Your information source for exciting programs, events and activities throughout the state. Please feel free to forward this issue to a friend and Share The Wonder.

October - November - The trails at Frank Jackson State Park are filled with scarecrows (over 100 entries) that have been constructed and dressed by members of the Frank Jackson Trail Masters as well as many of the businesses in Opp. The Frank Jackson Trail Masters have been working diligently to make this an exciting event. You'll see scarecrows made out of tires, tree trunks, gourds and much more! The Lake Frank Jackson Trailmasters is a group of citizens in and around the City of Opp who formed a nonprofit organization with the primary mission of building and maintaining the walking trails at the park.

October 16 - Registration is now open for the Fifth Annual Alabama Coastal Birdfest, October 16-19, 2008. This year's event features 19 guided birding tours to prime spots on the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, two evening dinner/speaker events, and a free daylong Bird and Conservation Expo in Fairhope. Advance registration is required for the trips and evening events.

October 18 - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the campus at Faulkner State College and Fairhope Public Library. Raptor demonstration, conservation exhibits, workshops, marine touch tanks and much more!

October 25 - Autumn is ablaze with color throughout the forests and along the banks of Lake Guntersville. A guided nature hike will have you in awe of nature's beauty. Be sure to bring your camera. You won't want to miss a moment of autumn foliage at its finest in Guntersville State Park. Meet at the Guntersville Lodge Lobby at 2 p.m. Remember to dress appropriately for hiking. Bring a friend or two, and water to drink. Scheduled hikes are subject to change in the event of rain. Details: patti.donnellan@dcnr.alabama.gov or call 256-571-5445.

Entries are now being accepted for the 2009 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest. Winning photos will be published in the February 2009 issue of Outdoor Alabama magazine. Photos may be entered in the following categories:

• Student Snapshots - Two divisions: Youth ages 6-12 and 13-18 may enter any of the following categories. All entry rules apply.
• State Parks - Recreational activities, park facilities, scenery or events held at any of Alabama's 22 State Parks operated by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
• Birds - Native song and game birds.
• Mammals - Native mammals (pets and livestock excluded).
• Reptiles and Amphibians - May include turtles, snakes, lizards, salamanders, etc.
• Other Native Wildlife - May include butterflies, insects, snails, etc.
• Scenic/Pictorial - Photos in which natural landmarks, scenery or inanimate objects are prominent; site location required for this category.
• Nature-Based Activities - People enjoying recreation such as boating, fishing, hiking, hunting or camping (sports such as baseball and football are excluded).
• Wild Flora - Wildflowers, foliage, fruiting bodies, other parts of plants or trees (cultivated flowers, shrubs, etc., are excluded)