POWERGRAMS

40 Landowner in field of thinned pines where property is being converted back to longleafs. Photos courtesy of the Alabama Wildlife Federation • Conversion of more than 120 acres of loblolly pine plantation back to longleaf pine, which historically would have dominated the site. "Portions of the site were clear-cut for reforestation in longleaf pine, and the remainder heavily thinned to help stimulate the growth of native warm-season grasses and a diverse plant community," Arnold said. "The landowner's goal was to promote habitat for northern bobwhite quail, while also being an overall good steward of the land." • Removing gallberry, a native woody plant that was the dominant ground cover in a mixed longleaf and loblolly pine woodland. "By utilizing a selective herbicide and the application of prescribed fire to remove the gallberry, native warm-season grasses and weedy herbaceous plants were encouraged to grow," said Arnold. By creating more diverse habitats, with a greater variety of vegetation, both landowners were able to provide food and cover for a wide range of species, such as the gopher tortoise, migratory songbirds and pollinators, such as bees and buerflies. "Many landowners want to learn how to manage their property to increase the wildlife it will support," said Susan Comensky, Alabama Power's vice president of Environmental Affairs. "While there are many state and federal landowner assistance programs, AWF's Land Stewardship Assistance Program takes a more direct approach. Reaching out to landowners can be the catalyst for projects that benefit the ecosystem for generations." Alabama Power recently provided AWF funding for a second phase of the grant program. It will focus on mitigating threats to coastal habitats, such as erosion and the proliferation of exotic or invasive species in target habitats. In addition, the online Landowner Network will be expanded to include more information and actively engage landowners. "AWF is very grateful for the funding that Alabama Power and Southern Company have provided through their partnership with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation," Arnold said. "As one of the largest land and water managers in the state, Alabama Power strives to conserve the state's natural resources," Comensky said. "We do this in part by building partnerships with key conservation groups, such as the Alabama Wildlife Federation. "The Alabama Wildlife Federation has been a leader in helping landowners conserve Alabama's wildlife and habitat since 1935, so the partnership is a natural fit," Comensky said.

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