For media inquiries, please contact Bradley Davidson at bradley@conservationalabama.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 4, 2023

For More Information, contact: Bradley Davidson | 205-837-0244 | bradley@conservationalabama.org

THE SAFE AND HEALTHY OUTDOOR RECREATION ACT (SB 105) WAS INTRODUCED WITH BIPARTISAN SUPPORT

BIRMINGHAM – Last week, Senator Linda Coleman-Madison (D-20) introduced SB 105, the Safe and Healthy Outdoor Recreation Act (The SHOR Act), which will ensure outdoor recreationists, or paddlers, swimmers, and fishers across Alabama are better informed about fish consumption advisories in our rivers, streams, creeks, and bays. This bill has bipartisan support in the Alabama Senate.

Alabama’s coastal waters, rivers, lakes, and creeks provide endless opportunities for fun, food, and adventure. In order to enjoy Alabama’s abundant waterways safely and to protect the health of swimmers, paddlers, anglers, and anyone who depends on clean water, Alabamians need to know where fish are unsafe to eat and where other harmful pollutants are entering our waterways

The SHOR Act will:

Require the installation of signage with pictures and names of fish with an active consumption advisory to be posted at every public boat ramp or fishing area (some coastal areas and rivers already have such signs in place through a partnership between the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and non-profit organizations)
Require those with water pollution permits to post signs on waterways where their legally permitted pollution is being discharged
Require the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to communicate the consumption advisories through its current fishing license program
Create a Fish Consumption Advisory Panel to meet annually to continue to improve the program for the health and safety of all Alabamians

Click here to read the legislation.

The SHOR Act has been introduced and has been assigned to the Senate Healthcare Committee. To learn more and let your legislators know you support this bill, please click here.

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Conservation alabama announces alabama delegation scores from LCV’s 2020 National environmental scorecard

February 18, 2021

Montgomery, Ala - Conservation Alabama today released the Alabama delegation’s scores on the League of Conservation Voters’ 2020 National Environmental Scorecard. The Scorecard is the primary yardstick for evaluating the environmental records of every member of Congress, and is available online at scorecard.lcv.org.

“Congresswoman Sewell achieved the highest score in our delegation again this year. Her votes in 2020 ushered in full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund and eliminated harmful pollutants from entering our waterways.” said Tammy Monistere, Executive Director at Conservation Alabama. “We are grateful for her work protecting the people and places of Alabama.”

The 2020 Scorecard measures votes cast during the second session of the 116th Congress. Alabama’s average House score was 15 percent and the average Senate score was 35 percent. The full delegation’s scores for 2020 are:

Senate:

Sen. Richard Shelby (R): 0

Sen. Doug Jones (D): 69

House:

Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-AL1): 0

Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL2): 5

Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL3): 5

Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-AL4): 5

Rep. Mo Brooks (R-AL5): 0

Rep. Gary Palmer (R-AL6): 0

Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL7): 90

LCV has published a National Environmental Scorecard every Congress since 1970. The Scorecard represents the consensus of experts from more than 20 respected environmental and conservation organizations who selected the key votes on which members of Congress should be scored. LCV scores votes on the most important issues of the year, including energy, climate change, environmental justice, public health, public lands and wildlife conservation, democracy, and spending for environmental programs. The votes included in the Scorecard presented members of Congress with a real choice and help distinguish which legislators are working for environmental protection. More information on individual votes and the Scorecard archive can be found at scorecard.lcv.org.

Founded in 1999, Conservation Alabama lobbies the state legislature on behalf of the conservation community. Visit us online at www.ConservationAlabama.org.

Conservation Alabama Announces Alabama Delegation Scores from LCV's 2019 National Environmental Scorecard

March 12, 2020

Montgomery, Ala. - Conservation Alabama released the Alabama congressional delegation’s scores on the League of Conservation Voters’ 2019 National Environmental Scorecard. The Scorecard is the primary yardstick for evaluating the environmental records of every member of Congress, and is available online at scorecard.lcv.org. LCV scores votes on the most important issues of the year, including energy, public health, public lands and wildlife conservation, and spending for environmental programs.

"Alabamians treasure our public lands, and our delegation's votes should reflect that," said Tammy Monistere, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We want to particularly thank Sen. Doug Jones for his leadership on this issue not only in 2019 but also this year, as he continues to work with colleagues from both parties to fully fund the Land & Water Conservation Fund. We also want to congratulate Rep. Terri Sewell for achieving the highest score in our delegation, thanks to her votes for public lands and clean energy."

