meeting in Prattville.  They toured some interesting properties, including a longleaf straw raking operation.  He attended a session on how to have an active natural resources council at the local level.  He brought us back a guide with some great information.  It will be scanned to share with Council.  Lot of good ideas to grow and strengthen our organization and for workshop and field day planning.  Thanks to Mark for attending and sharing.    This information will be of great use for planning our 2020 Landowner Field Day, possibly at Bill Self’s and/or focusing on shortleaf pine.  Council needs to start planning that event before too long.

FAWN review – About 300 students attended FAWN and it was a success.  Zack shared thank you letters from the students.  Council can review and discuss ideas to improve FAWN in the future, if possible to meet curriculum needs if teachers give some input.  Additionally, would be good for council to discuss how to tweak the Payne Outdoor Classroom event to teach different material or target a different group of students.  There is some overlap noted between the two events.

Alabama Water Watch is hosting a training for citizens interested in conducting chemical and bacteriological water testing in the area, specifically in the Bankhead National Forest.  The training will be held at the Double Springs Municipal Building on January 22-23. Visit AWW online for more information.

Deer season is open and surveillance for Chronic Wasting Disease is on-going.  There is a freezer at the Bankhead office in Double Springs for people to place deer heads for testing.  Instructions and supplies are on site.

Zack shared several updates –

There is progress with Winston County Commission at the Mims property at Sipsey Fork and Hwy 33.  The county engineer is working on surveys and drawings at the location to improve the parking lot and emergency vehicle access and blocking the lower portion of the road to vehicular traffic to the river.  The County will include a project in their proposal to the Alabama Resources Advisory Council for funding for this project.  The County will be working with the Freshwater Landtrust and Mims family on this potential project for access to the river and for stabilizing and reducing erosion at the site.

There may be some FireWise funding available to the Cooperative Extension office for use in our county.  Council members should be thinking of ideas for FireWise projects, educational activities, materials, etc. 

We had discussion on the Rural Schools Act (in lieu of taxes) program that allows money from National Forests timber revenue to be accessed by Counties. FireWise is one title or funding mechanism of that program.  Projects funded under the other titles of that program are approved by the Alabama Resources Advisory Committee.  Council, Extension and others will work with Winston and Lawrence Counties on ideas for competitive proposals for those funds.  Project proposals are due to the Alabama Resources Advisory Committee in June this year.

We aren’t sure if the council usually meets in December.  Since there are no pressing agenda items for December, we might skip meeting that month. But, we will send an email and blog post out on whether or not there will be a December meeting.

-allison

Upcoming November Meeting

The next meeting of the Winston County Natural Resources Council will be Thursday, November 21, 9:00 am at the U.S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs. We hope you will be able to join us.

Hello Landowners,

Attached is a flyer for a free Timber Tax Seminar hosted by the Marion County Forestry Planning Committee on November 7th.  The meeting will take place at Oh Bryan’s Restaurant off of Hwy 17 here in Hamilton.  Allan Cantrell, a local CPA will be conducting the training.  He is a land owner himself and is familiar with tax information that is pertinent to landowners in our County.  We will eat prior to the event but the meal will be on your own.  Please notify me if you plan to attend for planning purposes.   

Robert Clement
Forestry Management Specialist
Alabama Forestry Commission
AL R.F. 2225
164 Smokey Bear Road
Hamilton Alabama, 35570
Phone (205) 707-1009

Bankhead Liaison Panel Meeting Scheduled for Tuesday, October 29th

The next meeting of the Bankhead Liaison Panel will be held Tuesday, October 29, at 6:00 p.m. at the First National Bank in Double Springs, Alabama.  The meeting theme is terrestrial habitat and vegetation management with topics including prescribed burning, timber sales, and herbicide treatments.  The meeting will adjourn by 7:30 p.m.  The meeting is open to the public.  Anyone interested in the management in the Bankhead National Forest is invited.  If you have any questions, please call 205-489-5111.

USDA Forest Service News Release - Campfire Restrictions and Fireworks Ban in Alabama's National Forests

News Release -
The Forest Service announced today that extreme drought conditions have prompted Forest Supervisor Cherie Hamilton to sign a fire closure order throughout Alabama’s Bankhead, Conecuh, Talladega and Tuskegee National Forests.   The closure order will restrict the public from using fire or building campfires on the national forests except those within developed recreation areas that are confined to receptacles designed for fires. Commercially available fuel stoves (camp stoves) and backpacking stoves are excluded from the restriction. The Forest Supervisor’s order also prohibits using fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices in national forests.

