Reviewed by: Mary Helene Hall
Talladega National Forest expansion bill passes key U.S. Senate committee
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Legislation to add approximately 50,000 acres to the Talladega National Forest’s proclamation boundary across three East Alabama counties passed the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.
Sponsored by Senator Tommy Tuberville, the Talladega National Forest Expansion Act was included in a larger package of US Forest Service (USFS) lands bills on Tuesday, Oct. 21.
According to an Alabama Trails Foundation news release, the proposed legislation would do the following:
“A key benefit of the Act is the potential to transform the Pinhoti Trail. The Pinhoti, which is Alabama’s premier long-distance hiking trail, relies on the acquisition of land by the Forest Service from willing sellers to complete and protect several sections of the southern trail that currently include roadwalks.
“The expanded boundary provides the necessary framework for the USFS to pursue these strategic acquisitions from willing sellers, ensuring a more cohesive, sustainable and enjoyable experience for hikers.”
Big win for the Talladega National Forest
Paul DeMarco, president of the Alabama Trails Foundation and an advocate for Alabama trails, celebrated the passage of the bill in the key committee:
“This is a major win for Alabama’s outdoor community and a testament to the importance of public-private partnerships in conservation. Senator Tuberville’s legislation lays the groundwork for the future protection and expansion of trails like the Pinhoti.”
Next up for the Talladega National Forest Expansion Act? A full vote of the U.S. Senate.
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