Celebrating Conservation: New Event Center Attracts Outdoor Enthusiasts in Greensboro, Alabama
Greensboro, AL – A significant milestone in Alabama’s commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation will be marked on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 1 p.m., with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly completed Event Center at the M. Barnett Lawley Forever Wild Field Trial Area (FWFTA). This new facility encapsulates the spirit of outdoor stewardship in Alabama’s Black Belt region and will serve as a catalyst for enhanced community engagement in natural resources management.
A Facilities Upgrade for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The heart of the FWFTA has just expanded with the addition of a 5,000-square-foot Event Center and a 4,000-square-foot adjacent pavilion. These modern facilities, situated on State Lands Division property, are designed to accommodate a range of activities, from open-air meetings to community gatherings. The facility includes crucial amenities like restrooms and a limited kitchen area, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all visitors. Importantly, the Event Center, pavilion, and parking facilities adhere to ADA standards, promoting inclusivity and making outdoor experiences reachable for everyone.
Chris Blankenship, Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), stated, “The Field Trial Area is a special location in Alabama’s Black Belt region. Each year, the property hosts youth duck and deer hunts, physically disabled hunts, public fishing events, various sporting dog competitions, and is one of the sites for the Black Belt Birding Festival. It’s a multi-purpose area visited by nearly 4,000 individuals annually. This new Event Center will help elevate the Field Trial Area as a premier location for outdoor recreation in the Southeast.”
Key Details of the Event
- Date and Time: Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 1 p.m.
- Location: 1132 County Road 73, Greensboro, AL 36744
Google Maps Link - Speakers Include:
- Chris Blankenship, ADCNR
- Patti McCurdy, Director, ADCNR State Lands Division
- State Senator Bobby Singleton, District 24
- State Representative Curtis Travis, District 72
Why It Matters
The establishment of this Event Center at the FWFTA carries significant long-term implications for various stakeholders. For hunters and anglers focused on sustainable practices, this facility signals an enhancement in educational programming and public access to outdoor activities.
Economic Benefits
The Event Center is poised to stimulate local economies by attracting visitors who partake in outdoor activities, including fishing, birdwatching, and dog trials. With its diverse offerings, the FWFTA is better positioned to bring in tourism revenue, aiding local businesses and creating jobs in the region.
Conservation Impact
From a conservation perspective, the center enhances ADCNR’s ability to manage and promote Alabama’s natural resources effectively. Programs fostering youth engagement and inclusivity, particularly in pursuing outdoor sports, help cultivate a generation of environmental stewards who will champion conservation efforts for years to come.
Field Insights: Pro-Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Explore the Trail Systems: When visiting, take time to explore the FWFTA’s well-maintained trails that weave through varying ecosystems; be on the lookout for diverse wildlife adapting to the restoration of native prairie grasslands.
- Stay on the Lookout for Events: The Black Belt Birding Festival, among other seasonal events, offers unique opportunities for wildlife observation; always check the ADCNR calendar to maximize your experience.
- Engage with Programs: Participate in the youth hunts or disabled hunts that embody community spirit and outreach. It’s a chance to learn the intricacies of outdoor skills while forging connections with fellow nature enthusiasts.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony heralds a new chapter for outdoor recreation in Alabama, fostering a deeper connection between communities and their environment. Join us in celebrating this important development on November 6th, where every cut of the ribbon represents not just an event, but a shared commitment to preserving Alabama’s rich natural resources.
For more information, visit ADCNR’s website.