A coalition of forestry and conservation groups host “Women in the Woods” in Baldwin County
Last Wednesday, October 23, through Thursday, October 24, the Alabama Forestry Association (AFA), the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC), the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), and the Alabama Association of Resource Conservation & Development Councils (RC&D) hosted around 40 women in government to participate in outdoor events in Baldwin County. According to a press release by the Alabama Forestry Association, “this year’s theme was “Working Together” to showcase how the different organizations work together across the state to keep Alabama growing and thriving in its communities, environment and economy.” “Women in the Woods provides invaluable educational opportunities that empower women in state government to gain a deeper understanding of industries like forestry, conservation, and wildfire management,” said Representative Leigh Hulsey. “This event strengthens our ability to support these essential fields, which play a vital role in serving, protecting and growing our state.” The first day, ladies participated in a tour of Week’s Bay in Baldwin County. The tour was hosted by DCNR and focused on the different ecosystems south Alabama is fortunate to have. The AFC discussed their land management plan and their conservation efforts by using controlled burns at the Gulf State Park with the group while touring the Park. The second day, the participants were trained in Firearms Safety 101 hosted by DCNR at the City of Orange Beach Shooting Range. The ladies were instructed by highly trained rangers on proper gun safety and techniques. This allowed DCNR to showcase one of the many programs available to Alabama’s citizens that promote outdoor recreation and appreciation of the state’s abundant natural resources. “DCNR is thankful for our great working relationship with the Alabama Forestry Commission and the Alabama Forestry Association,” said Charlanna Skaggs, General Counsel for DCNR. “We appreciated the op