FY 2009 Project Acccomplishments
On-Site Wastewater Disposal Training Center 08 (Area Wide): The Council continues to support the Training Center through technical and financial assistance. In 2009 the Training Center conducted classes in advanced on-site wastewater treatment and recertification training on basic and advanced installation. Additional on-site wastewater treatment systems were added to the Training Center field demonstration site. Project value for 2009 was $160,000.
Nature Trail, Arboretum and Outdoor Classroom 08-09 (Pickens): Started in FY08, the partnership of local organizations has laid out trails, located a site for the pavilion, and selected areas for the tree identification. Project Value $55,000.
Historic Northport Bridge Restoration 09 (Tuscaloosa): This historic bridge is 1 of only 2 in the Southeast. A coalition of partners including public and private sources has begun the process of restoring, moving and relocating the bridge to a site in the Northport Historical Park. This is a multi-phased project which will last for several years. FY 09 Project Value $70,000.
Black Belt Heritage Development Institute Initiative 09 (Area Wide): This is an initiative to focus attention to Alabama’s Black Belt. Committees have organized, issues identified to be addressed over time., a project manager has been identified and National designation is being sought. Project Value $22,000.
Erosion, Water Quality & Property Loss- Tombigbee River (Area Wide): Funding was provided to assist a working group consisting of local landowners, government agencies and professional experts to address issues associated with the stream bank erosion along the Tombigbee River. Project Value $12,000.
Alternative Ag Development 09 (Area Wide): Continued development of an Agricultural Marketing Cooperative through a diverse partnership including Alabama Deptartment of Ag. and Industry, AALGA, RC&D, Tri-States Rabbit Growers Association, ALFA, Tuskegee University, Alabama A&M, Cooperative Extension System of Alabama, and the Alabama State Legislature. Project Value $50,000.
Alabama Forestry Camp 09 (Sumter): Participants from across the area were educated in forest product issues and job opportunities. Project leadership was provided by partners including local and state industry forestry professionals. Alabama Forestry Commission officials as well as USFS personnel participated. Value $6,000.
Science Olympiad 09 (Sumter): Students from throughout the county competed for slots on the Science Olympiad team. Teachers volunteered time and resources to teach and prepare students for competition. Project value $4,500.
Tri-State Rabbit Growers Association Assistance 09 (Area Wide): The TSRGA was provided assistance with program development, grower development, processing, storage, and marketing. Project value $100,000.
Greene County Economic Development (Greene): Greene County continues to develop a center for students and citizens to utilize for job searches and job skill development. Project value $45,000.
Auntie Litter 09 (Bibb): Provided litter education to students in Bibb County schools. More than 300 students and faculty were impacted. Project value $3,000.
Succeed – Hubbertville School (Fayette): The school used funds to purchase online subscriptions printable books, purchased computer supplies, and materials for elementary school students to enhance their reading skills. These materials were used by special education teachers to assist special needs children. Other advanced teaching materials were purchased and an additional 200 K-12 students were involved in the program. More than $35,000 in cash and in-kind donations were added to the grant to give a total project value of $42,000.
HEARTS (Helping Each Achiever Read to Succeed) (Fayette): Funding allowed the program to purchase 437 books and encyclopedias. This project helped 285 K-12 students who currently read below their class reading level. Value $18,000.
Technology is the Way – Moundville Elementary (Hale): Moundville Elementary has implemented a program to improve the utilization of technology in the classroom. Students are exposed to new technologies and get hands on experience in their use. Project value $22,000.
Clean Water Partnership 09 (Area Wide): Tombigbee RC&D has provided area wide leadership to the clean water partnership by funding a facilitator for the Tombigbee River bank erosion task force and hosting public forum meetings to assure public input and involvement. Project value $125,000.
Carrolton Outdoor Classroom and Schoolyard Habitat 09 (Pickens): The outdoor classroom was designated as a Certified Alabama Outdoor Classroom. It involved more than 225 students and teachers in outdoor education, aquatic ecosystem development and educational plantings. Project value $85,000.
