Completed Projects
2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001
Projects and Accomplishments for 2007
The Council completed 12 projects in 2007 for a total cost of $279,050.00.
Plasticulture Program – 2007 – The ALA-TOM RC&D Council assisted in the implementation of EQIP plasticulture projects with about 41 limited resource farmers throughout the state by providing the needed materials and supplies and loans to farmers. This assistance enabled them to complete projects on their farms in a timelier manner.
On-Farm Energy Conservation Workshop – The Council, in cooperation with the Alabama Mountains, Rivers and Valleys RC&D Council, conducted training for on-farm energy conservation audits. A workshop for farmers on ways to conserve energy was also conducted in Monroe County, targeting poultry farms.
Exceptional Children Inc. Horticulture Training Program – The Council assisted ECI, a facility in Washington County that provides assistance to mentally challenged children and adults, and the Washington County Soil and Water Conservation District in establishing a greenhouse to train clients in the growing and selling of plants. The Council provided an $8,850 educational grant, which was matched with $40,151 from various sources
Toxey Walking Trail – The Council assisted the Town of Toxey in Choctaw County with the establishment of an asphalt walking trail at the town park. Assistance was provided in writing a successful $33,199 Recreational Trails Program grant to ADECA. The Council also provided a $12,840 grant from its State Funds. Other matching funds totaled $15,825, for a total project cost of $61,864.
Management Intensive Grazing for Limited Resource Farmers – The United Christian Community Association conducted demonstrations, workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance on “Management Intensive Grazing” systems to promote the utilization of native pastures and woodlands for limited resource farmers in Central Alabama. The Council provided a $7,300 Education grant, which was matched with $23,400 from various other sources.
Second Annual Antiques Symposium – The Council assisted the Coalition of Women Entrepreneurs, the Perry County Historical Society, and the Perry County Chamber of Commerce with a program to promote Perry County and the Black Belt region. The Council provided a $4,000 grant, which was matched by $9,664 in other funds.
Rickards Mill Repair – The Council provided a $5,000 grant to the Monroe County Heritage Museum to repair the turbine at Rickards Mill – a water powered grist mill. The mill is a “museum” and tourist site in Monroe County that grinds corn to demonstrate past milling methods and sells the meal to visitors. Matching funds amounted to $17,033.
Commercial Kitchen Training Program – The Council assisted the Alabama Rural Heritage Foundation in the training of low income citizens in value added product production in the center’s commercial kitchen. The Council provided a $3,000 educational grant, which was matched with $4,650 in other funds.
Craig Field Industrial Park Signage – The Council provided a $2,500 state grant to the Craig Field and Airport Industrial Authority for entrance signs at the industrial park. Matching funds in the amount of $49,318 were provided by others.
Reaching Beyond the Skies Academically 2007 – The Council provided a $5,000 educational grant to the Castleberry Community Development Center to conduct after school tutoring and a summer camp for area youth. Matching funds in the amount of $16,120 were provided by the center.
Limited Resource/Small Scale Farmers Outreach Program – The Council administered a $19,200 outreach grant from USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service to provide outreach and technical assistance to limited resource and small scale farmers. The Council sub-contracted with Tenn-Tom Community Development, Inc. to provide the service. Farmers were educated on NRCS programs and assistance was provided in making applications.
Alabama Tombigbee Tourism Initiative – The Council partnered with the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission and the University of Alabama Center for Economic Development to establish a regional tourism program for economic development. The three organizations funded the hiring of a tourism director and received other funding for promotional activities. The program is now operational with funding secured from the State of Alabama for program operation.
PROJECTS and Accomplishments FOR 2006
Black Belt Treasures: A regional (18 counties) marketing effort for arts, crafts, literature and food products was created. A gallery to display and sell items, as well as an internet marketing site was established. Over 220 artisans are involved, returning more than $130,000 to them the first year. Visitors from 34 states and 5 foreign countries have visited the gallery. Arts educational events are also being conducted. This project received varied grants from different sources to total $253,135.
Shady Grove Walking Trail: The Council assisted the Choctaw County Commission in preparing a successful Recreational Trails Grant proposal to ADECA. A $9,700 grant was received to develop a trail in the Shady Grove, a rural African-American community. The Choctaw County Commission provided $27,196, for a total project cost of $38,896.
