Alabama Forest Winter 2012 by Alabama Forestry Association

Alabama

FORESTS IN THIS ISSUE:

Fran Whitaker: The Face of AFA for 23 Years Log a Load Meets Its 2012 Goal Coon Dog Funeral

W i nte r 2 0 1 3

Contents Alabama Forestry Association, Inc. CHRIS ISAACSON, Executive Vice President OFFICERS BARRETT B. MCCALL, Mobile, Chairman FRED L. STIMPSON, Mobile, President JOE TWARDY, PINE HILL, Secretary JEFFREY P. LEDBETTER, Andalusia, President-elect ROBERT P. SHARP, Mobile, Treasurer DISTRICT DIRECTORS Black Belt District WENDELL LINDSEY, Demopolis Capital District CLARK SAHLIE, Montgomery Delta District GRAY SKIPPER, Fulton Longleaf District ALAN JAYE, Monroeville Mountain District MARK LOWE, Eastaboga Piedmont District MARK TUGGLE, Alexander City Valley District STEPHAN TOMLINSON, Tuscumbia Vulcan District TIM THORNHILL, Hanceville Warrior District S. INGE BEEKER, Tuscaloosa Wiregrass District EARL KETCHUM, JR., Clayton ALABAMA LOGGERS COUNCIL CHRIS POTTS, LaFayette FORESTFUND STEEN TRAYLOR, Selma AT LARGE DIRECTORS DOUG BOWLING, Millbrook ERIC COOPER, Mobile RICK COZINE, Columbus, Georgia PAT HOLLEY, Columbus, Mississippi JIM KING, Tuscaloosa MASON MCGOWIN, JR., Chapman JOE W. MCNEEL, Montrose DAVID A. SCHILLE, Pennington JAMES P. SHEPARD, Auburn BEN SMITH, Phenix City ALABAMA FORESTS EDITOR SAM DUVALL Alabama Forests (USPS #025-358) is an official publication of the Alabama Forestry Association, 555 Alabama Street, Montgomery, AL 36104-4359 and is published five times a year. The AFA reserves the exclusive right to accept or reject advertising or editorial material submitted for publication. Advertising rates quoted upon request. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Ala. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Alabama Forestry Association, 555 Alabama St., Montgomery, AL 36104-4395.

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Alabama

FORESTS Communicating news and information of, about, and for the Alabama forestry community.

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FEATURES Fran Whitaker: The Face of AFA Coon Dog Funeral

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Especially for our tree farmers/landowners: Green Horizons

DEPARTMENTS From the Executive Vice President

Contributors

Deanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notebook

Log A Load Update

Forestry News & Views

Products & Services

Wildlife & Outdoors

ADVERTISERS

Index to Advertisers

Above photo Fran Whitaker, center, stands by her friend Nancy McGhee as they greet President Bush on his visit to Mobile for a fund raiser for Senator Jeff Sessions.

On the cover In this February 10, 2010 photo, Old Glory is having a great time waving her stars and stripes in the crisp air and falling snow of rural Montgomery County. Photo by Sam Duvall.

Come explore our web site! alaforestry.org 1

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From Executive Vice President

Some Notable Successes in 2012

Having weathered the worst of the downturn over the last few years, the economic recovery is finally providing some encouragement to weary and battered businesses. In a January 4th post, Forest 2 Market reports progress in forest products markets. “The housing market recovery strengthened toward the end of 2012, the result of strong residential construction, higher home prices and new, existing and pending home sales numbers that continued to rise in November.” In November, housing starts were 21.6% higher than a year earlier, new residential home sales were 15.3% higher, new home inventory was 17% lower with prices up 15%, and existing home inventory was 32% lower with prices up 10%. As a result, lumber prices have strengthened and order volumes are up compared to a year earlier. Progress is also being made by our elected leaders in Montgomery. Governor Bentley and the legislature, led by House Speaker Mike Hubbard and Senate President Pro-Tem Del Marsh have made great strides since the 2010 election in bringing greater fiscal discipline, more effective government and an improved business environment to Alabama. Since elected, the legislature has passed and the governor signed significant ethics reform legislation, the rolling A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

reserve budgeting process for the Education Trust Fund that greatly reduces the likelihood of proration and tenure reform for teachers. During the 2012 regular session, the legislature passed unemployment compensation reform (Senator Tripp Pittman/ Representative Jack Williams) as well as workers compensation reform (Representative Paul DeMarco), both of which will reduce the opportunity for abuse and lower costs for Alabama’s businesses. The legislature also partially addressed the growing unfunded liability in the state employee retirement fund by increasing retirement age and employee contribution requirements for new state employees (Senator Arthur Orr/Representative Jamie Ison). The 2012 session was also marked by some notable successes for forestry interests. Most significant was the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation and Improvement Program (ATRIP). Implemented by Governor Bentley, ATRIP will provide up to $900 million to counties for critical transportation infrastructure projects including a significant portion targeted at replacing weightrestricted or obsolete bridges. Senator Paul Bussman championed this issue in the legislature and has worked with Governor Bentley to ensure adequate bridge funding is

available. Governor Bentley and Senator Bussman deserve great credit for recognizing how important these bridges are to the forest industry and finding the funding to address this critical need! Also important to our industry was the passage of the Logging Notice Act. Although we continue to work with counties to ensure that logging notice ordinances passed at the county level are in compliance, the new law repeals permitting and bonding requirements previously enacted by many counties and authorizes only simple notice procedures. Representative Mark Tuggle (one of only two foresters serving in the legislature) and Senator Tom Whatley did an outstanding job ensuring passage of the act. Finally, Senator Phil Williams and Representative Jack Williams deserve thanks for passage of a bill codifying existing case law on trespass and providing protection for landowners against future erosion of their private property rights. As we look forward to the 2013 regular legislative session, challenges abound. The governor and the legislature face the daunting task of reforming state government

Chris Isaacson

The economic recovery is finally providing some encouragement. and bringing spending in line with projected revenues, especially for general fund agencies. If the growth of spending on medicaid and corrections continues at the current pace, those 2 agencies alone will consume 97% of the general fund budget in 5 years. That’s important to you and me (and every other property owner in Alabama) because any discussion of increasing revenue will likely include property taxes (the second largest general fund revenue source behind insurance taxes). As we bid farewell to 2012, I am thankful for your support of AFA and the progress we have made together. As we look forward to 2013, we commit to you to remain ever vigilant and continue to work tirelessly to be an effective voice of forestry! ▲ 3

Tee time is March 1-3, 2013

Golf anyone?

AFA 2013 Mid-Winter Meeting Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Destin, Florida …or maybe a sand snowman is your thing! Enjoy your favorite summer activities during the waning days of winter by attending. Participate in educational programs, as well as recreational activities. Join the fellowship and opportunities to meet new people in our industry.

Contact Liz Chambers at 334-481-2135 or lchambers@alaforestry.org.

Contributors

Frank Allen Frank Allen began his natural resources career working in the private sector training field trial competition bird dogs and managing wildlife habitat on private hunting preserves. He received a BS in wildlife sciences from Auburn University in 2000. Frank started working for the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries at Barbour Wildlife Management Area. In 2004 he transferred to James D. MartinSkyline WMA (currently approximately 60,000 acres) in Jackson County. Habitat management and performing early succession management techniques such as prescribed burning is Frankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite duty as a wildlife biologist. He resides in Scottsboro with wife, Shannon, and son, Flynn.

Don Fletcher Don Fletcher is senior staff writer with the Prattville Progress. He has more than 30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience as a newspaper reporter, mostly in Georgia. Don has won several awards, including the annual Thomson Award (while in Cordele, Ga.), several Georgia Associated Press awards (while in Cordele and Americus, Ga.) and several Alabama Press Association awards (while in Prattville). He lives in Prattville with his wife, Stephanie.

Joel Glover Joel Glover is a certified wildlife biologist and has worked for the Wildlife & Freshwater Fisheries Division for 23 years. Joel was the area biologist on the Coosa Wildlife Management Area for over 17 years. He currently serves as the regional private lands biologist for central Alabama. His expertise is in habitat management for multiple species. He has worked extensively with the Treasure Forest program and serves on the national 4H wildlife habitat evaluation program committee. Joel has authored numerous articles and has been published locally, statewide and nationally. He lives in Rockford in Coosa County with his wife and two sons.

Mitchell Marks Mitchell Marks is a wildlife biologist for the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. He earned his B.S. degree in Wildlife Management from Arkansas State University in 1985 and earned an M.S. in biology with an

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emphasis on waterfowl from Arkansas State University in 1989. He began his career with WFF in September 1989 at what was then Thomas Wildlife Management Area, but has since been renamed Freedom Hills Wildlife Management Area. His primary responsibility is managing the 31,996-acre WMA to enhance habitat for wildlife populations and to provide quality hunting experiences for all types of hunters. He also manages the Riverton Community Hunting Area (6,633 acres), the Cherokee Physically Disabled Hunting Area (240 acres) and is also the assistant district supervisor for the District I Wildlife Section. He also provides technical assistance to landowners for managing the wildlife on their property. Mitchell is an avid hunter and enjoys shooting sports as well as canoeing and kayaking.

Justin Monk Justin Monk is a wildlife biologist with the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, Wildlife Section. Justin is assigned to the Blue Spring Wildlife Management Area where he is responsible for managing approximately 23,000 acres of public hunting land. He also assists with division programs and projects to include monitoring of wildlife populations, providing technical assistance to landowners, and outreach/recruitment programs such as youth dove hunts. Justin is an avid deer and turkey hunter with a keen interest in the conservation and management of these species. He lives in Andalusia, Alabama and began his career with the division in August 2008.

David Rainer David Rainer is a public information manager/outdoor writer with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. He is currently the first vice president of the Southeastern Outdoor Press Association. Prior to his work at Conservation, David was outdoors editor of the Mobile (Ala.) Press-Register newspaper. He currently publishes a weekly column that is posted at outdooralabama.com and is distributed to outdoors-related media throughout Alabama and the nation. David also writes feature articles for Outdoor Alabama magazine.

