Press Release

Alabama’s Aquatic Education Program Receives Boost

August 31, 2004

The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division announces that Maurice Jackson has transferred from the Marion Fish Hatchery to the Northport office to conduct aquatic education programs primarily in central Alabama. The number of youth living in the Tuscaloosa and Birmingham areas and the fishing opportunities for beginning anglers at both Lake Lurleen State Park and Oak Mountain State Park are two reasons why the aquatic education staff needed to be increased in west central Alabama.

Kids’ fishing events are the most visible aquatic education program for the Division. A partnership program with municipalities, government agencies and civic organizations, kids’ fishing events allow kids a chance to try fishing in special stocked areas. Also, the Division has additional aquatic education programs for all Alabama citizens to learn about fishing and the aquatic environment.

The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division offers fishing classes to educate both youth and adults. Fishing classes teach novice anglers fish identification and fish habits, in addition to knot tying, casting and various fishing techniques. Sportfishing is a fun way to learn about the complexities and uniqueness of Alabama’s aquatic environment.

Alabama students and citizens enjoy learning about the aquatic resources.  Alabama has over 300 species of freshwater fish, second in number only to Tennessee. One of the most popular programs discusses the different fish species that live in the five geographic regions of the state. This program especially appeals to fourth grade students who are studying Alabama history.

Jackson comes to Northport after serving as hatchery manager at Marion Fish Hatchery for four years.  He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Fisheries Biology and a Master of Science degree in Aquaculture and Fisheries from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Jackson may be reached at the Northport office of the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division at 1-205-339-5716.

To learn more about Alabama’s fishing opportunities and the aquatic environment click here.

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