Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# CAWACO RC&D

Improving Communities in Central Alabama

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://cawaco.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Updates](https://cawaco.org/updates/)
- [Protecting the Trispot darter in the Middle Coosa Watershed](https://cawaco.org/protecting-the-trispot-darter-in-the-middle-coosa-watershed/) - A powerful network of partners is helping safeguard critical stream habitat for the Trispot darter—a small but significant indicator of Alabama's aquatic health. As a nonprofit partner for the Alabama Rivers & Streams Network, Cawaco currently manages a grant from the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation to improve habitat for the Trispot darter in the
- [Rooftop Renewal: How a garden is helping women seek a second chance](https://cawaco.org/lovelady-garden/) - With support from the Cawaco RC&D grant program, Birmingham’s Lovelady Center gave its beloved rooftop garden a fresh start, and the women who tend it a place to grow. About the Lovelady Center Everyone deserves the opportunity for another chance. That’s the foundation that the Lovelady Center in Birmingham was built on. Founded in 2004,
- [Grant equips Mountain Brook firefighters with advanced emergency medical training tool](https://cawaco.org/grant-equips-mountain-brook-firefighters-with-advanced-emergency-medical-training-tool/) - Cawaco staff were gathered in a classroom with our partners in the Alabama Legislature and a grantee when the room transformed in an instant to a high-stakes scenario. First responders arrived to find a man collapsed and unconscious. The responders swarmed the man, called out codes, hooked him up to machines, monitored responses on digital
- [Cawaco RC&D opens grant applications for Central Alabama projects](https://cawaco.org/2027-grant-applications-open/) - Grants of $5,000–$20,000 available April 1–June 30 for community, environmental and educational projects across five counties BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Cawaco Resource Conservation and Development Council is now accepting grant applications for projects that strengthen communities across Central Alabama. Local nonprofits, schools, government agencies and community organizations in Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby and Walker counties are
- [Lupton Junior High library gets major upgrade](https://cawaco.org/lupton-junior-high-library-gets-major-upgrade/) - Students at Lupton Junior High School in Walker County now have a modernized library space built for the way they learn. A Cawaco RC&D grant funded new workstations, chairs, carpet, and shelving throughout the school's library, transforming a well-loved but outdated space into a functional hub for learning and collaboration. The library serves students and
- [New facility opens to serve women experiencing homelessness in Pelham](https://cawaco.org/new-facility-opens-to-serve-women-experiencing-homelessness-in-pelham/) - The Resting Place of Pelham opened its doors on Jan. 31, 2026, marking a milestone in helping women transition out of crisis in Shelby County. A Haven for Women in Need The Resting Place of Pelham (RPP) is a newly established nonprofit committed to meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of women experiencing homelessness
- [Partners and Projects Honored at 2025 Annual Meeting](https://cawaco.org/partners-and-projects-honored-at-2025-annual-meeting/) - Cawaco Resource Conservation & Development Council board members, staff and partners gathered at Bevill State Campus in Jasper on December 11 for our annual meeting. It was a day dedicated to celebrating a successful year of bringing impactful projects to life across Cawaco RC&D's five-county region. During the meeting, we honored individuals and organizations that
- [New sidewalk links trail systems and historic neighborhood in Trussville](https://cawaco.org/new-sidewalk-links-trail-systems-and-historic-neighborhood-in-trussville/) - The City of Trussville connected a historic neighborhood to a river trail system, creating safer routes for elementary school kids, outdoor classrooms for teachers, and a community that just got a whole lot more walkable. Connecting Community Assets The Cherokee Drive Sidewalk Project added a 900-foot connection from the Historic Cahaba Project neighborhood to the
- [Local leaders turn $843,000 into nearly $4 million impact across Central Alabama](https://cawaco.org/2025-impact-report/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 16, 2025 Cawaco RC&D grant program supports local projects benefiting community, environment, education (BIRMINGHAM, Ala.) (Dec. 16, 2025) – From community gardens to innovation centers and critical safety equipment for first responders, local leaders across Central Alabama leveraged $843,000 in grants to generate nearly $4 million in community impact. Cawaco Resource
- [Midfield-Holt Community Garden Celebrates Success with New Pavilion and Storage Facilities](https://cawaco.org/midfield-holt-community-garden-celebrates-success-with-new-pavilion-and-storage-facilities/) - The Midfield-Holt Community Garden officially expanded its capacity to serve local families last week with the completion of a new pavilion and storage shed. Community leaders, residents, and partners gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate this important milestone. "This garden represents more than just a beautiful green space. It stands for collaboration. It stands
- [Restoring a Community Lifeline in McCollum-Midway](https://cawaco.org/restoring-a-community-lifeline-in-mccollum-midway/) - What does a small volunteer fire department do when its only medical response vehicle faces a catastrophic engine failure? The answer to that question takes a lot of creativity, heart, and a phone call to RC&D. McCollum-Midway Volunteer Fire Department’s medical response vehicle was inoperable for a year, and the department had to use a
- [Behind the Grants: Spotlight on Patti Pennington](https://cawaco.org/behind-the-grants-spotlight-on-patti-pennington/) - Name: Patti PenningtonTitle: Programs ManagerYears with RC&D: 18 Meet Patti Pennington We think the saying should be Patti-of-All-Trades, because Patti Pennington is a woman of many skills. Over the last 18 years, Patti has worn most hats at Cawaco (we were a team of two up until just a few years ago, after all). Patti
- [Enhancing School Safety: Walker County's Tactical Entry Tool Kits](https://cawaco.org/enhancing-school-safety-walker-countys-tactical-entry-tool-kits/) - Safety in our schools is a top priority, and Walker County is taking proactive steps to ensure their school resource officers (SROs) have the tools needed to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations. In partnership with the Walker County Legislative Delegation, Cawaco RC&D awarded a grant to the Walker County Commission to equip every
- [Sowing Seeds in the City: Urban Agriculture in Alabama](https://cawaco.org/sowing-seeds-in-the-city-urban-agriculture-in-alabama/) - Growing and distributing food in urban areas often looks a little different than it does in rural areas—it usually takes the form of community gardens, rooftop and vertical farms, or even hydroponic, aeroponic and aquaponic systems. These urban farmers need resources tailored to living and growing in a city. Urban Agriculture in Alabama Cawaco RC&D
- [Outdoor Classroom Revitalization in Hoover](https://cawaco.org/outdoor-classroom-revitalization-in-hoover/) - Students at Trace Crossings Elementary School have a newly renovated courtyard and outdoor classroom to learn and play in. A ribbon cutting ceremony at the school brought together students, parents, and local elected officials to celebrate the new space. Transforming an Overgrown Courtyard into a Student Learning Oasis The courtyard was previously unusable due to
- [Serving Those Who Serve: Shelby County Cookout](https://cawaco.org/serving-those-who-serve-shelby-county-cookout/) - The sun was shining for the Back the Blue Cookout in Shelby County! The Alabama Association of RC&D Councils and the Alabama Forestry Association partnered with the Rep. Russell Bedsole to host a cookout at Patriot Park in Alabaster, AL. AFA was cooking up burgers and hot dogs for first responders to grab on their