To protect the public and natural resources from the threat of wildfires, the following public restrictions are effective September 30, 2019 and will remain in effect until November 1, 2019:

  Bankhead, Conecuh, Talladega, and Tuskegee National Forests

1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire (including charcoal) outside of developed recreation areas.  Fires at developed recreation areas must be confined to receptacles designed for fire. 36 CFR 261.52 (a).

Exemptions to Prohibition:  Commercially available fuel stoves (camp stoves) and backpacking stoves are excluded from this restriction.

2. Violating any state law concerning burning or fires which are implemented for the purpose of preventing or restricting the spread of fires.   36 CFR 261.52(k)
3. Possessing, discharging or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device.  36 CFR 261.52(f)

Pursuant to the provisions of Title 36 C.F.R, Section 261.50 (e), the following persons are exempt from the above prohibition:

 

1. Persons with a permit specially authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State, or Local officer or member of any organized rescue or firefighting force in the official performance of their duties.

Anyone found violating any of these prohibitions might face a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization or imprisonment for not more than six months or both.

For information concerning any public restrictions and closure orders, please contact a U.S. Forest Service district office before visiting: Bankhead District (205) 489-5111, Conecuh District (334) 222-2555, Shoal Creek District (256) 463-2272; Talladega District (256) 362-2909; Oakmulgee District (205) 926-9765; and the Tuskegee District (334) 727-2652.

Fire Alert Issued for Alabama

Fire Alert Issued for Alabama

 

 

The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) has upgraded the recent Fire Danger Advisory to a statewide Fire Alert effective immediately. While under a Fire Alert, permits for outdoor burning will be restricted and issued on an individual basis at the discretion of the State Forester. Anyone who burns a field, grassland, or woodland without a burn permit may be subject to prosecution for committing a Class B misdemeanor.

This burning restriction is being issued because of the current drought situation, continued lack of precipitation, and high probability of fuel ignition. With this extremely dry weather, conditions are such that any fire can quickly spread out of control, not only resulting in damage to our forests but also threatening lives and destroying property. Over the last week, AFC wildland firefighters have responded to 182 wildfires across Alabama, burning approximately 2,608 acres. These numbers include a 470-acre fire in Talladega County, one for 391 acres in DeKalb County, and several which were over 100 acres, but they do not reflect the numerous fires suppressed by volunteer fire departments (VFDs) across the state. The local VFDs are great partners to the AFC in times of high fire occurrence.

This Fire Alert will remain in effect until rescinded by the State Forester, at which time conditions will have changed sufficiently to reduce the occurrence and frequency of wildfires. To report a wildfire, call the Alabama Forestry Commission at (800) 392-5679. For more information on the current wildfire situation in the state or any other forestry-related issues, contact your local AFC office or visit the agency website at www.forestry.alabama.gov/Pages/Fire/Totals.aspx. The Alabama Forestry Commission is the state agency committed to protecting Alabama’s invaluable forest assets as well as its citizens.

WCNRC September Meeting Minutes

Members present: Allison Cochran, Chair; Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair; Johnna Franks, Treasurer; Kerri Roberts, Secretary; Zack Brannon, Andy Baril, Jimmy Madison, Maggie Johnston, and Rollins Jolly

* Allison opened the meeting by introducing Rollins, the new Bankhead Wildlife Biologist

* Zack discussed FAWN with an agenda update.  Jeremy has the shirt order under control. All schools are attending.  There will be 8 stations as in the past.  Johnna asked for a number of kids attending so she could purchase water.  Maggie interjected that if possible, could we please find an alternative to plastic disposable water bottles.  Kerri suggested the council purchase reusable water bottles with the FAWN logo.  Jimmy will confirm the EMS walk-thru on October 7 at 9:00 am.  All that want to attend the walk-thru are invited to.

*  Zack spoke for Mark Finley about a landowner’s conference in Prattville. Asked if members knew any local citizens who would like to donate a gift to the conference for a silent auction.

* Allison gave a report about the Smith Lake Advocacy. She said Renew our Rivers was awarded conservationist of the year and the Smith Lake Clean-Up was a success with a full construction dumpster donated by Hyche Environmental.  They did have lots of Styrofoam encapsulated in plastic.  That type is getting more difficult to remove.  The Advocacy’s next meeting is Friday , October 4, at 6:00 pm at the Arley Fire House.

