The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a native turtle species that is found in 26 of Alabama’s 67 counties. Gopher tortoises are so named because of the burrows they dig. These burrows are dug in well-drained sandy soil, such as sandy hills in a pine savanna, and are typically 15 to 20 feet long and 6.5 feet deep. They protect the tortoises from fire and temperature fluctuations.

The gopher tortoise is a keystone species because many animals rely on their burrows as refuges. In fact, approximately 360 different species, such as the indigo snake and mole skink, have been documented utilizing gopher tortoise burrows. The apron of sand collected at the burrow entrance forms a microhabitat where plants grow and provides a refuge for additional wildlife species.

Read more here: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/celebrating-the-gopher-tortoise/

Calling all timber owners, forestry enthusiasts, and landowners in Barbour County. Path to better land management starts with good planning. Join us for the upcoming Barbour County Forestry Landowner Planning Committee Meeting to connect with local extension resources and fellow land managers.

Whether you own forestland or simply want to learn more about local forestry education initiatives, this session is open to anyone interested in supporting our local forest resources.

 Date: September 11, 2026
 Time: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
 Location: Barbour County Extension Office

 Secure your spot and register here: https://au-academics.my.salesforce-sites.com/pmtx/evt__conf_detail?id=a1RUg0000020JxZMAU

Alligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) is an important non-native invasive species to know in Alabama because of the vast array of water resources that we use for consumption, recreation, agriculture, and industry.

This species can be found across the state and can be rooted in consistently moist soil as well as drier terrestrial environments, causing issues in streams, recreational ponds, and terrestrial landscapes such as food plots.

In aquatic settings, this plant can form dense, sprawling mats that hinder navigation, disrupt aquatic habitats, deter recreation such as boating, fishing, and swimming, and can harbor mosquitos.

To identify this plant, look for the opposite leaf arrangement with elliptical to lanceolated shaped leaves. Stems are hollow and can grow up to 3 feet long.

In the summer months, the plant produces a small and papery, clover-like flower head that emerges on a stalk 0.5 - 3 inches long (comparatively long to other look-alikes) at the leaf axils.

Alligatorweed is listed as a class C noxious weed in Alabama and is on several other state's invasive plant lists. With Alabama's rich and unique aquatic diversity, it is important to keep a lookout for this species and control it early, however it is critical to keep in mind that the plant can spread via stem fragments so attempts to cut or pull plants may lead to further spread. Chemical control options can be an ideal treatment method in many situations. For control options, read more here: https://extension.msstate.edu/publications/alligator-weed-alternanthera-philoxeroides?fbclid=IwY2xjawUCt4RwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMVo1WHkzRU94cldzTkJBRVJzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe-6dPberESuvtTZIDYZt8d9AXNYpD2WlA_u9_thSjhvYL11nsA6oAZhU9wA4_aem_KyxtIx6pzioDSFt6HF36oQ

Remember to inspect and clean your equipment before leaving the water to prevent the spread of these plants to new waterbodies.

Please join the Alabama Cooperative Extension and our partnering organizations to celebrate Alabama's conservation efforts on October 9th at the Alabama Nature Center. Registration is required, see flyer for more information. We hope to see you there!

Ready to cast a line in Alabama? Before you head to the water, make sure you have the right freshwater fishing license!

Our latest article breaks down how Alabama residents and non-residents can determine which license they need, what information to have ready and how to complete the application. Some exceptions apply, and different options are available depending on where and how you plan to fish.

https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/how-to-purchase-an-alabama-recreational-freshwater-fishing-license/?fbclid=IwY2xjawT9bgNwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMUlCNnRzdEF3UkN1RmozaXVzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeneq1PJqcyLf6XNDRVvjOtCHN95gz4zthQPYN82DfUBFwj_bACzhASCKmUXM_aem__l5dZgbrxIke22M7Uwd1bA

Urban canopies are vital, and this series provides essential insights for planners, advocates, and tree enthusiasts. Join us for expert-led sessions on choosing the right trees, crafting effective policies, and finding funding. This is a must for anyone passionate about urban green spaces.