- [Celebrating Local Impact with Shelby County 2025 Grant Day](https://cawaco.org/celebrating-local-impact-with-shelby-county-2025-grant-day/) - Cawaco RC&D and the Shelby County Legislative Delegation gathered at Pelham City Hall to celebrate the awarding of $148,313 in grant funding to 10 organizations across Shelby County. The grant day event highlighted the diverse community projects that will strengthen public safety, support youth development, and enhance local services. The celebration brought together local elected
- [Celebrating Local Impact with Walker County 2025 Grant Day](https://cawaco.org/celebrating-local-impact-with-walker-county-2025-grant-day/) - Cawaco RC&D and the Walker County Legislative Delegation gathered at Jasper Main Street to celebrate the awarding of $157,789 in grant funding to 15 organizations across Walker County. The grant day event highlighted the diverse community projects that will strengthen public safety, support youth development, and enhance local services. The celebration brought together local elected
- [Celebrating Local Impact with Blount County 2025 Grant Day](https://cawaco.org/celebrating-local-impact-with-blount-county-2025-grant-day/) - Cawaco RC&D and the Blount County Legislative Delegation gathered at the Community Arts Council of Blount County to celebrate the awarding of $126,528 in grant funding to 12 organizations across Blount County. The grant day event highlighted the diverse community projects that will strengthen public safety, support youth development, and enhance local services. The celebration
- [Celebrating Local Impact with Chilton County 2025 Grant Day](https://cawaco.org/celebrating-local-impact-with-chilton-county-2025-grant-day/) - Cawaco RC&D and the Chilton County Legislative Delegation gathered at Clanton City Hall to celebrate the awarding of $92,107 in grant funding to ten organizations across Chilton County. The grant day event highlighted the diverse community projects that will strengthen public safety, support youth development, and enhance local services. The celebration brought together local elected
- [North Jefferson Innovation Center Supports Local Entrepreneurs](https://cawaco.org/north-jefferson-innovation-center-supports-local-entrepreneurs/) - Entrepreneurs in North Jefferson County now have a space to grow. The Town of Morris revitalized an existing building into a space that encourages a cooperative entrepreneurial environment for the area. The North Jefferson Innovation Center opened in June to provide entrepreneurs and artists with training, networking, resources, and incubation offices. This is a one-of-a-kind
- [New Highway Signs Spotlight Walker County’s Waterways](https://cawaco.org/new-highway-signs-spotlight-walker-countys-waterways/) - Drivers traveling along Interstate 22 through Walker County will now notice something new: signs identifying the rivers and creeks they're crossing. The Walker County Soil and Water Conservation District worked with ALDOT to install seven new signs at waterway crossings to help travelers discover the area's natural resources. The project aims to raise awareness of
- [New Faces, Fresh Energy: Spotlight on Jody Drummond](https://cawaco.org/new-faces-fresh-energy-spotlight-on-jody-drummond/) - Name: Jody DrummondTitle: Operations SpecialistYears with RC&D: 1 Month Meet Jody Drummond Jody Drummond is the newest part of Cawaco RC&D’s growing team, and we were immediately impressed by her full-of-life attitude and get-things-done work ethic! Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, Jody is new to the Birmingham area but is already making Alabama home and
- [Saving Lives in Pelham: RC&D Funds LUCAS Device](https://cawaco.org/saving-lives-in-pelham-rcd-funds-lucas-device/) - A new life-saving device has just arrived at the City of Pelham! The Pelham Fire Department now has a LUCAS Device, an incredible automated CPR system that will help save lives during cardiac emergencies. What is a LUCAS Device? The LUCAS (Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System) Device is a portable, mechanical chest compression system used
- [From Collapse to Connection: Big Canoe Creek Restoration Restores Flow & Reconnects Habitat](https://cawaco.org/from-collapse-to-connection-big-canoe-creek-restoration-restores-flow-reconnects-habitat/) - Big Canoe Creek at Goodwins Mill in St. Clair County is flowing free once again! The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Partners for Fish & Wildlife (USFWS PFW) and Cawaco RC&D replaced a series of seven failing metal culverts with a bridge span structure. The old structure was on the verge of collapse and greatly
- [FY26 RC&D Grant Application Open April 1](https://cawaco.org/fy26rcd-grant-application-open/) - Cawaco RC&D's grant application is now open! In partnership with the Alabama Legislature, Cawaco RC&D’s grant program supports projects in Central Alabama that create meaningful community, environmental, or educational impact, and where a little goes a long way. We offer two types of grants: Education Grants – Support job and trade skill training, scholarships, field
- [Cool Green Trees Part of Sustainable Team in Birmingham](https://cawaco.org/cool-green-trees-part-of-sustainable-team-in-birmingham/) - Cool Green Trees (CGT) is helping Birmingham become a more sustainable city! As one of 25 cities chosen for the three-year Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities (BASC) initiative, Birmingham selected three organizations to help the city unlock the potential to build a safer and more prosperous community. CGT, Cornerstone Revitalization Foundation, and IMC Financial Consulting will
- [Cawaco RC&D and Alabama Legislature Invest in North Birmingham Food Access](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-rcd-and-alabama-legislature-invest-in-north-birmingham-food-access/) - Roots of Nourishment enhanced a community garden through the addition of raised garden beds and an irrigation system within the community greenhouse. The improvements grow Roots of Nourishment’s capacity to provide fresh food and wellness programs, promoting sustainable food production and healthy living. “I live in a food desert. There are many of us who
- [Swimsuit Drive for Children in Foster Care](https://cawaco.org/2025-swimsuit-drive/) - It might feel like 2025 has just begun, but pool weather is right around the corner. The Alabama Association of RC&D Councils is running a swimsuit and towel drive to support the BigHouse Foundation, a nonprofit supporting foster and adoptive families in East Alabama. BigHouse provides these swimsuits and towels to social workers across the
- [2024 Projects of the Year](https://cawaco.org/2024-projects-of-the-year/) - We honored five projects at our annual meeting that we felt went above and beyond due to the size of their impact, their uniqueness and creativity, and the partnerships utilized. Give them a round of applause and get in touch with them if you want to support their projects further! Blount County The Town of
- [Grow Your Career with Cool Green Trees!](https://cawaco.org/cool-green-trees-volunteer-manager/) - We’re seeking a mission-driven Volunteer Manager to support our Cool Green Trees (CGT) program! CGT is dedicated to planting and preserving Jefferson County’s urban tree canopy. The Volunteer Manager will be responsible for: Serve as a CGT advocate for the significant role natural climate solutions play in linking communities, enhancing local economies, improving air quality,
- [Economic development goes green](https://cawaco.org/economic-development-goes-green/) - 5 things to know about Cawaco RC&D Striking a balance between nature and human needs is vital. Cawaco RC&D is committed to this mission. But what does that look like in practice? Here are 5 things to know about Cawaco RC&D: Read Now
- [Conserving Natural Resources & Cultivating Vibrant Communities](https://cawaco.org/conserving-natural-resources-cultivating-vibrant-communities/) - Happy World Nature Conservation Day! At Cawaco Resource Conservation & Development Council, we connect Central Alabama communities to the resources and partnerships needed to drive economic development in an environmentally sustainable way. We believe in balancing nature's needs with our own, finding solutions that benefit both livelihoods and local biodiversity. That’s why we focus on
- [Cool Green Trees is Hiring!](https://cawaco.org/cool-green-trees-program-manager/) - We’re seeking a mission-driven Program Manager to take our Cool Green Trees program to the next level! CGT is dedicated to planting and preserving Jefferson County’s urban tree canopy. The Program Manager will be responsible for: Increasing awareness of the organization in the community. Ensuring a sustainable future for the organization through diverse funding streams.
