The Tuskegee National Forest is planning to burn approx. 1370 acres today on Forest Service roads 903, 904, 905, CR90 (Thunder Road), Hwy 29 and Hwy 186.  During today’s burn, the public will notice Forest Service fire crews and equipment.  Smoke may also be visible on Highway 29 and Highway 186.

February 1 marked the return of fishing season at 20 of Alabama’s 23 State Public Fishing Lakes. Commonly known as state lakes or county lakes, these waters are noted for their amenities and their quality fishing for bream, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie (in some lakes). Because these smaller lakes warm more quickly than larger reservoirs, early spring fishing can be excellent. Anglers may fish from the pier, bank, rental boat or personal boat.

“State public fishing lakes are the ultimate family fishing destination,” said Jack Turner, State Lakes Supervisor for the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF). “All lakes except Pike County Lake have a concession building with snacks, drinks, restrooms and personnel who provide fishing advice. The concessionaires have mowed areas along the shoreline for fishing.

(Montgomery, Al)  January 14, 2013 ---- The USDA Forest Service is conducting controlled burns during the winter and spring seasons on approximately 115,000 acres throughout Alabama’s four national forests – Bankhead, Conecuh, Talladega and Tuskegee. Trained fire specialists use controlled burns as a forest management tool to restore forests and protect communities from wildfires. The controlled burn or “good fire” is carefully planned and implemented under favorable weather conditions.  The Forest Service is asking the public to use their low beam lights if they encounter smoke on roads and watch for uniformed Forest Service personnel and equipment.  Visibility may be reduced because of smoke settling at night in low lying areas.