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Dean’s Notebook

Harry Murphy’s Wisdom & Vision Live Forever Harry Murphy was a visionary forester who cofounded Resource Management ServMurphy ices. Although a forestry graduate of Penn State, he was a long-time supporter of our school. He passed away last year after a long life of achievement that changed the nature of forestry in Alabama and the region. We were recently notified that he had left a substantial endowment to the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences in his will. He specified that the endowment would be the Dean’s Enhancement Fund for Excellence and identified its priorities as support for the school’s faculty, graduate assistants, and technicians and for travel, equipment, and other costs related to teaching, research, and extension. Mr. Murphy also specified that a three-person committee comprised of a representative from the Bradley/ Murphy Forestry and Natural Resources Extension Trust, a representative of the school’s Alumni Association, and the dean provide oversight over spending from the fund’s earnings. Recently I called the first meeting of the committee, whose members are Larkin Wade, representing the Trust, A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

and Earl Ketchum, representing the Alumni Association. This generous gift will help the school excel in its mission of education, research, and extension in perpetuity. Recently I was pleased to help confer degrees to our students at the fall commencement ceremony. We graduated 9 students with a BS in wildlife, one with dual forestry and wildlife BS degrees, and three MS students. Due to the nature of our curriculum, most of our forestry BS degrees are awarded in May each year. Job placement for our 2012 forestry grads has been very strong, approaching 100%. Employers are forest products manufacturers, land managing companies, and consulting firms. A very important component in forestry education is summer professional jobs. Our students are well prepared for summer employment after their junior year. They will have received training in field forestry skills during the previous summer at the Solon Dixon Forestry and should thus be useful employees. This is an effective way to recruit high quality employees for future full-time jobs. If you are potentially interested in employing students during the 2013 summer, I advise you to contact us early in the spring. The best students are snapped

up by employers early. Please contact Dale Dickens (334 8441050) or me. For many years we have been operating the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve, a 120-acre forested tract located in Auburn. Its focus is environmental education and over 5000 K-12 school children attend its many programs each

By Dean Jim Shepard

…the endowment would be the Dean’s Enhancement Fund for Excellence year. Approximately 20,000 visitors a year walk our 5 miles of trails, bring their children to our nature-based playground, and attend a variety of programs. The school has been providing much of the resources to staff the preserve and we have over 200 members whose annual dues provide support. This October we were fortunate to receive a $50,000 grant from the city of Auburn to sustain our providing environmental education to city school children and to the citizens of Auburn and its visitors. Lastly, please mark your calendars for the school’s first annual Spring Fling and Outdoor Expo for April 5-6, 2013. This fall I met legendary Auburn football coach Pat Dye at an AFA reception at his

Crooked Oaks Hunting Preserve and Quail Hollows Gardens near Notasulga. He said he has always wanted to do something for our school and so he offered to host an event for us annually. So Friday, April 5th, there will be a scholarship fundraiser dinner and a 2-day expo featuring businesses specializing in forestry, hunting, conservation, gardening, outdoor sports, and much more. For more information about the event, including sponsorships, please contact Heather Crozier at (334) 8442791 or vannhea@auburn.edu. As always, I would love to hear from you about how our school may better serve the needs of the forestry profession. I can be reached at (334) 844-1004 or jshepard@auburn.edu. ▲ 7

Fran Whitaker The Face of AFA for 23 Years By Sam Duvall

fter 23 years of exemplary service to the AFA, Fran Whitaker retired at the end of 2012. Joe Twardy, a past president and chairman of the AFA Board (he currently serves as board secretary) acknowledged the major roll Fran has played in the associa-

For members seeking information and answers to questions at the Alabama Forestry Association office in Montgomery the last 23 years, Fran Whitaker was often the first person they would talk to if they called, or the first person they would see if they came by in person.

Fran Whitaker, shortly after she came to work at AFA. tion for almost a third of its existence. “In many ways Fran has been the voice and face of the Alabama Forestry Association. Fran has been the point of contact for so many people around the state, with her pleasant smile and ‘can do’ attitude,” Twardy said. “As a past president, I can honestly say Fran was the person behind the curtain making all of us look good.” It was June of 1989 when Fran walked through the door of what would become her second home. Soon after taking the job, she became the “go to” person for catching up on the latest news in the forestry community.

The staff back then consisted of John McMillan as EVP, Boyd Kelly as director of government affairs, Bill Jones as director of the Alabama Loggers Council, Sue Estes as accountant and receptionist, Rea Boyce as magazine editor and manager of PLT and TCW, and Jean Ash, hired a week before Fran to be the new director of communications John McMillan, Alabama’s Commissioner of Agriculture who served as EVP at the association from 1983-2005 and was Fran’s first boss, said he was very impressed with Fran’s dedication and strong work ethic. “Fran is one of the hardest working people I have ever seen and she was totally dedicated to the members,” McMillan said. “She also was never reluctant to take on big challenges. Meeting planning had been Boyd’s responsibility before Fran was hired, but she also became a professional meeting planner.” Chris Isaacson, current EVP at AFA and Fran’s last boss, acknowledged her help when he took the reins at AFA from the hands of John McMillan. “It’s hard to overstate Fran’s contribution to the association. For many of our members and friends, she has been the face of AFA. When I started with the association in 2006, Fran was my life line. She knew all the key players around the capital and, more importantly at times, she knew the gatekeepers and how to get past them,” Isaacson noted. “When she walks out the door, 23 years of institutional knowledge goes with her. To say we will miss her being here every day is a gross understatement. Fortunately for us, she’s

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Fran on her birthday at age 5.

Fran and her mom, Bessie.

only across town. All the staff have her cell number on speed dial! AFA is a stronger, more effective organization because of Fran.”

Life before AFA Fran Whitaker was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, the daughter of Percy Loper, an employee at the International Paper Co. mill there and Bessie, a stay-athome mom who doted over her daughter. “They were really sweet people. Daddy was 10-years older than Mom. He died at 87. Mom lived for 11 years after he died and died at 88,” she noted. “My daddy was a welder for IP and retired from there. So, we grew up in IP’s backyard. We were really close, so much so that when the wind blew just right, you knew there was a mill nearby.” Fran graduated from high school in Mobile in 1963. “I went to a one-year business college called Huffstetler Business College in Mobile. We went on job interviews wearing white gloves,” she recalled, with a laugh. After business school, Fran went to

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Fran and her father, Percy Loper and mother, Bessie.

work for Gordon’s Jewelers. “I started in accounts receivable. Back then everybody came in and paid their charge accounts. We processed the credit applications, called the deadbeats and collected all the money and then it was processed in Houston (Gordon’s corporate headquarters),” she said.

A Blind Date, but with a Happy Ending In 1967 Fran met soon-to-be husband, Bob Whitaker. “Bob was the proverbial blind date. A friend of mine and a friend of Bob’s were dating and they arranged our date. We went out in May of 1967 and got married in November of that same year,” she recalled. Fran kept working at Gordon’s until son, Steven, was born in 1969 then quit to stay home and care for him. Bob worked for AT&T Network Systems in a position that required the family to move from time to time. “We lived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida twice; Birmingham, Alabama; Columbus,

Fran and Bob Whitaker met on a blind date and were married shortly thereafter. Ohio. Our daughter, Karyn, was born in Columbus. Bob traveled a lot. When the kids were in school, I stayed here,” Fran recalled. In the early 1990s (1992-95) AT&T sent Bob to work in Mexico City, which was a bit of a cultural shock to his staunchly

Fran Whitaker

Although Mexico was a bit rough around the edges, Fran and her family did enjoy seeing the sights like the pyramids in Mexico.

American family. “The girls (wives of AT&T executives) weren’t really allowed to drive. We had a community chauffeur. Everything we did, we did in pairs or as a group. We’d plan where we’d play bridge once a week and we’d go get our hair done once a week. The chauffeur would pick us up and take us wherever we were going, then come and get us and take us home. Everything there was gated; you lived behind high fences,” she said. Despite security at the enclaves where they lived and worked, Bob was set upon and injured by a bandit in the parking lot at the AT&T building where he worked in Mexico City. Unsure about the quality of Mexico’s medical care, AT&T flew Bob home to have his wound attended to and sewn up.

Then There Was Politics Skeptics about Fran’s work ethic should know that even while working fulltime at AFA and part time selling jewelry at Sears in Montgomery (1995 to 2005) Fran found time to become very active in politics. “After I came to work here, I got involved in politics, I guess, because of John and Boyd. If you worked here, you lived it,” Fran said. She served two years as president of the Capital City Republi-

Fran and U.S. Senator Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa.

Fran and Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey, her good friend and a top notch political leader.

can Women, is on the Montgomery County Republican Executive Committee (9 years), and the State Republican Executive Committee (10 years). She was also a member of the Alabama Federation of Republican Women and for six years chaired the Legislative Days event, a major fund raiser for Fran Whitaker stands next to Senator Jeff Sessions (second from left). At left is former the party. AFA employee Rick Oates. John Mcmillan stands between Fran and Jean Ash on right. Asked about favorite The event was an anniversary celebration at Seaman Timber Company. politicians, Fran demurred, but admitted we got to greet and shake the hands of the having a special place in her heart for U.S. president and Karl Rove!” Senator Jeff Sessions, Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey, Fran said that Senator Sessions remains and Congresswoman Martha Roby. “very humble” and “does a lot to support “All through the years, Senator Sesthe party,” noting that when Martha Roby sions has been a strong force in Alabama. was facing a tough contest to unseat thenHe also gave me one of my most fond Congressman Bobby Bright for the 2nd memories. When President [George W.] Congressional District seat in 2010, SenaBush was scheduled to fly into Mobile to tor Sessions “flew in that last two days to do a fund raiser for Senator Sessions, he called and asked if I would be willing to be travel with Martha and spent time at her campaign headquarters the night before part of the receiving line to receive the the elections.” president when he descended from Air Fran has also enjoyed her longstanding Force One. That is the most awesome friendship with Kay Ivey who served as memory to stand on the tarmac and watch state treasurer and was elected lieutenant Air Force One circle, come in, and see governor in 2010. As a forestland owner them offload the limousines. Of course,

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Federation of Republican Women. That’s Fran, just above the second “I” in “Legislative” holding the sign. Just to Fran’s left is Kay Ivey, when she was state treasurer.

