Few Alabamians have dedicated their life to the great outdoors in the manner that the late James “Big Daddy” Lawler did. For decades, the Wilcox County native promoted the outdoor recreational activities available in Alabama’s Black Belt region.
Lawler was well known for his popular radio and social media series “Gettin’ Outdoors With BDL.”
To honor the conservationist and outdoor enthusiast, who passed earlier this year, the T-pier at Roland Cooper State Park has officially been dedicated in his name.
At a ceremony marking the occasion, Governor Kay Ivey, unveiled signage naming the T-Pier in Lawler’s memory.
“Big Daddy was a true champion for conservation and improving outdoor recreation in the Black Belt region of our state,” Ivey said. “When I talked to him at the ribbon-cutting for this project in 2021, it was clear that his goal was to give more Alabamians access to use this facility and make lifelong memories in the Alabama outdoors.”
“May it serve as a lasting reminder of how much he loved the Black Belt and how he gave back to this beautiful region.”
I joined for the pier dedication ceremony to remember my friend, James “Big Daddy” Lawler.
A true champion for outdoor recreation throughout Alabama’s Black Belt, there’s no better way to honor his legacy than with his name now present at Roland Cooper State Park. #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/V8Rk6njA6I
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) August 20, 2024
Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association Director Pam Swanner and ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship called the dedication of the pier the “perfect way” to honor Lawler’s legacy
“Big Daddy was definitely one of a kind, and he never gave up when it came to promoting the Black Belt’s amazing outdoor recreational opportunities,” said Swanner. “This is the perfect way to remember him for his persistent work to improve outdoor recreation in Alabama’s Black Belt.”
Blankenship agreed.
“Big Daddy never wavered on his commitment to the Black Belt or his love for the great outdoors,” Blankenship said. “He leaves an incredible legacy, and we found the perfect way to honor his memory by dedicating the T-pier in his name.”
Lawler lobbied state officials to add the T-pier at Roland Cooper State Park, which he proposed would benefit tournament fishing efforts on the Alabama River and provide water access year-round.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