- [2025 Holle Family Foundation Grant Cycle Now Open](https://cawaco.org/2025-holle-family-foundation-grant-cycle-now-open/) - The Holle Family Foundation is accepting grant applications until November 1, 2024. The Holle Family Foundation is guided by a charitable philosophy that seeks to promote individuals and institutions throughout central Alabama that nurture individual accomplishment and worth. The Foundation aims to support work that maximizes impact across several grant initiatives: services and advocacy for vulnerable populations,
- [New Pollinator Garden in Oak Mountain State Park](https://cawaco.org/new-pollinator-garden-in-oak-mountain-state-park/) - Have you heard the buzz? Oak Mountain State Park opened a pollinator garden last week! It's the first of 12 pollinator gardens across Alabama State Parks.The gardens will be in full bloom by 2025. On-site teacher toolkits will allow educators to utilize interactive learning tools, including a children’s storybook experience in six of the gardens.The
- [Raising Awareness for Watercress Darters](https://cawaco.org/raising-awareness-for-watercress-darters/) - The Birmingham metro area is home to three endangered darters, including the watercress darter (Etheostoma nuchale). Cawaco RC&D worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to enhance and preserve habitat for these species. We hosted community workdays to remove invasive plant species, installed public educational signs, and helped distribute a book about the history
- [2025 Grant Cycle Now Open](https://cawaco.org/2025-grant-cycle-now-open/) - April 1- July 1, 2024 We are currently accepting applications for the 2025 grant cycle! Applicants should make themselves aware of the timelines and reporting requirements prior to applying. Funds are reimbursable. Applications may range from $5,000 to a maximum of $20,000 for projects that affect a large population or multiple counties. Applicants are encouraged
- [Cool Green Trees is in the News!](https://cawaco.org/cool-green-trees-is-in-the-news/) - In case you haven't heard- Cool Green Trees is a new Cawaco Program that is locating Urban Heat Islands in Birmingham and cooling them down by planting trees. Concrete, streets and buildings "collect" and store heat, even after the sun goes down. This program targets the hottest areas in Birmingham, but the trees do more
- [2024 Funding Opportunity](https://cawaco.org/2024-funding-opportunity/) - The 2024 Cawaco Grant Cycle opens April 1- July 1, 2023. All applicants are now required to create an account with username and password prior to applying. Applications will be available starting April 1. Awards are determined in September. READ MORE
- [Alabama Rivers & Streams Annual Meeting](https://cawaco.org/alabama-rivers-streams-annual-meeting/) - Cawaco RC&D is the nonprofit partner for the Alabama Rivers & Streams Network (www.alh2o.org). 2023 Annual Meeting will be held January 18, 2023. Check the link above for updates. The ARSN annual meeting was held January 19, 2022 with 82 participants from federal and state agencies, utilities, forestry, universities and nonprofits. The meeting provides an
- [Transformed vacant lot  in North Titusville](https://cawaco.org/new-park-brings-more-than-just-an-amenity-to-titusville/) - Francesca Gross and volunteers at a workday in Titusville's new Triangle Park , April 11, 2021. (photo by Sydney Cromwell).
- [Goldwire Heights Subdivision Enhancements](https://cawaco.org/goldwire-heights-subdivision-enhancements/) - Cawaco is implementing a contract received from Navigate Affordable Housing Partners Inc. to construct two (2) subdivision gateway signs and plant trees for street-scaping in the Goldwire Heights community in Birmingham. Build UP Birmingham provides student interns for the project. This is a part of a larger project by Navigate Affordable Housing Partners Inc. to ensure that people have access to
- [UAB Grand Challenge](https://cawaco.org/uab-grand-challenge/) - Cawaco RC&D Council was contracted by University of Alabama Birmingham and Sunrise Rotary to implement a portion of UAB's Grand Challenge strategic plan. Cawaco's Environmental Specialist, Francesca Gross, coordinated volunteer tree planting days in the North Titusville, Kingston and East Lake communities. Cawaco provided expertise in selecting tree type, specific planting locations, street tree planting plan, and
- [A 3 for 1 Project](https://cawaco.org/a-3-for-1-project/) - Cawaco provided assistance to the US Fish & Wildlife Service which could improve fish passage for the Trispot Darter. The project removed a perched concrete culvert pipe and replaced it with a bottomless arch structure. The site was a priority due to proximity of historic records and recent survey for Trispot Darter habitat. The land
- [Adding Mussel(s)](https://cawaco.org/adding-mussels/) - At the end of the 2021, Cawaco agreed to receive funds from the Coosa River Basin Initiative of behalf of AABC. Funding came from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR). The purpose of the funds was to assist AABC in propagating and re-introducing the Coosa Moccasinshell mussel, GADNR produced a video that provides basic information about mussels and their
- [Cawaco assists in mussel reintroduction](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-assists-in-mussel-reintroduction/) - As the nonprofit partner of the Alabama Rivers & Streams Network, Cawaco facilitated funding provided by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources through the Coosa River Basin Initiative to DCNR-Alabama Aquatics Biodiversity Center. Funding was used by AABC to propagate the Coosa Moccasinshell mussel and reintroduce it to its natural habitat in the Coosa River
- [Town Creek Restoration-14 Years Later...](https://cawaco.org/town-creek-restoration-14-years-later/) - In 2008, Cawaco and the City of Jasper contracted with North State Environmental to solve erosion and stormwater management issued on Town Creek. The Creek flows through the City in front of Maddox Middle School. North State used a new (in 2008) concept of natural channel design techniques. Fourteen years later, the construction has held,
- [2022 Seven Springs Watercress Darter Work Day](https://cawaco.org/watercress-darter-work-day/) - March 19, Saturday 9 am until 12 noon As part of the Urban Darter Project, Freshwater Land Trust is hosting a habitat improvement workday at Seven Springs in the Powderly neighborhood of Birmingham. The workday is on Sat, Mar 19 from 9 AM to 12 PM, and we’ll be meeting at Faith Apostolic Church (2001
- [2022 Roebuck Springs Work Day](https://cawaco.org/roebuck-springs-work-day/) - April 2 2022 Come volunteer to plant the stream banks at Roebuck Springs on the Roebuck Springs Golf Course spring run – – home of the endangered Watercress Darter WHEN: April 2 Saturday 9 am until 12 noon WHERE: Meet at Don Hawkins Recreation Center Parking lot at Roebuck Golf Course. 8920 Roebuck Blvd, Birmingham,
- [Working with Birmingham Parks](https://cawaco.org/francesca-friend-feature/) - Francesca Gross, Environmental Specialist for Cawaco RC&D was featured Birmingham Parks and Recreation Report (September 2021). Read more about Francesca and her work!
- [2022 Cawaco Annual Report](https://cawaco.org/2022-cawaco-annual-report/) - Cawaco has had a busy year! We took on a new staff person, and got a new Chairman. We not only have a very successful grant program, we have other Cawaco Project that enhance the reach of the Council. Read more below! 2022 Annual Report
- [Paul Kennedy Makes Who's Who!](https://cawaco.org/paul-kennedy-thats-who/) - Check out our Board Member, Paul W. Kennedy, who was featured as a "Who's Who" in the Birmingham Business Journal's 2021 Nonprofit edition. Paul was executive director of Cawaco RC&D before leaving to head the Walker Area Community Foundation. He had a hand in many of the great nonprofits and initiatives in the area and
- [Rep. Corley Ellis Receives Legislator of the Year Award](https://cawaco.org/rep-corley-ellis-receives-legislator-of-the-year-award/)
- [Free Educational Resource](https://cawaco.org/free-educational-resource/) - Teach your students about water and mineral science with this fun activity book! It is free to download! Wacky water bookDownload
- [Historic Dining at Camp Fletcher](https://cawaco.org/historic-dining-at-camp-fletcher/) - Funding from Cawaco and other area foundations assisted Bridgeways in rebuilding the WOHELO Dining Hall. Built in 1935, the dining hall was the central hub of camp. However, storm damage revealed that the original building could not be renovated and a new building was necessary. The new dining hall is larger, will accommodate more students
- [Delivery to Parrish Elementary](https://cawaco.org/delivery-to-parrish-elementary/) - Kasey Kilpatrick, a teacher and gardener at Parrish Elementary was awarded a mini-grant for her school garden and got a seed delivery too!
- [2021 Annual Grant Report](https://cawaco.org/2021-annual-grant-report/) - 2021 was a challenging year for many, due to the challenges presented from change in leadership and COVID obstacles. However, our grantees were able to adapt and persevere! This is evidence that our Board of Directors makes excellent funding decisions and approves the proposals with exceptional care. Thanks to the organizations and leaders throughout the
- [2021 By-The-Numbers](https://cawaco.org/2021-by-the-numbers/) - This is a one-page graphic of the Cawaco grant program numbers, as well as other Contracts and Grants we manage. 2021-By-the-NumbersDownload
- [Tractor Supply Supports Gardens](https://cawaco.org/tractor-supply-supports-gardens/) - Cawaco would like to welcome our new partner, Tractor Supply-Bessemer. Tractor supply donated their end of the year seeds for the RC&D Grows Gardens program. This program provides resources for schools and community gardens throughout Alabama. We are grateful for their support and dedication to Alabama communities.