The 2019 Scorecard measures votes cast during the first session of the 116th Congress, which includes 29 House votes and 14 Senate votes. Alabama's average House score was 16, and the average Senate score was 57. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL7) and Sen. Doug Jones (D) were the highest-scoring members of the delegation. The full delegations scores for 2019 are:

Senate:

Sen. Richard Shelby (R): 29

Sen. Doug Jones (D): 86

House:

Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-AL1): 3

Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL2): 3

Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL3): 3

Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-AL4): 3

Rep. Mo Brooks (R-AL5): 3

Rep. Gary Palmer (R-AL6): 0

Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL7): 97

LCV has published a National Environmental Scorecard every Congress since 1970. The Scorecard represents the consensus of experts from about 20 respected environmental and conservation organizations who selected the key votes on which members of Congress should be scored. LCV scores votes on the most important issues of the year, including energy, climate change, public health, public lands and wildlife conservation, and spending for environmental programs. The votes included in the Scorecard presented members of Congress with a real choice and help distinguish which legislators are working for environmental protection. More information on individual votes and the Scorecard archive can be found at scorecard.lcv.org.

Founded in 1999, Conservation Alabama lobbies the state legislature on behalf of the conservation community. Visit us online at www.ConservationAlabama.org.

New Coalition Highlights Renewable Energy Opportunities for Alabama

February 19, 2020

Montgomery, Ala. - Energy Freedom Alabama launches today to share information about clean energy solutions and help Alabama’s voters speak up for the policy changes our state needs in order to develop affordable renewable energy sources.

Currently, policies in Alabama do not clearly allow for common sense financing for clean energy technologies. This prevents homeowners and businesses from investing in clean, renewable energy that can also lower power bills.

“This coalition fundamentally believes you should have multiple options for investing in energy, such as rooftop solar,” said Daniel Tait, COO of Energy Alabama.

For example, third-party financing of renewable energy allows homeowners and businesses to eliminate most of the upfront costs that would otherwise be required to take advantage of solar power, much in the same way mortgages help to finance home-buying. Third-party financing options are currently law in 28 states, including Georgia and South Carolina.

 “Clean energy is a nonpartisan issue,” said Tammy Monistere, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama Foundation. “It’s time to get rid of the policy barriers that are keeping Alabamians from investing in this thriving industry.”

“Alabama is far behind in creating the jobs and industry that clean energy brings. We can change that through common sense policies. Alabamians should be allowed to decide how they invest in clean energy technologies,” said Keith Johnston, managing attorney of the Southern Environmental Law Center’s Birmingham office.

“The Alabama Solar Industry Association (AlaSIA) is working hard to expand the number of Alabamians working in the solar industry by supporting the growth of a robust state-wide market for solar energy. This growth is happening in surrounding states where it is generating millions of dollars in investments each year. We need clear policy on third party financing of solar energy production equipment so that Alabama businesses can benefit from this growing industry,” said Gregory Cox, President of AlaSIA.

Energy Freedom Alabama is a partnership of the Alabama Solar Industry Association, Energy Alabama, the Southern Environmental Law Center, and Conservation Alabama Foundation. For more information, visit EnergyFreedomAlabama.com.

“Love Alabama” Event Celebrates Conservation Alabama’s 20th Anniversary

September 24, 2019

Montgomery, Ala. - Conservation Alabama is pleased to announce its 20th anniversary celebration on October 2 at the A&P Courtyard in Montgomery’s historic Cloverdale neighborhood from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Tickets for the “Love Alabama” event are $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and can be purchased at ConservationAlabama.org/events. The event is presented by Mashburn Outdoor and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, with additional support from Montgomery City Councilman Arch Lee, The Montgomery Independent, and other sponsors from around the state.

“This is a huge milestone for our organization,” said Executive Director Tammy Herrington. “Thanks to our members, partners and supporters, we’ve worked with voters to protect Alabama’s natural resources for two decades. This event will celebrate that work and look ahead to the future.”

The “Love Alabama” event will feature food by Vintage Year, including an oyster bar and pickled Alabama vegetables, drinks by Pine Bar, and music by Davis Nix. Conservation Alabama staff and board members will be on hand to share more information about the organization’s work and how you can help protect the people and places you love in Alabama.

Conservation Alabama was founded in 1999 to provide Alabama’s environment with a voice at the State House. The non-partisan organization gives citizens the tools they need to effectively engage with our local, state, and federal elected officials. Conservation Alabama’s work during the legislative session has helped protect Alabama’s state parks and public lands, stopped 95% of bad environmental bills, and proven that Alabama’s voters care about our land, water, and air.

For more information, visit ConservationAlabama.org.

