AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – The Alabama Cooperative Extension System has the privilege of assisting Alabamians through a range of topics from agriculture to home life. The eight topics highlighted on the Extension website provide readily available, research-based information to farmers, families, businesspeople and gardeners across the state.
The Forestry, Wildlife and Natural Resources team offers educational opportunities and land management tools to the public. Extension Professor Becky Barlow and regional agent Bence Carter serve as two members of this community who continue to guide and educate Alabamians.
What is Forestry, Wildlife and Natural Resources?
According to Barlow, the forestry, wildlife and natural resources umbrella encompasses so much more than people may think.
“Forestry is thinking about managing the entire system,” Barlow said. “What we do to one part of that system impacts not just the trees, but other vegetation, wildlife and water resources.”
The department houses experts that provide science-based information pertaining to all areas of natural resource management. From wild pig control and urban tree risk assessment to water quality, specialists and agents cover a wide array of topic areas.
Forestry, wildlife and natural resources agents work with stakeholders on the regional level.
Essentially these individuals serve as the expert in the field.
“If we do not know an answer, we’ll find one by contacting colleagues and employees within the university,” Carter said.
In addition, the agents work with other regional Extension agents, specialists and agencies to deliver research-supported education programs to stakeholders.
Community Through Solutions
Forestry, wildlife and natural resources employees work hand-in-hand with families to help them make informed decisions concerning their land.
“As cliché as it sounds, I like helping people solve their problems and answer their questions,” Carter said.
Through site visits, emails and phone calls, agents and specialists provide landowners with the tools and confidence to properly care for the resources entrusted to their care.
Preserving Alabama
The rich biodiversity of Alabama is a result of its five unique physiographic regions. The goal of the forestry, wildlife and natural resources department is to unite Alabamians through the work of preserving the resources of our beautiful state.
“Through the management of our natural resources, we can help preserve our state’s amazing resources,” Barlow said.
More Information
To learn more about Forestry, Wildlife and Natural Resources department, visit the Forestry & Wildlife tab on the Alabama Extension website, www.aces.edu.
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