- [2021 RC&D Grows Gardens Presentation](https://cawaco.org/2021-rcd-grows-gardens/) - Sponsored by Alabama Association of RC&D Councils and USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, RC&D Grows Gardens provides resources to school and community gardens. Results of the 2021 RC&D Grows Gardens was presented at the 2021 Alabama Association of Resource Conservation & Development Councils annual conference. The project also received support from local Alabama Cooperative Extension
- [RC&D Grows Gardens](https://cawaco.org/rcd-grows-gardens-2/) - We are very grateful to the Alabama Association of RC&D Councils for providing us with a grant to continue the RC&D Grows Gardens program. By partnering with AMRV RC&D, ALA-Tom RC&D, Mid-South RC&D, and Northwest Alabama RC&D, we were able to provide mini-grants to 13 school and community gardens! Mini-Grants were used to purchase materials
- [2020 Project Report](https://cawaco.org/2020-project-report/) - Look what happened in 2020! 2020 Project Report
- [Kellie Johnston receives Alabama Association of RC&D Councils Hall of Fame Award!](https://cawaco.org/kellie-johnston-receives-alabama-association-of-rcd-councils-hall-of-fame-award/) - Kellie is a creative, innovative thinker. Not only can she dream up a project, she can also find the people to make it happen. She has a way of creating partnerships and maintaining working relationships that have lasted over a decade. Kellie works constantly to promote RC&D. When we have grantees who do not get
- [Cawaco Funds Shelby County Career Corps](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-funds-shelby-county-career-corps/)
- [Mulberry Fork Stream Stabilization](https://cawaco.org/mulberry-fork-stream-stabilization/) - The Mulberry Fork Streambank Stabilization project included stabilizing and enhancing approximately 200 total linear meters of stream bank on Mulberry Fork and an associated tributary, Hurricane Creek, to improve habitat for the Black Warrior Waterdog and Flattened Musk Turtle and to improve fish passage. Additional activities included restoring and enhancing approximately 70 meters of in-stream
- [Univ of Montevallo Provides Environmental Education-Virtually](https://cawaco.org/univ-of-montevallo-provides-environmental-education-virtually/) - The Environmental Education Program at the University of Montevallo (UM) originally applied for a Cawaco grant to provide in-person programming for each grade in Montevallo City Schools. Around November 2020, it was realized that the chance of being able to do in-person programming was slim to none. This required UM to pivot and focus on
- [Shelby Emergency Assistance Creates Edible Garden](https://cawaco.org/shelby-emergency-assistance-creates-edible-garden/) - SEA's goal is to provide for the basic needs (food, housing, utilities and medical care) of people in crisis, helping them achieve self-sufficiency. Local gardeners have brought produce to SEA for many years to provide directly to clients. Cawaco provided grant funds to enable SEA to establish their own garden. In the past, produce went
- [Chilton Broadband Feasibility Study](https://cawaco.org/chilton-broadband-feasibility-study/) - Cawaco RC&D provided $15,000 to Chilton Industrial Development Authority to fund a broadband feasibility study for Chilton County. The study was paid for through a partnership of the Chilton County Industrial Development Authority, Chilton County Commission and local municipalities to determine what parts of the county do not have access to broadband (high-speed internet) and
- [Problem Solving at the Elementary Level - Bryan Elementary](https://cawaco.org/problem-solving-at-the-elementary-level-bryan-elementary/) - Bryan Elementary saw a community need for PPE equipment and used the opportunity to provide STEM education. Using Cawaco funds, Bryan Elementary was able to purchase two 3D printers and produced and protective face shields for protection against the COVID-19 virus. The shields were distributed to local nurses and at the local senior center. The
- [Cawaco Wins Two Southeastern RC&D Awards](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-wins-two-southeastern-rcd-awards/) - Cawaco Board Members Paul Kennedy and Sheila Baker walked away with two Southeastern Association of RC&D Council awards this week in Asheville NC. Paul Kennedy was accepted into the SE RC&D Hall of Fame and Sheila Baker was deemed Board Member of the Year! (Pictured: Paul McCaleb accepting Kennedy's award, and Sheila Baker)
- [Urban Darter Project](https://cawaco.org/urban-darter-project/) - Despite being the most populated city in Alabama, the Birmingham Metropolitan area is no exception, and is home to three endangered darters in the genus Etheostoma. Funds provided by the USFWS will support a coordinated effort to enhance and preserve habitat for trust species, expose diverse communities to principles of conservation, ecological restoration methodologies, and
- [Trispot Darter Fish Passage Partnership](https://cawaco.org/trispot-darter-fish-passage-partnership/) - The trispot darter is a small, colorful fish with three prominent black saddles on its back and grows up to 1.5 inches long. The species is found only above the fall line in Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee within the Coosa River drainage. One breeding site for the trispot darter can be found on Alabama Power
- [Rush Darter Fish Passage](https://cawaco.org/rush-darter-fish-passage/) - During a 2018 bio-blitz at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, a new record for the federally listed (endangered) Rush Darter (Etheostoma phytophilum) was documented. This new record was found in an unnamed tributary (a spring run) to Turkey Creek and was just downstream of two concrete pipe culverts. The concrete pipe culverts are at the crossing
- [DAV Chapter 4 Building Repairs](https://cawaco.org/dav-chapter-4-building-repairs/) - Cawaco received a grant from the Holle Family Foundation to bring the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 4 building up to code. The roof was leaking and creating internal damage. Genius Roof installed a new roof that should last 20 years. Electrical upgrades were performed by Colston Electric bringing the electrical system up to code. LED
- [EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES- WATER FUN FOR STUDENTS K-5](https://cawaco.org/educational-resources-water-fun-for-students-k-5/) - Looking for educational resources for students K-5 to print at home or in class? Look no further! Here is a print-friendly version of a FUN activity book about water conservation!
- [Board Member Paul Kennedy receives Hall of Fame Award](https://cawaco.org/board-member-paul-kennedy-receives-hall-of-fame-award/)
- [Board Member Spotlight](https://cawaco.org/board-member-spotlight/) - BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT SHEILA BAKER Jefferson County Member At- Large Board member Sheila Baker was raised in Bridgeport, CT and went to school at UAB. She currently resides in Birmingham. Like many of us, she moved here to be closer to her family. When I asked Sheila what she likes most about Alabama, she replied,
- [Board Member Spotlight](https://cawaco.org/2878/) - Gerald Arrington Gerald Arrington is one of Cawaco's newest Board Members, and manager of Minooka Park, an off-highway vehicle park owned by Chilton County. When I asked Gerald what his hobbies were, he replied, " I am interested in boating, golf, fishing, hunting, and watching/attending Auburn football games!" Gerald first became aware of Cawaco when
- [Board Member Spotlight](https://cawaco.org/board-member-spotlight-4/) - Meet Judge Chris Green of Blount County. He serves on the Cawaco Board Personnel and Executive Committees. Chris is both a Blount County Probate Judge and Commission Chairman. He has also served as the Blount County Revenue Commissioner and Blount County Administrator. Chris loves to go fishing, especially along the Beautiful Locust Fork River. He
- [Strategic Habitat Internships](https://cawaco.org/strategic-habitat-internships/) - The USFWS has provided funding for student interns (2015-2023) to perform road crossing surveys. These surveys provide base information for habitat assessments and the SHU mapper. Students obtain hands-on experience, knowing that the data will be used by regulated industries, regulatory agencies, and non-profits to develop projects that improve habitat. This experience translates into a
- [Runway for Reclamation](https://cawaco.org/reclaiming-appalachia-mini-grant/) - On August 6, 2020, Cawaco RC&D received a grant from Reclaiming Appalachia Coalition to assist partners of the Alabama Rivers & Streams Network in developing capacity to prioritize and develop abandoned mine reclamation projects that will have measurable benefits to water quality and improve economic conditions for coal-related distressed communities. The grant will integrate the
- [Trispot Darter Study](https://cawaco.org/trispot-darter-study/) - Cawaco RC&D is managing a grant from the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation on behalf of the Alabama Rivers and Streams Network. The purpose of the grant is to enhance knowledge of the distribution and range of the Trispot Darter (Etheostoma trisella), a fish species endemic to the middle and upper Coosa River regions of
- [Cawaco wins three State Awards](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-wins-three-state-awards/) - Paul McCaleb, Outstanding Council Member Cawaco RC&D Council Chairman Paul McCaleb won the McCarty Award for Outstanding Council Member of the Year during the Alabama State RC&D Council Annual Meeting held in Mobile on May 30.Paul McCaleb recognized for the following contributions to Cawaco: Cawaco’s budget grew from $25,000 per year (1992) to over $500,000 (2014). The Council is audited on a
- [Alabama AARCDC State Conference](https://cawaco.org/alabama-aarcdc-state-conference/) - Alabama Association of RC&D Councils Annual Meeting On May 2-4, Cawaco hosted the state conference at the Embassy Suites Birmingham. Thanks to all those who attended as well as the outstanding speakers! Download or view AGENDA
- [Projects from the State of Alabama!](https://cawaco.org/projects-from-the-state-of-alabama/) - Enjoy this presentation that highlights the work being done throughout the state by Resource, Conservation & Development Councils in Alabama. [pdf-embedder url="http://cawaco.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Presentation-2019-Annual-ConferenceFinal.pdf" title="Presentation 2019 Annual ConferenceFinal"]
- [Cornerstone School Garden](https://cawaco.org/cornerstone-school-garden/) - We are very excited about the progress that is being made at Cornerstone school garden in Woodlawn. Cawaco awarded the school a grant to help develop the garden/outdoor classroom area and this project has been a huge success. The produce is being offered on the school's salad bar and the children are very excited to get to eat what
- [Cawaco Aids Chilton County Tornado Relief](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-aids-chilton-county-tornado-relief/) - http://www.clantonadvertiser.com/2011/06/13/higgins-ferry-park-to-get-new-parking-lot/ June 13, 2011 The Clanton Advertiser reported that Cawaco RC&D Council will provide a $9,000 grant for storm related items for Chilton County. The money will be used for repair and maintenance on the weather sirens, according to Commissioner Allen Caton.
