FAIRHOPE, Ala. - In the continuing effort to re-establish the longleaf habitat our forefathers found upon arriving on the shores of Mobile Bay, Fairhope Single Tax Corporation partnered with the Alabama Forestry Commission to conduct another prescribed bum in Knoll Park. Gary Cole, Regional Forester, and his assistants Ross Bressley, Joe Donnelly and Steve Lloyd provided the technical assistance and mechanical support.

This is the third burn at Knoll Park with the native species of wild flowers and plants starting to reemerge and flourish. This effort is ongoing and will occur yearly.

Fairhope Single Tax is also developing the Colony Nature Park at the corner of Twin Beech Road (County Road 44) and County Road 13. This 43 acre site is being restored to a longleaf ecosystem. Longleaf pine have been planted on about a third of Colony Park, with a circular overlook drive installed to allow easy access and a picnic area on the South side for family enjoyment.

The Forestry Commission conducted the first prescribed burn of the longleaf area Feb. 14, 2011. Controlled burns minimize competition for the longleaf and promote growth. Longleaf pine is native to the South and developed a symbiotic relationship to fire. Fire controls the understory brush and promotes the growth of native grasses and forbs that wildlife thrive on.

Single Tax wishes to thank the many volunteers who participated in these burns: Retired Forester Pat Waldrop, Fred Nation, Fairhope Volunteer Fire Department, Daniel McCory, Chris Ellis and Ken Eslava for their equipment and work. Special thanks go to Gena Todia with Wetland Resources and Bobby Green with Greens Nurseries in coordinating and being on site throughout the burn.

Knoll Park and Colony Nature Park are ongoing projects to educate and demonstrate the longleaf ecosystem. Fairhope Single Tax welcomes visitors and comments on our efforts.