Plasticulture Implementation Program: The Council developed a plan and strategy to assist NRCS in implementing Plasticulture EQUIP payments, to help limited resource farmers purchase needed supplies. In addition, the Council made a bulk purchase of plasticulture supplies for re-sale to farmers. This is available statewide, but primarily aimed at producers in the southern portion of the state.
Collard Processing Project: The Council purchased a collard processing machine for use by Down South Foods. The owner of Down South Foods passed away, and the Council received proposals to use the machine to process collards purchased from farmers in the region. Use was granted to Jay Minter, and he expanded the operation and was awarded a contract by a major wholesale food supply company. He now purchases collards from farmers, processes them and delivers them to the food supply company. He also grows collards himself for the operation.
Essex School Based Community Health Program: The Council provided a $10,000 state education grant to the Friends of Essex School to complete a health center at the school for the students and area residents.
Reaching Beyond the Skies Academically: The Council assisted the Castleberry Community Development Center with a $7,500 state education grant to provide tutoring and life skill training for students, and basic computer classes for adults.
Tri-County After School Program: The Council provided the Tri-County Community Organization a $3,000 state education grant to conduct an after school tutoring program for students at Monroe Intermediate School in Monroe County. Students were helped with homework, as well as with standardized tests.
Archery in the Schools: Archery equipment was purchased to assist the Jackson Middle School Physical Education program. School attendance and student behavior improved because of added diversity to the PE program. The program also increased student interests in outdoor activities including bow hunting and hunter safety.
Wilcox Central High School Dual E Learning Program: The Wilcox Central High School, in cooperation with Wallace Community College-Selma conducted a program in which students can earn college credit while still in high school.
Lenox Community Center Repair: The Council assisted the Lenox Community Center with a $7,136 state grant to replace the roof on the building, with matching funds and labor for a total project cost $19,149.
Perry County Farmers Market: The Council obtained a grant from the Alabama Farmers Market Authority to construct a farmers market shed in Marion for local farmers to sell their fruits and vegetables.
Sumter / Marengo Water Festival-2005: The Council assisted the Sumter County Soil and Water Conservation District in co-sponsoring the 2005 Water Festival which brought in all fourth graders from Sumter and Marengo County Schools to a day long educational event to promote the conservation of water.
Washington County Public Library Adult Computer Classes: The council provided a $2,500 State Education grant to the Washington County Public Library to conduct adult basic computer classes for county residents.
Alberta GED Training Program: The Council awarded a $5,000 grant to the Faith Fellowship Community Outreach organization to conduct GED test preparation training and after school tutoring for the students in the Alberta (Wilcox and Dallas County) area.
CCARC Horticulture Training Program: The Council assisted the Clarke County Soil and Water Conservation District who coordinated with the Clarke County Association of Retarded Citizens for the establishment of a horticulture training program for their mental health consumers with a State Educational grant.
Toxey-Skinner Park Bridge Repair: The Council assisted the Town of Toxey with repairs to a pedestrian bridge in the Skinner Park that was damaged by Hurricane Ivan with a State appropriations grant.
Commercial Rabbit Demonstration Project: The Council assisted Jeanette Grayson with a SARE grant she received to do a demonstration project for Limited Resource/ Small Scale Farmers in the commercial production marketing of rabbits.
Grove Hill Public Library Adult Computer Classes: The Council provided an educational grant to the Grove Hill Public Library to conduct basic computer classes for adults.
Southwest Alabama Mental Health Horticulture Training Program: The Council provided an education grant to the Southwest Alabama Mental Health program to start a horticulture training program for its clients in Evergreen. The program grows plants in a greenhouse for sale to the public and to the city of Evergreen. Mentally challenged adults are being trained in horticulture to provide income, as well as marketable skills.
Commercial Blackberry Production Demonstration: The Council used $3,500 in State Appropriations to conduct On-Farm Demonstrations of commercial blackberry production on limited resource/minority farmers in the area
Clarke County Needs Assessment: The ALA-TOM RC&D Council provided the Clarke County Development Foundation a $5,000 grant to develop a comprehensive needs assessment for the county to create a data management system for the pursuit of resources to address quality of life issues. The Foundation provided $25,000 in matching funds for the project.
Urban Tree Planting 2004: The Council’s Urban Forestry program secured a grant to plant trees in participating municipalities. Approximately 275 urban trees planted.
Thomasville Recycling Project: The Council helped establish a paper recycling program with the Alabama Coalition of Mental Health Consumers to provide supportive employment for persons with mental illness or other acquired disabilities.