Each session will cover distinct aspects, including:

- Urban Tree Selection & Placement

- Ordinance & Policy for Canopies

- Community Engagement Strategies

- Funding & Resources

Sessions are FREE to the public. To receive registration links, please check the dates and details at: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/city-forests-webinar-series/?fbclid=IwY2xjawT71HhwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMTRhY2Z2VFFtV3FoaUxBeXhzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeFkAxwUugO-SjpTavXOhHZRMTht3v5QxdMQRFPlHZSvlOfXZBY4i0FGBNiEw_aem_3qMc8hca97oJvXH2S4mJZw

Proper chainsaw safety and maintenance are essential skills for landowners, forestry workers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Join us for a free two-day Chainsaw Safety Training event in Conecuh County:

Day 1 (Classroom Session): September 8, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Limited to 50 participants)

Day 2 (Field Session): September 9, 2026 (Entry by request only; limited capacity)

Location: Evergreen Depot, 100 Depot Square, Evergreen, AL 36401

Registration: Must be 18+ to register.

If you plan to attend Day 2, you MUST register directly with Jessica Baldwin to confirm your spot.

Jessica Baldwin at 334-752-1194 or jmb0276@auburn.edu.

Chamber bitter (Phyllanthus urinaria) is a common weed found throughout the Southeast and can be found across the entire state of Alabama. This highly adaptable plant thrives in full sun and warm soils, typically appearing in summer and persisting into fall until frost.

Its small, oblong or linear leaves are arranged alternately along yellow-green to sometimes reddish stems. The upper surface of the leaves can range from bright to dark green, while the undersides are lighter gray-green.

Tiny yellowish-white male and female flowers are produced on the underside of stems at the leaf axils. After flowering, chamber bitter produces very small, stalkless fruits that can range from green to red. Upon close inspection, the fruits are three-parted and covered with small scales.

Chamber bitter can make its home almost anywhere—from sidewalk cracks and gravel driveways to landscaping, gardens, nursery pots, forest margins, dry fields, and roadsides. Its extensive root system and large seed production can allow it to outcompete nearby vegetation or suppress container-grown plants.

Listed as a Class C noxious weed in Alabama, it’s best to prevent chamber bitter from going to seed and inspect nursery pots before purchasing or planting to help prevent its spread. For more information, see this fact sheet - https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/chamberbitter/

Restoring ecological function to a forest requires more than just conducting a burn and planting longleaf pine. Establishing a dedicated ecological restoration plan helps guide landowners through mapping, assessing land history, setting achievable goals, and scheduling management activities to bring the property back to its closest natural system.

Staying flexible, tracking weather conditions, and keeping clear records are key steps to evaluating progress over time. Read more: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/ecological-restoration-planning/?fbclid=IwY2xjawT6eCpwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMTZvUlo1SXlreW1nU0k2SFpzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEei9Ck5WNHbktLqqgMCAmGR4khMsOHcZztGY7GBVytk00tAVlh7aMfgjzNwLk_aem_QLj-kYzY4CGw56EcK3V3Fg

Managing land for upland game birds? The American woodcock (Scolopax minor) needs specific habitat conditions to thrive. Read the full guide on population monitoring and conservation practices from Alabama Extension: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/game-management-the-american-woodcock/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTz3v5wZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMWRqQWFwSmFvSHFXelJUeDZzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEebvk39w3S7xtZihhqTEam1u5XCvUaZVkDAgh1OMibv-5sj6kW3CMrZRu-g38_aem_05ah80SYJSugORdIvr0JPA

The 2026 Great Southeast Pollinator Census is set for August 21 and 22. In this citizen-science project, thousands of people from Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Florida will observe, count, and celebrate pollinators. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System invites all residents to join in on the fun and learn more about the pollinators that keep Alabama’s ecosystem thriving.

Learn how you can help here: https://gsepc.org/

Planting a tree is an investment that can provide shade, cleaner air, wildlife habitat, and beauty for generations—but only if it's planted correctly.

From choosing the right planting time to proper watering, mulching, and root care, following a few key best practices can help your tree establish strong roots and thrive for years to come.

Learn how to give your next tree the best possible start with these research-based recommendations from Alabama Extension: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/best-practices-for-successful-tree-planting/

The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) can be both a benefit and a nuisance to landowners. It is important to appreciate their contributions to the ecosystem and know the proper methods for managing their presence. Known widely for playing dead when frightened, the opossum is a creature with a unique place among Alabama's wildlife. The opossum is the only marsupial (pouched mammal) native to the United States.

Learn more about opossum here: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/virginia-opossum-our-only-native-marsupial/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTmriVwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMXFvT25KdVQwSG5vNVA0QWhzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe6Kw2a7VSpR6fmPndACYLM9lkTKPiwl-iLjSJQHJgJDgnRols00DHf8WEpNU_aem_Ibdk82GDIAVaHlppkoCc0g

Once known as the most iconic game bird in the South, Northern Bobwhite populations have faced major declines due to habitat loss.