Sumter/Marengo Water Festival 09: More than 600 students, faculty and volunteers participated in the one day event at UWA. Students learned about the earth’s ecosystems and how to protect it. Project value $8,000.
Six Mile Community Park Health and Wellness Facility (Bibb): The Park’s board of directors added facilities and equipment to expand the health and wellness opportunities of the park for area citizens. Exercise equipment was purchased and installed to provide greater opportunities for the aging population of the area to maintain optimum fitness levels. Project value $18,000.
Historical Preservation – Stewart Community House (Hale): The Stewart Community House is being relocated to Greensboro as a historical building for use by area historians. The facility will be replaced by a new pavilion for use as a community center. Total project value $125,000.
Lamar County Courthouse Square – Seat Wall Rehab. (Lamar): The Lamar County Courthouse has a historical wall around the square which has served as a gathering place for decades. The sitting wall, as it is known, is where area citizens wait to enter the courthouse to “do business” and rest during long summers. Funding was provided to the Lamar County Commission to repair the wall. Many other areas of the courthouse were repaired and updated, too. Project value $85,000.
Sapps Community Center Rececration Program (Pickens): Funds were used to construct handicapped accessible sidewalks with ramps. Project value $10,000.
Taylorville Baseball Program Field Improvement Project (Tuscaloosa): Funds were provided to improve the Taylorville baseball field and upgrade equipment. Project value $16,000.
Hillcrest A.S.A. Improvement Project (Tuscaloosa): Funding was provided to upgrade and improve the softball program. Project value $4,500.
Hurricane Creek Park 09 (Tuscaloosa): Tuscaloosa County Commission has purchased a 250 ac. Tract of land on Hurricane Creek and asked Tombigbee to serve on the task force to develop it as an environmentally friendly recreation area. The area has significant aquatic and historical attributes. Project value $450,000.
Special Day for Special Kids 09 (Tuscaloosa): Approximately 30 special needs individuals and over 50 volunteers participated in a riverboat ride on the Warrior River to observe river front activities and be exposed to water issues. Value $15,000.
Black Belt Heritage Dev. Institute Workshop 09 (Area Wide): The Black Belt Heritage Development Institute developed a citizen input training program to promote conservation and preservation of historical resources in the Black Belt region. The University of West Alabama houses the Institute. Project value $90,000.
4-H Program (Fayette): Funds provided helped conduct 4H club meetings in 3 county schools. Youth were taught about wind and solar power, aerospace, entomology, natural resources, physical fitness, arts and crafts. Students were encouraged to use this knowledge to develop skills to compete in contests such as public speaking, bicycle skills, food demos, woodworking, etc. This project serves approximately 700 youth each month through in-school 4H programs. Project value $22,000.
Brent/Centerville Public Library Improvement (Bibb): Improvements to facilities were funded through a general fund grant. The funds were used to update portions of the library to provide better and safer access. Project value $18,000.
Biodiesel Display at Frog Level Festival (Fayette): This classroom on wheels display was used to educate farmers and ranchers on alternative fuel solutions that might offset current high fuel cost and help protect the environment. Value $1,000.
FCMP Complex – Sound System Enhancement (Fayette): The sound system at the Fayette County Multi Purpose facility was upgraded to a level usable by groups for events requiring better sound quality. This upgrade will allow more use for educational and community events as well as increase the ability of the county to rent the facility to interested individuals and groups for community events. Project value $43,000.
Agri-science Video Library (Lamar): Additions were made to the educational video library of the Lamar County Agri-science department. These videos will be used to better educate and prepare students for the working world. Value $17,000.
Sapps Technology Enhancement (Pickens): Six laptop computers were purchased for use by underserved students in the Sapps community. Value $8,000.
Englewood Technology Initiative (Tuscaloosa): Englewood school used funds provided by Tombigbee RC&D to improve their reading program through increased technology. Wireless interactive White Boards, DLP projectors, cameras and interactive wireless student response systems were components of the teaching enhancement system developed. Project value $95,000.
