June 13, 2005
An agreement to construct bird watching facilities at the Holy Ground
Battlefield Park will be signed between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources on
Wednesday, June 15. The event will take place at the park at 9 a.m. The
facility is poised to become a stop along the yet to be developed Black
Belt Birding Trail.
The complete route for the Black Belt Birding Trail has not been
determined, but the Corps and ADCNR have agreed to begin work on facilities
at the park. A kiosk, interpretive exhibits, map displays and an
observation deck are to be part of the birding project.
Birding is becoming a popular pastime for many, and Alabama has much to
offer with more than 400 species of birds that reside here or migrate
through the state. According to the latest figures from the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, nearly one-third of Americans age 16 and older more than
66 million photographed, fed, or observed wildlife in 2001 and spent $40
billion in association with birding activities. In Alabama, this currently
amounts to $34 million per year in visitor spending.
The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail has been in place in Baldwin and Mobile
counties for several years. A North Alabama Birding Trail consisting of 50
sites in 11 counties is set to officially open in September. The new
partnership between ADCNR and the Corps of Engineers is the beginning of
the same type of project for Central Alabama. The presence of a birding
trail will provide this growing segment of outdoor enthusiasts with a
quality wildlife experience as well as giving a significant economic boost
to Black Belt communities.
Holy Ground Battlefield Park is a day use area and offers a swimming beach,
boat launching ramp, playground, restrooms, shelters, a multi-purpose
court, a nature trail and an observation deck overlooking the scenic
Alabama River. The addition of site improvements for birdwatching will
increase recreational opportunities for the public.
Directions to Holy Ground Battlefield Park
Holy Ground Battlefield Park is located on Highway 40 east of Prairie Creek
Campground. To get to Prairie Creek Park from Montgomery, follow Highway 80
west about 25 miles; turn right on County Road 29 and follow the signs.
From Selma, follow Highway 80 east 25 miles; turn left on County Road 40
and follow the signs.
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 Parks, State
Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries.
Click here to learn more
about birding in Alabama.
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