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This tract was once known as the "State Cattle Ranch" because it was used as such in the past.
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Sunflowers
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Sunflowers
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An owner gives a command to his dog.
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An owner gives a command to his dog.
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The dog retrieves a duck
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An owner gives a command to his dog.
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The dog retrieves a duck
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Hunt Retriever Judges
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The tract is open for fishing on select days during the year.
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A successful youth hunter.
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A successful youth hunter.
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Youth duck hunters
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A youth dove hunt is held each year.
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Jason Creel and his family caught their limit of fish.
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Some happy anglers with their catch.
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A successful first-time hunter
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Another successful hunter!
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Some happy duck hunters
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Savannah Sparrow
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A flock of ducks, mainly gadwalls and a few mallards, flies over the property.
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Shooting house next to a green field.
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One of the lakes at the field trial area.
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A successful youth hunter.
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A successful youth hunter, his guide and his family.
Overview
Situated between drainages of Big German Creek, the tracts that comprise M. Barnett Lawley Forever Wild Field Trial Area are named in honor of the former Department of Conservation and Natural Resources commissioner. These acquisitions in Hale County encompass 3,342 acres of Black Belt prairie habitat that includes a mix of prairie grassland and pine-hardwood forest.
This area provides potential for habitat restoration, as well as numerous recreational opportunities. The property, formerly known as the "State Cattle Ranch" has become a premier location for sporting dog competitions.
The M. Barnett Lawley Forever Wild Field Trial Area served as host of the 2012 Master National Field Trails.
Videos on the M. Barnett Lawley Forever Wild Field Trial Area
Sporting Dog Competitions
The landscape of this tract makes it an ideal location for sporting dog competitions. Both retriever and pointing dog competitions are held each year. The public is welcomed at these events.
Click here for Sporting Dog Competition Schedule
Hunting
Youth hunts take place on the field trial area by pre-registration only. Announcements regarding these hunts will be made on this page just prior to hunting season. Click here for information on youth deer, duck and physically disabled deer hunts.
Fishing
The M. Barnett Lawley Forever Wild Field Trial Area hosts fishing days for families and small groups during the summer. When reservations are made, each group is assigned a pond along with details such as creel limits and what kind of tackle to bring. Ponds will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no cost to anglers, but anyone between the ages of 16 and 64 is required to have a fishing license.
Birding
Visitors interested in birding or wildlife watching on the property must notify the manager at least 24 hours in advance of their visit. Ongoing events or road conditions may have an impact on when and where access is available. Additionally, gates may be closed at certain times, and visitors will have to park and walk in, making sure not to block gates. You may contact the facility at (334)-868-1684.
Location
See this tract on an interactive map.
Directions
1132 County Road 73
Greensboro, AL 36744
From Demopolis, take US 80 East to AL-69. Turn left onto AL-69 and travel approximately 8 miles. Turn left onto County Road 16 then turn left again on County Road 73.
From Selma, take US 80 West to AL-69. Turn right onto AL-69 and travel approximately 8 miles. Turn left onto County Road 16 then turn left again on County Road 73.