Bobwhite quail depend on early succession habitats like native grasses for nesting, thickets for cover, and open ground for foraging. Landowners can help restore these habitats using key management practices:

Prescribed Fire: Clears dense litter and stimulates native seed growth.

Light Disking: Rotates vegetation and exposes bare ground.

Supplemental Planting: Boosts food sources and native cover.

Learn how to manage your property for quail restoration: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/bobwhite-quail-management/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTmr3pwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMXFvT25KdVQwSG5vNVA0QWhzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEekzLNVyuS6YpZc94FOlggbewQ02R522x-loE23kmfWhmJqbicBYLkmGA9CXs_aem_zp3ihFRvqt3oed6QqZyIrg

Submerged vegetation growing in ponds, lakes, and streams provide valuable habitat for fish and other aquatic organisms. However, several non-native invasive aquatic plant species are present in the Southeast and can quickly form dense mats under the water surface, disrupting aquatic habitats, impacting navigation and recreation, and creating costly management and repair challenges.

What's growing under the water near you?

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata): 4–8 leaves grow in whorls around the stem. The plant feels rough when pulled through your hand because of one or more teeth located on the underside of the leaf along the midrib.

Brazilian elodea / Egeria (Egeria densa): Leaves on the upper and middle sections grow in whorls of 4–6 (compared to whorls of 3 in native Elodea canadensis) and can reach 1.5 inches in length. Its white, three-petaled flowers are larger than those of hydrilla or native elodea and is a key distinguishing feature.

Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum): Features 3–5 feather-like leaves growing in whorls around a reddish-brown stem.

Curly-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus): Leaves can grow up to 4 inches long and often have wavy edges, though they may sometimes be straight and flat. Leaf color ranges from bright green to dark green or even reddish.

These invasive species are commonly found in lakes, ponds and slow-moving streams. Hydrilla, Eurasian watermilfoil and Brazilian elodea, as well as many other invasive aquatic plants, were likely introduced to the United States through the aquarium trade. Never release aquarium plants or animals into public waters.

Because these plants can spread from small stem fragments, they are easily transported on boats, trailers, motors and other water-related equipment. Be sure to inspect and clean your equipment before leaving the water to help prevent the spread of these invasive plants to new waterbodies.

Learn about management strategies for private waterbodies in the ACES publication, Weed Management in Lakes and Ponds, https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/fish-water/weed-management-in-lakes-and-ponds/

Application of herbicides to public waters may require permits issued by the Army Corps of Engineers & an aquatic labeled commercial pesticide applicator license. For additional information, contact your local Extension office.

The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is America’s most common native feline and is found throughout Alabama. Though widespread, spotting a bobcat is often considered noteworthy—and sometimes even a bit frightening.

Due to changing land use practices, habitat improvements, and stricter harvest regulations, bobcat numbers have increased across most states, including Alabama, during the last 40 years. Urban sprawl and habitat fragmentation are leading to more frequent human-bobcat encounters. With these facts in mind and to coexist more comfortably with this species, learn to identify the bobcat, its habitat and behavior, hunting and trapping requirements, and how to manage human-bobcat conflicts.

https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/living-with-bobcats/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTgUixwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMTN5bHkwT2JGMVlkNWJPS2dzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeKh6d5t4FEUu1-nfGvJlo8YLUUiHLoJ8vRy1i-fj-lsLw99RGwe2A0HXNTTQ_aem_FyJrgMI0xQjO4pBJloyv0A

Our article explains how properly constructing and maintaining water diversion devices, such as water bars, broad-based dips and culverts, can reduce erosion, improve drainage and extend the life of forest roads. These best management practices help keep sediment out of streams while supporting safe and efficient forest operations.

Learn how these simple practices can make a lasting difference for your woodland.

https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/forest-roads-and-construction-of-associated-water-diversion-devices/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTgRmBwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMTN5bHkwT2JGMVlkNWJPS2dzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeSVWZZLV1s4JwX3W5Ds_Xbc2oWGEkKjfdtCEW7gWBX-BqbMVkOHm9OsG9-L4_aem_LGjDbRLeyFnEhHh4Oe2xgQ

Extensions latest article explores silviculture practices after hurricanes and storms, including assessing damage, determining when salvage harvesting is appropriate, reducing future storm risk and supporting healthy forest regeneration.

This collaborative article was developed by experts from Auburn University, Clemson University, the USDA Forest Service and the University of Georgia, bringing together research-based guidance to help forest landowners make informed management decisions.

