Recently, the Forever Wild Land Trust acquired 387 acres within the city limits of Dothan, Ala., in Houston County. The tract is located along Beaver Creek and will feature recreational trails that will be developed and maintained through a partnership between the State Lands Division and the City of Dothan. Trail planning will begin this fall and carry over into early 2015. Trail construction is scheduled to begin in September 2015.

State Lands Division Director Patti Powell said her staff is excited about the addition of a recreational tract in the southeastern part of the state because it will offer thousands of area residents access to the outdoors and provide potential tourism opportunities for Dothan and the surrounding Wiregrass area.

"This was a strong nomination because of the donation of 132 acres from the City of Dothan, Wiregrass Investments and Wells Fargo," Powell said. "Additionally, the City of Dothan has offered to partner with the Forever Wild Board of Trustees and the State Lands Division to develop, build and assist in the maintenance of recreational trails on the property. The potential for future trails and trailheads added to the strength of the nomination. We look forward to working with Dothan in the management of this property."

The Forever Wild Land Trust began in 1992 with the passing of Alabama Constitutional Amendment 543. This amendment was passed by 83 percent of voters during that year's general election. The constitutional amendment provided funding for this state land acquisition program for 20 years. During the 2012 general election, Alabama voters again passed a constitutional amendment reauthorizing the funding of the Forever Wild Land Trust program for another 20 years.

During its first 21 plus years, the Forever Wild Land Trust program completed the acquisition of 112 tracts of land totaling more than 242,000 acres. These public lands are found within 26 of Alabama's 67 counties providing Alabamians and out of state visitors with opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, trail riding, wildlife viewing and other outdoor enjoyment as well as preserving the state's natural heritage. All of this acreage is public land managed as nature preserve/recreation areas, additions to wildlife management areas and additions to Alabama State Parks.

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, visitwww.outdooralabama.com.

Contact: State Lands Division
334-242-3484