The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry has approved legislation sponsored by U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) to expand Talladega National Forest.

The proposal was included in a broader package of U.S. Forest Service lands bills.

The measure, titled the Talladega National Forest Expansion Act, would expand the forest’s proclamation boundary by approximately 50,000 acres across three East Alabama counties. Tuberville introduced the legislation earlier this year.

“As Alabama continues to grow, citizens need access to safe and reliable hiking trails and outdoor spaces to encourage wellness and improved health,” Tuberville said. “I am proud to lead this legislation to promote both tourism and conservation efforts for all Alabamians.”

The legislation would al

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