Corps of Engineers Park Road Paving Project: The Council assisted the Clarke County Commission in preparing a grant proposal to pave 5.4 miles of access roads into the Silver Creek and Old Lock 1 Corps of Engineers Parks. The County Commission used the proposals to obtain $1,600,583 in federal DOT funds.
ALA-TOM RC&D Office/Tourism Building: The Council Purchased and renovated a historic building in Thomasville for its office and for the Regional Tourism office.
Playground Safety Workshop: The Council assisted the Town of Pine Hill with a $1,293 Education Grant to conduct a workshop for municipalities and schools on how to design, construct, and maintain playgrounds to meet national safety standards, using the town’s park as a demonstration site.
Meadowview Elementary Outdoor Classroom Project: The Council assisted Meadowview Elementary School in Selma with an Education grant to construct an outdoor classroom area on the school campus. It is part of an ongoing effort to turn the entire campus into an outdoor learning area. Trees were planted, a butterfly garden established, fountains, weather station, and a recycling center established.
Sweetwater Baseball Field Lighting Project: The Council assisted the Town of Sweetwater with a $2,480 state grant to provide lights for the ball fields at the Town’s Park. The town provided $57,500 in matching funds to complete the project.
Remediation Services for High School Students: The Council provided a $1,795 educational grant to a local men’s organization called “Men making a Difference” to provide after school tutoring and mentoring for students at Clarke County High School. Emphasis was placed on students successfully passing the Alabama High School Graduation Exam. The organization provided matching funds in the amount of $2,000.
PROJECTS and Accomplishments FOR 2005
West Wilcox Recreation Park—Phase I—The first phase of developing a rural recreation park near Pine Hill was completed with the help of a $5,000 grant from the Council to the Park Board. Matching funds amounted to $11,429, for a total project cost of $16,429.
Tri-County Community Park—The Council gave a $6,000 grant to the Tri-County Community Organization to construct a youth baseball field in Packard’s Bend. The group provided $10,000 matching funds for a total of $16,000.
Collard Green Production and Marketing Project—The Council led a cooperative effort to promote collard green production in the southern portion of the state. A collard processing machine was purchased to provide cut and bagged collards for retail outlets in cooperation with Down South Foods in Selma. The Gulf Coast and Tombigbee RC&D Councils contributed $2,500 each, ALA-TOM contributed $5,000, Tuskegee University contributed $5,000, and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries contributed $5,602 for a total of $20,602. Five jobs were created/retained, and 20 farmers sold collards through the project. Collards are sold in super markets and to three school lunch programs.
Alberta Community Development Plan—The Council provided assistance to four community groups in the Alberta community of Wilcox County to come together for the first time and develop a comprehensive strategic plan for community development. Work has begun on several identified projects.
Monroeville Future Forest Learning Center—The ALA-TOM Urban Forestry Program assisted Monroeville in building a tree seedling nursery for school students through a $9,350 USDA/AFC Urban and Community Forestry grant. The City provided $9,400 in matching funds and labor, for a total cost of $18,750.
Pine Apple Farmers Market—A farmers market shed was built in the Town of Pine Apple in Wilcox County through a $7,097 grant from the State Farmers Market Authority.
Travis Bridge Canoe/Boat Ramp—The Council provided the Conecuh County Commission a $8,920 grant to construct the third canoe/boat ramp on the Sepulga River as part of the Sepulga River Canoe Trail Project. The Commission provided $10,700 in matching funds, for a total cost of $19,620.
Clarke County Needs Assessment—The Council provided the Clarke County Development Foundation a $5,000 grant to develop a comprehensive needs assessment for the county to create a data management system for the pursuit of resources to address quality of life issues in the county. The foundation provided $25,000 in matching funds, for a total project cost of $30,000.
Unpaved Road Stream Crossing Inventory—The Council participated in a multi-state effort to identify potential sediment sources from unpaved roads. Roads were inventoried in Conecuh and Monroe counties, through a grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the amount of $2,088. The Council contracted the inventory with the Conecuh County Soil and Water District.
Uniontown Technology Center—The Council awarded a $2,000 Extension educational grant to the City of Uniontown for computers, internet access, and printers to educate local citizens and school students. The project is located at the City Library which provided $2,000 in matching funds and in-kind services. The center was used by the NRCS Outreach program to train local farmers in accessing USDA through the internet.