Black Belt Gardens (Sumter): The city of York used these funds to develop an index garden that acts as a hub for project activity, satellite gardens for individual residents and edible townscapes are all components of this project. Value $5,000.
FY 2008 Project Accomplishments
Sumter/Marengo County Water Festival 08 (Sumter): Students from Sumter and Marengo Counties attended a one-day experience focusing on water quality and quantity. Students and teachers from UWA and resource professionals combined to provide a learning experience for over 500 students. value - $7,000.
On-Site Wastewater Disposal Training Center 08 (Area Wide): The Council continues to support the Training Center through technical and financial assistance. In 2008 the Training Center conducted classes in advanced on-site wastewater treatment and recertification training on basic and advanced installation. Additional on-site wastewater treatment systems were added to the Training Center field demonstration site. Project value for 2008 was $180,000.
Six Mile Park 08 (Bibb): The park is being developed on the historical site of the school and trade district. Ball fields, walking trails and meeting areas are being phased in. Value of this 08 phase is $32,000.
Fayette County Multi-purpose Facility 08 (Fayette): A facility has been developed for use as a livestock arena and exposition area. AV equipment for use in teaching/educating various groups has been planned. Value: $360,000.
Your Town Alabama 08 (Area Wide): Scholarships were provided to 3 individuals to participate in training and bring the experience back to their area. $2,000.
WQ Cahaba/Warrior River Newspaper Inserts (Area Wide): Newspaper inserts have been developed and placed in area papers to educate and inform the public on water issues in the Warrior and Cahaba watersheds. Value: $10,000.
West Blockton Sidewalk (Bibb): A sidewalk connecting West Blockton High School to town for safe commute has been developed. Value- $62,000.
COW- Computers on Wheels (Bibb): Computers were added to West Blockton Elementary. The wireless system allowed teachers in any classroom to connect to school children across the globe. Access to information and a more exciting learning environment have helped school test scores go up. Value - $42,000.
Belk Community Outdoor Education Stages (Fayette): A community facility has been developed to provide an outdoor stage for community education and entertainment events. Economic development of the community has resulted in the use of the stage for community events. Project Benefits - $25,000.
Discoveries in Nature – SMART – Fayette Co.: This afterschool program at Fayette elementary and middle schools seeks to give participants hands-on opportunities with homework, computers, recreation and more. More than 100 students have taken advantage of this program. Project Value $6,000.
Fayette Co. 4-H Program (Fayette): This project paid for personnel to carry out the 4-H program in Fayette County schools. Project Value $24,000.
Grazing Clinic- Grazing Management (Fayette): Cooperative Extension and NRCS conducted a workshop which involved more than 40 individuals from multiple counties across Alabama. Project Value - $6,000.
Economic Development – Children’s Reading Resource Center – (Greene): An existing facility will be developed to accommodate a reading resource center for children in Greene County. This project was begun in FY 2008 and will be completed in FY 2009. Project Value $65,000.
Lions Park Mechanical Gate (Hale): Auburn University School of Architecture’s Rural Studio students have taken the lead in designing and installing a gate at the entrance of Lion’s Park in Greensboro. More than 1800 volunteers were used on the Lion’s Park project. Project Value - $18,000.
South Lamar Co. Playground Park (Lamar): Playground equipment and supplies were purchased to develop a park for area citizens. This addition to community services and facilities increased quality of life. Project Value $15,000.
STARS Project (Lamar): This project involves Comprehensive Core Reading Program components to assist students improve their reading skills. More than 100 students will have access to this opportunity. Project Value $163,000.
Pickens Co. Nature Trail, Arboretum and Outdoor Classroom 08 (Lamar): This project was begun in FY08. The partnership of local organizations has laid out trails, located a site for the pavilion, and selected areas for the tree identification. Project Value $35,000.
Carrolton Outdoor Classroom and Schoolyard Habitat 08 (Pickens): More than 125 students and community volunteers have helped develop an outdoor classroom which includes a butterfly garden, arboretum, greenhouse and a large water feature complete with fish and aquatic plants. Project Value - $65,000.
