Alabama’s outdoors are a driver of economic growth and community pride. In the latest episode of Afield, host Christiana Roussel sits down with Commissioner Chris Blankenship of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to explore the projects shaping the state’s future.
From brand-new cottages at Wind Creek State Park to the Forever Wild Land Trust’s 300,000 acres of preserved land, Blankenship shares how conservation efforts connect directly to tourism, local economies, and quality of life.
They also discuss landmark initiatives like beach restoration along the Gulf Coast, the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, and multi-million-dollar investments into public access and state parks across the state.
His vision highlights the long-term impact of outdoor stewardship, as well as innovative efforts like SEEK Alabama, which leverages the state’s natural assets to attract and retain top talent. To hear more about Alabama’s conservation wins and the exciting projects ahead, watch the full episode of Afield on YouTube and join the conversation about how we can all help protect and celebrate the places we call home.
Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple and iHeart.
Afield is presented by Gusto Hunting Preserve, Alabama Wildlife Federation, and Quail Forever. Thank you to our episode sponsor, SEEK AL and Innovate Alabama.
Innovate Alabama is the state’s first statewide public-private partnership focused on entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation. They empower and provide resources for innovators, helping them build businesses, careers, and lives in Alabama.
In 2024, Innovate Alabama launched SEEK AL to showcase the true character of Alabama through moments experienced outdoors—helping innovators, entrepreneurs, and the talent of tomorrow discover the beauty of all Alabama has to offer. Because, as we know, one of the best ways to get Alabama is to get outside in Alabama. SeekAlabama.com, features an interactive activity map, stories, local guidebooks and more. All of Innovate Alabama’s work helps founders, funders and talent thrive in Alabama. Whether you’re looking for funding, support, or an exciting place to land, Innovate Alabama goes all in to help you succeed.
You can visit InnovateAlabama.org and SeekAlabama.com to learn more about these exciting resources offered in our state
Courtesy of SoulGrown Alabama.