Regional Community Development Conference—The Council provided the initial $5,000 grant for the conference held in Grove Hill called “Extraordinary Results in Ordinary Communities”. The day long workshop was led by Dr. Vaughn Grisham and people from communities that have been successful with community development. Over 300 attended from across the state. Various local municipalities and businesses provided $11,000 in matching funds.
Thomasville Youth Protection Project—The Council provided a $500 grant to the Thomasville Boy Scout Troop 76 to educate parents on prevention of kidnapping. The troop provided fingerprinting, digital photos and information to more than 200 parents and children at the Thomasville Youth Day. Local matching funds amounted to $2,858.
Area Small Farmers Workshop—The Council provided a $800 Extension educational grant to cosponsor a workshop for small farmers in Wilcox County. The Wilcox County Soil and Water Conservation District, Tuskegee Extension Service, and NRCS provided in-kind match for the program that reached 83 small farmers, most of which are minorities.
S.P. Hudson Park Improvement—The Council assisted the Town of Grove Hill with preparing a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant which was funded in the amount of $66,500 for improvements at the town park. Matching funds from the Town, foundations, and Governor’s Discretionary funds amounted to $206,293, for a total project cost of $272,793.
China School Recreational Facility—Phase 2—The Council assisted the Conecuh County Commission and the local community organization with the second grant to renovate the closed school building to serve as a community and recreational facility. This phase completed the kitchen and meeting area. The project was funded by a $30,000 legislative discretionary grant.
Alabama Tombigbee Tourism Trails—The Council received a $10,000 grant from a USDA-Forest Service Arts grant to develop four themed tourism trails for the region. The Council provided $10,500 in matching funds for the project that developed a Native American, Black History/Heritage, Foods, and History/ Heritage trails. Maps of sites were produced and printed and made downloadable fro the web site.
Grove Hill Welcome Signs Repair—The Council assisted the Grove Hill Area Chamber of Commerce with a $400 grant to repair the town’s welcome signs damaged by Hurricane Ivan. The Chamber provided $400 in matching funds.
Jackson Boys and Girls Club Building Repair—The Council awarded a $4,000 grant to the Boys and Girls Club to bring the building they were using up to fire code requirements. The Club matched the grant with $4,000 of their funds.
PROJECTS and accomplishments FOR 2004
Perry Lakes/Barton’s Beach Recreation Area—A public recreation park was developed at the Perry Lakes area behind the Marion Fish Hatchery and along the Cahaba River. The area provides public fishing, nature trails, picnicking, and canoe access. The project had many partners - the Council provided $5,029 in State funds, ADECA-Recreational Trails Program-$65.006, Perry County Commission-$18,000, Alabama Power Company Foundation-$12,000, The Nature Conservancy purchased 125 acres of land and made it available at a cost of $207,075, and the Auburn University Rural Studio provided students to design and build a pavilion and restrooms at an in-kind labor value of $145,976. The total cost of the project was $453,086.
Bottle Creek Canoe/Boat Ramp—The first canoe /boat ramp on the Sepulga River in Conecuh County was built by the Conecuh County Commission with assistance from the ALA-TOM RC&D Council. The ramp is the first of four for the Sepulga River Canoe Trail, which is being built to promote tourism in the county. The Council provided $8,450 in State funds, which was matched by County funds and in- kind work valued at $15, 431, for a total project cost of $23,881.
Tuscahoma Landing Paving Project—The City of Butler took on the project to construct a new boat landing on the Tombigbee River at the Tuscahoma site. The ramp and the paving of the access road to the site were completed. The Council assisted with an $8,000 State funds grant, which was matched by $43,700 in local funds.
St. Stephens Boat Ramp—The Council assisted the St. Stephens Historical Park with a State funds grant in the amount of $2,563 towards the construction of a boat ramp at the park on the Tombigbee River. The total cost was $60,990, with the St. Stephens Historical Commission providing $38,427, the Washington County Commission providing $10,000 of in-kind services, and the Alabama Department of Conservation providing $10,000 of in-kind services.
Sumter/Marengo Water Festival—The Council assisted in the sponsoring a water festival for the fourth grade students in Sumter and Marengo counties by providing a $2,500 grant from State Education funds, which was matched by various sources in the amount of $17,500.
Perry Lakes Park Interpretive Trail—Approximately 5 miles of nature trails in the Perry Lakes/Barton Beach Park were enhanced with tree and plant labels, trail ID markers, benches, and a visitors guide. The Council provided $3,550 in State Education funds, and was matched with $3,550 by the Perry County Soil and Water Conservation District, and $7,400 of in-kind services, for a total of $14,500.