- [Educating Seniors Through Internet Access](https://cawaco.org/teaching-senior-to-use-computers/) - Cawaco RC&D Council Challenge Grant: Educating Seniors Through Internet Access. Senior Mentor 80 year old Mike Culotta set a personal goal of training 200 seniors to use the computer. He worked for over 290 hours SO FAR on the project and taught 150 learners on two computers provided by Cawaco RC&D Council Challenge Grant. The
- [Buxahatchee Creek Project](https://cawaco.org/buxahatchee-creek-project/) - Cawaco RC&D provides project and grant management services to assist Shelby County in implementing an ADEM 319 grant to improve water quality for Buxahatchee Creek. Glenn Littleton, project coordinator provided coordination and support for the installation of a peat-based alternative wastewater treatment system for Minooka Park. Read more about the project in the Clanton Advertiser on
- [Rocky Ridge Fire District Awarded grant](https://cawaco.org/rocky-ridge-fire-district-awarded-grant/) - Recently the Rocky Ridge Fire Department received a 10,000 grant from Cawaco RC&D for river rescue equipment. Since the purchase of the equipment, it has been used four times- and one of those times was during a training class on how to use the equipment! The money allowed the fire department to buy a winch
- [Cawaco Provides Technology in the Classroom](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-provides-technology-in-the-classroom/) - By MOLLY DAVIDSON / Staff Writer NORTH SHELBY—Oak Mountain Elementary School first grade students have been able to supplement their learning with iPads, thanks to a $5,000 grant from Cawaco Resource, Conservation and Development Council in partnership with State Senator Jabo Waggoner, R-Birmingham, and Rep. Arnold Mooney, R-Birmingham. On Feb. 12, the OMES students and
- [Cawaco Radio Ad for Free GED Classes](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-radio-ad-for-free-ged-classes/) - We are proud to sponsor this radio ad that runs in our five counties! The Alabama Community College System Adult Education programs (Alabama Adult Education) provide free adult literacy, basic skills, English as a Second Language and GED test preparation. The cost of the GED® Test is $120.00. GED® testing vouchers valuing $25.00 per assessment
- [Cawaco grant announcement/Clanton Advertiser](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-grant-announcementclanton-advertiser/) - Recently Cawaco was in the news, announcing a grant in Chilton County. Representative Kurt Wallace and Board member Fred Crawford attended the event. See article below for more information and a photo! Cawaco would like to thank Representative Wallace for his support of our projects in Chilton County. http://www.clantonadvertiser.com/2013/10/01/stem-academy-purchases-3-d-printers-with-grant/
- [Blount County Memorial Museum receives grant](https://cawaco.org/blount-county-memorial-museum-receives-grant/) - Cawaco RC&D awarded the Blount County Memorial Museum a $1,000.00 grant to be used for preserving pre-1988 documents and microfilm and converting them to a digital format. To learn more about the Blount County Museum, go to their website: http://www.blountmuseum.com
- [Stream Restoration at Timberline](https://cawaco.org/stream-restoration-in-cahaba-watershed/) - Below is a news article from the online version of the Shelby County Reporter pertaining to the stream restoration project at Timberline Golf Course. The print article should appear in the Wednesday July 13th addition. http://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2011/07/06/timberline-stream-under-restoration/ For more information on this project contact: Glenn Littleton,Facilitator Cahaba Clean Water Partnership Coordinator -Buxahatchee Creek Watershed RP 205.217.2592
- [North Smithfield Fire Station rebuilds with help from Cawaco Grant](https://cawaco.org/north-smithfield-fire-station-rebuilds-with-help-from-cawaco-grant/) - The North Smithfield Manor/Greenleaf Height fire station was severly damaged in the April 27, 2011 tornado. A small grant from Cawaco enabled temporary housing to protect the fire truck during the time the new fire station was under construction. Additionally, manthly meetings and trainings were held at the temporary space. Due to this small grant, the
- [New Trail For Center Point](https://cawaco.org/new-trail-for-center-point/) - The Fresh­wa­ter Land Trust and Fox 6 WBRC will be in Cen­ter Point on Tues., Nov. 6, to see Cen­ter Point’s newest trail! This appear­ance is the sev­en­teenth, once-a-month “Red Rock Tues­day” seg­ment on Good Day Alabama. We have had great crowds out in Brook­side, Ruffner Moun­tain, Pin­son, Tar­rant, Home­wood, Hoover, Birm­ing­ham, Gar­den­dale, Trussville, Ves­tavia
- [Cawaco Newsletters](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-news-june-2013/) - The newsletters keep you informed of what is happening throughout the year. Cawaco News March 2014 Cawaco News Winter 2013 FALL NEWS Cawaco News June 2013 Cawaco News Spring 2013
- [2013 Plan of Work](https://cawaco.org/2013-plan-of-work-2/) - To view the Cawaco 2013 Plan of Work, click here.
- [Spring Clean Up!](https://cawaco.org/spring-clean-up/) - 2014 “Don’t Drop it on Alabama” PALS Spring Cleanup May 3, 2014 OAK GROVE High School Spring Clean Up- Saturday, March 1- Learn more about the Oak Grove cleanup here. This Spring Cleanup targets household trash, litter and debris that will easily fit into the bags provided. Target areas include common areas throughout neighborhoods and
- [Grants for job and leadership skills](https://cawaco.org/grants-for-job-and-leadership-skills/) - Approximately $73M in YouthBuild grants to help disadvantaged youth develop job and leadership skills made available by US Labor Department. If you are a non-profit or municipality and lack staff or resources to apply for federal grants, call us! We can help to write and administer your grants for a small fee. To find out
- [Cawaco Provides Funding for Household Hazardous Waste Day](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-provides-funding-for-household-hazardous-waste-day/) - On April 26, beginning at 8AM, there will be a household Hazardous Waste Collection Day at McClendon Park at Legion Field. Address: 400 Graymont Ave. West, Birmingham AL This collection day will assist the public in the responsible disposal of hazardous items such as: Paint Prescription Drugs Electronics Refrigerators Batteries Ammunition Appliances Motor Oil More
- [Electrathon 2014](https://cawaco.org/eletrathon-2014/) - This is a good write up about the race; however, schools from all over the state competed, and all RC&D's in the state participated by funding a car kit for a school in their area. Cawaco had 3 cars in the race beacuse Cawaco has supported this project since inception. Read more and see pictures
- [Town Creek Update](https://cawaco.org/town-creek-update/) - We went to have a look at a stream we were instrumental in restoring in Jasper Alabama. Looking beautiful! What once was an eyesore and a flooding hazard has been turned into an asset for the town. Read more here.