* Johnna gave a balance of WCNRC as $12,454.46.  That included funds from Alabama Forever for $400 and $1000 from Soil and Water Conservation District.

* Kerri reported she had been texting with Matt Brock about getting a CWD testing drop off in Winston County.  She asked if anyone had a suggestion for a central location that is covered and a deep freeze could be plugged in. Kerri also made a motion about funds for Kevin England’s Envirothon team at WCHS. The council had discussed helping him this year with $500 if he had a team go.  None opposed the motion. The funds are contingent on Mr. England registering a team for the state competition in April.

*  Allison reported on the recent Bats and Forest workshop in Cleburne County.  It was a huge success.  73 attended.  Goal was bat management education for natural resources personnel. 

* Johnna reported for AFC. T  All of Alabama is under a fire alert. Casey is working on FIA plots and they are busy putting in fire breaks and preparing for prescribed burn season with private landowners.

here was a 10 acre wild fire in Moreland earlier in the day.

* Jimmy noted Winston County EMA has a new website and it’s a work in progress so all comments are appreciated. Winstonalema.org

* North Region Tour will be on Amason Farm in Nov in Aliceville

* Alabama PARC meeting at Camp McDowell Nov1-3 and SE PARC meeting there Feb 20-22

Meeting Adjourned. No Meeting October due to FAWN. Next meeting November 21

Not pictured: Kerri Roberts, Zack Brannon

September WCNRC Meeting coming up

The next meeting of the WCNRC will be Thursday, September 19, at the U.S. Forest Service Office on Highway 33 in Double Springs. The meeting will start at 9:00 am. We hope to see you there.

August Meeting Minutes

Members Present: Allison Cochran, Chair, Mike Henshaw, Vice-Chair, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, Lauranne James, Zack Brannon, Mark Finley,  PJ Gossett, Jimmy Madison, John Creed, Blake Addison, Andy Baril. Visitor, Brad Nail

* Lauranne reported that the RC&D budget will be approved next month. Applications for grants are open now. You can apply at www.nwalrcd.org.  Grants are reimbursement type.  There is also a no-till drill available for rent in Winston County.  There will be a field day for no-till drill in Marion county Tuesday, August 20, 3:00-5:00 pm at the Marion County Extension Office.  North West RC&D quarterly meeting will be in Lauderdale county September 10.

* Zack reported on FAWN.  Dates will be October 8-9.  We have confirmations from all schools except for one.  FAWN is coming together as usual but this being Zack's first one, he is not sure what to expect.  Johnna will be getting food. Jeremy will handle t-shirts.  Many members will be helping out.  There will be a walk through October 7 at 9:00 am. The council decided there would be no additional October meeting since most of us will be together at FAWN if anything needs to be discussed. 

*  Allison stated the forest service has hired a new wildlife biologist. He should be on the job and available to assist with FAWN.  September 10 there will be a Bat Management Seminar at the Cleburn Mountain Center in Heflin.  The U.S. Forest Service has officially partnered with Alabama Water Watch for water monitoring sites. These include sites in Bankhead- specifically the inland Brushy Watershed. 

*  Allison also reported Smith Lake Advocacy will be having a Smith Lake Clean-Up day on September 12 at King Ramp.  She asked Kerri if 4-H can assist. Kerri will look into that.  All council members are encouraged to help out.

*  Andy Baril stated there will be a Hunter Education workshop in Jasper, September 9-10. There will be a PLM workshop at Bevill State on September 11.  Cullman will host a PLM workshop September 14 at the Crazy Rooster restaurant.

*  Brad Nail with the Alabama Forestry Association joined us at the end of our meeting and informed the council about their projects in NW Alabama.  They are working on Shortleaf Pine restoration and also improvement of habitat for at-risk species.

Meeting Adjourned. Next meeting Thursday, September 19. 