Gilbertown Sportsplex—The Council assisted the Town of Gilbertown with planning and other assistance to build a baseball/softball complex. It consists of four lighted fields with concessions and restrooms. The project was funded with $105,744 from the Town of Gilbertown, a $54,600 legislative grant from State Senator Pat Lindsey, $40,000 from the Choctaw County Parks and Recreation Board, and $16,300 from various local sources, for a total project cost of $216,644.
Urban Tree Planting 2003—The Council’s Urban Forestry program assisted 5 municipalities in the area with writing and implementing an Alabama Power Company tree planting grant in the amount of $4,500. The grant was matched with in-kind services in the amount of $5,070. The project enabled the planting of 65 trees.
Perry Lakes Park Septic System—An alternative septic system was installed at the Perry Lakes Park with the assistance of students from Auburn University’s Rural Studio. The system serves the unique restrooms designed and built by the students. A $5,000 grant was provided from State funds, which was matched equally by in-kind services of the students.
Boykin Fire Truck—The Council provided funds for the Boykin Volunteer Fire Department to complete a grant to purchase a fire truck. The Council provided a $7,250 grant, which was matched by a $30,000 USDA-RD grant and $3,000 from the department.
National Voting Rights Museum Oral History Video Preservation Project—The Council provided $7,500 in State grant funds to the museum for a project to preserve oral histories recorded on video tape. Many of the tapes were beginning to deteriorate and will be transferred to DVD. All future interviews will be recorded on new DVD equipment. The Alabama Power Company Foundation provided the matching funds of $7,500.
Eaton Senior Citizen Center Landscaping and Walking Trail—Landscaping was done, and a walking trail constructed at the Eaton Senior Citizens Center in Boykin. The Council provided a $2,250 State funds grant, which was matched by in-kind assistance in the amount of $21,246.
Alabama River Museum Exhibit—The Council provided a $5,000 grant to the Monroe County Heritage Museum for permanent displays at the museum located at the Claiborne Lock and Dam. The museum provided matching through in-kind services in the amount of $6,862.
Castleberry Community Development Center, Phases I & II—The Council provided grant funds for two phases of the renovation of the old Castleberry Jr. High School building for a community center. In the first phase, State grant funds in the amount of $9,331 was used to put a roof on the buildings. These funds were matched by funds raised locally by the organization. In the second phase, windows, doors, and wiring were completed in the auditorium making it useable for functions. Second phase funds provided by the Council were in the amount of $8,950, which was equally matched locally.
Gilbertown Sportsplex Restrooms—The Council assisted the Town of Gilbertown with a $4,550 State funds grant for the restrooms at the new park, which was matched with local funds.
Tourism Video—A tourism promotional video for the region was produced through a $10,000 USDA- Forest Service Economic Recovery grant. A web site for the Regional Tourism Initiative was also developed—www.alabamasfrontporches.org. The grant was matched with in-kind services in the amount of $5,032. The video has been well received, and even won an award.
Clean Vessel Education—$4,000 in grant funds were received from ADEM to do public outreach and information on the need for boat sewage pump out and water quality for boaters. The Council provided $5,660 of in-kind services.
Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Alabama—A $4,000 grant from State funds was made to the club in Jackson to make repairs on their building to bring it into compliance with fire codes. The club matched the appropriation with funds and in-kind services.
Rabbit Project—A council supported project to provide information and outreach to area rabbit producers.
Projects and Accomplishments for 2003
Excel School Outdoor Classroom—The Council assisted the school in developing an outdoor classroom on the campus by writing a successful Legacy grant for $2,763. The Urban Forestry program planned the project, wrote the grant, and worked with school officials to install the project.
Salem Elementary School Outdoor Classroom—An outdoor classroom was completed at this school in Dallas County with a $2,833 Legacy grant. The project was planned; the grant prepared and work completed with assistance provided by the Urban Forestry program.
Environmental Education Shelters—The Conecuh County Soil and Water Conservation District was assisted with a project to supply them with shelters to use in their environmental activities for students in case of inclement weather. The project was funded with $500 in State Education funds grant and $509 from the Conecuh County Commission.
Jackson High School Greenhouse—The school’s agribusiness program was assisted with the construction of a greenhouse to educate students in horticulture and forestry plant production. The project was funded by a $5,413 State Education funds grant, with matching funds of $500 from the City of Jackson, $2,250 from local industry, $500 from the FFA Chapter, and $250 from Clarke Co. SWCD.
