ADCNR Receives 2025 Governor’s Tourism Award
At the recent Alabama Governor’s Conference, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) received the distinguished 2025 Governor’s Tourism Award. This recognition highlights the department’s significant role in Alabama’s rapidly expanding tourism sector.
Lee Sentel, the Alabama Tourism Director, noted that this award is particularly special. “It’s rare for our agency to present awards to partner organizations, but ADCNR has demonstrated remarkable leadership in the industry for many years,” he explained. “In many respects, we’re like sister organizations. The tourism landscape would certainly look different without ADCNR’s contributions.”
He praised the professionalism of the ADCNR, emphasizing that their leadership directly benefits Alabama’s hospitality and outdoor recreation industries.
Commissioner Chris Blankenship accepted the award during a banquet at Gulf State Park. “It’s an honor to represent over 1,200 staff members who are dedicated to preserving our natural resources and promoting outdoor activities,” he remarked. “We are committed to enhancing access for both Alabamians and visitors alike.”
Blankenship also recognized the investment made by Governor Kay Ivey and the tourism community in improving Alabama’s recreational offerings. He expressed gratitude for the efforts to forge partnerships among various local governments, which aim to boost community engagement through outdoor recreation.
The impact of outdoor recreation on local economies is substantial, he stated, and he looks forward to the positive developments ahead. Exciting initiatives like the Alabama Trail Tourism Year aim to highlight and expand outdoor activities across the state.
This two-year promotion showcases Alabama’s extensive trail system, including 500 miles of trails under the management of state parks, complemented by 400 miles from the ADCNR’s Forever Wild Land Trust.
Alabama’s 21 state parks offer diverse landscapes, from the mountainous areas in the northeast to the scenic Gulf Coast.
The ADCNR has recently made strides in developing outdoor recreation initiatives, including a new report led by Blankenship and former vice-chairman Ed Pros. Their efforts involve raising funds for various projects that further improve outdoor experiences for residents and attract visitors nationwide.
With over $400 million allocated for public access and recreation projects, Alabama is on the path to becoming a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This funding supports critical infrastructure improvements, including renovations at public fishing lakes, parks, and multi-use trails.
Currently, state parks have $228 million in ongoing or completed projects, enhancing locations like Desoto, Lake Guntersville, and Oak Mountain State Parks. Significant upgrades include rebuilding the pier at Gulf State Park and expanding campgrounds at Monte Sano.
Commissioner Blankenship also shared plans for major park projects. For instance, a $14 million funding effort at Lake Lullin State Park will develop a new campground on a former golf course. Additionally, a $28 million project at Chiaha State Park will showcase timber structures, harmonizing with the mountain scenery.
During a recent visit to Rhode Island, Blankenship received another accolade from the State Boat Access Agency for outstanding service. “Alabama boasts more navigable waterways than any other state,” he stated. “We’ve invested over $66 million in enhancing public boat access and facilities, ensuring easy access to our state’s abundant recreational offerings.”
The ADCNR is also focused on establishing a comprehensive ecotourism model that promotes sustainable access to Alabama’s wildlife and fisheries, particularly in iconic areas like the Mobile Tensaw Delta and the Gulf Coast’s Sugar Beaches. This initiative aims to boost the state’s economy by enhancing tourism and attracting skilled workers seeking high quality of life and outdoor recreation opportunities.
A recent gathering in Gulf State Park allowed tourism experts and stakeholders from across Alabama to celebrate the impressive growth in the tourism industry since 2003. “We project that Alabama’s tourism sector will generate $25 billion in sales this year,” Sentel indicated. “Two decades ago, we were at about $5 billion. It’s a remarkable growth trajectory.”
Sentel also noted that outdoor recreation has played a key role in this growth, with increased opportunities for activities like hunting, fishing, hiking, and biking over the past decade.
