North Alabama Birding Trail
Site Selection Criteria

A set of criteria that consider resource protection and visitor safety and enjoyment are being used by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to guide their selection of North Alabama Birding Trail sites.
	Wheeler NWR observation platform overlooking fields where wintering Sandhill Cranes and snow geese are seen.

Bird watching characteristics – site possesses a unique, rich birding resource

Ecological significance - high quality areas of significant habitat types.

Site resiliency - able to withstand continual public use without damage to environmentally sensitive areas

Physical and legal access - guaranteed public access, both private and public lands.

Economic significance – opportunities for the site to support local   private businesses such as guides, lodging, etc.

Maintenance support - site has local sponsors and/or partners in the community to provide management and general maintenance.

Site safety - adequate parking or right-of-way “pull-off” to allow vehicular stops without endangerment of vehicle or viewer from passing motorists.

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