Dallas County Gifted Program Water Quality Education – A water quality education program was conducted for 75 of the county’s gifted education program students, and 75 Martin Middle School students. The project was funded by a $2,000 State Education funds grant.
Grove Hill Elementary Outdoor Learning Area—The Clarke County Soil and Water Conservation District completed the development of an outdoor learning area at the school with the assistance of a $5,459 State Education funds grant from the Council. Matching funds of $3,000 from the Town of Grove Hill, $1,000 from the school’s PTA, $2,000 from the school, $450 from the Bradley-Murphy Trust, and $750 from Wal-Mart.
Washington County Summer Reading Program—The Washington County Library conducted a summer reading program, and added environmental sciences to the curriculum with the help of a $2,800 State Education funds grant. Approximately 300 children participated in the program. Matching funds of $3,000 from the Friends of the Library and $550 in local funds were provided.
Selma Community Gardening—The Council partnered with Heifer International, Edmundite Mission Corps, and the Selma Youth Development Center to promote gardening in the City of Selma. The Council provided a $4,600 State Funds grant, which was matched by Heifer International with a $1,500 grant, and $4,900 from Tuskegee University’s Small Farm and Rural Economic Development Center.
Central Alabama Plasticulture Project—The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries provided $18,000 in grant funds to place two plasticulture demonstrations in each ALA-TOM county, as well as purchasing a set of equipment for use by farmers in the area. Farmers learned how to produce vegetables with plastic mulch and irrigation with this project.
Community and School Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Initiative—The Council received a $10,300 grant from Tuskegee University’s Small Farm and Rural Economic Development Center for the Selma and TUCCA Community Gardening projects and funds for the ALA-TOM Small Farmer Revolving Micro-Loan program.
Area Small Farm Diversification Workshop—A workshop for small limited resource farmers was held in Camden, Alabama to provide education and training on small farm alternative agricultural enterprises. The workshop was funded by a $1,500 grant from the Small Farm and Rural Economic Development Center.
Marion “Welcome” Signs—The Council provided a $2,500 State Funds grant to the Perry County Historical Society to erect three welcome signs for the City of Marion. The City of Marion provided in-kind matching funds in the amount of $2,200.
Pine Apple Walking Trail—The Council provided a $5,000 State Funds grant to the Partners in Progress organization to build a 1/3-mile-walking trail around the Pine Apple Health Center. The Wilcox County Commission provided in-kind assistance, and the Pine Apple Health Center provided $21,500 in matching funds.
Toxey Town Park—Phase II—The Town of Toxey completed the second phase of the project to build a Town Park and community center. The Council provided a $3,738 State Funds grant, which was matched by a $100,000 ADECA Community Enhancement grant, and $11,605 from the Town of Toxey.
Demopolis Sportsplex Trail—The Council assisted the City of Demopolis Parks and Recreation Department by preparing a Recreational Trails Grant, which was funded. The grant amount was $39,612, with matching funds provided by the City in the amount of $11,403.
Pennington Recreation Park—Improvements to the town park at Pennington were completed through a $3,844 State Funds grant, which was matched by the Town of Pennington with $4,660.
Nanafalia Community Center Repairs—The Nanafalia Community Organization repaired the roof and ceiling of the community center building with the help of a State Funds grant in the amount of $5,000. The community organization provided matching funds in the amount of $19,618.
Plant-A-Tree in Alabama—The Alabama Power Company Foundation funded urban tree planting grants totaling $5,900 for four cities in the Urban Forestry Program.
Urban Forestry Newsletter/Brochure—The Council’s Urban Forestry program received a $2,522 Urban and Community Forestry grant to create informational publications on the program.
Projects and Accomplishments For 2002
Clarke County High School Outdoor Reading Area—The Council assisted the school in establishing a courtyard reading area with landscaping, benches, and a fountain. The cost of the project was $8,630. The council appropriated $4,315 in State funds with $4,315 of in-kind labor matching funds.
Washington County High School Outdoor Classroom—An outdoor classroom was built on property donated to the school in the Hobson community. The Washington County Soil and Water Conservation District and the Treasure Forest Association sponsored the project. The Council appropriated $1,788 in State funds, with matching grants of $820 from the Bradley/Murphy Trust, and $3,600 of in-kind labor.
