Posted: 01/18/2024

The Alabama Forestry Commission is pleased to announce that their mural in downtown Montgomery has been added to the Alabama Mural Trail. Located at 513 Madison Avenue, the new mural was unveiled on Thursday with a dedication and open house to officially kick off the agency’s Centennial Celebration.

“Today we dedicate this mural to the men and women of the Alabama Forestry Commission – past, present, and future – who for the last 100 years have taken seriously the commitment to protect Alabama’s forests and citizens,” said State Forester Rick Oates.

Charles Forbus, an artist from Alexander City, painted the mural. Oates continued, “Charles’s art is exciting and inviting…it makes you want to learn more about the subject which is exactly what we wanted to create here in our mural. This wall vividly illustrates our agency’s mission to protect Alabama’s forests, help landowners sustain their forests through proper forest management, and educate people about the importance of our state’s forests. It’s also an opportunity to help add to the beauty of downtown Montgomery. We are currently working with the City of Montgomery to create a green space in the area adjacent to the mural, and we appreciate their cooperation in allowing us to do so.”

Oates also noted that this year’s Centennial Celebration would not be possible without the generous sponsorship of several of the agency’s partners. Gold and Elite sponsors include Southland International, Rex Lumber, and GR Manufacturing. Diamond sponsors are Alabama Farmers Federation (Alfa), Alabama Forestry Association, Alabama TREASURE Forest Association, Thompson Tractor, and Warrior Tractor & Equipment.

The goals of the Alabama Mural Trail are to provide the state of Alabama a sense of community, drive economic impact, and bring people together. This statewide trail encourages both locals and tourists to discover Alabama off the beaten path. For more information, visit www.alabamamuraltrail.org

Since 1924, the Alabama Forestry Commission has been the state agency charged with protecting Alabama citizens and the state’s forest resources from wildfires. To learn more about the services provided by the agency, contact any Alabama Forestry Commission office across the state or visit www.forestry.alabama.gov