Fran (second from left) at the swearing in of the members of the Alabama Supreme Court and the other appellate courts.

herself, Kay has been active in the AFA for many years. “I met Kay not long after I came to work here, just as a member. We were actually born on the same day, October 14th, and the same year, something we didn’t know for the longest time,” she noted. Fran was with Kay on election night when it looked like her race, a very close one, would go down to the wire. “She came down and spoke to supporters for the last time that night and said we would wait until the morning to see where things stood. As she was going back upstairs to her room, AP called the election for Kay. I ran and grabbed her arm and said, ‘Kay, wait, they’re calling it for you!’ ”

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Taking on Tough Jobs To be sure, Fran’s time at AFA has not just been about handling member inquiries, setting up meetings, or helping politicians. When the Tree Farm program in Alabama hit the skids 14 years ago and the American Tree Farm System threatened to pull out of the state, John McMillan tasked Fran with helping fix Tree Farm. “When Rea [Boyce] got sick, Tree Farm really went downhill. I took over [as staff liaison] and Doug Link took over as state chairman. We turned it from a program that national threatened to pull to winning Alabama’s first National Tree Farmers of the Year Award with Barnett and Edna King. We also brought the National

Fran sits with Barnett and Edna King, Alabama’s first Tree Farmers of the Year. A great milestone representing the resurrection of Tree Farm as a robust program.

Tree Farm Convention to Alabama (October 2006 in Mobile) for the first time,” Fran recalls. Asked about her time at AFA, Fran responded: “I’ve enjoyed it. We’ve been blessed over the years with so many fine members. I’ve enjoyed getting to know people from all over the state. Most jobs wouldn’t afford you that opportunity like association work does,” Fran said. “But the relationships with our members are the most significant part of working here. I’ve always loved people. Having a job where I worked closely with so many different types of people and personalities was an opportunity and challenge I’ve loved. The daily contact with our people is what I’ll miss the most,” she added. Of course, Fran and Bob have five granddaughters to keep them busy and spry of step. They are Ashlyn, Emery, and Wren from son Steven and Haley and Emily from daughter Karyn. And lest we forget, there are elections every two years for Congress and statewide and national elections every four years. So between children, granddaughters, and the fact that elections are forever, Fran will always have plenty to keep her busy. In closing, we wish Fran, Bob, their children and grandchildren all of the best in the years to come! ▲ 11

Log A Load Makes Its 2012 Fundraising Goal!

Okay Log A Loaders, don’t break your elbows but give yourselves a big pat on the back! Although 2012 was another in a series of tough years for our favorite charity, you managed to meet your goal of raising $200,000 for the kids in 2012. Way to go! Log A Load 2012 got off to a great start when Josh Denney, Courtney White, and their other helpers put on a great event at Indian Hills Country Club in Tuscaloosa. Their annual Golf Fore Kids event raised the most money of the year for a single event, $30,500! When coupled with the annual sporting clays event at the Westervelt Lodge at Aliceville, which raised $24,500, Warrior District also won the highest overall total for the year, $55,000! Congratulations once again to Josh and his team. They have led the field for the past several years running! Coming in second was state Log A Load Chair Janet Ison’s Piedmont District which totaled out at $37,299. Janet’s Annual Steak Supper event raised $24,000. She also had a bow shoot event and a skeet shooting event to throw in to take her number to over the $37,000 mark. Of course, the overall total is what we use to gauge whether we had a good Log a Load year. By that measure, all of the participating districts stepped up to the plate and hit a home run! Despite strong headwinds of a balky economy, our volunteers still made goal!

Other Events of 2012 Included: Shannon White’s great annual sporting clays event at Selwood Farms raised $4,000 for Piedmont. Shannon apparently didn’t believe all that Mayan calendar stuff about the end of the world, because he went ahead and set the date for his 2013 sporting clays event for May 3, 2013, right after his event last year. 12

Shannon White, chairman of the Piedmont District sporting clays event at Selwood Farms is standing on top of the Peterbilt truck to the left of the exhaust pipe. To the left of Shannon is Emily Hornak of Children's Hospital while to the right of Shannon is State Log a Load Chair Janet Ison. Standing in front are most of the participants in the annual shooting event.

Log A Load for Kids District Totals for 2012

All eyes, ears, and feet, this young lab patiently waited for his master at the Piedmont Bow Shoot at Sportsman’s Outpost near Waverly, Ala. Karen Sansing, husband Glenn and daddy Chuck Reynolds also did an outstanding job with their annual Delta District golf event, raising $17,700 for the kids. Always a scrapper, Richard Quina put together another fine golf event for the Longleaf District at the Brewton Country Club and banked $23,600 for Log a Load.

District Total Raised Capital..................................................$33,809 Delta ......................................................17,700 Longleaf.................................................23,630 Mountain ..............................................10,000 Piedmont ...............................................37,299 Valley ..........................................................110 Warrior...................................................55,000 Wiregrass ...............................................21,500 Statewide.................................................1,425 Total Funds Raised in 2012 $200,473

Doing better year after year has been Terry Bussey in the Capital District. Terry’s golf event is always very well done and 2012 was no exception, raising $25,300! In addition, Lee Davis held his annual sporting clays event at Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Sports Club in Montgomery and raised another $8,400 to go into the Capital District pot. A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

Two participants in the Delta District golf tournament at Chatom proudly display the colors under the pavilion.

The guys who made it happen at Montgomery sporting clays event: L to R, Lee Davis, Ameila Davis, Alice blake, Deb Schneider, Janet Ison, and Terry Bussey. Jeff Gossett and his Piedmont crew held the 18th Annual Piedmont District Golf Tournament in Birmingham and raised $6,700. The Wiregrass District also stepped up big as Mark Byal and Allen Knight and their team did a great job for the Kids. Kicking their effort off, Angie Sherrill of Children’s Hospital put on her annual Wiregrass Trail Ride and raised about $6,000. That was followed by the First Annual Wiregrass District Dove Hunt on Perry Mobley’s beautiful Henry County property which, along with brisk shirt sales, brought Wiregrass up to $21,500. In September, Mark Lowe and a hard working Mountain District crew (mostly Mark’s fellow employees at Kronospan, LLC at Eastaboga) put together a golf event that brought in $10,181 for the district. This is the first event held in the Mountain District for the several years and Mark and his guys did a bang up job. The next to last event of the year was A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

It doesn’t get much better than this: a beautiful load of logs at the Longleaf District tournament with two beautiful ladies standing in front. They are Kerrie Benson (left) of Children’s Hospital in Birmingham and Beth Mattei of Children’s and Women’s Hospital of Mobile.

Matthew Money (right) won the gun at this year’s Capital District Golf Tournament. District Event Chairman Terry Bussey, left, presented Matthew with the winning prize. Reid Duvall, shooting in the Capital District sporting clays event in Montgomery turns the pigeon back into clay.

The sign up table inside the Sportsman’s Outpost at Waverly, Ala. for the annual bow shoot sponsored by the Auburn Forestry Club. the always outstanding Westervelt sporting clay and skeet shoot which raised $24,500 for the Warrior District. George Franklin and the whole Westervelt crew did an outstanding job, as they do every year, for the kids! The final event of 2012 was the aforementioned first annual Wiregrass District Dove Hunt in Henry County. This was a really fine event and a good one to close

Shown here are Westervelt event coordinators George Franklin (left) and John David. Speaking is CHIPS Center Director Deb Schneider. out the year. When the proceeds from the final event were tallied with Angie Sherrill’s Trail Ride and with a substantial shirt sales effort by Mark Byal, the combined total for Wiregrass came in at $21,500! Great job to all participants in this and all the other events of 2012. ▲ 13

Log A Load

Finishing first in the sporting clay/skeet event at Westervelt in 2012 was, L to R, Andy Hinson, Hubert Guthrie, Johnny Knox, and Trent Owens.

Putting on a great Mountain District event sponsored by Kronospan was, L to R, Mark Lowe, Dan Myers, Jeremy Oliver, Greg Goodwin, and Kevin Jameson.

Standing to at the Henry County Dove Hunt was, left to right, Charles Money, Emily Hornak, Angie Sherrill, Alan Peavy, Deb Schneider, Janet Ison, Russell and Morgan Johnson, and Dr. Perry Mobley.

Josh Denney, who has had the most successful Log a Load event for several years running, instructs participants at his annual golf event at Indian Hills Country Club in Tuscaloosa.

Logan Caudill, a 12-year-old from Troy won the Benelli 20gauge at the Wiregrass District Dove Hunt in Henry County. It took him four days to wipe the smile off his face.

Walter Dennis & Associates, Inc. Environment, Forestry & Wildlife Consultants • Forest Management Plans • Timber Appraisals and Sales • Wildlife Management Plans • Wetlands Determinations • Environmental Assessments (Base Line, Phase 1) • Recreation Land Assessment • Hunt Lease Adminsitration • Endangered Species Surveys • Conservation Programs Telephone: 601-446-5972 Fax: 601-445-0052 • Cell: 601-807-2168 P.O. Box 983 • Grand Bay, AL 36541

A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

Coon Dog Funeral By David Rainer, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

More than 200 people came from near and far for the journey way back into the Freedom Hills of northwest Alabama. And the dress was just as diverse—from tuxedos to camouflage and hip boots, from colorful casual clothes to the full black attire—replete with Sundaygo-to-meeting black hats of a group of “mourners.”

