The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry has approved legislation sponsored by U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) to expand Talladega National Forest.

The proposal was included in a broader package of U.S. Forest Service lands bills.

The measure, titled the Talladega National Forest Expansion Act, would expand the forest’s proclamation boundary by approximately 50,000 acres across three East Alabama counties. Tuberville introduced the legislation earlier this year.

“As Alabama continues to grow, citizens need access to safe and reliable hiking trails and outdoor spaces to encourage wellness and improved health,” Tuberville said. “I am proud to lead this legislation to promote both tourism and conservation efforts for all Alabamians.”

The legislation would allow the U.S. Forest Service to buy land from willing sellers, a move expected to support local economies while preserving natural resources. The expansion would also enhance the Pinhoti Trail System, one of Alabama’s premier long-distance hiking routes.

Tuberville has also submitted a letter of support for the measure to Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman.

Established in 1936, Talladega National Forest is divided into the Oakmulgee and Talladega divisions. The Talladega Division currently spans 400,000 acres, with the federal government owning about half of that. The boundary has been adjusted nine times since the forest’s creation, most recently through the 1990 Farm Bill.

The Pinhoti Trail — Alabama’s longest-distance hiking trail — currently includes about 15 miles of road walks between its southern segments. The proposed expansion would allow the Forest Service to acquire land that would connect and extend the trail, improving safety and maintenance.

Tuberville represents Alabama in the U.S. Senate and serves on the Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging committee.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].