- [Palisades Park gets WiFi!](https://cawaco.org/2991/) - Cawaco RC&D id dedicated to the development and wise use of our Natural Resources. Although many will think that a park getting WiFi is not supporting natural resources, please remember- our focus for the next year is Parks and Rec. And WiFi will benefit the park, as well as the community and visitors. Visitors can
- [Kids learning water safety and kayaking](https://cawaco.org/kids-learning-water-safety-and-kayaking/) - The kayaks are being put to good use and even made the paper! Kids participate in Outdoor Adventure Camp By Emily Etheredge Published 3:56pm Thursday, July 3, 2014 Clanton Advertiser JoJo Wells was excited to practice his archery techniques Thursday morning as he eagerly waited his turn at hitting the target. “I hope I hit
- [North Jefferson Blount Regional Library](https://cawaco.org/north-jefferson-blount-regional-library/) - Cawaco is helping fund some upgrades to the old Armory building located in Warrior. The building is being renovated into a state of the art Regional Library and Cultural Arts Center. The North Jefferson-Blount County Regional Library Foundation has already raised over a quarter of a million dollars through various grants and fundraising activities. There
- [Visit with Cornerstone](https://cawaco.org/visit-with-cornerstone/) - Patti Pennington was at Cornerstone School on October 20, and met Ms. Crist and her kindergarten class. There have been many improvements since Cawaco helped Cornerstone get their garden going! Teacher excitement and involvement has made this project a HUGE success! Herb gardens, a rain barrell, and a sign with the Cawaco logo on it
- [Project Update- Greystone Elementary Outdoor Classroom](https://cawaco.org/project-update-greystone-elementary-outdoor-classroom/) - Back in 2011, Cawaco awarded Greystone Elementary School a grant to develop an outdoor classroom. This first phase of the project allowed them to purchase native plants and trees, create a rain garden, and install a pond. They also bought a cistern to collect rainwater off the roof of the school to water the plants.
- [Cawaco Wins Project of the Year Award](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-wins-project-of-the-year-award/) - Cawaco was awarded the Alabama Association of Resource Conservation & Development Council's Project of the Year Award for 2014, for the "Tannehill Wastewater Treatment" project. Read more about this project in the Spring Newsletter. Or go here. We were very honored to be the recipient of this award, when there are so many worthwhile projects throughout
- [We Are Delivering Seeds!](https://cawaco.org/we-are-delivering-seeds/) - We are currently delivering vegetable seed to community and school gardens throughout the state! The seeds are FREE but you have to apply in order to receive them! Call Patti @ 205-623-0457, or email grantfunds@live.com and request an application, or download one here
- [Beginning Farmer Outreach Meeting- Walker County](https://cawaco.org/3551-2/) - Once again we are partnering with USDA and Walker County Soil & Water to host a Beginning Farmer Outreach meeting in Walker County! Pass this information along to anyone with interest in agriculture. The purpose of these meetings is to connect beginning farmers to the resources that are available to help them succeed in any
- [How we did in 2017](https://cawaco.org/how-we-did-in-2017/) - 2017 proved to be another productive year for Cawaco! Below, see our end of year numbers and project data reports! 2017 project highlights 2017 By the Numbers Project Report Data
- [SAVING A LANDMARK, REUNITING A COMMUNITY](https://cawaco.org/saving-a-landmark-and-reuniting-a-community/) - How strangers came together to save the Chestnut Creek Heritage Chapel Since the early 1800’s, the Chestnut Creek Baptist Church was the center of the Cooper community in rural Chilton County Alabama. But after a new church building was erected in 2007, the old church became neglected and fell into disrepair. There was no indication
- [Seniors Teach Seniors Computer Skills](https://cawaco.org/4199-2/) - Meet Ms. Shirley Mixon of the Jasper Senior Activity Center. Ms. Mixon is an alumni of the Generations on Line program that was partially funded through Cawaco and administered through M4A. Generations on Line is nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing communication among generations by promoting Internet access and literacy to elders of the Paper Generation.
- [2018 Project Photos](https://cawaco.org/2018-project-photos/)
- [When you shop Amazon, remember your favorite charity!](https://cawaco.org/when-you-shop-amazon-remember-your-favorite-charity/) - AmazonSmile donates to Cawaco Resource Conservation And Development Area when you do your holiday shopping at smile.amazon.com/ch/63-1027283.
- [2019 Cawaco Annual Report](https://cawaco.org/4593-2/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://cawaco.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/2019-Cawaco-Annual-Report.pdf" title="2019 Cawaco Annual Report"]
- [Oneonta Middle School Robotics](https://cawaco.org/oneonta-middle-school-robotics/) - On May 1, 2018 we visited Oneonta Middle School teacher John Fallin, his robotics team and Rep. David Standridge! In 2017, the school received a grant for robotics equipment and students built a robot for the 2017 BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology)competition at Wallace State. The robot (pictured) was built by the students for
- [Student Scholarships for Science School](https://cawaco.org/student-scholarships-for-science-school/) - The Alabama 4-H center in Columbiana recently closed a $10,000.00 grant they receieved through Cawaco RC&D and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. The grant provided scholarships to students throughout the Cawaco 5-County area. The educational objective was to promote environmental education and leadership skills through hands-on experimental learning. Topics studied included entimology, forest ecology, herpetology, macro invertebrate study,
- [Pleasantfield Volunteer Fire Department Radios](https://cawaco.org/pleasantfield-volunteer-fire-department-radios/) - Thanks to Senator Greg Reed, Cawaco heard about the needs of Pleasantfield Volunteer Fire department in Walker County. Pleasantfield is a very rural community in Walker County that has very limited cell phone service which makes the use of cell phones in emergency situations tenuous. Pleasantfield VFD had members who did not have a fire
- [RC&D Grows Gardens](https://cawaco.org/rcd-grows-gardens/) - Panola Community Outreach Pavillion (Green County) Funds from Alabama RC&D "RC&D Grows Gardens Project" were used to complete the Panola Community Outreach pavilion. The pavilion serves as a food distribution site for limited-income residents.