Alabama Voters Overwhelmingly Support Expanding Renewable Energy

June 6, 2019

Montgomery, Ala. - A recent statewide poll found that 75% of registered Alabama voters support the expansion of renewable energy in the state. Support for more renewable energy is consistent regardless of party affiliation, geographic location, or race.

When asked about the energy currently being used in Alabama, 46% of poll respondents said that we are not using enough renewable energy. The poll also indicated that there is potential for even higher levels of support for renewable energy once voters learn more about the industry; 31% of respondents said they are not sure if there is enough renewable energy in Alabama.

“Expanding renewable energy would mean more jobs and a healthier environment for our state,” said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama Foundation. “This poll confirms that regardless of demographics or political preferences, Alabamians see the potential and want to act on it.”

“Alabama has lagged its neighbors on renewable energy,” said Daniel Tait, Chief Operating Officer of Energy Alabama. “But the people of Alabama want better and expect their leaders to do more.”

“As we’ve seen with the increasing demand from Alabama business leaders who want more clean energy options, making solar and other renewables more widely available would provide major benefits for Alabamians,” said Keith Johnston, managing attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center’s Birmingham office. “By enacting policies that clear the way for homegrown clean energy investments, Alabama can create local jobs and build on economic development opportunities that other Southern states are benefiting from as a result of their own investments.”

The poll was conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy, Inc., between April 9 and 11. Across the state, 625 registered Alabama voters were contacted via both landline and cell phone. The renewable energy questions on the poll were paid for by Conservation Alabama Foundation, Energy Alabama, and Southern Environmental Law Center, and the full results can be viewed at conservationalabamafoundation.org/poll.

Conservation Alabama Foundation protects the people and places you love by building the ability of Alabama's citizens to promote conservation through government and civic action. CAF provides the tools necessary for citizens to follow conservation issues in our state and communicate with elected officials about the issues most important to them. For more information, visit conservationalabamafoundation.org.

Energy Alabama is a non-profit organization accelerating Alabama’s transition to sustainable energy. We accomplish our mission by educating at all levels, informing smart energy policy, building the next generation workforce, and providing technical assistance to deploy more sustainable energy. We believe in sustainable energy for all. For more information, visit energyalabama.org.

The Southern Environmental Law Center uses the power of the law to champion the environment of the Southeast. Our team of more than 80 dedicated attorneys stands up for all the things you love about this special region—clean water, healthy air, mountains and forests, the coast. For more information, visit southernenvironment.org.

Conservation Alabama Kicks Off 20th Anniversary Celebration

March 21, 2019

Montgomery, Ala. - March 24, 2019, marks twenty years since Conservation Alabama was founded to give the environment a voice at the Alabama State House. Originally called Alabama League of Environmental Action Voters (AlaLEAVs), Conservation Alabama has spent the last two decades working with environmental organizations, communities, businesses, and individuals to protect the people and places you love.

Joe Turnham, who ran to represent Alabama's 3rd District in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1998 and 2002, founded AlaLEAVs after making Alabama's natural resources a focal point of his campaign. "There’s a lot of energy and professionalism in the environmental community, and we took the step to crystallize that into an organization that could work with candidates and monitor the Alabama legislature," said Turnham. "When I look back, it’s one of the things I’m most proud of politically and professionally."

Since Conservation Alabama was founded, the organization has: Prevented a tax on conventional hybrid vehicles and negotiated a lower tax for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles; Preserved the Forever Wild Land Trust – the most successful conservation program in state history – and safeguarded funding for Alabama’s state parks; Protected drinking water by reducing the amount of cancer-causing chemicals emitted into Alabama’s waterways; Improved safety in neighborhoods and communities for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists alike by passing Complete Streets policies in nearly a dozen municipalities; Elected conservation-minded candidates to state and local offices; and Kept 95% of bad environmental legislation from passing the state legislature.

"When I was hired as executive director in 2013, Conservation Alabama had a solid track record of stopping bad legislation and protecting what matters to Alabamians," said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We've built on that work and expanded it to include more partnerships with organizations across the state, all while electing conservation champions and connecting our citizens to the legislative process."

Conservation Alabama offers a range of tools to help citizens engage with the state legislature, including a simple platform for identifying and contacting elected officials, an Action Center to mobilize conservation voters, a monthly e-newsletter, and during the legislative session, a weekly legislative Hot List that spotlights conservation policy in the State House and a blog that recaps the week's events.

CONSERVATION ALABAMA CONGRATULATES SENATOR-ELECT DOUG JONES

December 12, 2017

Montgomery, Ala. – Conservation Alabama congratulates Doug Jones on his election to the United States Senate.

"The people of Alabama have chosen a senator that will stand up for our shared conservation values in Washington," said Conservation Alabama Executive Director Tammy Herrington. "We look forward to working with Doug Jones to protect our state's lands and water and the people and communities that rely on them."

