3 things to know about Alabama Wildlife Federation’s Westervelt Forest

Representatives of the Alabama Wildlife Federation (AWF) and The Westervelt Company gathered northwest of Montgomery in Millbrook, Alabama on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, to unveil “Westervelt Forest.” Read more to find out what this brand new wildlife habitat and preserve has to offer.

1. Alabama Wildlife Federation Keeps Alabama Beautiful

Westervelt Forest’s unique location gives AWF the opportunity to assist private landowners across Alabama, and continue their 20-year mission of preserving Alabama’s wildlife. AWF aids Land Stewardship Biologists to identify and implement forest and wildlife management activities that improve the quality of life in a variety of habitats and forests. This yields the product for people’s everyday use and provides fantastic scenery and clean water.

“We look forward to sharing Westervelt Forest with youth and school groups that visit our Alabama Nature Center facility, with landowners looking to learn more about practices they can employ on their properties, and helping advance the skills and knowledge of natural resource professionals.”

Tim L. Gothard, AWF Executive Director

2. Plans for developing Westervelt Forest

Did you know that the Alabama Wildlife Federation, established in 1935, is the state’s oldest and largest citizens’ conservation organization? Here’s what to know about their conservation of the Westervelt Forest moving forward.

• Over 70 acres, this forest previously was a working farm but was bought by AWF in 2019.
• Westervelt Forest will include a working forest and wildlife demonstration area.
• AWF anticipates 50,000+ annual visitors to its state headquarters and Alabama Nature Center Facility.
• The forest will host educational programs for landowners, natural resource professionals, students, and the general public.
• Find out more about Westervelt Forest: Website | Facebook | Instagram

3. Looking forward in 2023

Before the close of the year, Westervelt Forest staff began to treat non-native invasive grasses and trees in addition to plating longleaf pine, loblolly pine, and hardwood trees have been planted. The shared goal for the property is to rehabilitate the forest and the wildlife that thrives there, document the story and provide a variety of educational tools for various populations.

In 2023 AWF will establish native warm-season grass and wildflower habitats, timber stands improvement practices for existing pine, and implement prescribed burnings.

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