Sumter/Marengo Water Festival 08 (Sumter): More than 800 students and volunteers were involved in this learning experience. Water quality and quantity issues were taught. Value $14,000.
Lake LU Nature Trail Initiative (Sumter): Brochures and supplies for trail development were purchased to improve and develop the trail. A board walk has been developed. Tourism days were generated by visitors and area citizens by using the trail to learn about landforms, wildlife and fitness issues. Value $8,597.
Special Day for Special Kids 08 (Tuscaloosa): Approximately 30 special needs individuals and more than 50 volunteers participated in a riverboat ride to observe river front activities and be exposed to water issues. Project Value $12,000.
Campbell House Restoration (Sumter): Relocation and restoration of the Campbell House to Livingston was a major part of this project. The restored historical building will house the Black Belt Initiative program. Value $55,000.
Handicap Accessible Restrooms for Millport (Lamar): Access to restrooms for handicapped individuals was an identified need for Millport. This project serves local citizens and provides accessible facilities for tourists. Value $25,000.
Television Studio Maxwell Elementary (Tuscaloosa): Installed a TV studio and infrastructure at Maxwell Elementary. Students produce and broadcast morning news to all students. Value $38,000.
McGraw Center Horticulture Program (Tuscaloosa): A community garden was developed to assist in the life skill experiences of special needs individuals. The produce was used by the participants and local citizens. Value $3,000.
Historic Northport Bridge Restoration 08 (Tuscaloosa): This historic bridge is 1 of only 2 in the Southeast. A coalition of public and private sources has begun restoring and relocating the bridge to a site in the Northport Historical Park. This is a multi phase project lasting for several years. FY 08 Value $85,000.
Black Belt Heritage Development Institute Initiative 08 (Area Wide): An initiative to focus attention to the Black Belt. Committees have been organized and issues identified which will be addresses over time. A project manager has been identified and National designation is being sought. Project Value $22,000.
Erosion, Water Quality & Property Loss- Tombigbee River (Area Wide): Funding was provided to assist in the facilitation of a working group of local landowners, government agencies and professional experts to address issues associated with the stream bank erosion along the Tombigbee River. Project Value $12,000.
Alternative Ag Development 08 (Area Wide): Development of an Agricultural Marketing Cooperative has been accomplished through a diverse partnership including Alabama Dept. of Ag. And Industry, AALGA, RC&D, Tri-States Rabbit Growers Association, ALFA, Tuskegee University, Alabama A&M, Cooperative Extension System of Alabama, and the Alabama State Legislature. Value $28,000.
Alabama Forestry Camp (Sumter): Participants from across the area were educated in forest product issues and job opportunities. Project leadership was provided by partners including local and state industry forestry professionals. Alabama Forestry Commission officials as well as USFS personnel participated. Value $6,000.
Goat Production 08 (Area Wide): Alabama Meat Goat Association has been provided assistance in formation and grower education. Initially, 44 individuals joined the association. Project Value $3,000.
Science Olympiad 08 (Sumter): Students from throughout the county competed for slots on the Science Olympiad team. Teachers volunteered time and resources to teach and prepare students for competition. Project value - $4,500.
Rabbit Production 08 (Area Wide): Producers within the Tombigbee RC&D area were assisted with various aspects of rabbit production and processing and the processing plant was located within the area. Project value - $34,000.
Tri-State Rabbit Growers Association Assistance 08 (Area Wide): The TSRGA was provided assistance with program development, grower development, processing, storage, and marketing. Project value - $125,000.
Education Outreach 08 (Area Wide): Eight educational events received involvement by the Education Outreach Specialist. More than 600 students, educators, technical specialists and area citizens were involved. Value - $55,000.
FY 2007 Project Accomplishments
Sumter/Marengo County Water Festival 07- Sumter County
Students from Sumter and Marengo Counties attended a one day experience where the focus was on water quality and quantity. Students and teachers from UWA and resource professionals combined to provide a positive learning experience for over 500 students. Project value - $6,000.