Mama’n Ems Pepper Jelly Canning Kitchen—The Council appropriated $4,120 in State funds to assist Alabama Rural Heritage Foundation to bring the kitchen facility up to county health department specifications. The cost of the project was $9,120, with matching grants of $5,000 from Auburn University, Dept. of Human Science.
Selfield Industrial Park Outdoor Warning System—The Council appropriated $5,800 in State Funds to assist Dallas County Emergency Management to install an outdoor warning assistance to industry/business located in the Selfield Industrial Park for weather related events. The cost of the project was $11,600, with matching funds of $5,800 from Dallas County EMA budget.
Perry County No-Till Drill—The Perry County Soil and Water Conservation District now provides a no-till grain drill for rent to forest landowners, cattle producers and other land users to enhance wildlife habitat and improve water quality. The council appropriated $4,000 in State funds for the drill, with matching funds of $6,000 from the 319 Program for the Lower Cahaba River Basin.
Monroe County Alternative School Erosion—The C.P. Carmichael Alternative School had an erosion problem and requested assistance from the council. Erosion control measures were installed amounting to $5,000. The council appropriated $2,500 in State funds, with matching funds of $1,500 from Monroe County Commission and Monroe County School Board, and $1,000 of in-kind from the school.
Faunsdale Area Summer Reading Program—Community leaders recognized the need for children to continue to read during the summer months, and establish a program with volunteers to coordinate the effort. The council appropriated $1,000 in State funds to purchase reading materials for the children. The community provided in-kind funds totaling $2,230.
Monroe Senior High School Recreation Area—The school needed help with a recreation/playground area for the campus, and requested assistance. The Council provided $2,200 in State funds, with matching funds of $1,432 from the Monroe County School Board and in-kind funds of $800 from the school.
Toddtown Summer Reading Program—The Summer Reading Program assisted students in the Toddtown area with summer reading materials to prevent regression in reading levels. The council appropriated $1,000 in State funds, with matching funds of $1,774.50 from the teachers and facility.
Alabama Water Watch Association—The council appropriated $1,000 in State funds to assist the Alabama Water Watch Association in the program of training volunteer water quality monitors (including watershed education) through NRCS Earth Team and Envirothon activities within the council area. Matching in-kind funding came from NRCS, ADEM and the local Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
Selma Downtown Riverfront Development Architectural Rendering—An architectural rendering was prepared to present a conceptual drawing of the Downtown Riverfront Development area to serve as a visual tool to seek sources of funds toward the development of Phase I which includes acquisition and river walk. The council appropriated $5,000 in State funds, with matching funds of $5,000 from the City of Selma.
Selma Adult Daycare Services—This project helped to provide a place for daily activity, exercise and nutrition to senior citizens and disabled clients in Selma. The estimated cost of the project is $49,000. The council appropriated $6,060 in State Funds, with matching funds of $1,000 from Ellwood Community Church and $42,000 from HGHG, Inc.
Tri-Community Senior Nutrition Center—This project provided the funds to purchase the materials and equipment needed to renovate the Volunteer Fire Department station lunches to become a senior citizens nutrition site that’s serves hot lunches to senior citizens in this remote area of Clarke County. The council appropriated $2,000 in State funds, with $2,422.64 in funds and $2,000 of in-kind matching coming from the Alma Volunteer Fire Department.
South Marengo Fire Truck Equipment—The South Marengo Fire/Rescue Squad needed additional equipment for the recently purchased fire truck. The cost of the equipment was $4,494.00. The council appropriated $1,994 in State funds, with matching funds of $2,500 from the fire department.
Putnam Volunteer Fire Dept. Start-up Equipment—The community of Putnam in Marengo County established a new department and needed start-up equipment (helmets, radios, etc.). The cost of the project was $4,595. The council appropriated $2,145 in State funds to assist purchasing the equipment, with matching funds of $2,450 from the fire department.
Conecuh Activity Center Landscaping—This center that serves as a day care facility for mentally challenged people in Conecuh was in great need of landscaping and beautification. The Council provided $3,124 in State funds, which was matched equally with county funds.
Revolving Loan Fund—The Council established a revolving micro-loan program for small farmers and agribusiness through a $55,000 grant from USDA-Rural Development. A loan committee is established with the help of Commonwealth National Bank in Mobile, Alabama. This is the only minority owned bank in Southwest Alabama. Tuskegee University is providing the technical assistance to farmers in making loan applications. Loans are currently being paid and new loans in processing.