August Meeting This Thursday

The August meeting of the WCNRC will be Thursday, August 15, 9:00 am at the U.S. Forest Service Office in Double Springs, Alabama 35553

Native Plants Symposium 2019

The first annual Native Plants Symposium will take place at Huntsville Botanical Garden September 12-14, 2019.  For more information and registration visit this website:

http://hsvbg.org/native-plants-symposium-2019/

WCNRC July Meeting Minutes

Members Present: Allison Cochran, Chair, Mike Henshaw, Vice-Chair, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, John Creed, Zack Brannon, Jason Harris, Andy Baril. Guests: Mark Finley, Doug Chapman

* Mark Finley with the Alabama Treasure Forest Association, reported that the $770 appropriated for the Land Owner Workshop in Winston County would be available in 2020 since the WCNRC would not be able to host a workshop in 2019.  Allison thanked him for coming to the meeting and for the funds for next year and stated that our council definitely has plans to host a landowner workshop next year. Hopefully, it will be at Bill Self's property. She reminded the council that Andy Baril had volunteered to lead those efforts.  Allison also noted that we would like to work with Mark to involve more private landowners as our council could always use more private landowner members.

*  Allison noted that Sheree Hamilton is the new forest supervisor and will take over the RAC duties.  On the RAC topic, Mike Henshaw reported that there will be RAC funds available again, but not until September 2020.  Proposal applications will open June 2020. $70,000 will be appropriated for Winston County National Forest proposals. Be thinking about those now. Some that have been mentioned are forest road improvements, Caney Creek Falls improvement, Brushy Creek Public Access off the private property on 63.

*  Doug Chapman, Extension Specialist with Commercial Horticulture, joined our meeting to get our council up to speed on what is going on with Chinquapin trees. He says there may be an Alabama species that differs from the Allegheny and Ozark species. There is research going on with these trees. They are trying to locate any specimen in west Alabama. They are easiest to spot by their bloom which occurs in May/June. For more information visit the Ozark Chinquapin Foundation youtube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYLWMTTEAeTvZFQzqlT886g

*  Kerri Roberts reported this chinquapin project fits nicely into a new format within 4-H of Citizen Science and that a collaborative effort may be able to happen with 4-H'ers and Doug's research locating these rare trees. 

*  Zack Brannon informed the council that Winston County Soil and Water gave us $1000 for FAWN. He is contacting the Alabama Conservation Officers for a donation as well. No dates have been set for FAWN as of yet, but he is working on it.

*  Allison reported the Bats and Forest Workshop is upcoming in Cleburne County. It will be September 10, at the Heflin Mountain Center.

*  Andy Baril informed us that there will be a PLM meeting for Loggers and Foresters in Walker County September 11, at Bevil State. The meeting is free. There will also be a Deer Management Workshop in Bibb County August 16, at Sawmill Restaurant.

*  Allison informed all that the Turkey Federation did refund the money owed from the Fishing Derby to the council. All finances have been squared away from the Derby.

The meeting adjourned. Next meeting August 15, 9:00 a.m.

WCNRC June Meeting Minutes

WCNRC Meeting 6/20/19

Zack Brannon, Andy Baril, Andy Scott, John Creed and Allison Cochran

* Andy Baril is working on landowner pond visits.

Walker County will be hosting a forestry workshop at Bevill on 9/11; flyer forthcoming.

The ACNRC N Region Landowner Tour will be in Fayette, but no date is set yet.

Fishing Derby was a success, thanks to all that participated and made it happen.  NWTF donated $550.  $579 dollars of WCNRC funds from Winston Co Commission Firewise Ed Fund were used.  NWTF’s check for $500 wouldn’t work, so Allison paid with WCNRC fund and NWTF will pay WCNRC $500.  Allison used NWTF’s $50 cash on prizes at Wal-mart.  All receipts are sent to Johnna and NWTF chapters for purchases of food and prizes and supplies.  Forest Service spent about $1100 on fish and portable toilet.  Gateway donated some drinks which help offset costs.  We have a few leftover prizes that will be used for next year.

* Keep eyes out for cogongrass and report to AFC and ALDOT.  Bankhead found a big spot on the Forest in Black Pond and will treat this summer. Andy B is using EDmaps to report spots he is seeing which goes to Auburn.

Alabama Bat Working Group will hold a Bats and Forests workshop for natural resource professionals in Heflin on 9/10.  More info to come.

Ala Bat Working Group also held their Annual Bat Blitz in June in Hamilton and we worked closely with Marion County AFC.

Zack is already thinking about FAWN and talked to School Board, although we won’t set a date with them until school is back in session.

* Andy Scott is taking a 2 month detail to Mississippi’s National Forests and Blake Addison will be the Bankhead Acting District Ranger in that time.