On-Site Wastewater Disposal Training Center –07- Area Wide
The Council continues to support the Training Center through technical and financial assistance. In 2007 the Training Center conducted classes in advanced on-site wastewater treatment and recertification training on basic and advanced installation. Additional on-site wastewater treatment systems were added to the Training Center field demonstration site. Project value for 2007 was $185,000.
Westside Community Project -07, Tuscaloosa County
Training and skill enhancement has been provided to more than 45 disadvantaged and at risk youth ages 14-21. The project has a $50,000 value.
Six Mile Park 07, Bibb County –
The park is being developed on the historical site of the school and trade district. Ball fields, walking trails and meeting areas are being phased in. Value of this 07 phase is $22,000.
West Blockton Historic Coke Oven 07, Bibb County –
The historical site is being preserved and developed as a tourist destination. Event areas are being developed and a multi-phased plan has been completed by an architectural firm to preserve the historical significance of the site and local area. Project value -- $80,000.
Fayette Fire Department, Fayette County –
New fire hose was purchased for increased fire protection of local citizens. Project value $3,000.
Guthrie Smith Teaching Center 07, Fayette County –
This teaching center project for master gardeners planted flower beds, park trails and blue bird houses. Project value $4,500.
Berry Elementary Outdoor Learning Center – Fayette County
This outdoor learning center provided grades K-6 hands-on learning opportunities for parents and students. Academic preparation was encouraged through use of outdoor materials and studies. Project value $7,000.
My Reading Coach Software, Fayette County 07
Software led reading programs were developed for Fayette County students. Value -- $8,000
Fayette County Multi-purpose Facility 07, Fayette County –
A facility has been developed for use as a livestock arena and exposition area. AV equipment for use in teaching/educating various groups has been planned. Value -- $360,000.
Gainesville Bank Heritage Center 07 - Sumter County –
Preservation of the old bank and development as a historical tourist site are continuing. Value of this phase -- $12,000.
Children of the Village Newspaper, Sumter County –
A newsletter has been funded to provide information on the Children of the Village activities. Project value --$2,500.
Control of Invasive Species, Sumter County –
A workshop was conducted to teach local citizens and agriculturalist of the importance of controlling invasive species. Project value -- $4,000.
Alabama On-Site Training Center Brochure, Sumter County –
A new brochure has been developed to promote the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Training Facility. Project value -- $4,000.
Lake Lurleen State Park Trail, Tuscaloosa County –
A biking/walking trail has been developed around Lake Lurleen to accommodate the many local trail riders and citizens wishing to walk around a portion of the lake. Project value - $28,000.
On-Farm Energy Reduction, Area Wide –
An energy usage review of a poultry operation in Pickens County was conducted and the results shared with a grower group. Energy efficiency training was conducted with a poultry grower group.
Your Town Alabama, Area Wide –
Scholarships were provided to 3 individuals to participate in the training and bring the experience back to their respective communities. $2,000.
WQ Cahaba/Warrior River Newspaper Inserts – Area Wide
Newspaper inserts have been developed and placed in area papers to educate and inform the public on water issues in the Warrior and Cahaba watersheds. Project value -- $10,000.
Black Belt Prairie Restoration 07, Sumter County –
This project phase has been completed to restore native prairie vegetation and conditions. This center is used to educate students at UWA and visitors from throughout the south. Project value $38,000.
Greene-Sumter Farmers Market 07, Greene County –
A farmers market has been developed in Eutaw, Alabama. Funds have been obtained to purchase a cooler to store local product between market days. Project value -- $35,000.
Stopping Point, Greene County –
This project focuses on development community resources to reduce substance abuse through education and patient treatment. Project value $45,000.
Conservation and Wildlife Assistance Program, Greene County –
Community development funds were received to purchase an ATV for use in wildlife management in Greene County. Project value -- $10,000.
Warrior Academy, Greene County –
An education program including reading programs has been implementing in Greene County. More than 50 students have been positively impacted. Value -- $30,000.
Town of Union Walking Trail, Greene County –
A walking trail has been developed using community development funds. – Project value -- $16,000.
