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Forever Wild Land Trust Program Renewed
On Tuesday, November 6, 2012, Alabamians cast an overwhelming vote of confidence in the State’s Forever Wild Program by approving the continuation of its funding. Three out of four individuals who cast votes expressed their desire to see the program move forward by securing more public land for public use.
Forever Wild is Alabama’s Land Trust Program. The program secures special lands for public outdoor use for all Alabamians, forever. These lands are secured with funds received from the interest the state earns from royalties on its natural gas extracted off the state’s gulf coast. No tax dollars are used for securing these properties and the program has no negative effects on the state’s general fund. Many refer to this as “conservation currency,” as the state takes money received from one natural resource (natural gas) and invests it into another natural resource, Forever Wild properties.
With less than 4 percent of Alabama’s land mass secured in the program, the least of any neighboring Southern state, the citizens of Alabama sent a strong message of approval for the program. As a result of the vote, properties used for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, mountain bike riding, camping, etc., will continue to be set aside for future generations of Alabamians to enjoy.
Discounted Lodging for Hunters
Several Alabama State Parks are offering a “Hunter’s Special” package from November 2012 through February 2013 for hunters using Alabama’s wildlife management areas (WMAs). The special lodging room rate will be $49.95, and is offered at Cheaha (256-488-5115), Lakepoint Resort (334-687-8011), Joe Wheeler (256-247-5461), DeSoto (256-845-5380) and Lake Guntersville (256-571-5440) State Parks. The discounts are for hunters on lodge rooms and also at the cottages, chalets and cabins at the designated parks. Discounted camping for hunters is being offered at Florala (334-858-6425) and Wind Creek (256-329-0845) State Parks. Please contact those parks directly for specific rate information.
This discount is exclusively for hunters and spouses only. Hunters must show their hunting license and WMA permit in order to receive the discount. For more information or reservation assistance, call 1-800-ALA-PARK or visit www.alapark.com.
Guntersville Civil War Christmas Ball
Take a step back in time on December 1, 2012, at the Lake Guntersville State Park Lodge for a Civil War Christmas Ball. The event begins at 7 p.m. and will feature live 1860s-period music and renowned photographer Marty Clark. Period attire is encouraged but not required.
A limited amount of tickets will be sold. Couples, individuals and children are all welcome. Prices are $35 per couple, $20 for individuals and $8 for children 12 and under. Refreshments will be provided.
The ball is sponsored by John Rayburn SCV Camp #452 and The Cassie Fennel OCR Ladies of Marshall County. For tickets and more information, call 256-317-7579 or email cory@guntersvillestatepark.com.
For lodging reservations, call the park office at 800-548-4553.
Joe Wheeler Parade of Lights
The annual Parade of Lights will take place December 8, 2012, at Joe Wheeler State Park Marina. Boats of all sizes will be decorated with beautiful lights reflecting off the waters of First Creek. The public is invited to come and view all the boats. Santa will also be at the lodge lobby following the parade.
Daniella’s in the Park Restaurant will be serving a traditional holiday buffet. Dine while you watch the parade, or stay in one of the newly renovated guest rooms and watch from your own private balcony.
If you would like to participate in the parade with your boat, call the park marina at 256-247-6971 or email. Call the park office for reservations or more information at 800-544-5639.
UPCOMING EVENTS
12/01/2012
Cheaha State Park will host Santa from 8 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 1. Bring your camera and take all the photos you want. Eat lunch in the restaurant, which is decorated for the holidays. At 2 p.m. a puppet show is scheduled. Visit Cheaha—it’s a mountain of fun! For information, call Mary at (256) 488-5115 or email Cheaha.event@dcnr.alabama.gov.
12/08/12
4th Annual Nicholas Wilson Memorial Taskha TRA
Lake Lurleen State Park hosts the annual 25K/50K/4-mile Run sponsored by the Tuscaloosa Track Club. Registration and event details are online at www.tashka50k.com or call the park at (205) 339-1558 for more information and campground reservations.
12/11/2012
Cheaha Senior Social Day
Cheaha State Park invites senior citizens to enjoy a day in the park. Come out from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and sing Christmas songs at the wedding chapel and eat a specially-priced buffet. Musicians are welcome. Contact Mary at (256) 488-5115 or email Cheaha.events@dcnr.alabama.gov if you would like to volunteer to help or for more information.
12/15/2012 and 12/22/2012
ABA Division 12 and C&R Bass Series Events. Call the park marina at (334) 687-6026 for more information on times and weigh-in for these fishing events.
For a complete list of Alabama State Parks’ events visit the Events Calendar.
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Thanksgiving Buffets
Don’t want to cook this year? Dine in one of the Alabama State Parks restaurants for Thanksgiving. Buffets will be served at Cheaha, Lakepoint, Lake Guntersville, Joe Wheeler and DeSoto.
Frank Jackson
Scarecrows
There’s still a few days to enjoy the Scarecrows in the Park. Frank Jackson State Park near Opp, Ala., is hosting Scarecrows in the Park through the end of November. The event is sponsored by the Lake Frank Jackson Trailmasters. Creatively made scarecrows by individuals, businesses and school groups will be on display throughout the park. This annual event is fun for all ages. For more information, call the park office at (334) 493-6988 or email.
Lakepoint
Fisherman’s Special
Stay overnight at Lakepoint and ask for the “Fisherman’s Special.” This rate of $79.95 plus tax is for a room with two queen beds and is good for one or two people. That is a savings of over $16. Available for a limited time—call (334) 687-8011 for reservations.
Outdoor Alabama
Sweepstakes
Did you know that the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is giving away two $300 Alabama State Parks gift cards as part of its Outdoor Alabama Sweepstakes? Entry into the contest is automatic with the purchase of an Alabama hunting, fishing, or wildlife heritage license. However, no purchase is necessary to enter the contest. The official rules, complete list of prizes and entry instructions are available here.
Give Us Your
Feedback
To make sure we are providing the best possible visitor experience, we’re asking for feedback on your park visit. Online surveys are available for day-use visits, dining and overnight stays.
Whether you camped or stayed in one of the cabins or hotels, please tell us about your stay.
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Outdoor Alabama — Something for Everyone
Whether you enjoy birdwatching, bass fishing, camping, hiking, hunting, or just reading about our state’s natural resources, you’ll find it in Outdoor Alabama magazine. Each subscription also includes the beautiful calendar issue in December and the photo contest issue in February.
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November 2012 Alabama State Parks eNewsletter
Official eNewsletter of Alabama State Parks 1-800-ALAPARK (1-800-252-7275)
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