Bankhead has been working in Southern Pine Beetle Mitigation/Prevention mode for the last few years. In the next few years, we will be moving into more longleaf restoration work to respond to America’s Longleaf Restoration Initiative and an increased Forest Service regional challenge for more acres of longleaf pine woodlands.

Roads on the Bankhead are in the shape they are in due to weather and a number of other factors. We are hoping road maintenance will begin this summer.

Andy shared that in last year’s herbicide site preparation and non-native invasive species contract, we lost the hardwood reserve trees on about 300 or so acres due to a combination of factors.  For this year, we are making contract changes to take corrective action.

The Slick Ford timber sale is completed and in our longleaf restoration area.  He encouraged folks to visit the area and see the quality work going on down there in Black Pond.

* Zack shared that Mike Henshaw attended the Forest Service Resource Advisory Committee meeting and funding won’t be awarded this year, but will be awarded in October 2020.  The application deadline is June 2020.  The council discussed several ideas, including trails and recreational access with partners and that we would work together in advance of the deadline to pull partners and ideas together.

* Andy Baril asked about the Recreation Working group and decisions on future direction for recreation on Bankhead with input from the stakeholders.  Andy Scott responded that essentially Bankhead will start a “Trails” NEPA project to address issues and will need partnerships to help manage.  At Caney Creek waterfall, he is expecting a full recreation site type trail and will look at other areas like Soughahogdee, Payne Creek and Sipsey Trail to designate as trails and manage.  The Houston renovation to tent camping is on the slow burner.  We have put in proposals to remove infrastructure, like bath houses, at Brushy Lake and Houston. 

There was discussion on the Alabama Trail, an effort led by the Alabama Hiking Trail Society and how it might connect with Bankhead and take pressure off of the Sipsey Wilderness.

Meeting Adjourned. Next meeting Thursday, July 18

Forest Service Accepting Applications for New Campground Concessionaire in Bankhead National Forest

Forest Service Accepting Applications for New Campground Concessionaire in

Bankhead National Forest

               

The National Forests in Alabama, Bankhead Ranger District is soliciting applications for a concession special use permit for the operation of two developed recreation sites, Clear Creek Recreation Area and Corinth Recreation Area. The Bankhead Ranger District provides a broad range of quality recreational opportunities and experiences for visitors.  Sites being offered in this prospectus are Clear Creek Recreation Area and Corinth Recreation Area, located on the 21,200-acre Lake Lewis Smith Reservoir. The prospectus can be found at https://go.usa.gov/xy3t6.  Proponents will have until Friday, August 9, 2019, to submit the application package. Applications must be received at the Forest Supervisor’s office no later than 4:30 pm CST on Friday, August 9, 2019.

 

A Granger/Thye (GT) permit will be issued to provide high-quality public service with the operation of government-owned recreation facilities located on the Bankhead Ranger District.  Operations under the new permit will begin on January 1, 2020, with recreation areas opening on March 14, 2020.  The base term of the permit will be for five (5) years, with another five (5) years to be non-competitively awarded at the discretion of the Forest Service upon satisfactory completion of the original permit.

Detailed information about this business opportunity, Forest Service concession program and policies, special use permits, application and post selection requirements are available in the prospectus.

                                                                    

WCNRC May Meeting Minutes

Members present: Allison Cochran, Chair, Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, Jeremy McDonald, Andy Scott, and guest Felicia Humphries

Allison opened the meeting reporting that the Bankhead Liason Panel had just met. Everything went well. They meet quarterly.

Mike stated he will be at the RAC meeting in Montgomery on June 7.  Andy Scott added that he may also send Shane Haskins to that meeting. Shane is Mike Cook's replacement at the Forest Service.

Jeremy reported on the Junior Ranger program at Payne Demo on May 7.  There were about 100 people including 7th graders, FFA members, and the workers.  Allison asked if next year the stations could be more challenging since these kids had been to FAWN and also came last year to Jr. Ranger. They came 2 years in a row, because teacher Kevin England requested it.

Jeremy also reported his Forestry FFA team got 2nd place at district and individually placed 5th, 8th and 12th.  He asked about paying them award money from the $400 the WCNRC approved for the team. The only expense they had used the money for was the compasses.

Allison reminded us the Fishing Derby is Saturday, June 1. All hands on deck!

Andy Baril discussed the possibility of WCNRC doing a Landowner Field Day or not. He volunteered to head up the field day. It was decided to do one, but wait until possibly next spring.

Meeting adjourned. Next meeting June 20.