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Co on D o g Funeral

he funeral was obviously worthy of a dignitary, although this wasn’t your typical bigwig. This observance was in the name of White Hills The Merchant, a grand champion coon dog known as “Merch.” Merch died in the prime of his coonhunting life of a “twisted stomach,” according to his owner, Raynor Frost of Coudersport, Penn. However, it bothered Frost a great deal that his champion Treeing Walker was entombed in that frozen ground of Pennsylvania and he decided the only honor befitting Merch was burial in the Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard, located in Colbert County south of Cherokee and Tuscumbia. The cemetery came into existence in 1937 when Underwood laid his beloved coonhound, Troop, to rest. Word spread among the coon-hunting faithful and the cemetery has almost 300 coon dogs in the ground in the Freedom Hills, which first became known for the premium moonshine distilled by one H.E. Files. When the revenuers finally caught up with Files, he went to the penitentiary and his wife sold ol’ Troop to Underwood for $75. Old age finally got Troop at age 15. “When I buried Troop I had no intention of establishing a coon dog cemetery,” the late Underwood said many years ago. “I merely wanted to do something special for a special coon dog.” Of course, this cemetery is not open to just any dog or coon dog, for that matter. There are three tests that must be passed before a dog is eligible to be buried there— the owner must claim their pet is an authentic coon dog; a witness must declare the deceased is a coon dog; and a member of a local coonhunters’ association must be allowed to view the coonhound and declare it as such. In addition, a $100 fee is assessed for the perpetual care of the cemetery. The coon dogs laid to rest at the cemetery include American leopard hounds, black and tans, blueticks, English coonhounds, plot coonhounds, redbones, and treeing walkers, among others. “We have stipulations on this thing,”

said William O. Bolton, the secretary/ treasure of the Tennessee Valley Coon Hunters Association, and caretaker of the Coon Dog Cemetery. “A dog can’t run no deer, possum—nothing like that. He’s got to be a straight coon dog, and he’s got to be full hound. Couldn’t be a mixed up breed dog, a house dog.” Frost made sure Merch would pass muster by getting seven signatures avowing to the dog’s coon-hunting prowess, including James Merchant, who owns the kennel that raised five-time world champion Merchant’s Bounty, Merch’s sire. “When he was about six weeks old I could see it in his eyes—I’m a coon dog,

Top: L.O. Bishop, a local farmer and longtime supporter of the cemetery, offers the crowd a bit of the Coon Dog Graveyard’s history, mixed with a great deal of coon-hunting humor. Bottom: Raynor Frost leads the burial procession, pulling the cart with “Merch” ahead of a group of honorary pall bearer coon dogs at the Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard in northwest Alabama. Opposite top: A bona fide, certified coon dog! Opposite bottom: A monument to treeing coon dogs is erected in the middle of the Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard in the Freedom Hills of Colbert County.

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just let me get big enough to show you,” Frost said. “By the time he was eight weeks old, I took the whole litter to a creek and walked across where it was shallow and came back down to where it was deep. I walked across with my hip boots on and called the whole litter across. Only one dog came out of all those pups—Merch. “When he was about three-and-a-half months old, we showed him a coon in a cage. He went at that cage like he’d been doing it years, trying to attack that coon. …I picked him up and carried him away. When I put him back down, he went right back to that cage. When he was four months old I had him out with his grandmother, and she treed a coon on the other side of the creek. The bank was about four feet off the water and it was deep right there. I decided I wasn’t going off there and get completely soaked. I could see the coon from there. Merch bailed right off there and went completely underwater. He looked at me and then went to his grandmother. I knocked that coon down to him and from then on he was a coon dog. At six months old I was hunting him alone. I had a lot of fun with him over the years. He loved me, and I loved him.” L.O. Bishop, who served as emcee of the event, said he is amazed that the cemetery and its reputation could grow to

such an extent. “Of course, that is the most unique thing about it, that 71 years ago Mr. Underwood brought ol’ Troop out here and buried him,” said Bishop, who served the crowd some of his famous pork barbecue, which was another reason to make the journey into dem dar hills. “It evolved, and it wasn’t planned. It would have been a joke then if it had been planned. It just shows what interests people, plus the novelty of it, plus the fact that coon dogs mean a lot to a lot of people. Different things start different people’s tractors. It means a lot to their lives. It’s a lot better

than Valium, I know that. “There were a lot of people out here helping us bury this coon dog, and this fellow found us all the way from Pennsylvania.” Of course, seasoned coon hunters like Bishop always have a story or 300 to tell, and he couldn’t help but relate what happened at one funeral at the coon dog cemetery. “As you saw, we had coon dogs for pall bearers,” Bishop said with his tongue firmly planted in his cheek. “We had a funeral going on here a while back and they were going to the grave with the casket and a rabbit ran through. They dropped that casket and took off. It took us two days to get them back and finish the service.” To reach the coon dog cemetery, travel 7 miles west of Tuscumbia on U.S. Highway 72, turn left on Alabama Highway 247 and go about 12 miles. Turn right at the Freedom Hills Wildlife Management Area and follow the signs. ▲

For more information, visit www.coondog cemetery.com or the Colbert County Tourism and Convention Bureau at www.colbertcountytourism.org (phone: 800-344-0783). EDITOR’S NOTE: Some information from a story by Mitchell Marks, Wildlife Biologist at Freedom Hills Wildlife Management Area, was added to this story. All photos by David Rainer.

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PO Box 1425 • Jasper, AL 35502 www.jasperlumber.com Phone: (205) 384-9088 / Fax: (205) 384-0000 A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

SFI – 00111

To say that I’ve got some big boots to fill would be a huge understatement. Following someone who has dedicated a lifetime to the Alabama Tree Farm program is a mighty big role.

NEWS & VIEWS

From My Neck of the Woods…

18 A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

oug Link has been a pillar of commitment and dedication to the Alabama Tree Farm Committee since the dark days of almost losing the program in the mid 1990s to a successful program today. Currently, Alabama has some 3,000 certified Tree Farms representing 3.65 million acres. This is a major achievement and under Doug’s leadership, the state committee has grown as well with increased participation from private landowners, consultants, and state and industry foresters. Even though Doug is stepping down as the state committee chair, he will stay active on the state committee by being our ambassador of sorts and continue to be the face of Tree Farming in Alabama. Because of his knowledge and love of the program, he will continue to help by promoting Alabama’s Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year videos as well as other PSAs. Now, let me take a moment to introduce myself. I have been employed by the Alabama Forestry Commission for over 24 years and I currently serve as the Butler work unit manager/forester covering Bullock, Butler, Crenshaw, and Pike counties. I have been active on the state Tree Farm committee since the 1990s, most recently as southern vice chair. I have been an advocate for the Tree Farm program in Alabama and to borrow a line from someone whose name escapes me, I consider Tree Farm just one tool in my tool belt. With this one tool, I can encourage landowners to manage their land for a bounty of multiple uses. By using Tree Farm, I am afforded the opportunity to visit with the landowners, give them some advice and hopefully improve on what is already being done or maybe even give a different viewpoint on

how to go about doing something. My wife and I own a Tree Farm in northern Butler County and we love to spend our free time doing what most Tree Farmers do, and that is trying to enjoy what God has blessed us with—a deep appreciation for the land and a true love of country. During my time with the AFC, I have been blessed to meet some of the true stewards of our forestlands. Whether these landowners own 10 acres or 10,000 acres, the appreciation for the land and a love of the country was still the same. Tree Famers are story tellers. We love to tell stories about what we have done or what we have planned for the future. These stories are often told with a smile, a twinkle, a laugh, or even a tear. No matter what the story, you can tell how much someone cares about the land by listening to the intensity by which their story is told. I hope that over the next couple of years, I have the opportunity to hear a library, or for those of you who are more up-to-date, a Kindle or Netbook full of stories from Alabama Tree Farmers just like my wife and I. It is with pleasure that I look forward to the months and years to come as your state Tree Farm Committee chair. My hope is that I can live up to the traditions and standards that Doug so proudly set. With warmest regards for a new year full of good health and blessings. Until next time, I am, Paul E. Hudgins, R.F.

By Paul Hudgins Alabama Tree Farm Chairman

A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3 18

22nd Annual TREASURE Forest & Tree Farm Awards Dinner By Mike Older

he Covington County Forestry Committee held its 22nd Annual TREASURE Forest & Tree Farm Awards Dinner at the Solon Dixon Forestry Center on December 6, 2012. Six new TREASURE Forest were certified in Covington County during 2012. Five of the six families were present to receive their award certificates and signs: the Daniel Bulger family (92 acres in south Covington County), Heath Bulger family (91 acres in south Covington County), James Flounoy family (200 acres in north Covington County), John Gilmore family (113 acres in south Covington County), Larry Presley family (77

acres in northeast Covington County), David Barrow family (128 acres in central Covington County). Additionally, eight Tree Farmers were recognized for twenty-five years in the Tree Farm Program with three landowners present that were presented 25-year Tree Farm signs. They are Dr. William & Hilda Thomas family (327 acres in north central Covington County), the Solon Dixon Forestry Center (5350 acres in Covington and Escambia counties), Richard Jones family (80 acres in north central Covington County). Not present were Barbara Lewis,

William Gilder, Joe Rawls, Robert Kirby, and Stuart Wells. Albert and Jim Cravey were recognized for being the only current Covington County Tree Farm to receive the 50-Year Tree Farm Award. Dr. Roger Boyington family was recognized as Covington County Outstanding TREASURE Forest for 2012 (not pictured). Neil Dansby was recognized as the Outstanding Covington Forestry Committee Member for 2012. The nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program was presented by Marcus Ridley, USFS on the history of the Conecuh National Forest and its impact on Covington County. â&#x2013;˛

25-year Tree Farmers

Neil Dansby and Mike Older presenting sign to Dr. William and Hilda Thomas.

Mike Older presenting sign to Richard Jones (center) with Neil Dansby.

Solon Dixon Forestry Center managers Dale Pancake (holding Tree Farm sign) and Joel Martin, with Neil Dansby and Mike Older.

