Thank you for your interest in trying to protect The Underwater Forest so Alabama can benefit for generations to come from that tremendous eco-tourism opportunity! Despite our country's current political divide, last year ACF had glowing bi-partisan public hearing in January, was approved by unanimous consent by the House Natural Resources Committee in June, and was overwhelmingly approved by the US House of Representatives in July. Now that the new session has started, everything is on hold until we can raise the funds needed to succeed. If you know of any sources, please contact ACF Executive Director Mark Berte: mberte@joinACF.org

​

Alabama's Underwater Forest is a prime national sanctuary candidate for our country because it provides a unique marine habitat that supports a wide range of biodiversity, similar to that of coral reefs. Also, the trees provide valuable scientific data because they are so well preserved. In addition, protecting the forest would increase eco-tourism opportunities and result in a positive local economic impact. National sanctuaries not only conserve critical habitats and marine life, but also help celebrate and safeguard significant areas. In case you have not already seen it, the Alabama Coastal Foundation has a free award-winning (26 minute) documentary on our website about that fascinating discovery: https://www.joinACF.org/the-underwater-forest-documentary