Alabama is known for its beautiful lakes, but there is even more to discover along the state’s lakeside lands.
Alabama’s rivers, lakes and streams have some of the most topographically and ecologically diverse property surrounding them, and The Preserves are Alabama Power’s celebration of this land, offering the gift of splendid outdoor experiences to Alabama residents and visitors alike.
“The Preserves are our company’s way of giving back by enhancing our state’s natural resources and making space for residents and visitors to take in and appreciate the beauty and solace around them,” said Ed Windsor, Alabama Power Recreation Development assistant. “They are designed to be open for everyone to enjoy. As the weather continues to get warmer and people are venturing outside again, we want to remind everyone that they are welcome to hit the road and enjoy some of these sites.”
Explore The Preserves by Alabama Power along Alabama lakes from Alabama NewsCenter on Vimeo.
The Preserves, which were officially branded in 2018, leverage existing land around the lakes and reservoirs to create 65 unique public-use spaces across 12 reservoirs for individuals and families to venture outside, enjoy nature and make lifelong memories.
With lands along the Black Warrior, Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers, there are Preserves within driving distance of everyone in Alabama.
Visitors to The Preserves can learn about the importance of protecting and preserving the environment for generations to come. Educational nature trails can be found at the recreation sites at these lakes:
Some of The Preserves’ day-use parks provide an educational component with interpretive signage on the nature trails that teach about different native species of plants, animals, birds and pollinators, in addition to offering picnic spots, boat ramps, playgrounds and swimming holes.
“We are incredibly proud of our Preserves and all they have to offer,” said Sheila Smith, Alabama Power Shoreline and Recreation land supervisor. “Our sites provide access to boaters, picnickers, hikers and swimmers. These areas have been updated in the past couple of years with features such as gazebos, benches and trails perfect for walking, biking and even bird-watching.”
In 2021, Alabama Power plans to continue working on updating The Preserves sites with added features, such as barrier-free amenities, paved and striped parking lots, new walkways and more.
For visitors looking for specific amenities, The Preserves website, apcpreserves.com, includes a map and detailed charts that outline what each site offers.
In the coming months, check back at apcshorelines.com for new stories that offer an in-depth look at some of the individual Preserves sites and one-of-a-kind amenities available to visitors.
(Courtesy of Alabama NewsCenter)
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