Alabama Tree Farm Committee State Chairman Paul Hudgins (334) 376-9114 State Coordinator Chris Erwin (334) 481-2133 Database Lisa Martin (334) 481-2120 Black Belt District Bart Adams (334) 410-0608 Capital District Rick Oates (334) 613-4305 Delta District Paul Hudgins (334) 376-9114 Longleaf District Mike Older (334) 222-0379 Mountain District Todd Langston (256) 434-4712

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Piedmont District Jim Morris (256) 357-0177 Valley District Karen Boyd (256) 637-7223 Vulcan District Jason Dockery (256) 734-0573 Warrior District Tim Browning (205) 367-8232 Wiregrass District Heather Wierzbicki (334) 855-5394

Northern Vice Chairman Tim Browning (205) 367-8232 Southern Vice Chairman Heather Wierzbicki At Large Directors: Don East (256) 396-2694 Lamar & Felicia Dewberry (256) 396-0555 Salem & Dianne Saloom (251) 867-6464

Allen Varner (334) 240-9308 Bruce Eason (334) 864-9357 Tom Carignan (334) 361-7677 Carolyn Stubbs (334) 821-0374 Tim Albritton (334) 887-4560 Charles Simon (334) 222-1125 Chris Isaacson (334) 265-8733 Jim Solvason (334) 372-3360 19

T r e e F a r m ’s G r e e n H o r i z o n s

What It Means to Be a Tree Farmer By Chris Erwin Alabama Tree Farm State Coordinator

he term tree farmer carries many connotations to individuals. To those whose experience is limited to seeing the green sign as they breeze down the interstate towards the beach, it probably is limited to a farmer that has trees on the property. To forest landowners who want the sign, it may only mean recognition for the hard work they have put into their farm. To some certified Tree Farmers it may only mean some sense of belonging to a landowner “club.” However, to those Tree Farmers who read the fine print, work on forestry planning committees, and ask pointed questions, being a Tree Farmer is serious business. Although Tree Farmers are recognized for their hard work by being awarded the sign and do belong to a “club,” I believe the most important aspect of being a Tree Farmer is their commitment to managing their property to the American Forest Foundation’s Standards of Sustainability.

There are eight standards that the foundation requires a forest landowner to meet in order to be a certified Tree Farmer. Within these eight standards there are a number of performance measures and indicators to consider. Think of these indicators as check boxes that are marked either yes, no, or not applicable. When a Tree Farm inspector meets with you to certify or recertify your property, he will ask you questions about your management and mark the appropriate boxes. You will hear the words “must” and “should.” To be certified the word “must” is a deal breaker if the answer you provide is “no.” I work with these standards all the time and am constantly learning something new about the standards and their interpretations. I will highlight some of the standards and give you something to reflect on as you walk over your property or sit and wait for that big buck to step into range.

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Air, Water, and Soil Protection STANDARD FOUR: Forest management practices maintain or enhance the environment and ecosystems, including air, water, soil and site quality. When undergoing certification, the inspecting forester will verify that you meet this standard by asking you a series of questions and by walking your property and verifying your adherence to the standard. The first performance measure is “the forest owner must meet or exceed practices prescribed by State Forestry Best Management Practices (BMPs) that are applicable to the property.” State BMPs are voluntary guidelines designed to keep you from violating federal and state laws like the Water Pollution Control Act and the Clean Water Act. They are voluntary unless you are a certified Tree Farmer. Being certified, means that you are committed to air, water and soil protection, and you prove that commitment by following BMPs. Inspecting foresters will pay close attention to BMP implementation particularly where recent forest practices have occurred. I work with landowners, foresters, and loggers daily. All of them are familiar with

American Forest Foundation’s 8 Standards of Sustainability 1 Commitment to practicing sustainable

forestry 2 Compliance with laws 3 Reforestation and afforestation 4 Air, water, and soil protection the acronym BMPs. Most of them know that it stands for Best Management Practices for Forestry. Most can tell you a few of the guidelines provided by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management and the Alabama Forestry Commission like what kind of activity can take place in a streamside management zone and types of effective stream crossings. What about using dynamite for removing beaver dams or timber harvesting in wetlands? At some point, knowledge and certainty begin to break down. I strongly recommend that you have two copies of the Alabama BMP manual, one 8.5"¥11" for your bookshelf and the other 5"¥7" copy for the glove box of your in-woods vehicle. No one expects you to have the BMPs memorized, I’d hazard a guess that the most knowledgeable person on our state

5 Fish, wildlife, and niodiversity 6 Forest aesthetics 7 Protect special sites 8 Forest product harvests and other

activities BMPs refers back to the book from time to time, but there is no reason that you don’t have these resources at your fingertips so you are not forced to rely on others for the facts. Go online to download a copy at www.forestry.state.al.us/Publications/BMP s/2007_BMP_Manual.pdf. Or, stop by your county office of the Alabama Forestry Commission for a copy. If you like, send me an email at cerwin@alaforestry.org with your name and mailing address and I will get you a copy. This commitment by the landowner and verification by a Tree Farm inspector is one way that certified Tree Farmers separate themselves from their non-certified neighbors. Make sure you let prospective timber buyers know your wood is certified sustainable! ▲

Alabama Tree Farm Committee Giveaway!

he Alabama Tree Farm Committee is giving away a Remington 11-87

Sportsman Super Mag 12 gauge just in time for turkey season! $10

Your presence is not required to participate.

A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

buys one chance and $25 buys three chances to win. For your chance at this quality gun, send a check to the Alabama Tree Farm Committee, 555 Alabama Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 before the February 22 deadline with your name and phone number. Entries received before February 22 will be entered in the drawing to take place at the Alabama Forestry Association Mid-Winter meeting on March 1-3 in Destin, Florida.

T r e e F a r m ’s G r e e n H o r i z o n s

The Forest History Society—A Valuable Resource at Your Fingertips By Chris Erwin

y job requires me to quickly track down resources for education programs, whether it’s historical context of issues affecting our industry or simply interesting photos for PowerPoint presentations. Unfortunately, the forestry community is not always on the cutting edge of technology and these resources can be difficult to find online. There are many exceptions, though, and I would like to highlight one of them that I hope you will take the time to explore and utilize. The Forest History Society, established in 1946, is a nonprofit educational institution located in Durham, North Carolina that provides oral histories, publications, images, curriculum and awards to authors and journalists. I have not had a chance to check out any of the historical recordings and am a lousy writer so I doubt I will be seeing any award forthcoming, but I have used their image archive and use many of their publications and would like to endorse one of those here. While presenting professional development on any subject to any audience (landowner, forester, logger, or teacher), I plan on having that individual’s undivided attention for the first ten to fifteen minutes. After that, I hope to at least keep them in their seat and not walking out the door for forty-five minutes. At that point everyone needs a break to digest the information, spit it out, or store it for later use. When I am trying to relay important information to an audience that is interested in the material but their nature prevents them from sitting in one place too long, I look for short inexpensive primers that I can share. 22

Alabama Tree Farm presentation ceremony 1956. The Society’s Forest Issues Series is a collection of just that. In their words they are booklets that bring historical context to today’s most pressing issues in forestry and natural resource management. I own all but two of these books including: American Forests, America’s Fires, Wood for Bioenergy, Genetically Modified Forests, America’s Forested Wetlands, Forest Pharmacy and Forest Sustainability. I also buy and give away hundreds of copies of these every year, because they are so good at delivering various perspectives on issues in about seventy-five pages. I’m a slow reader, so this works for me. I think every forest landowner, forestry professional, and student who wants a career in forestry should own, read, and share with others a copy of Douglas MacCleery’s booklet American Forests: A History of Resiliency and Recovery, revised in 2011. I work with a lot of people whose family own land and grew up blessed with

6gAlabama's first certified tree farmer, E.N. McCall of Dixonville, Alabama. McCall's tree farm was certified on April 4, 1942. Photos used with permission from the Forest History Society.

a first-hand perspective on the history of the land. But many people I work with, including myself, are one generation removed from the farm. Less than 2% of the population live on a farm, and probably have no idea what the forest looks like today, let alone what it looked like in 1920. MacCleery gives a concise history of the U.S. forest from pre-European colonization through the industrial revolution to today. The text, pictures, graphs, and bullets are perfect tools for anyone trying to tell a story about our forest to those removed from the land. Invest $10 in this resource, read it and then put it in your child’s deer stand. It is money well spent. ▲

Browse historic photos at foresthistory.org. A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

2012 Teachers’ Conservation Workshop Report Thank You Sponsors

CW was implemented in Alabama in 1970 by the Alabama Forest Products

The Alabama Forestry Foundation gratefully acknowledges the contributions and commitment made by the following individuals and organizations for promoting environmental education in Alabama at the 2012 Teachers’ Conservation Workshops:

Association, with R.S. Andrews as president and Larkin Wade of Auburn

University as the chair of the education committee. They believed that a continuous effort should be made to present to teachers and ultimately their students the benefits of forest conservation and use. Forty-two years later the workshop goals are the same and the commitment of the Alabama Forestry Foundation is just as strong.

Summary of 2012 – Sixty two teachers participated in this year’s Teachers Conservation