Upcoming May WCNRC Meeting Reminder

We hope you can join us for our May meeting this Thursday, May 16, at the U.S. Forest Service Office at 9:00 a.m. We will be discussing highlights of last week's Junior Ranger program, and the upcoming Fishing Derby, which is June 1.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Youth Fishing Derby 2019

Forest Service Hosts Alabama Resource Advisory Committee Meeting

On June 7, 2019, the USDA Forest Service will host a meeting of the federally designated Secure Rural Schools Resource Advisory Committee (RAC). The advisory committee intent is to enhance community collaboration with federal officials who manage the National Forests in Alabama. The meeting will be held at the Forest Service office located at 2946 Chestnut Street, Montgomery, AL 36107 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

 

The Secure Rural Schools RAC provides advice and recommendations to the Forest Service on the development and implementation of special projects as authorized under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, Public Law 110-343.  Special projects can maintain infrastructure, improve the health of watersheds and ecosystems, protect communities and strengthen local economies. Alabama’s RAC consists of 15 people selected to serve on the committee by the Secretary of Agriculture.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss mission and operating guidelines, chairman responsibilities, discuss the status of current approved projects, and current Title II funding amounts and processes for project recommendation. RAC information, including the meeting summary/minutes can be found at the following website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/​main/​alabama/​workingtogether/​advisorycommittees.

 

The meeting is open to the public. The agenda will include time for people to make oral statements of three minutes or less. Individuals wishing to make an oral statement should request in writing by May 31, 2019, to be scheduled on the agenda. Anyone who would like to bring related matters to the attention of the committee may file written statements with the committee staff before or after the meeting. Written comments and requests for time to make oral comments must be sent to Lisa Kamnikar, Alabama RAC Coordinator, 2946 Chestnut Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36107; by email to lisa.kamnikar@usda.gov, or via facsimile to 334–241–8113. For more information contact Tammy Freeman Brown, Public Affairs Staff Officer, at 334-241-8144 or email tammy.freemanbrown@usda.gov.

Bankhead Liaison Panel Meeting Announcement

(Double Springs, AL)  May 8, 2019 ---- The next meeting of the Bankhead Liaison Panel will be held Tuesday, May 14th, at 6:00 p.m. at the Moulton Recreation Center, HA Alexander Park, 13550 Court Street, Moulton, Alabama.  Meeting topics will include an update on the proposed 2019 Southern Pine Beetle Mitigation and Restoration project, Recreation and Roads program updates, Eastern Spotted Skunk project and Wildlife Monitoring program updates, and America’s Longleaf Million Acre Challenge.   The meeting will adjourn by 8:00 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.

-FS-

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

FSA Outreach Flyer

WCNRC April Meeting Minutes

Members Present: Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, Jason Harris, Jimmy Madison, John Creed, Johnna Franks, Treasurer, and Guest Danny Cain.

* Mike opened the meeting discussing the possible Land Owner Field Day. He said Wade Hill with NRCS had contacted the council to ask about a joint meeting at Bill Self's farm with the Council's committee and some of his state forestry contacts. It was discussed to do this at the May meeting. However, Bill Self will be out of town that day. Mike wants to table the Land Owner Field Day topic until he and Allison can be able to attend. He will get with Allison to see about a possible date for that to happen.

* Kerri updated the council about what 4-H has been doing. She took a group from Winston County High School to the Solon Dixon Forestry Education Center in Andalusia last weekend. They had a great time and learned a ton about forestry. This was a joint trip with teacher Kevin England. The 4-H Shotgun team just competed at state as well as the 4-H Archery team.

* Johnna reported the balance is $12,778.85. She had written one check since last time to purchase the compasses for the FFA forestry competition.

* Andy Baril said the Winston County FFA forestry competition had been Thursday, April 11, at City Lake in Haleyville. He said Jeremy McDonald's daughter Makayla had the highest score.

* Andy also reminded us that the Fishing Derby is June 1.  Lawrence County Natural Resources Council will be coming to do a booth. Johnna said we will need to be thinking about the purchases for the derby as she will be out of town some beforehand. She may leave Allison some checks for purchases.

* Jimmy Madison gave us a report on the possibility of severe weather for this afternoon and evening. He said to remain weather alert.

* Danny Cain, Interim County Extension Coordinator for Winston County, reported about the federal disaster funds that were appropriated for Winston County February floods.