Dallas County Sportsplex Parking—This recreational site needed additional parking and $5,000 was provided through State funds. The Dallas County Commission provided $5,000 in matching funds.
Fresh Water Shrimp Demonstration—The Council assisted three farmers in trying fresh water shrimp production, one in Perry County in 2000, one in Clarke County in 2001, and one in Washington County in 2002. Mixed results were obtained, and it appears that it is not economically feasible without high-level management. The project was funded with $ 3,985 in State funds, with matching funds of $15,000 from the producers.
Projects and Accomplishments For 2001
Old Cahawba Nature Trail—A handicapped accessible nature trail was completed at the Cahawba Historical Park. The concrete trail surface offers anyone an opportunity to enjoy the woodlands and creek views at the park. The Council appropriated $7,000 in State funds, and the park received an $48,000 grant from ADECA’s Recreational Trails Program.
Gilmore Elementary/Jackson Intermediate School Outdoor Classroom—An outdoor classroom was built at the adjoining school campuses under the leadership of Toni Ice of the Clarke County Soil and Water Conservation District. The Council appropriated $2,189.78 in State funds, with matching grants of $1,200 from the Bradley-Murphy Trust, $2,000 from the City of Jackson, and $2,500 of in-kind local labor.
Thomasville Elementary School Outdoor Classroom—The school constructed an outdoor classroom using $15,000 in local grants, and based upon a design by the U.S. Forest Service’s landscape architect in Alabama whose services were obtained by the Council.
Alabama-West Florida Minority Cooperative Enhancement Initiative—The Council obtained a $225,000 grant from USDA-Rural Development, Rural Business and Cooperative Service to work with minority cooperatives in Alabama and Florida. The grant was used to develop markets for products with school systems, establish a revolving micro-loan program for small farmers and cooperatives, assist in developing the commercial rabbit
production industry, develop a alternative agriculture demonstration with the Southern Beef Growers Cooperative, and to assist in the development of the cooperative grocery store in Thomaston. In-kind matching funds from the cooperatives and their advisors totaled approximately $133,000.
McIntosh Community Park Addition—The Council assisted the McIntosh Community Organization with planning, engineering, and a $1,800 grant from State funds for a softball field and an asphalt walking trail. An additional $12,250 grant was obtained from ADECA’s Recreational Trail Program. The Washington County Commission provided $5,000 of in-kind assistance.
Zack Rogers Park Addition—The City of Butler added an additional baseball field at their park with the assistance of an $8,000 State funds grant from the Council. The city provided an additional $57,000 of cash and in-kind services towards the project.
Marion Depot Landscaping—The Council provided $7,000 in State funds to landscape the City of Marion’s Depot, which serves as a welcome center for tourists, as well as the Perry County Chamber of Commerce office. Local grant funds provided $3,070.
Alabama Fish Farming Center Computers—The ALA-TOM and Tombigbee RC&D Councils each provided $2,300 in State funds to purchase computers and software for the center engineering and
administrative staff.
Jackson Area Summer Reading Program—The Council provided $1,000 in State funds to the Gilmore Elementary School to continue the Alabama Reading Initiative through the summer months. This was a highly successful program that has increased test scores for the participants. The Alabama Power Foundation provided $1,000 also, and in-kind matching from teachers was valued at $1,775.
Wilcox Central High School Plasticulture Demonstration—A $1,000 State funds grant was provided to the school’s agriculture program to learn how to produce vegetables under black plastic mulch and trickle irrigation. The school provided in-kind labor valued at $500.
Perry County Plasticulture Demonstration—The Council provided $1,000 in State funds to the Perry County Small Farmers Association to demonstrate and train the small farmers in the use of plastic mulch and trickle irrigation. The association provided in-kind assistance valued at $1,000.
Jackson Intermediate School Landscaping Plan—The Urban Forester did a complete landscaping plan for this new school in Jackson. The school and volunteers will install items, as funds become available.
Wilcox United Presbyterian Ball Field Lights—The Council provided a $5,000 State funds grant to place lights on the local ball filed to allow league play and other activities at the Presbyterian school complex in Annie Manie, Alabama. The group also received a $5,000 grant from the Weyerhaeuser Foundation, and used $5,000 of their own funds to complete the project.
Wilcox Summer Youth Program—State Representative James Thomas led the effort to establish a summer educational program for youth in Wilcox County, which provided intervention activities and cultural enrichment. The program was housed at the Wilcox Central High School. The project was funded with $12,000 from State RC&D, and $35,000 from ADECA.