Advantage Forest Resources, Inc. Workshops. Thirty four attended the Alabama Forest Owners Association Tuscaloosa workshop designed for grades K-6 Alabama Forests Forever Foundation ALCO Land and Timber Company Inc. and twenty eight participated in the Auburn Mr. Alan Anthony University workshop intended for grades 7-12. Association of Consulting Segregating by grade level allowed for more Foresters appropriate presentations, activities and Bell Yarbro Investments allowed the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences at C & L Wood Products Auburn University to show off the facilities and degrees to Cedar Creek Land & Timber Mr. William Crosby high school teachers particularly interested in careers for F. Ogden MMC Properties their students. Both workshops were designed to cover forest Fincher Timber Company ecology, forest management and the forest products industry Forestar through three methods of instruction, lecture, field trip and Fulton Logging Company hands-on activities. Georgia Pacific Volunteers – These workshops require a big commitment from a number of volunHancock Forest Management teers and include planning, gathering materials, handling registration, transportation, Harrigan Lumber, LLC Jefferson County Soil and Water presenting, and leading activities. The Alabama Forestry Foundation is grateful to the Conservation Foundation, Inc. following individuals and their companies for their time and ensuring a successful J. T. Forestry workshop, (apologies to anyone overlooked): Littrell Lumber Company Ed Lewis, Rock Tenn Gee Allgood, McShan Lumber Manufacture Alabama Frances Lewis, Weyerhaeuser Grover Allgood, McShan Lumber MeadWestvaco Ed Loewenstein, Auburn University Chris Anderson, Auburn University Melala, LP Nancy Loewenstein, Auburn University Bill Baker, Westervelt Molpus Timberlands Management LLC Dick Martin, Auburn University Richard Brinker, Auburn University Mountain Lakes Chapter SAF Lane Messer, Auburn University Roger Brothers, Bibb Co. Career Tech Maryanne Murphy, Southeastern Raptor Center Dale Dickens, Auburn University Packaging Corporation of America Rick Oates, Ala. Dept. of Ag and Industries Steve Duke, Auburn University Plum Creek Rick Powell, Westervelt Scott Enebak, Auburn University Regions Anne Rilling, Longleaf Alliance J.C. Etheridge, Rock Tenn Renfroe Preservation LLC Joe Roberson, MeadWestvaco Pattie Presley-Fuller, Alabama Cooperative Resource Management Service Jim Shepard, Auburn University Extension Mark Smith, Auburn University Rock Springs Land and Timber Rhett Johnson, Longleaf Alliance David Wilkinson, Hancock Forest Management Bill Josephson, Auburn University Scotch and Gulf Lumber Sustainable Forestry Initiative Top photo: Gee Allgood with McShan Lumber leads the teachers to a harvesting operation near McShan. Bottom photo: MeadWestvaco staff has a captive audience while touring the paper mill. War Eagle Chapter SAF Westervelt Weyerhaeuser “My perceptions about managed forests and the work of timber companies was

changed.” DON MASTERSON, MONTE SANO ELEMENTARY, HUNTSVILLE

“The greatest value of the workshop for me was the Project Learning Tree activity guide and how forest management relates to careers for students after graduation.” SHERMAIN JESSIE, CALLOWAY-SMITH MIDDLE SCHOOL, DAPHNE

Evaluations – The volunteers feel strongly about providing the teachers with an opportunity for feedback which enables continuous improvement of the workshop. Teachers are given an evaluation at the end of the workshop and the data is compiled and written comments reviewed and used for improving next year’s agenda. The 2012 participants have taught for an

The Auburn class wraps up the workshop with a day at MeadWestvaco.

average of 16 years and reach a total of 3,844 students per year. Fifty-six percent of the teachers indicated that they teach in a rural community while forty-four percent teach in an urban community. Twenty-one percent claim they will use the Project Learning Tree materials they received weekly, 46% indicated monthly and 33% said the materials would be

2013 Plans – Plans are underway to host one workshop next year in Auburn on July 8-11. Teachers of all grades are welcome to attend. You can help in two ways: commit to sponsor a teacher’s attendance at $500. Also, we need help recruiting teachers. We are looking for motivated teachers

used yearly.

that don’t mind going outside and getting hot and dirty while

EVALUATIONS

TUSCALOOSA K-6

AUBURN 7-12

educators.

RATING SCALE: 1 DISAGREE TO 5 AGREE

Information, strategies, and instructional methods were helpful Workshop prepared teacher to use PLT materials in the classroom The PLT materials will help meet state academic standards

To get involved in promoting forests and forest manage-

4.9

4.7

4.6

4.7

4.6

RATING SCALE: 1 NEEDS IMPROVEMENT TO 5 EXCELLENT

Rate the facilitators Overall rating of the workshop

learning. This is a rewarding experience for professional

4.8 4.9

4.8 4.8

ment please complete the form below and send back to AFA.

For more information about the Teachers Conservation Workshop, please go to: www.alaforestry.org/tcw.

YES, count me in. I would like to help a teacher attend! Enclosed is my contribution for: $500 for one full scholarship $1,000 for two full scholarships other amount $ _______________ Name: ________________________________________Email: ________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________________ Company: ______________________________________Phone: _______________________________ Please return this to: Chris Erwin Alabama Forestry Foundation 555 Alabama Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Checks should be payable to AFF-TCW Donations to the Alabama Forestry Foundation are charitable contributions and tax deductible.

You are invited to

The Alabama Natural Resources Council’s

Outreach Symposium & Awards Banquet Friday, February 8, 2013

Come learn about new applied science related to natural resource management! And help us celebrate the achievements of awardwinning TREASURE forest owners, Tree Farm owners, and county natural resource committees! Contact Kelly Knowles at 334-844-1010 or kelly@auburn.edu To register on line: www.aces.edu/go/293

SYMPOSIUM 2-4 pm

AWARDS BANQUET 5:30-7:30 pm

• • • •

• Cocktail Reception • Dinner • Awards Presentation

Fawn Predation Issues Landowner Assistance Programs Hunting Leases, Liability & Insurance Outdoor Photography

The Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center 241 South College Street, Auburn, Alabama

Signs of Sustainability promoting sustainable forestry since 1949

Look for these signs of sustainability in the woods & on your products. A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

Forestry News & Views Boise Cascade Engineered Wood Products Being Built into One of America’s Largest Single-Family Homes

Boise Cascade Engineered Wood Products BOISE, Idaho, Oct. 23, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boise Cascade, L.L.C., headquartered in Boise, Idaho, announced selection of its ultra-strong Versa-Lam® laminated veneer lumber (LVL) for structural use in the Pensmore Estate, the energy-efficient, disaster-resistant home which will be America’s 4th-largest residence. Occupying 72,000 square feet on a mountaintop in Southwestern Missouri, Pensmore will be larger than the White House or Hearst Castle. The exterior of the 13-bedroom home resembles a French chateau with its strikingly steep 23/12 roof pitches. Pensmore is the brainchild and property of Steven T. Huff, successful software entrepreneur and chairman of TF Concrete Forming Systems, a major structural product in the home. The structure is being built on a site between Branson and Springfield, Missouri, only 90 miles from Joplin, scene of the disastrous category 5 tornado earlier this year—the worst to strike mainland U.S. since 1950. The outer structure of the French-style masterpiece was designed to withstand a tornado equal to Joplin’s disaster. The Southwest Missouri area and adjacent states are located in “Tornado Alley,” notorious for its violent storms. The structure is made largely of three ultra-strong building materials –Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs), steel beams, and Boise Cascade Versa-Lam® engineered wood beams and joists. The exterior is made using the Transform System™ from TF Concrete Forming Systems, a leader in Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) chaired by Pensmore owner Steven Huff. The Transform System com-

bines the best of the ThermoForm System of vertical ICFs and the flexibility and industrial strength of traditional concrete forms. The massive concrete structure contains millions of additional reinforcing agents, tiny “Helix” steel spirals produced by PolyTorx of Ann Arbor, Michigan. The twist-shaped fibers interconnect the concrete throughout and make the building much stronger and more durable. Ultra-strong Boise Cascade Versa-Lam® LVL roof and ceiling beams are also designed to withstand high loads. Up to 42’ long roof trusses provide the long lengths and extra strength to create the steep roof of a French chateau. “VersaLam® offers higher design values than dimension lumber, is dimensionally stable, straight and true, and manufactured at virtually ideal 10% moisture content to eliminate twisting, shrinking and splitting and deliver flatter, more perfect surfaces,” said Denny Huston, Boise Cascade Engineered Wood Products vice president of sales and marketing. “We are grateful to

be a supplier of structural products for this fantastic home, and want to thank both Steven and Joe Huff (of Huff Construction, general contractor), and our outstanding dealer, Meek’s, The Builder’s Choice, for this wonderful opportunity,” Huston said. Architects and engineers have big plans for the Pensmore Estate, which will be a living laboratory for energy efficiency and a virtual test bed for disaster-resistant technology—particularly advanced building methods in America’s tornado belt. The Pensmore Estate is an opportunity to experiment with new technologies and to showcase innovative new products. About Boise Cascade: Boise Cascade Wood Products, L.L.C., headquartered in Boise, Idaho, manufactures engineered wood products, plywood, lumber and particleboard and distributes a broad line of building materials including wood products manufactured by the company’s wood products division. For more information, visit the Boise Cascade website at www.BCewp.com. ▲

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Alabama Ag Credit Stockholders Participate in Farm International Paper Mill Credit Young Leaders Program Has New Manager Written by Don Fletcher, The Montgomery Advertiser MONTGOMERY, Ala.—Timber farmers Aaron and Lindsay Kirkland of Deatsville recently learned firsthand about the role the Farm Credit System has on credit availability for the agriculture industry, and how Wall Street and Capitol Hill are connected to the process. They were among 28 young agricultural producers selected to attend the 2012 Farm Credit Young Leaders Program. The couple, member-borrowers of Alabama Ag Credit, which is part of the Farm Credit System, met with government officials and representatives of the financial and agricultural industries. During the annual event, participants traveled to New York City, where they visited the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation and an international brokerage firm on Wall Street for a behindthe-scenes look at how the Farm Credit System brings money to rural America. The group then traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with the leadership of the Farm Credit Council and other agricultural trade organizations. They also met with officials at USDA and on Capitol Hill about the ongoing farm bill debate and other policy issues facing the agriculture industry. “We asked Farm Credit associations to select participants who are actively involved in the agriculture industry and their communities, because we want these current and future leaders to have an understanding of, and appreciation for, the role Farm Credit plays in supporting agriculture,” said Stan Ray, president of the Tenth District Farm Credit Council,

Aaron and Lindsay Kirkland recently participated in the Farm Credit Young Leaders Program on behalf of Alabama Ag Credit. They are pictured with Mike Garnett, chairman of the national Farm Credit Council Board of Directors, right. which hosted the program. “In addition, we wanted to introduce the group to our nation’s policymakers and let participants see the role they can play in shaping policies that affect farmers and ranchers.” The Kirklands own a timber farming operation in Washington County, where they both grew up. A former national champion gymnast at Hamline University, Lindsay has a Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry and is a chemist for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. Aaron was a varsity pitcher at Troy State University and played professional baseball for six years. He has a master’s degree in science education, and teaches science and robotics and coaches baseball at Marbury Middle School. For more information, contact Ashley Layson, at (334) 270-8687. ▲

About Alabama Ag Credit: Alabama Ag Credit provides land other rural property in 40 counties in southern Alabama. The financing co-op operates offices in Demopolis, Dothan, Enterprise, Loxley, Montgomery, Monroeville, Opelika, Selma, and Tuscaloosa.