Meeting Adjourned. Next meeting May 16.

WCNRC April Meeting

The next Winston County Natural Resources Council meeting will be Thursday, April 18, 9:00 am at the U.S. Forestry Service Office in Double Springs.

March WCNRC Meeting Minutes

Meeting Date 3/21/2019. Members in attendance: Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, Andy Baril, Jeremy McDonald, Jimmy Madison

* Mike reported there is a storm spotter class tonight, March 21,  in Moulton.

* Jimmy announced the Smith Lake clean up will be at Clear Creek on April 10-11. Mike added they are still looking for more boats to help.

* Mike reminded us the Fishing Derby is June 1.  We want Lawrence County Natural Resources Council to be sure to attend. Kerri said she would let Donna Shanklin know the date.

* Mike said the RAC committee will be meeting in Montgomery on April 30. He will be attending.

* The Landowner Field Day was briefly discussed.  Mike will still coordinate with Bill Self to set up a pre-trip visit.  He wants Allison to be sure she can attend.  Jimmy said the Natural Bridge Meeting room should be a good location for the indoor portion.

* Jeremy announced the FFA Forestry competition will be on April 11 at Rabbit Town. The council approved to fund up to $400 for awards, equipment, travel or food for the event. This amount was more than previous years but Kerri had noted that the 4-H Shotgun Team would not be requesting money from the council this year because they had received Firewise funds.

* Jeremy added the Junior Ranger program at Payne Demo will be May 7 with rain date of May 8. The council approved to pay up to $150 for port o potties for the event.

* Kerri brought up discussion about Kevin England, a teacher at WCHS. He had contacted Allison and requested support for an Envirothon team to attend the state competition. The original number we heard needed was $730. Kerri contacted Kevin to get details prior to this meeting. He said the actual number was more like $950 and since he hadn’t received any funding support from any organization, they were not going to attend this year. The council decided the Envirothon team would be a worthy recipient of support and that they would support a team with up to $500 for 2020 if they decide to go next year.  Kerri will let Kevin know that news.

* Meeting adjourned. Next meeting April 18.

Next WCNRC Meeting

Reminder: March Winston County Natural Resources Council Meeting is Thursday, March 21, 9:00 am at the US Forest Service in Double Springs.

Renew Our Rivers Winston County Smith Lake Clean-Up

RENEW OUR RIVERS Smith Lake Clean-up Winston County Smith Lake Advocacy, Inc.,

Bankhead National Forest and Alabama Power Company need your help for a RENEW OUR RIVERS Lake Cleanup on Smith Lake April 10 & 11, 2019 Cleanup begins at 8:30 am Clear Creek Recreation Area Boat Ramp, Bankhead National Forest.

Volunteers with boats are needed to remove loose trash from Smith Lake sloughs and shoreline! Other volunteers not using their own boats may crew on the Alabama Power Company Renew Our Rivers boats and the Winston County Smith Lake Advocacy boat. Trash bags will be provided at the Clear Creek Recreation Area boat ramp at 8:30 am on 4/10.

Styrofoam, other large trash such as boat house parts, logs, and household garbage will NOT be accepted. This cleanup is only for small debris and loose trash that will fit into the collection bags.

Lunch will be provided. Bring drinking water, life jacket, gloves, sunscreen, insect repellent and a chair for lunch.

Contact Jim Eason 256-590-2388 or Allison Cochran 205-489-5111 for more information. To learn more about Winston County Smith Lake Advocacy, email wcslainc@gmail.com

Learn & Burn Interactive Field Day

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February WCNRC Meeting Minutes

Members present: Allison Cochran, Chairman, Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair, Johnna Franks, Treasurer, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, Andy Scott, Matt Brock, Jimmy Madison, John Creed, Casey Hammock, Travis McDonald, Lauranne James, Andy Baril, Kerry Clark

* Allison opened the meeting then stated that Travis would be leaving to be a Fish Biologist in Cherokee Tennessee. She stated he will be greatly missed and hard to replace. 

* Allison also reported the ANRC funding for putting on a landowner workshop is almost $1000. She asked the group for suggestions on landowner topics. Shortleaf pine, invasive species, water quality and CWD were discussed as possible topics. Mike said he will follow up with Bill Self to try and schedule another tour as a possible location for the meeting. Lauranne suggested that RC&D and Wade Hill with NRCS be involved in the landowner meeting. 