The League of Conservation Voters Action Fund endorsed Doug Jones for U.S. Senate in October. LCV, Conservation Alabama's parent organization, evaluates candidates for federal office based on their responses to a questionnaire covering environmental and energy issues.

"Jones' election means that Alabama has a champion in our corner for federal policies like the Clean Water Act and the Land and Water Conservation Fund," said Herrington. "These protections make our state safer every day and preserve our natural resources for future generations of Alabamians to enjoy."

Founded in 1999, Conservation Alabama is the only full-time lobbyist for the environment in our state, with offices in Mobile and Montgomery to better protect the people and places you love. Learn more about Conservation Alabama by visiting our website.

LCV LAUNCHES "OUR LANDS, OUR VOTE"

June 20, 2017

Washington, DC - On the heels of Interior Secretary Zinke’s recommendation to remove protections for Bears Ears National Monument in what may just be a preview of the Trump administration’s coming assault on our national parks and monuments, the League of Conservation Voters today launched the new “Our Lands, Our Vote” campaign to engage and mobilize community leaders, activists, public officials and the broader public to support America’s majestic national parks, the monuments that tell the story of all people in this country – including those places which are the gatekeepers to our nation’s human rights and civil rights history – and defend key conservation laws such as the Antiquities Act.

With an initial commitment of $600,000, the national “Our Lands, Our Vote” campaign will involve a mix of paid advertising, online organizing and on-the-ground mobilization to demonstrate the overwhelming public support for national monuments and the rich cultural history each holds, as well as oppose congressional attacks on laws such as the Antiquities Act that have allowed presidents of both parties to protect public lands as national monuments.

The campaign will include continuing to encourage public comments into the Interior Department in support of national monuments during its ongoing review, with an initial goal of submitting 250,000 by the July 10 close of Interior's comment period, of which 150,000 have already been submitted by LCV members. It will feature digital content showcasing particular national monuments and the stories of local community members that are benefiting from and working to preserve these landmarks. And it will use online and other advertising and phone calls from constituents to apply pressure to anti-parks politicians to support the Antiquities Act and other conservation laws.

“America’s parks should be protected and celebrated – not sold off to special interests,” said Gene Karpinski, President of LCV. “These lands – and the natural and cultural heritage they hold – belong to all of us and generations to come. From the Statue of Liberty to the Grand Canyon, our monuments and parks honor our nation’s deep history and the history of those who originated on those lands, they recognize our dedication to human and civil rights, and they protect our lands and waters that fuel this country’s thriving outdoor recreation industry. This campaign will mobilize the public to hold Trump and members of Congress accountable for putting corporate polluter interests ahead of people.”

"Secretary Zinke's recommendation to significantly reduce national monument designation for Bears Ears National Monument sets the stage for additional attacks on all of America’s national parks and public lands, including New Mexico’s own Rio Grande del Norte and Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monuments,” said Senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico. “It’s a page out of the playbook by a small contingent of special interests to dispose of America’s national forests, conservation lands, and open space. But the campaign to transfer or even sell off our shared lands should not be mistaken for the mainstream values of Westerners whose way of life depends on the region’s land and water."

“This administration has picked the wrong fight with the American people,” said House Committee on Natural Resources Ranking Member Raúl M. Grijalva (D-Ariz.). “Secretary Zinke and the White House keep forgetting the ‘public’ in our public lands. The longer they treat our national monuments as problems to be solved rather than the popular successes they are, the more resistance they’ll face. Our national monuments don’t exist to make a few Republican donors happy – they exist for all of us to enjoy and preserve for the future. If this administration has to learn that the hard way, I join the millions of Americans across the country ready to stand up and teach them.”

Many of LCV’s state affiliates are also participating in the campaign, with the leaders of affiliates from Alabama, Colorado, Idaho and Maine speaking out about the importance of monuments in their states and to their communities.

"In Alabama, we know firsthand that public lands serve as a foundation for a healthy environment, a strong economy, and thriving communities,” said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. “The Antiquities Act preserves not only spectacular landscapes like the Grand Canyon but also cultural landmarks like those in Birmingham and Anniston that tell our country's history. The bipartisan support we saw for our state's national monuments is an example of the support public lands should be receiving across the country."

“Protected lands are good for Colorado’s economy, and we want more of them, not less,” said Pete Maysmith, Executive Director of Conservation Colorado. “National monuments and public lands are incredibly important to our state – not only do they preserve our beautiful places and tell our state’s history and stories, but they are important for the economy.”