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nternational Paper announced recently that Carl Gunter has been named to take over as operations manager of the company’s Prattville mill. Carl Gunter Gunter, who will assume overall leadership responsibility for the facility and its 540 employees, has managed IP’s Pensacola, Fla. Mill since 2010. He has 30 years of experience in the paper industry and has worked at International Paper mills in Red River, La.; Pineville, La.; Oswego, N.Y., as well as IP’s Riverdale mill in Selma. According to a release from the company, the new mill manager and his wife Martha will reside in the Prattville area. “My family and I are looking forward to relocating to the area and learning more about the people and the community,” said Gunter, who will take over for Don Forst. Forst, who had managed the Prattville facility since 2007, has been named director of International Paper’s Capital and Manufacturing Service division. He and his family will relocate to the Loveland, Ohio area. Forst, who was active in community initiatives while in Prattville, has been with IP more than 16 years. He worked at the Texarkana, Tex., mill prior to his assignment in Prattville and has more than 28 years of experience in the paper and pulp industry. The local mill is the second-largest employer and the largest private employer in Autauga County. It annually produces about a million tons of containerboard for corrugated packaging and shipping containers. The global company is headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., but operates mills in several countries on four different continents. ▲ 27

Forestr y News & V iews

Jackson and Birmingham Regional Receptions Brought AFA Members and Lawmakers Together for a Great Time!

of total jobs in Alabama. Recognizing he Alabama Forestry Association this significance, Jackson Mayor completed its first year of Regional Richard Long and County CommisReceptions in Jackson, Alabama on sioners Rhondel Rhone and Tyrone Thursday, November 11 at the Jackson Golf House. A significant showing of AFA Moye made it a priority to be there. It was also good to see longtime members from the surrounding area as well as local legislators made for an enjoy- AFA member and leader Dwight Harrigan at the Jackson event, along with able evening. Ten days earlier, the AFA Joe Twardy, Chip Harrigan and Ben held its next to last reception at BirmingStimpson. Altogether, there was a lot ham on November 1 at the beautiful of forestry horsepower among the Aldridge Gardens. attendees at both of these great events. The Birmingham reception featured Thank you to everyone who made it many local forestry leaders and the Dean Attending the Birmingham reception was State Senator Jabo to the Birmingham and Jackson Recepof the Alabama Senate, Senator Jabo WagWaggoner, the Senate Majority Leader. Next to Jabo is his lovely tions. We hope to see you at our next goner, who attended with his lovely wife wife Marilyn and their friend Lynne Gray. event soon! â&#x2013;˛ Marilyn. State Senator Slade Blackwell was also there. In addition to the Senators, Reps. Jack Williams and Paul DeMarco were in attendance. AFA Vulcan District Director and LP employee Tim Thornhill also attended with his lovely wife Kathy. Attending the Jackson reception were AFA members from companies like Soterra, Scotch Plywood, International Paper, as well as many others. These members along with landowners, Two pretty ladies, Francis Judy (left), wife of AFA foresters, and other associates highlighted the impact of the for- leader Max Judy, and Kathy Thornhill, wife of AFA Allen Sanderson, Paul DeMarco, and Tom Saunders at the Birmingham reception. est industry, which provides 10% Vulcan District board member Tim Thornhill.

Victoria Stimpson and Alice Lewis at the Jackson reception.

Joe Twardy (left) and Ben Stimpson.

At the Jackson Regional reception are Dwight Harrigan (left) and Bill Colvin. A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

Sykes Named WFF Director

harles “Chuck” Sykes has been named director of the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF). As director, Sykes will oversee the daily operations of the WFF which regulates hunting and fishing, manages wildlife populations, wildlife habitat, and freshwater fisheries for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR). Sykes is a native of Choctaw County in west Alabama and has been hunting and fishing since the age of six. In 1992, Sykes received his B.S. degree in Wildlife Sciences from the Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences. After graduating from Auburn, Sykes formed a natural resources consulting firm, C&S Wildlife Services, which managed thousands of acres for landowners throughout the United States. In 2001, Sykes created “The Management Advantage” television program. The show aired for 11 years on the Outdoor Channel and focused on wildlife management and habitat restoration for both game and non-game species. The program is currently being produced as an online video series. Prior to his appointment as WFF Director, Sykes served as Senior Scientist and Biological Services Manager for Environmental 360, Inc., an environmental and resource management company based in Tennessee. During his tenure with the company, Sykes was responsible for land resource management, forest sustainability services, and feral hog removal. “Chuck’s dedication to wildlife and wildlife habitat management is a perfect fit with the mission of the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division,” said N. Gunter Guy, Jr., ADCNR Commissioner. “His insight into the best practices of wildlife management will serve him well as director, and will benefit all Alabamians by helping to ensure our outdoor heritage for future generations.” For Sykes, Alabama’s diverse natural environment and abundant wildlife make it a special place to live. “This is a tremendous opportunity for me to work with everyone in our great state on behalf of our wildlife and natural resources. I look forward to it,” he said. Sykes and his wife Susan live in Wetumpka with their two cats and two dogs. Away from work, Sykes is an avid outdoorsman and assists his father with the family farm in Choctaw County. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com. ▲

A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

Frank Mozingo Linc: 185*338 Home: 251-843-5485 Cell: 334-456-2743 frank@midstartimber.com Justin Bonner Linc: 1*27565*20 Cell: 334-247-2427 justin@midstartimber.com

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Products & Services Kenworth Offers $1,000 Rebate KIRKLAND, Wash.—Kenworth Truck Company announced recently that it will extend a successful rebate program with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) through 2013. Originally introduced 11 years ago, the program offers a $1,000 rebate to OOIDA members on qualifying purchases of new Kenworth sleeper trucks. Under the program, OOIDA members have purchased more than 8,000 Kenworth trucks during that period. Eligible Kenworth trucks include the Kenworth T660, T800 and W900 with 72inch AeroCab® or 86-inch Studio AeroCab sleeper, T680 with 76-inch sleeper, and T700 with 75-inch AERODYNE® sleeper. Buyers must show their OOIDA membership card to their Kenworth dealer at time of purchase in 2013. “We appreciate the loyalty of owner-operators to The World’s Best® trucks, including the fuel-efficient, EPA SmartWay® Designated Kenworth T660, T680 and T700,” said Erik Johnson, Kenworth on-highway marketing manager. “In cooperation with OOIDA in 2013, Kenworth will offer a $1,000 rebate to owneroperators on qualifying new Kenworth truck purchases. In 2012, more than 400 OOIDA members benefited from this very successful, cooperative program.” Limit for a single customer is three qualifying Kenworth trucks per year. Other limitations apply on the Kenworth rebate program. See your Kenworth dealer for further details. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2013, OOIDA is as an advocacy group for owner-operators and independent truck drivers and currently has 150,000 members. OOIDA’s website is at www.ooida.com. Kenworth Truck Company is the manufacturer of The World’s Best® heavy and medium duty trucks. Kenworth is an industry leader in providing fuel-saving technology solutions that help increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The company’s dedication to the green fleet includes aerodynamic trucks, compressed and liquefied natural gas trucks, and medium duty diesel-electric hybrids. Kenworth is the only truck manufacturer to receive the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Air Excellence award in recognition of its environmentally friendly products. In addition, the fuel-efficient Kenworth T700 equipped with the low-emission PACCAR MX engine was named the 2011 Heavy Duty Commercial Truck of the Year by 30

the American Truck Dealers. Kenworth also received the “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Heavy Duty Truck Dealer Service, two years in a row,” according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2011-2012 Heavy Duty Truck Customer Satisfaction StudiesSM. ▲

CONTACT: Jeff Parietti, (425) 828-5196 • jparietti@paccar.com Kenworth’s Internet home page is at www.kenworth.com. Kenworth. A PACCAR Company.

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Kenworth Offers Extended Protection Plans for New 2013 PACCAR MX-13 Engine KIRKLAND, Wash.—Kenworth Truck Company is offering Extended Protection Plans for the new 2013 PACCAR MX-13 engine. The 12.9-liter PACCAR MX-13 engine is designed to meet the demands of heavy duty truck applications and to deliver industry-leading performance, reliability and fuel efficiency. The engine is available for Kenworth Class 8 models, including the Kenworth T660, T680, T700, T800 and W900. The PACCAR MX-13 engine has a standard base warranty of 2 years or 250,000 miles, whichever comes first. To meet the needs of customers, Kenworth offers a wide range of protection plan options encompassing three engine coverage categories (Comprehensive, Modified, and Major Component) in addition to Extended Engine Aftertreatment options. Overall, available extended warranty coverage options range from 3 to 7 years and from 100,000 to 700,000 miles. “The PACCAR MX-13 Extended Protection Plans helps provide excellent value and peace of mind with different options to best fit customer needs,” said Judy

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McTigue, Kenworth director of marketing and research planning. Truck purchasers have three opportunities to add extended warranty engine coverage: When ordering a new Kenworth truck with the PACCAR MX-13 engine, when registering it for warranty, and up to 18 months after the Kenworth truck is warranty-registered (mileage and engine hour limitations apply). No registration fee is required for extended engine protection added to any new Kenworth vehicle up to 12 months after purchase. A $400 registration fee is required for each extended warranty order placed from 13 months through 18 months after truck purchase. The PACCAR MX-13 utilizes the latest common rail fuel-delivery technology,

which enables injection pressures of up to 2,500 bar, significantly enhancing fuel efficiency and performance. The common rail fuel system uses controls to regulate the fuel in a central manifold, only compressing the amount of fuel mixture needed. The result is finer fuel atomization to optimized combustion, ensuring the lowest possible fuel consumption, emission and noise levels. The new PACCAR MX-13 engine offers a wide range of horsepower and torque ratings to meet customer power requirements. Kenworth customers can now specify the PACCAR MX-13 on new Kenworth truck orders placed through Kenworth dealers in the United States and Canada for delivery in 2013. ▲

For more information, contact your Kenworth dealer or www.kenworth.com.