- [Resources for Stream Owners](https://cawaco.org/resources-for-stream-owners/) - Are you a landowner with a stream on your property? Do you lose property with every rain? Do your stream banks shift? There is a free resource for you to teach you how to manage the water on your property and keep your stream healthy and beautiful. "Small Scale Solutions to Eroding Stream Banks" is
- [How we did in 2016](https://cawaco.org/how-we-did-in-2016/) - In 2016, Cawaco projects built 11 miles of trails, restored 20 acres of habitat, educated over 3000 children and more than 2000 adults. For every dollar we spent, we were returned a minimum of eight dollars in added value. See the one-page graphic report here. Please check out our Annual Report! THANK YOU for all
- [Mapping Birmingham City Trees](https://cawaco.org/mapping-birmingham-city-trees/) - Cawaco is working with the Nature Conservancy, the Regional Planning Commission, the Birmingham urban forester, Alabama Forestry Commission and other agencies to map Birmingham trees. Why? For numerous reasons, urban foresters need a snapshot of the health, age, species, placement and condition of the urban forest. In order to understand pressures, stressors, insect and storm
- [Cawaco Tool Trailer](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-tool-trailer/) - The Tool Trailer got a good bit of use in 2015! 849 volunteers used the trailer to clear over 17 miles of trails in places like Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, Red Mountain Park and Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve! Cawaco keeps the tool trailer maintained and available to volunteer groups. Charles Yeager at Turkey Creek Nature
- [ADECA Tool Trailer Grant](https://cawaco.org/adeca-tool-trailer-grant/) - Cawaco is the recipient of a $10,000 ADECA RTP Grant for an area-wide trailer filled with tools for use in building and maintaining trails. Lee Higginbotham with Advanced Mower helped put together an excellent 6x12 trailer with power and hand tools. After tool safety training, staff from Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, Turkey Creek Nature
- [Cawaco Presents ADECA Tool Trailer](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-presents-adeca-tool-trailer/) - Cawaco RC&D Council to Unveil Trail Building Tool Trailer WHAT: The Cawaco Resource, Conservation and Development Council will unveil its tool utility trailer for building and maintaining public trails WHEN: Tuesday, May 17 at 10 a.m. WHERE: Red Mountain Park, 277 Lyon Lane, Birmingham SIGNIFICANCE: The trailer and tools will provide the equipment needed for
- [Media Coverage of the ADECA Tool Trailer](https://cawaco.org/check-out-the-media-coverage-of-the-adeca-tool-trailer/) - CBS 42 Video CLIP May 17, 2011 Courier Journal
- [Cawaco featured on RootsRated website](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-featured-on-rootsrated-website/) - Cawaco recently got some press on RootsRated! RootsRated is a website designed to help outdoor enthusiasts find the best hiking, trail running, climbing, paddling, cycling and more- (including food)- in 30+ cities around the country- all according to local experts. So if you are looking for things to do locally, or while travelling, check out their
- [Natural Resources Presentation at Camp McDowell](https://cawaco.org/natural-resources-presentation-at-camp-mcdowell/) - Cawaco constantly strives to promote the wise and thoughtful development of our natural resources, and has funded the Your Town Alabama program for several years. Your Town is a workshop for community leaders and planners. To learn more about Your Town, go here: http://www.yourtownalabama.com/
- [2019 Strategic Habitat Meeting of the Alabama Rivers & Streams Network](https://cawaco.org/2019-strategic-habitat-meeting-of-the-alabama-rivers-streams-network/) - Strategic Habitat Meeting 2019 Each year, the Alabama Rivers and Streams Network come together to share information and set an area of focus for the upcoming year. It is held in conjunction with the yearly Mollusk/Crayfish meeting. The 2019 SHU Meeting was held on January 15 in Andalusia Alabama. Full Presentations are available below: RC&D
- [Garden Report](https://cawaco.org/garden-report/) - Did you know Cawaco donates and delivers hundreds of pounds of vegetable seed throughout the state of Alabama each year? We work with our RC&D partners all over the state to get them to schools and communities. And, with a partnership with the Scott company, we arrange the distribution of free topsoil to gardeners! Is
- [Volunteer Work Day Saturday September 29](https://cawaco.org/volunteer-work-day-saturday-september-29/) - On Saturday, September 29, come out and help with the finishing touches on the newest section of the Five Mile Creek Greenway! For more information, click here.
- [Beginning Farmers Outreach Meetings Scheduled](https://cawaco.org/beginning-farmers-outreach-meetings-scheduled/) - Cawaco RC&D to host Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Outreach Meetings. Cawaco is partnering with USDA/NRCS and local Soil & Water Conservation Districts to host Beginning Farmer and Ranchers workshops in Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby and Walker Counties during FY 2015. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service helps farmers and ranchers use conservation to help the environment
- [Soil Health Workshop July 18](https://cawaco.org/soil-health-workshop-july-18/) - Are you doing everything you can to keep your land and your soil healthy? Would you like to learn how to build soil health, nourish your plants and yield bigger, healthier crops? Then attend the FREE workshop on Soil Health on July 18. For more information, click here!
- [Forest Certification Workshop August 6](https://cawaco.org/forest-certification-workshop-august-6/) - The Alabama Forestry Commission recognizes that voluntary participation in forest certification is growing in the southern United States and that forest managers and forest industry representatives should have access to current information on these programs. As a result, the Commission is organizing and hosting a one day workshop for industry foresters and representatives, managers of
- [Circle of Diamonds Tier II Awarded to Cawaco RC&D](https://cawaco.org/circle-of-diamonds-tier-ii-awarded-to-cawaco-rcd/) - Cawaco RC&D is very excited to announce that we have been granted enhanced (Tier II) Circle of Diamonds membership by the National Association of Resource, Conservation & Development Councils in the National Circle of Diamonds Program, thus becoming one of only 25 RC&D Councils out of 375 nationwide to have qualified for this elite status!
- [Cawaco RC&D Accepted in the Inaugural Class for Standards of Excellence](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-rcd-accepted-in-the-inaugural-class-for-standards-of-excellence/) - Cawaco RC&D Accepted in the Inaugural Class for Standards of Excellence Cawaco RC&D has been accepted to enter the inaugural class for the Standards of Excellence program promoted by the Alabama Association of Nonprofits (www.alabamanonprofits.org.) The National Standards of Excellence Institute was formed to promote the highest standards of ethics and accountability in nonprofit

## Pages

- [Home page](https://cawaco.org/) - Cawaco RC&D connects Central Alabama communities to resources and partnerships needed to drive economic development in an environmentally sustainable way.
- [About Cawaco](https://cawaco.org/about/) - Cawaco RC&D Council was established in 1979 and received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 1994. We were founded to help coordinate the efforts of local businesses, governmental agencies, and citizen volunteers throughout Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, and Walker counties. Since then, we’ve built lasting and productive relationships that act as a foundation for our collaborations. But
- [Garden Program](https://cawaco.org/rcd-grows-gardens/) - Cawaco empowers communities and schools to grow fresh local produce that can be shared, eaten, and sold to generate income. Mini-grants and free seeds are available to gardens that operate to serve the community—students, seniors, veterans, or shelters for those experiencing homelessness all qualify. Email us for more information. manager@cawaco.org Grant Application Free Seeds
- [Newsletters](https://cawaco.org/newsletter/) - CAWACO CORNER JUNE 2026 CAWACO CORNER DECEMBER 2025 2025 Annual Report CAWACO CORNER JUNE 2025 Cawaco Corner March 2025 Cawaco Corner December 2024 County Updates Spring 2022 2022 Grant Announcements 2021 Year in Review May 2021 February 2021 2020 Annual Report Spring 2020 2019 Year In Review 2018 End Of Year Report 2017 End of
- [RC&D Grant Program](https://cawaco.org/the-cawaco-grant-program/) - Cawaco receives funds from the Alabama Association of Resource Conservation & Development Councils to provide competitive grants to small towns and nonprofits that would likely not receive funding from major funders or agencies. We fund projects that : Closely align with our current funding priorities, Are likely to make a broad community, environmental, or educational
- [Board](https://cawaco.org/board/) - Board of Directors Officers Sheila Baker, Chair | ShelbyRetired - Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging Jack Williams, Co-Chair | JeffersonAlabama Public Television Sylvia Singleton, Treasurer | ChiltonChilton County Commission Directors Teresa Coin | BlountTown of Allgood Jenny Brown-Short | WalkerProxy, Walker County Commission Brandy Clackly | ChiltonCity of Clanton Paul Kennedy (ExCom) | WalkerWalker
- [Sustainability](https://cawaco.org/sustainability/) - Cawaco RC&D strives for three organizational competencies to ensure that resources (financial and human) are properly invested in area communities. 1. Program Development & Delivery Cawaco personnel are adept at coordinating with partners to develop and deliver programs that are meaningful and cost-effective. 2. Partnership Focused Cawaco facilitates and participates in working groups to identify
- [Cawaco Core Values](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-core-values/) - 1. It's About Communities Cawaco exists to assist communities and nonprofits. It is the local leadership that makes projects funded and supported by Cawaco successful. We are humbled to be a small part of their large success. 2. Money Follows Ideas Cawaco does not chase money. We believe that money follows vision and innovative ideas,
- [Natural Resource Interns](https://cawaco.org/interns/) - Cawaco RC&D's Internship Program provides financial support to help natural resource organizations mentor and train tomorrow's conservation leaders. We offer stipends of up to $1,000 per intern to offset the costs of providing hands-on, real-world experience in natural resource management. Program Details Funding Available Up to $1,000 stipend per intern Organizations may request funding for
- [Strategic Habitats](https://cawaco.org/strategic-habitats/) - Alabama Rivers & Streams Network (ARSN) is a group of state and federal agencies, utilities, private companies, and non-profit organizations that work together to identify opportunities for the restoration and recovery of imperiled aquatic species through collaboration using science-based methods. The primary action of this group is to coordinate field work and studies. Cawaco provides
- [Free Seeds for Alabama](https://cawaco.org/free-seeds-for-alabama/) - Cawaco RC&D provides free vegetable and pollinator seeds for community gardens in Central Alabama. Requirements Have an existing community garden that serves the public or a public school. Be located in Cawaco’s region (Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, or Walker counties). Operate to serve the community—students, seniors, veterans, or shelters for those experiencing homelessness all qualify.