"In Idaho, this isn't an issue about right versus left but about right versus wrong, and protecting our natural heritage for future generations is vital because these landscapes make Idaho a great place to live, work and raise a family," said Rialin Flores of Conservation Voters for Idaho.

“The Trump Administration’s attack on our national monuments is an attack on Maine’s natural legacy and economic future,” said Maureen Drouin, Executive Director of Maine Conservation Voters. “I stand with everyone gathered here today and indeed Americans across the country to protect our nation’s heritage and the national monuments that are part of the fabric of our country’s history.”

The Trump administration's review of national monuments has already generated a significant backlash, with more than 1 million comments having been submitted in favor of national monuments like the tribal-supported Bears Ears National Monument. With the comment period set to close on July 10 and Secretary Zinke's final recommendation on national monuments due to Trump on August 24, the public still has an opportunity to make its voice heard in defense of our shared public lands. Meanwhile, several members of Congress have introduced legislation weakening the Antiquities Act and otherwise attacking our parks. "Our Lands, Our Vote" will provide a vehicle for the public to resist this assault on America's natural and cultural heritage.

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SAM MEAD WILLIAMS JOINS STAFF AS CONSERVATION ALABAMA SEES POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH

June 8, 2017

Montgomery, Ala. – Sam Mead Williams has been hired as Development Director at Conservation Alabama and Conservation Alabama Foundation, a position vacated by Stefanie Francisco who now leads the organization’s Communications Department. Williams will be based in Mobile while Francisco remains at the Montgomery office.

“Our work and influence have both increased significantly over the past three years as a direct result of our successful efforts to protect Alabama’s state parks and the Forever Wild Land Trust,” explains Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. “Expanding our staff prepares us to meet our greater fundraising and communications needs.”

Stefanie Francisco was named Development Director in 2014 and also managed the organization’s communications and marketing. “We decided to divide Stefanie’s office into two distinct departments so we could work more effectively,” says Herrington. “After meeting with Sam, I felt her political acumen and fundraising experience would align perfectly with Conservation Alabama’s new goals.”

Williams gained experience in political campaigning, public affairs, government relations, and analytical research methods while working as Project Manager at Strategy, Public Relations in Mobile, Alabama. In 2008, she worked with Judge Edmond Naman as the site director for a grant-based juvenile court reform effort at Strickland Youth Center.

Williams joined the United Way of Baldwin County as a founding member of their Young Leaders Society, and is presently in her second year as Executive Director for WabiSabi, a leadership program for 11-year-old girls on the Gulf Coast. She sat on the Board of Trustees for Alabama Outward Bound School, was a member of the Development Council for USA Children’s and Woman’s Hospital, and was a candidate for Leukemia/Lymphoma Society’s Woman of the Year. Sam lives in Spanish Fort with her two kids, Avery and Kohen.

Founded in 1999, Conservation Alabama is the only full-time lobbyist for the environment in the state. For more information about staff, programs, and how to support our work, visit www.ConservationAlabama.org.

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CONSERVATION ALABAMA COMMENDS APPOINTMENT OF BLANKENSHIP, PRAISES GUY'S RECORD

June 2, 2017

Montgomery, Ala. – Conservation Alabama commends Governor Ivey's appointment of Chris Blankenship as Acting Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Blankenship most recently served as Deputy Commissioner after having been Marine Resources Director since 2011.

“Chris has worked to protect Alabama’s fisheries, and he understands the complexities of coastal restoration in the wake of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. He is also intimately knowledgeable about the economic importance of Alabama’s natural resources," said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We look forward to continuing to work with DCNR and Chris to preserve our beautiful state.”

Blankenship was appointed after Governor Ivey accepted the resignation of Commissioner Gunter Guy. Guy had served in the role since January 2011.

“Commissioner Guy earned the respect of the conservation community during his tenure,” said Herrington. “He and his staff took on a whole new set of responsibilities after the oil spill, managing the various funding streams and coastal restoration projects and seeking input from a diverse set of stakeholders. He also defended Forever Wild against numerous legislative attacks and led a successful effort to protect the budget of our state parks. I applaud Commissioner Guy for the work he has done to protect the people and places of Alabama.”

Founded in 1999, Conservation Alabama is the only full-time lobbyist for the environment in our state. Conservation Alabama has offices in Mobile and Montgomery to better protect the people and places you love. Learn more about Conservation Alabama by visiting our website.

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2016 Scorecard Shows Attorney General Jeff Sessions' Environmental Record

February 23, 2017

Montgomery, Ala. – Two weeks after former U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) was confirmed as the U.S. Attorney General, Sessions' score of 0% on the League of Conservation Voters' (LCV) 2016 National Environmental Scorecard offers insight into what his priorities may be in his new role.