Akron Community Walking Trail, Hale County –
The walking trail was improved to include seating for senior citizens and handicapped individuals. Project value $8,000.
Akron Police Department Safety Project, Hale County –
A police car was purchased to assist local authorities in providing better safety and protection for area citizens. Funds were received through the community assistance fund. Project value - $35,000.
Moundville Recreation Park Development 07, Hale County –
Funds were used to improve and construct handicapped accessible walkways and trail access. Project value - $9,000.
Kennedy High School Agricultural Building Restoration 07, Lamar County –
An old school has been renovated for use by the community as a museum and meeting center. Project value - $48,000.
Gordo Public Library Landscaping and Critical Area Treatment, Pickens County – Vegetation was placed around the library to help control erosion and traffic flow. Project value - $7,000.
Old Stagecoach Inn Restoration – Pickens County –
A historical building was preserved and renovation was begun. Project value - $32,000.
Town of Kennedy Community Storm Shelter, Lamar County –
Community development funds were obtained to assist in the installation of a community storm shelter. Project value - $22,000.
Vernon Police Department, Lamar County –
A radar unit was purchased with the help of community development funds. Area citizen’s safety will be improved through the use of this device. Project value - $18,000.
North Lamar Rescue Squad Safety Project, Lamar County –
A Stryker cot was purchased through community development funds for use in rescue situations. Project value - $6,000.
South Lamar Rescue Squad Safety Project, Lamar County –
Community development funds were used to assist in the purchase of a new ambulance. Public safety and protection were improved through the implementation of this project. Project value - $45,000.
Old Stagecoach Inn Restoration /Septic Tank Installation Demo - 07, Pickens County –
A combination of participating agencies and individuals partnered to demonstrate the proper installation of a septic tank disposal system. Project value - $12,000.
Pickens County Boys and Girls Summer Program, Pickens County –
The county commission and other groups form Pickens County combined efforts to conduct a summer youth program at multiple sites within the county. More than 4,500 youth hours of instruction and recreation were provided to more than 400 children. Project value - $ 32,000.
Coatopa Historic Center Restoration 07, Sumter County –
This historic site continued to be renovated. Educational/Informational programs were presented to make area citizens aware of the cultural significance of the historical church. Project value - $6,000
Rigorous Reading Readiness 07, Fayette County –
This project promoted K-6 reading. All students benefited from this improved reading program. Project value - $18,000.
Science Olympiad 07, Sumter County –
Students from through the county competed for slots on the Science Olympiad team. Teachers volunteered time and resources to teach and prepare students for competition. Project value - $4,500.
Brookwood High School Greenhouse 07, Tuscaloosa County –
This project is still in progress and will be completer in FY08.
Area Wide Rabbit Production 07 –
Producers within the Tombigbee RC&D area were assisted with various aspects of rabbit production and processing. The processing plant was located within the Tombigbee RC&D area. Project value - $28,000.
Tri-State Rabbit Growers Association Assistance-07 –
The TSRGA was provided assistance with program development, grower development, processing, storage, and marketing. Project value - $198,000.
Study in Changes in Channel Morphology – Tombigbee River Basin –
Changes in the stream channel and bank erosion identified a need to study the effects of increased river traffic and dredging operations. Large areas of bank erosion have caused houses to fall into the river and erosion has added to the increase of sediment downstream. Project value - $125,000.
Education Outreach –Area Wide.
Six educational events received involvement by the Tombigbee Education Outreach Specialist. More than 300 students, educators, technical specialist and area citizens were involved in the events. Project value - $45,000.
Dollarhide Creek Watershed Management – Greene County –
A watershed management plan was developed for the Dollarhide Creek watershed in Greene County. Project value $ 22,000.
Grand Slam Beef Bonanza – Pickens County –
This project involved beef producers from through the region. To date more than 250 area farmers, businessmen, technical professionals and citizens have benefited from participation and educational activities. National presenters in identified areas have been brought in to provide training and expertise to the area beef producers. Project value - $36,000.