Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment plans to improve Weagle Woods, an approximately 11-acre tract of forest behind the Forest and Wildlife Science Building at 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 Auburn college, university and community.
The Auburn College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment is adding walking trails to enhance Weagle Woods, an approximately 11-acre forest tract behind the Forestry and Wildlife Science Building. (contributed)
Auburn College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment professor Amy Counterman and Dean Janaki Alavalapati walk along a new trail in Weagle Woods. (contributed)
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 curriculum, students will be involved in the design of information panels 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, said Amy Counterman, project coordinator and college practice teacher.
“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.
This story originally appeared on the Auburn University website.
