Mary Olive Thomas Demonstration Forest: A Natural Classroom

The Mary Olive Thomas Demonstration Forest, located just east of Auburn, Alabama, is a 400-acre woodland dedicated to showcasing exemplary forest and wildlife management practices. Since 1977, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Auburn University's School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences have utilized this land to educate landowners and the public about enhancing their own properties through responsible stewardship. The forest was designated an Alabama Treasure Forest in 1979. The land's history includes row crops in the late 1930s. Today, the forest features southern pine forests, including loblolly, shortleaf, and longleaf pine, which make up the majority of the upland wooded area. Upland and bottomland hardwood forests comprise over 20% of the area. Visitors can explore over five miles of trails and fire lines, providing access to various management areas. A network of well-maintained roads also allows vehicle access throughout much of the forest. Visitors can observe different fire return interval plots and vegetation control methods, loblolly and longleaf pine management techniques, hardwood management, streamside management zones, native plant restoration, and wildlife habitats. The forest also demonstrates techniques for controlling non-native invasive species. A pavilion with a kitchen and bathrooms can accommodate over 100 visitors, making it ideal for educational activities. The forest serves as a valuable resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in learning about sustainable forest management.