Read the full article here: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/silviculture-management-after-hurricanes-storms/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTgRzJwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMTN5bHkwT2JGMVlkNWJPS2dzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeShXFAs0m2W-XHC7AADvr00UD7a4CKODMHlSS3lP3S0f9mSiWZdUG63377kQ_aem_r7T936QzHaBbEfZbfa4J3g

Whether you’re new to gardening or have years of experience, this conference is designed to inspire, educate, and connect gardeners from across our community.

Join us September 25–26, 2026, at the Jon Archer Agricultural Center in Mobile, Alabama, for a day and a half of research-based gardening education designed for South Alabama homeowners.

This conference will bring together university experts, local gardeners, and Master Gardeners to share practical information on topics such as pollinators, lawn care, backyard greenhouses, new plants for the garden, and much more.

The registration fee is $25, and lunch and dinner are provided. Space is limited, so be sure to register early!

Click here to register: www.aces.edu/go/6407

We hope to see you there as we learn and grow together!

A towering invasive grass, giant reed can grow 6–20+ feet tall, forming dense stands that crowd out native plants and reduce wildlife habitat.

• Leaves are long (1–2 feet), pale blue-green and to many, resemble corn leaves. The leaf blades clasp the stem and droop at the tips.

• Stems are tall, round and hollow between the leaf nodes. Even after turning brown during dormancy, dead stems often remain standing through winter and spring.

• In fall, giant reed produces large, dense flower plumes that can reach 1–2 feet long and often persist through the winter.

• While seeds produced in the U.S. are not known to be fertile, the plant spreads aggressively through underground rhizomes. Even small rhizome fragments can establish new infestations.

• Unlike the similar-looking common reed (Phragmites australis), which is typically found in wetlands, giant reed can thrive in both wet areas, such as along streambanks, as well as drier upland sites and roadsides.

Introduced to the United States in the 1800s for ornamental planting and erosion control, giant reed is still available for purchase but is not recommended due to its highly invasive nature. Dense thickets suppress native vegetation, reduce biodiversity and degrade habitat for native wildlife.

Early detection and management are key to preventing its spread.

Learn more about identification and control with articles from neighboring Florida and Mississippi Extensions.

https://extension.msstate.edu/.../topics/Giant_reed.pdf

https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR396

Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora)

An aggressive crawling and climbing woody vine that can quickly spread over trees, shrubs and other vegetation.

• Leaves are 2–3 inches long with smooth margins and are ovate to heart-shaped. They are dark green, shiny and have a leathery texture.

• Flowers are white, fragrant and showy with four petals, measuring about 1 inch across. Blooms appear from late summer through early fall.

• Commonly found in home landscapes where it was planted as an ornamental, as well as along roadsides and the edges of fields, forests and streams. It prefers full sun to partial shade.

This invasive vine is still commonly sold for home landscapes despite many suitable native and non-invasive alternatives. One common look-alike is the native Virgin's-bower (*Clematis virginiana*), which is often mistaken for Sweet Autumn Clematis.

Early identification and management can help protect Alabama's forests and natural areas.

Whether you’re new to gardening or have years of experience, this conference is designed to inspire, educate, and connect gardeners from across our community.

Join us September 25–26, 2026, at the Jon Archer Agricultural Center in Mobile, Alabama, for a day and a half of research-based gardening education designed for South Alabama homeowners.

This conference will bring together university experts, local gardeners, and Master Gardeners to share practical information on topics such as pollinators, lawn care, backyard greenhouses, new plants for the garden, and much more.

The registration fee is $25, and lunch and dinner are provided. Space is limited, so be sure to register early!

Click here to register: www.aces.edu/go/6407

We hope to see you there as we learn and grow together!

Asian wisterias may look beautiful with their showy purple flowers, but these non-native climbing vines are highly aggressive invaders. They can climb trees to heights of 70 feet or more, shading out understory plants and causing severe ecological damage by girdling mature trees. Non-native wisterias are difficult to control, but diligent management can reduce or eliminate them from your property:

Manual Control: Small wisteria vines can be hand pulled from the ground.

Chemical Control: For large vines or dense populations, targeted herbicide applications—such as foliar sprays, basal bark sprays, or cut stump treatments—are the most effective methods.

Want to protect your woodlands and landscapes? Learn how to properly identify these non-native species and choose the right management techniques for your land through the link below.

Link: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/control-of-invasive-wisteria/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTW5rdwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMUtiMzlsemt0RWRjTUFtZ0pzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeNS_ogP9DXkv9vg3XEM_7TvPMw4Iy__qywl_293RNwAUczdZVSZfih8lh96c_aem_8rHyAmYHOgBxOwzifzgQAg