Wehle Land Conservation Center

Wehle Land Conservation Center offers Immersive Experience to Connect with Nature

Wehle Land Conservation Center offers Immersive Experience to Connect with Nature Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Bullock County, Alabama lies the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' (ADCNR) Wehle Land Conservation Center (WLCC), a haven for nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 1,500 acres of pristine wilderness, this conservation center offers a unique and immersive experience that beckons visitors to explore and connect with the natural world, The origins of the Wehle Land Conservation Center date back to a vision the late Mr. Robert G. Wehle had in the early 1990s when he initially presented his 1,546-acre estate near Midway (Bullock County) to the State of Alabama Forever Wild Land Trust program which is administered by ADCNR's State Lands Division. As a passionate conservationist and outdoorsman, Wehle wanted to ensure the land he worked so tirelessly to restore would be conserved for the benefit of future generations. The Forever Wild Wehle tract acquisition in 1994 ultimately paved the way for establishment of the WLCC and enhanced public recreation opportunities for Bullock County and the surrounding communities. The Wehle Center offers a wealth of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in hiking, birding, fishing, or simply immersing yourself in the beauty of nature, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The facility's "Open Trail" weekends (scheduled and posted each year) provide camping, fishing, and over 10 miles of horseback riding trails. The Forever Wild trailhead further offers daily access to eight miles of hiking trails. With over 180 bird species documented on the Wehle Tract, this hiking trail is also a popular stop along the Wiregrass Birding Trail. Families can spend the day picnicking by the lake, while avid anglers can try their luck at catching bass or bream in the pristine waters. Providing educational opportunities for those cager to learn more about the natural world is at the heart of the WLCC's mission. Unique field-based programs provide insight into the local flora and fauna, as well as the conservation efforts underway to protect them. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and the importance of conserving wild spaces for future generations to enjoy. The combination and outdoor recreation activities and educational offerings brought more than 1,300 visitors to Wehle last year alone. The Center works closely with several local and regional conservation groups and organizations. For example, WLCC supports both Bullock and Barbour County Natural Resource Planning Committees by hosting annual "Forestry and Wildlife for Youth" programs. These events educate hundreds of fourth grade students about various wildlife and forestry topics in a round-robin manner. Similarly, WICC annually hosts the Bullock County Groundwater Water Festival, which draws approximately 200 students each spring to learn about the importance of Alabama's water resources. More recently, WLCC partnered with the Children and Mentors Outdoors (CAMO) Group, a program developed to mentor Bullock County youth by increasing youth appreciation for the outdoors, while also discouraging high-risk behaviors. WLCC also hosts a youth fishing derby every summer.
With an onsite dormitory and dining hall, the center can now accommodate a variety of usage requests ranging from day use to extended stay programs. These facilities are regularly rented for organizational meetings, retreats, luncheons, workshops, and banquets.
ADCNR is proud to continue Robert G. Wehle's legacy of land conservation and stewardship as well as his appreciation for Alabama's unique natural resources. With its ongoing educational programs, research efforts, and recreational opportunities, the impact of the Wehle Land Conservation Center will continue to serve future generations - just as Mr. Wehle would have wanted.
For more information about the Wehle Land Conservation Center, please visit www.outdooralabama.com/activities/wehle-nature-center, www.unionspringsalabama.com/wehle-nature-center or call 334-242-3484.
 By Midge Putnam