Sen. Richard Shelby and former Sen. Jeff Sessions each earned a score of 0% by voting against clean water, energy efficiency, and public lands. Both senators voted to void the Clean Water Rule that protects the drinking water consumed by one in three Americans. Sessions also voted for a bill that would have gutted the Antiquities Act, a key piece of legislation that is used to preserve public lands from the Statue of Liberty to the Grand Canyon.

"Time and again we've seen that conservation can and should be a bipartisan issue," said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We hope that Attorney General Sessions is mindful of that, and that he remembers his former constituents in Alabama were protected by laws like the Clean Water Act in the wake of the Deepwater Horizon disaster."

LCV's 2016 National Environmental Scorecard publishes the environmental voting record for each member during the second session of the 114th Congress. This year, a record-breaking 38 House votes are included in the scorecard. The Alabama congressional delegation's scores are being released by Conservation Alabama in partnership with LCV. The full scorecard is available in English and Spanish here.

Once again, Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) maintained her position as the highest scoring member of Alabama's delegation by voting to protect the laws that safeguard our drinking water and public lands. The remainder of the state's delegation in the U.S. House of Representatives scored no higher than 3%.

“2016 saw a relentless assault on both bedrock environmental protections and recent progress even as we experienced the hottest year on record – for the third year in a row – and world leaders came together on Earth Day to sign the historic climate agreement reached in Paris,” said LCV President Gene Karpinski. “Fortunately, President Obama and our allies in Congress beat back the vast majority of these attacks and stood up for the health of our families, communities of color on the frontlines of climate change, and the international consensus to take action on climate.”

House District: Member - Score

AL-1: Byrne - 0

AL-2: Roby - 3

AL-3: Rogers - 3

AL-4: Aderholt - 3

AL-5: Brooks - 3

AL-6: Palmer - 0

AL-7: Sewell - 82

Senator - Score

Sessions - 0

Shelby - 0

For over 40 years, the National Environmental Scorecard issued by LCV has been the nationally accepted yardstick used to rate members of Congress on environmental, public health, and energy issues. LCV has released a new interactive National Environmental Scorecard, which allows users to easily see how every member of Congress voted since the launch of LCV’s first Scorecard in 1971. It can be found online at http://scorecard.lcv.org/.

Conservation Alabama is the only full-time environmental lobbying organization in the state, and the state affiliate of the League of Conservation Voters. Visit us online at www.conservationalabama.org and follow us on Twitter @ConservationAL.

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AMENDMENT 2 PASSES, ALABAMA VOTERS PROTECT STATE PARKS

November 8, 2016

Montgomery, Ala. – Voters passed Amendment 2, voicing their support for Alabama's state parks and their desire to protect them from further budget crises.

"Tonight, Alabamians made it clear they saw through confusing ballot language and widespread misinterpretations and understood that state parks need to be able to keep the money they earn," said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We know that state parks are vitally important to our communities, and the voters demonstrated that tonight by passing Amendment 2."

Amendment 2 was proposed by Sen. Clay Scofield (R-Guntersville) in response to public outcry in 2015 when five of our state parks were closed and seven reduced hours and services due to a lack of funds. The amendment will end the legislature's ability to appropriate funds earned by state parks and move those funds to be spent elsewhere.

"This is a fundamental shift for our state parks," Herrington continued. "After several years of watching the money they've earned go out the door to fund other state programs, the state parks division will now be able to budget effectively without worrying about another transfer to the General Fund."

Founded in 1999, Conservation Alabama is the only full-time lobbyist for the environment in our state. Conservation Alabama has offices in Mobile and Montgomery to better protect the people and places you love. Learn more about Conservation Alabama by visiting our website.

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AL-79 CANDIDATES OVERWHELMINGLY SUPPORT CONSERVATION

September 8, 2016

Montgomery, Ala. – While candidates for Alabama's 79th District House seat certainly differ on some issues, Jay Conner, Joe Lovvorn, and Sandy Toomer share a commitment to our state parks, public lands, and water resources.

In advance of the special election on September 13, all four candidates who qualified to run for this seat were invited to share their priorities for Alabama's natural resources via Conservation Alabama's "Conservation Candidates" questionnaire. The responses of the three candidates who participated can be found here.

"We know that voters in this district value their natural resources and want a conservation champion representing them in Montgomery," said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We're pleased to see that Auburn and Opelika voters have their pick of three candidates who support conservation and understand that a healthy environment supports our economy and communities."

While the candidates differed on their interpretation of the legislature's role in protecting the environment, they agreed that part of the legislature's job is to support state parks and the Forever Wild Land Trust. They all also noted the importance of completing a comprehensive water plan to protect our freshwater resources from other states' interests.

