Prescribed Burn Planned for Gulf State Park January 20 – February 28, 2010

A prescribed burn on 102 acres within Gulf State Park is planned for January 20 – February 28, 2010, weather permitting. The Alabama State Parks Division, in conjunction with Wildlife Solutions and the Alabama Forestry Commission, will conduct the burn as part of a multi-phase Gulf Coast longleaf pine restoration project. The Gulf State Park phase of the project is contracted through Wildlife Solutions, a resource management contractor. The burn will take place on three separate small tracts of land located off County Road 2 and adjacent to the campground.

Every effort will be made to ensure proper smoke management and safety of the surrounding areas during this period. As evidenced in past burns, the cities of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores fire departments will assist as needed.

The longleaf pine restoration project has been made possible through a habitat enhancement grant administered through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation in partnership with the Southern Company. The grant focuses on the re-establishment of longleaf pine habit within its historic range along the Gulf Coast. Longleaf pine habitat is crucial for the sustainability of various species including: bobwhite quail,whitetail deer, eastern turkey and the Bachman’s sparrow.

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.