FAIRHOPE, Ala. - Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve has expanded by 820 acres – the largest addition to the reserve since its designation in 1986 – comprised of wetlands and forests that serve as winter shelters for migratory birds, including the Prothonotary Warbler and other declining neotropical species.

It will be acquired in two parts from The Conservation Fund – 135 acres purchased by the Baldwin County Commission and 685 acres by Forever Wild – for conservation, recreation and environmental education.

Reserve Manager, L.G. Adams said, “The acquisition of 820 acres of coastal wetlands in south Baldwin County celebrates the 25th anniversary of the reserve,” referring to the designation in February 1986 of the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. “Over the last 25 years great things have happened, but this acquisition is the largest in the history of the reserve.”

The land will benefit animals and people alike, according to Walter Ernest IV, executive director of the Weeks Bay Foundation

“This accomplishment will not only provide long-term restoration opportunities to benefit these important coastal wetland habitats, but it will enable public recreation for the citizens of Baldwin County and the State of Alabama,” he stated in a press release. “The public use provided will also support the local economy through activities such as birding, which accounts for over $600 million in spending within the state.”

Ray Herndon, regional director for The Conservation Fund, agreed.

“The protection of this acreage will provide numerous public benefits including educational opportunities for future generations, along with securing permanent habitat for a variety of wildlife species,” he stated in a press release. “Protecting this property has been a priority for the Weeks Bay NERR for many years, and we are proud to assist in making this a reality.”

The Baldwin County Commission provided funds from the Coastal Impact Assistance Program and other funding came from the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration who provided a federal grant through the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Land Acquisition program, which was matched with funding from Forever Wild.

Baldwin County Commission Chairman, Frank Burt Jr., said he appreciates these agencies’ support.

“We are very fortunate to have had Coastal Impact Assistance Program funds available to us for this project and are very pleased to have had the opportunity to work with all of these groups to accomplish this once in a lifetime chance to ensure the preservation of this property for the future of Baldwin County,” he said.