Wildlife & Outdoors

By Joel D. Glover, Certified Wildlife Biologist, Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

How would you like a new and exciting year-round hunting opportunity that could be accommodated on your property with no added habitat requirements? Not only is the species challenging to hunt, but the population almost immediately replaces any animals that are removed. If this isn’t enough, add the adrenaline rush of hunting a “dangerous” animal. This opportunity is available right now. Thousands of landowners are more than willing to share their animals with you. “This is too good to be true,” you are probably thinking. Why would these landowners be so willing to set you up with this great opportunity? The answer is simple. They have had all the “fun” they can stand. Their wild hogs have not only destroyed once-good wildlife habitat, they have migrated onto all the neighbors’ properties and are even rooting up their yards and gravel roads. They will gladly give you every one of them! Unfortunately, many landowners have fallen into a “hog trap.” They may have heard about problems associated with having wild hogs on their property, but they thought the fun new hunting experience would outweigh the negatives. While hog hunting can be enjoyable, the fun quickly dissipates when you begin to realize the animals are destroying the habitat of many other desirable wildlife species and their numbers are out of control. The wild hog population in the United States, and especially the Southeast, has grown exponentially in the past few years. While several factors are involved, it is

Hog Trap

primarily a result of their tremendous reproductive capability. Wild hogs are capable of having three litters in 14 months. Litter sizes range from four to 14 piglets. These pigs are sexually mature at 6 months of age and begin having their own litters. Therefore, the numbers quickly go through the roof. It is no surprise the population quickly exceeds the carrying capacity of the habitat causing habitat destruction and often a migration onto adjacent properties. Many people do not understand that wild hogs are opportunistic omnivores— meaning they will eat almost anything— with a keen sense of smell. Not only do they vacuum up any available hard and soft mast, they also consume the eggs of ground-nesting birds and have been reported to kill and eat deer fawns and domestic calves. In addition, the U.S.

Department of Agriculture estimates wild hogs cause $800 million of damage to agriculture annually in the United States. With few exceptions, landowners who have hogs wish that they didn’t. Control methods can be effective in removing hogs if they are pursued aggressively and for the long haul. Active trapping is the most effective method and should be embraced by landowners who have hog problems. Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Wildlife Biologist Chris Jaworowski has worked with other wildlife damage professionals to develop a publication to assist landowners in this endeavor. “Managing Wild Pigs,” a technical guide, is available from the Berryman Institute at www.berrymaninstitute.org/publications. If you start thinking wild hogs might be a good thing for your property, don’t fall in that hog trap! ▲

Photo courtesy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Don’t fall into a

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management, and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR visit www.outdooralabama.com.

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Wild Game—the Healthy Choice By Frank Allen, Area Wildlife Biologist, Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

Much of the meat on Alabama dinner tables used to be wild game that was harvested for the family. As the cost of living continues to increase, some people find financial relief by lowering their grocery bill with the addition of nature’s bounty.

Venison is low in fat, making this venison chili a healthy addition to the family menu. Recipe available at www.outdooralabama.com.

Rabbits, quail, turkeys, doves, deer, waterfowl and squirrels are just a few examples of wild game that can be harvested, stored and prepared for meals. Abundant game, coupled with liberal hunting seasons and bag limits, allows endless opportunities for hunters to fill the freezer. Wild game offers a healthy alternative to domestic animal products because they are generally lower in fats and higher in protein, vitamins and minerals. Sound ethics demand that a hunter eats what he harvests and to do otherwise would be both unethical and a missed opportunity for a dining delight. Animals found in nature provide wholesome, nourishing food, but they should be handled and preserved carefully to retain quality. One reason Alabamians now consume more meats that are slaughtered, dressed and packaged by someone else is because we are inexperienced in preparing wild game. Freezing, curing and smoking, drying, canning, and sausage making are all viable options. When someone claims they don’t like the taste of game meat, it’s probably because they have not had correctly cared for and properly prepared wild game. Countless resources are available online to assist

hunters with game care, preservation, preparation and recipes. Even though wild game meats are generally more nutritious and safer than domestic meats, natural resource managers recommend not consuming any animal that shows signs of unusual behavior or any sign that may indicate a diseased animal. Food from the wild is not exposed to inoculants, hormones or preservatives. Some game meat is higher in dietary cholesterol than domestic meats, but the combination of lean muscle tissue, fewer calories, less saturated fat and significantly higher percentage of cholesterolreducing polyunsaturated fatty acids makes wild game meat a heart-healthy choice. Consuming the results of a successful hunting trip is a major part of the whole experience. “Bringing home the bacon” leads to a real sense of accomplishment, and making full and proper use of the meat completes the cycle that every outdoorsman should practice. The entire process of harvesting food from the natural world is not only a healthy choice for the body, but for the mind as well. ▲ For additional information, contact Frank Allen, Area Wildlife Biologist, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; frank.allen@dcnr.alabama.gov.

The entire process of harvesting food from the natural world is not only a healthy choice for the body, but for the mind as well. A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

Alligator Populations in Alabama By Justin Monk, Wildlife Biologist, Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

in April and breed in late May and early June. Females usually lay 30 to 50 eggs at a time from early June to mid-July. They will cover the eggs with whatever vegetation is available in the habitat in which

Endangered Species List by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. After 20 years of protection, their population bounced back. Even though they were removed from the Endangered Species List in 1987, the

have been found in areas where temperatures reach well below that range. They can live 70 to 100 years. Alligators are commonly mistaken with the American crocodile and caiman but they can be distinguished by their black and yellowwhite coloration and more rounded snout. The American alligator requires fresh water with an abundant food supply and marsh habitat nearby for nesting. Alligators are carnivores and feed on whatever food is available. Juveniles feed on small fish and crustaceans. Sub-adults will feed on fish, crustaceans, small mammals and birds. Adult alligators feed on fish, mammals, birds and other alligators. Cannibalism is common among alligators in areas where they are more populated. Alligators in Alabama begin courtship

they live to form a mound. These mounds are usually about 2 feet in height and 5 feet in diameter. The most common problem in Alabama pertaining to alligators is the mindset of humans who think they need to feed them. Alligators have survived for many years without help from humans. If fed by people, alligators quickly associate humans with food, which can be dangerous. Nuisance alligators have to be removed each year because of this problem. The American alligator population in Alabama has changed dramatically over the years. They were once near extinction from the 1920s to the 1940s due to over harvesting. Alabama took the lead in 1938 by passing laws to protect them. In 1967, the American alligator was placed on the

American alligator remains federally protected due to similarity in appearance to other species. Because of this stiff protection, the population of alligators in Alabama’s waterways has become so plentiful that they are frequently a nuisance. Alabama has initiated a regulated hunting season to assist with the management and population control of alligators. The alligator populations in Alabama remain healthy. ▲

Photo: Gator photo by Diana Baulk

The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) can be found in ponds, lakes, canals, rivers, swamps, and bayous, but it mostly lives in coastal marshes. Alligators prefer water that is 80° to 92°F, but adults

For more information on Alabama’s alligators, contact Justin Monk, Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, 30571 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort, AL 36527; phone 251-626-5474. To learn more about ADCNR visit www.outdooralabama.com. A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

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Index to Advertisers AFA MEETINGS/EVENTS

FORESTRY EDUCATION

Mid-Winter Meeting ▲ alaforestry.org..................................................................4

Alabama Forests Forever Foundation ▲ alaforestry.org.................Inside back cover

AGRICULTURAL LENDING

FORESTRY EQUIPMENT

Alabama Farm Credit Systems ▲ AlabamaFarmCredit.com (North Alabama), AlabamaAgCredit.com (South Alabama) ....................Inside front cover

LandMark Spatial Solutions, LLC ▲ landmarkspatialsolutions.com ......................36

AUDITORS/CERTIFIERS

Forest Fund ▲ alaforestry.org ...............................................................................6

Timber Products Inspection ▲ tpinspection.com.................................................31

LANDOWNERS (COMPANIES, INDIVIDUALS & TRUSTS)

CERTIFICATION

The Westervelt Company ▲ westervelt.com ........................................................29

SFI/Tree Farm ▲ alaforestry.org/sfi......................................................................25

LAND, TIMBER, & MINERAL MANAGEMENT

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

J.L. Meaher & Associates ▲ ..................................................................................35

Lanigan & Associates ▲ lanigancpa.com.............................................................35

LOGGING CONTRACTORS

CONSULTANTS—FORESTRY

Mid-Star Timber Harvesting, Inc. ▲ midstartimber.com.......................................29

F&W Forestry Services ▲ fwforestry.com ............................................................35 J. L. Meaher & Associates (Mobile County) ▲........................................................35 Larson & McGowin ▲ larsonmcgowin.com..........................................................30 Sizemore & Sizemore, Inc ▲ sizemore1949.com ...................................................35 Walter Dennis & Associates, Inc. .............................................................................14 EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS

Cook’s Saw Manufacturing ▲ cookssaw.com .......................................................14

INSURANCE

LOGGING EQUIPMENT

Thompson Tractor ▲ thompsontractor.com ...........................................................2 Warrior Tractor & Eqiupment ▲ warriortractor.com...............................................4 SEEDLINGS

International Forest Company ▲ interforestry.com..............................................35 Rayonier ▲ rayonier.com ....................................................................................36 SuperTree Seedlings ▲ supertreeseedlings.com ..................................................35

FOREST PRODUCT MANUFACTURERS

Cooper/T.Smith ▲ coopertsmith.com .....................................................Back Cover Jasper Lumber Company ▲ jasperlumber.com .....................................................17 The Westervelt Company ▲ westervelt.com ........................................................29

A L A B A M A F O R E S TS | W i nte r 2 0 1 3

Get your license to educate Alabama.

The Alabama Forests Forever license plate offers everyone the opportunity to contribute to forestry education. Your purchase of this tag: • Helps fund educational forestry materials and workshops for teachers, including grants for forestry education. • Promotes the importance of forestry to Alabama and its economy. • Is a tax-deductible, charitable contribution which costs only $50 more than a general tag.

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