The Land Trust of North Alabama is dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural landscapes that define the region. Each acre conserved ensures that wildlife habitats remain undisturbed, scenic views are safeguarded, and future generations have access to North Alabama’s outdoor spaces.
Conservation efforts are off to a strong start in 2025, with the recent closing of a 0.43-acre tract at Monte Sano Nature Preserve. For two decades, the Land Trust has worked to acquire a critical set of properties above the Bankhead Trailhead—an effort that is now close to completion. These lots, previously owned by five different individuals, represented a potential gap in the connectivity of Monte Sano Nature Preserve. Through consistent outreach to landowners, six of the seven lots have been successfully secured.
The Land Trust has secured six of the seven lots above Bankhead Trailhead at Monte Sano Nature Preserve.
This acquisition is more than just an expansion; it is a crucial step in protecting the continuity of Monte Sano Nature Preserve. By ensuring these lands remain undeveloped and connected, important habitats are safeguarded, uninterrupted trails and green space are maintained, and the long-term integrity of the preserve is reinforced.
As a new year begins, it is important to reflect on the progress made in 2024—another year dedicated to conserving North Alabama’s natural spaces. Through the generosity of landowners and the support of the community, the Land Trust secured over 68 acres across multiple preserves, expanding protected forests, safeguarding critical habitats, and enhancing public access to nature.
Here is a look at the land protected in 2024:
Green Mountain- 9 acres
In June 2024, the Land Trust of North Alabama acquired a 9-acre tract, generously donated by the Byrd Family. Located atop Green Mountain on Riverview Road and adjacent to the existing Green Mountain Nature Preserve, this acquisition strengthens the boundaries of the preserve and supports the Land Trust’s mission to protect North Alabama’s natural spaces.
The Byrd Property’s proximity to the existing preserve enhances opportunities for future trail development and increased habitat protection. This land addition ensures the continued conservation of critical ecosystems while expanding opportunities for public access and recreation.
View from the Byrd property.
Christian Mountain- 44.2 acres
The Land Trust received a generous donation of 44.2 acres from Breland Homes, LLC. in August 2024. Located north of the Oak Meadows Subdivision off Old Highway 431, this land expands the boundaries of the recently acquired 311-acre Christian Mountain property. Nestled between residential developments, this tract enhances the potential for a future public recreation preserve while adding to the Land Trust’s growing footprint of protected natural spaces.
The Oak Meadows property boasts outstanding geological features, including Coors Cave and numerous karst formations, and is heavily wooded with minimal invasive species. These unique characteristics, combined with its proximity to other protected tracts, make it a vital addition for habitat connectivity and the preservation of local flora and fauna.
Cave entrance at the Oak Meadows property.
Wade Mountain- 9.5 acres
In April 2024, the Land Trust of North Alabama acquired a 9.5-acre property from the Cavazos Family to expand the Wade Mountain Nature Preserve. Situated just east of the Spragins Hollow Trailhead off Hollow Road, this tract was a key target for conservation due to its proximity to existing preserve land. The addition strengthens habitat protection and provides opportunities for future trail development, preserving the area as both a refuge for wildlife and a place for the community to enjoy.
View of the Cavazos property.
Beasley Spring- 3.4 acres
The Land Trust was gifted a 3.4-acre tract along the south side of U.S. Highway 72 West near Springhill Road in November 2024. This property contains a historic spring that feeds into Indian Creek, a major regional tributary. Situated in a developed area, the spring’s preservation is crucial to maintaining its ecological integrity and supporting the health of Indian Creek.
Picture from the Beasley Spring property.
Little River- 0.59 acres
A 0.59-acre property within the Little River tract in Mentone, Alabama was donated to the Land Trust by Mrs. Caroline Cooper through her last will and testament in December 2024. Bordering the south fork of the Little River near Desoto Falls and Desoto State Park, this land closes a critical gap in ownership within the tract, which was originally gifted by Mrs. Cooper’s father, Ben Erdreich.