Press Release

Dates Announced for “Open Woods Days” at Forever Wild’s Sipsey River Swamp Recreation Area and Nature Preserve

April 12, 2007

CONTACT: Chris  Smith, 334-242-3409                                                                                                                      

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) State Lands Division has scheduled seven dates as Open Woods Days at the Forever Wild Land Trust’s Sipsey River Swamp Recreation Area and Nature Preserve. This beautiful tract is located in Tuscaloosa County near Buhl, Alabama off State Highway 82. The tract consists of over 3,000 acres of beautiful bottomland forest along the Sipsey River. The Sipsey River watershed is one of Alabama’s 10 Natural Wonders.

Open Woods Days are: April 21, May 12, June 16, July 21, August 18, September 15, and October 20.

The Main Gate will be open from 6:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. for the seven Saturday events. During each Open Woods Day, the public may drive into the tract along the designated Main Gravel Road leading from the Jack’s Drive Parking Area, to the South Gate. The ADCNR hopes that these events will help improve the public’s access to the Forever Wild Tract and the Sipsey River and allow easier access for public fishing and canoeing.

Canoeing, birding, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife photography are welcome on these dates. Hiking, bicycle riding and horseback riding are discouraged on these dates, because of the increased vehicular traffic along the Main Road. No ATV’s Allowed.

The designated Open Woods Days are subject to the river not being in flood stage. In the event that the Sipsey River is out of its banks and flooding the roads on the Sipsey Tract, the event will be canceled and re-scheduled for a later date.

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. To learn more about ADCNR visit www.outdooralabama.com.

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