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Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment plans to soon improve Weagle Woods, an approximately 11-acre tract of forest located behind the Forest and Wildlife Science Building at the corner of South Donahue Drive and Lem Morrison Drive.
The project is funded with the support of Auburn alumni Ken and Barby Oser of Milton, Florida. Ken is a college graduate and Barby is a liberal arts college graduate.
The natural area contains healthy and mature forest habitat with a few established trees estimated to be around 200 years old. Used for research and experiential educational opportunities, the space is a valuable resource for the college, university, and greater Auburn community.
The College of Forestry, Wildlife and the Environment will enhance Weagle Woods by creating an outdoor learning laboratory to provide greater opportunities for the public to enjoy the space and other opportunities for practical educational activities.
With support from the Oser, the college will establish new walking trails and design and install educational kiosks and interpretive signs. Main trail and identification signs along Donahue Drive have been installed.
The development phase of the Weagle Woods Learning Lab will provide a learning opportunity for students in the college’s Environmental Interpretation and Introduction to Environmental Education courses. As part of the program, students will be involved in the design of informative signage and educational demonstration areas.
Once construction is complete, the property can be used for classroom instruction in College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment courses and other disciplines at Auburn, says project coordinator and professor Amy Counterman. practice in college.
“This area will benefit students across campus who will be able to use the pathways and informative signage as an outdoor lab,” Counterman said.
Janaki Alavalapati, Dean of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and the Environment, said: “The Weagle Woods Learning Lab has the potential to become an academic resource, as well as provide benefits to the greater community. of Auburn for educational and recreational purposes. Weagle Woods is near some popular tailgating areas and is expected to become a popular destination for football fans and other campus visitors.
(Written by Gracen Carter)