Candidate Brett Smith did not respond to the questionnaire before the deadline.

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Alabama Congressional Delegation Votes Against Health, Safety, & Clean Energy

February 24, 2016

Mobile, Ala. – The League of Conservation Voters' 2015 National Environmental Scorecard reveals the most anti-environmental Congress in our history. The first session of the 114th Congress was a continuation of the attacks on the vital protections of the natural resources that keep our families and communities healthy and safe. The Alabama congressional delegation's scores are being released by Conservation Alabama in partnership with the national League of Conservation Voters.

"In Alabama, a healthy environment is the foundation of resilient communities and a strong economy," said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We're grateful for allies like Rep. Terri Sewell who understand that connection and fight to protect our natural resources and the people who enjoy them."

Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) maintained her position as the highest scoring member of Alabama's delegation with a score of 71% by voting to protect the laws that keep our environment safe and preserve the funding needed for clean energy programs. The remainder of the state's delegation in the U.S. House of Representatives scored no higher than 9% because of their votes against the basic protections of the natural resources relied on by Alabamians.

In the U.S. Senate, Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions each earned a score of 4% by voting against the health and well-being of the environment on all but one of the relevant bills debated by the Senate. Both senators voted against an amendment that would have required tar sands producers to pay into the Oil Spill Liability Fund, leaving taxpayers on the hook for tar sands clean-up. They also voted for a bill that would have minimized public involvement in the discussion of drilling on public lands, preventing citizens from having a say in what happens to lands that belong to all of us.

The 2015 Scorecard includes 35 House votes, which ties the record for the most votes scored in the House for the fourth time in five years, and 25 votes in the Senate, the second highest number ever included. Both chambers seemingly left no environmental issue untouched in 2015, with assaults on the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Antiquities Act.

“The 2015 Scorecard shows that the radical leadership in the House and Senate wasted no time pursuing big polluters’ agenda last year, and their environmental assault is well underway in 2016,” said League of Conservation Votes President Gene Karpinski. “Fortunately, we have a growing force of environmental allies, including the president, as well as many in Congress, who are working tirelessly to combat climate change, transition to a clean energy economy and safeguard our air, water, lands and wildlife.”

House District: Member - Score

AL-1: Byrne - 0

AL-2: Roby - 2

AL-3: Rogers - 0

AL-4: Aderholt - 3

AL-5: Brooks - 9

AL-6: Palmer - 6

AL-7: Sewell - 71

Senate - Score

Sessions - 4

Shelby - 4

Conservation Alabama is the only full-time environmental lobbying organization in the state, and the state affiliate of the League of Conservation Voters. You can visit us online at www.conservationalabama.org and follow us on Twitter @ConservationAL.

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Montgomery mayoral candidates share conservation priorities

August 13, 2015

Montgomery, Ala. – In advance of the August 25 mayoral election, incumbent Mayor Todd Strange and challenger Artur Davis described their visions for making Montgomery's natural resources healthy and accessible. Strange and Davis were the only two candidates to respond to the questions out of the five contacted by Conservation Alabama.

"Conservation issues haven't been at the forefront of this election, but the environment is the foundation of our community," said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We want Montgomery's voters to hear from their candidates about where conservation fits into their priorities."

Both candidates expressed appreciation for our state's abundance of natural resources, and acknowledged that walkable neighborhoods and vibrant outdoor spaces are key to attracting high quality employers to the city. When asked how he would make Montgomery's natural resources accessible to all citizens, Strange mentioned recently completed projects, saying, "We have tried to expand parks and greenspaces, from the downtown farm, to Wright Brothers Park to The Environmental Park on Fairview which cleans up waste-water and runoff via an urban wetland ecopark, to renovating the Planetarium and Oak Park which surrounds it."

Davis noted a disparity in the city's park locations, saying, "Montgomery's parks and open spaces are mostly suburban: there ought to be a genuine effort to create open space near Fairview and the Mobile Highway. It struck me the day we reenacted the end of the Selma to Montgomery March how little open space exists in this sector of the city. I think we would also do well to sponsor more programs to bring kids from distressed communities to our city's best parks, for recreation and organized activities."

The full text of both candidates' responses can be found here.

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alabama power asks for increased renewable energy options

July 14, 2015

Mobile, Ala. – Conservation Alabama commends Alabama Power’s efforts to generate 500 megawatts of energy from renewable resources, including solar. The utility is applying for approval from the Public Service Commission to provide options for customers who want to purchase renewable energy, including projects that generate up to 80 megawatts each.