* Johnna gave the treasurer balance which is $13, 012.80

* Kerri and Mike reported about the new Americorp Vista, Sierra Newton, who has been hired by the Cullman Agriplex to work in Winston County.  Sierra will work on raised bed gardens that are already established in Winston County, a Farm Tour in June, and Farmer’s Market promotion. Allison stated we should invite her to upcoming WCNRC meetings. 

*  Lauranne reported that RC&D is trying to help ALFA start a young farmer’s group in Winston County.

*  Matt reported on CWD. He has given 3 talks about it in the last week. He will be glad to do a presentation at a landowner’s meeting in Winston County. For next hunting season we probably need a sample testing drop off location in Winston County.

*  Andy Baril noted that the Lawrence County Natural Resources Council (LCNRC) met on Feb. 19 and will meet again on March 19. They are trying to start up. Allison reiterated that our council needs to assist them. She said someone from the Forest Service will attend their meetings regularly. Andy also stated that Lawrence County FFA Forestry competition will be in April.

*  Andy Baril also noted there will be a private pesticide applicator meeting in Winfield on Feb. 27. 

*  Allison reminded us of the Fishing Derby date which is June 1. We will invite the LCNRC. Also, the NWTF is having a banquet on March 1 in Double Springs.

* Travis McDonald reported that Eastern Spotted Skunks have been found in the Bankhead. There is a researcher from Georgia doing research on their habitats.

* The meeting concluded with Andy Scott presenting the recently retired, Mike Henshaw,with a certificate of appreciation. The council also had cake to celebrate Travis’ new job. The council will greatly miss Travis and all his hard work in Winston County.

* Meeting adjourned. Next meeting March 21. 

February Meeting

Andy Recognizes Mike with Certificate

Chronic Wasting Disease Publication

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System has published a new publication titled Chronic Wasting Disease.  It is available for download at this link.

WCNRC Meeting Minutes

January 2019

Members Present: Mike Henshaw, Vice Chair, Kerri Roberts, Secretary, Peter Gossett, Laurann James, John Creed, Casey Hammock, Andy Baril and guest Robert with AFC.

·      *    Mike gave an update on CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) test sites in NW Alabama.

·      *    Andy Baril also gave info on CWD. He said there are freezers in Lamar, Marion, Fayette, Franklin, Lauderdale, and Colbert counties for hunters to drop off deer brain specimens to be tested. It was discussed if Winston County needs one. The council thought perhaps next hunting season we could approach Matt Brock about the need for one.

·      *    Andy added that Matt Brock will be hosting a CWD workshop in Florence on February 12. It will be at the North Alabama Medical Center Meeting room at 6 pm.

·      *    Mike reported that Lawrence County is forming a natural resources council. They had their first meeting already. The next one is February 19 in Moulton. Mike suggested the WCNRC support and mentor them.  He suggested we offer to purchase food for a program. Members agreed.

·       *   Laurann suggested that AMR (Alabama Mountain and Rivers) would be a good member for the Lawrence County Council.

·        *  Kerri updated the council about the bus transportation for 6^th graders from Double Springs, Addison and Meek schools. It was decided at the November meeting to provide bus funds equal to that which would have been spent for FAWN since they did not get to attend FAWN this year. Double Springs and Addison have both already used their funds to go on field trips. Addison went to the Princess Theater.

·       *   Mike informed us of an upcoming mushroom growing workshop in February at Camp McDowell.

·        *  Mike also gave an update on the possible Land Owner clinic at Bill Self’s property. He is waiting on Allison to be able to go scope out the location before scheduling the clinic.

·        *  Mike announced the Winston County Commission has approved FireWise funds, of which $5000 is allocated for the Fishing Derby and FAWN. He is also staying on the Alabama RAC (Resource Allocation Committee) after retiring and hopes to secure some more of those funds for Winston County.

·       *   Robert reported there will be a BMP Landowner Clinic February 12 in Hamilton.

·       *     Meeting Adjourned. Next meeting February 21.

January Council Meeting

The January meeting of the Winston County Natural Resources Council will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 17, at the Alabama Forestry Commission Office in Double Springs.  The office is located at 225 Coats Street.  Note: this is a change from our regular meeting location due to the partial shutdown of the federal government, which has closed the U. S. Forest Service Office. 

Deer CWD Sampling Jan. 4-6 in Hackleburg, Jan. 12-13 in Waterloo

https://www.outdooralabama.com/node/2504