“This is the beginning of what we would like to see as a long-term change in how Alabama produces and uses energy,” said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. “Alabama Power is signaling their commitment to renewable energy, and we look forward to working with them to expand this program to make our state a leader in solar energy.”

If Alabama Power’s request is approved, between 10% and 15% of their energy could come from renewable sources, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. While this plan focuses on large-scale solar projects, Alabama Power offers homeowners the option to generate their own solar power using rooftop panels. Alabama Power customers can also purchase Renewable Energy Certificates, which support the development of renewable energy.

“Renewable energy means cleaner water and air for all Alabamians,” Herrington said. “More companies and more citizens are demanding renewable energy options. This is a win for our environment, our economy, and our communities.”

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bp settlement provides opportunities for alabama's natural resources

July 2, 2015

Mobile, Ala. – The announcement of a $2.3 billion settlement for the state of Alabama signals an end to the legal proceedings between BP and the Gulf Coast and the beginning of a new chapter for restoration efforts in the state. Conservation Alabama commends Attorney General Luther Strange’s team for reaching this settlement quickly and looks forward to working with partner organizations and the Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council to restore Alabama’s environment, economy, and communities.

“It is vital that our legislators remember the intent of this funding,” said Conservation Alabama Executive Director Tammy Herrington. “The money allocated to the General Fund provides an opportunity to protect Alabama’s state parks and public lands, which are facing devastating budget cuts and serve as economic drivers for their communities and our state.”

According to Governor Bentley, $1 billion will be distributed to the state’s General Fund budget over 18 years but will not fix the state’s current budget crisis. As the legislature convenes for the special legislative session later this summer, our elected officials should consider this funding source as well as others that would support Alabama’s beleaguered Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Department of Environmental Management.

Since the governor has indicated that the $1 billion going to the General Fund will be used for “economic recovery,” the remaining $1.3 billion allocated to the Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council must be spent on projects that truly restore Alabama’s damaged environment. “Without projects that focus on long-term environmental recovery and stability, we risk losing the natural resources that are absolutely vital to the health of Alabama’s Gulf Coast’s environment, economy, and communities,” Herrington said.

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ALABAMA CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION VOTES AGAINST CLEAN AIR, PUBLIC LANDS

February 26, 2015

Mobile, Ala. – The League of Conservation Voters' 2014 National Environmental Scorecard reflects the U.S. House of Representative's continued efforts to undermine public health and limit access to public lands. While the U.S. Senate was able to prevent many harmful bills from ever being debated, the second session of the 113th Congress was a continuation of the attack on the vital protections of natural resources. The Alabama congressional delegation's scores are being released by Conservation Alabama in partnership with the national League of Conservation Voters.

"We know that Alabama's voters see conservation as a non-partisan issue," said Tammy Herrington, Executive Director of Conservation Alabama. "We want to continue to work with our elected officials to make sure that their votes in Congress reflect the reality that our economy and our communities depend on a healthy, accessible environment."

Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) maintained her track record as the highest scoring member of Alabama's delegation with a score of 77% by voting to clean up Superfund sites and limit pollutants. The remainder of the state's delegation in the U.S. House of Representatives scored no higher than 3% because of their votes against the basic protections of the natural resources relied on by Alabama's communities and economy.

In the U.S. Senate, Sen. Richard Shelby achieved a score of 20% thanks to his vote to preserve reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program. Sen. Jeff Sessions merited a score of 0% by voting against the health and well-being of the environment on all five relevant bills debated by the Senate.

The 2014 Scorecard includes five Senate votes and a record 35 House votes on issues ranging from promoting safe and efficient energy to limiting pollution from pesticides and emissions. President Obama has defended against many of the House’s attacks and worked to make progress on critical environmental issues through administrative action.

“This year’s Scorecard shows that while the world experienced the hottest year on record, the U.S. House leadership continued its reckless assault on our environment, proving themselves nothing more than a carbon copy of the past three years,” said LCV President Gene Karpinski. “Fortunately, we have a force of environmental allies, including the president, as well as many state elected officials, who are intent on pulling us closer and closer to meeting the greatest challenge of our time—climate change.”

House District: Member - Score

AL-1: Byrne - 0

AL-2: Roby - 3

AL-3: Rogers - 0

AL-4: Aderholt - 3

AL-5: Brooks - 3

AL-6: Bachus - 3

AL-7: Sewell - 77

Senate - Score

Sessions - 0

Shelby - 20

Conservation Alabama is the statewide affiliate to the League of Conservation Voters. As the Alabama conservation community’s political organization, Conservation Alabama’s mission is to protect the people and places you love. You can visit us online atwww.conservationalabama.org and follow us on Twitter @ConservationAL.

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