- [Contact Us](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-rcd-council-members/) - Kellie JohnstonExecutive Director205.623.0147director@cawaco.org Patti PenningtonPrograms ManagerGrants Administrator205.623.0457manager@cawaco.org Erin HackenmuellerCommunications Specialist659.895.0334communications@cawaco.org Jody DrummondOperations Specialist980.219.3047operations@cawaco.org Cool Green Trees Grace DuggerProgram Director205.569.5092CGTdirector@cawaco.org Patrick McMahonArborist205.541.6896CGTarborist@cawaco.org Sarah JannotVolunteer Manager205-569-6099CGToutreach@cawaco.org Address:2112 11th Avenue SouthSuite 541Birmingham, Al 35205
- [Grant Projects](https://cawaco.org/projects/) - 2025 Projects To learn more about the grant program, go HERE.
- [More News](https://cawaco.org/more-news/)
- [News](https://cawaco.org/news/) - Stay up to date about Cawaco RC&D on our Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. More News Cawaco RC&D Facebook Feed
- [Contact Us](https://cawaco.org/contacts/) - Staff Kellie JohnstonExecutive Director205.623.0147director@cawaco.org Jody DrummondOperations Manager205-602-7542operations@cawaco.org Patti PenningtonPrograms ManagerGrants Director205.623.0457manager@cawaco.org Erin HackenmuellerCommunications Specialist659.895.0334communications@cawaco.org Cool Green Trees Grace DuggerCool Green Trees Director205-569-5092CGTdirector@cawaco.org Patrick McMahonCGT Arborist205-482-8051cgtarborist@cawaco.org CGT Community LiaisonVACANT Address:2112 11th Avenue SouthSuite 541Birmingham, Al 35205
- [Impact Grant Photos](https://cawaco.org/challenge-grant-photos/)
- [CAWACO Diversity Statement](https://cawaco.org/about/cawaco-diversity-statement/) - The CAWACO RC&D Council considers the diversity of its Board and staff to be a strength and critical to its mission. We will strive to be an inclusive community where we can learn from the many perspectives and worldviews, which may differ from our own. We are all expected to contribute to creating a respectful,
- [Cawaco Strategic Plan 2024-2028](https://cawaco.org/about-us__trashed/cawaco-area-plan/) - This document is the long-range plan of the Cawaco Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council, Inc., of Central Alabama. It was developed by soliciting public input through a survey of citizens, organizations and stakeholders in the five county area served by Cawaco RC&D. In addition to the survey results, a web poll was conducted, and
- [Learn About Trees](https://cawaco.org/cool-green-trees/learn-about-trees/) - Your Trees Find a description of any tree or plant Below is a list of the native southern trees planted in East Thomas Neighborhood, floodplain of Village Creek. Click on the name to see more information. Catalpa American Sycamore American Hornbeam Bald Cypress Black Gum Crab Apple Flowering Dogwood Princeton Elm River Birch Tulip Poplar
- [What is RC&D ?](https://cawaco.org/what-is-rcd/) - The passage of the Agriculture Act of 1962 established Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) councils to assist rural areas with plans for their social, economic, and environmental enrichment. The RC&D Program was developed based on the premise that local people, working together, can identify and solve problems and realize opportunities that will enhance the quality
- [Cool Green Trees](https://cawaco.org/cool-green-trees/) - Cool Green Trees Website This project is a unique collaborative effort between Cawaco RC&D Council Environmental Programs, the City of Birmingham, a diverse, multidisciplinary team from University of Alabama at Birmingham, and numerous local non-profits in Jefferson County, Alabama. Cool Green Trees is supported by the Jefferson County Department of Health. Cool Green project Story
- [Your Town Alabama](https://cawaco.org/your-town-alabama/) - Since 1998, the Your Town Alabama organization has conducted annual workshops for town officials and community leaders across Alabama. For citizens interested in improving their communities, the workshop introduces asset-based design in community planning. This method focuses on the inventory and utilization of the community’s best assets, whether cultural, natural, historical, or otherwise. Cawaco RC&D
- [Cawaco Programs](https://cawaco.org/cawaco-programs/) - The Cawaco Grant Program Cawaco receives funds from the Alabama Association of Resource Conservation & Development Councils to provide competitive grants to small towns and nonprofits that would likely not receive funding from major funders or agencies. Grant applications are available at April 1- June 30 of each year. Applicants must create a user account
- [Holle Family Foundation](https://cawaco.org/holle-family-foundation/) - Cawaco provides administrative support for the Holle Family Foundation. The Foundation is a grant making institution established in 2014 to honor the legacy of Brigadier General Everett Holle, a champion of servant leadership, and his parents, Evelyn and Fred Holle. Learn More
- [Community Development](https://cawaco.org/community-development/) - Cawaco partners with communities across our region to help make our area a better place to live and work. From trails to gardens to workshops, Cawaco is always working to develop the capacity for our communities.
- [Community Projects](https://cawaco.org/community-projects/) - Tool Trailer In 2011, Cawaco RC&D Council received a grant from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs to purchase and equip a cargo trailer to assist groups in developing and maintaining recreational trails. Existing park staff and/or volunteers can rent the Tool Trailer and its hand tools for trail building, garden improvement and
- [Conservation Projects](https://cawaco.org/conservation-projects/) - Cawaco works with partners like the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and Alabama Rivers & Streams Network (ARSN) to implement conservation practices that improve habitat and water resources for natural and economic benefits. Strategic Habitats Alabama Rivers & Streams Network (ARSN) is a group of state and federal agencies, utilities, private companies, and non-profit organizations
- [Wacky Water Book (free download)](https://cawaco.org/reports/mdocuments-library/) - [mdocs]
- [Educational Project Photos](https://cawaco.org/educational-projects/)
- [Quick Links](https://cawaco.org/forms/)
- [Photos](https://cawaco.org/photos-2/) - PROJECT PHOTOS [envira-gallery id="4060"] CAWACO IN ACTION [envira-gallery id="3996"] EDUCATIONAL PROJECTS [envira-gallery id="3994"]
- [Photos](https://cawaco.org/photos/) - PROJECT PHOTOS [envira-gallery id="4060"] CAWACO IN ACTION [envira-gallery id="3996"] EDUCATIONAL PROJECTS [envira-gallery id="3994"]
- [SHU Internship Portal](https://cawaco.org/forms/shu-internship-portal/) - Interns with the Fish & Wildlife Service Strategic Habitat Unit: use the form below to submit invoices for payment.
- [Board Member or Advisor Application](https://cawaco.org/forms/board-member-or-advisor-application/) - Are you interested in becoming a Board Member or Advisor for your area? If so, please fill out this form. The Cawaco Board meets on a quarterly basis.
- [Garden Report Form](https://cawaco.org/forms/garden-report-form/) - Hello Gardener! Please use` this form to let us know how your garden did this year!! Feel free to include photos and lessons learned. We want to share with others! Your report will assure that we can continue to receive the soil and seeds for statewide distribution!
- [Documents](https://cawaco.org/reports/) - Below are links to Cawaco documents and project information [pdf-embedder url="https://cawaco.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/2019-By-the-Numbers.pdf" title="2019 By the Numbers"] Cawaco Strategic Plan 2019-2024 2018 Plan of Work 2017Project Report Data 2017 By the Numbers Original Cawaco 1023
- [Email Us](https://cawaco.org/email-us/)
- [Industrial Archaelogical Guide](https://cawaco.org/industrial-archaelogical-guide/) - INDUSTRIAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL GUIDE TO COKE OVENS IN THE FIVE MILE CREEK WATERSHED AND JEFFERSON COUNTY Through an educational grant from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Cawaco RC&D, the Industrial Archaeological Guide to Coke Ovens in Five Mile Creek Watershed and Jefferson County was published in 2012. This guide highlights the location and history of

## Projects

- [Changed Lives Christian Center Van](https://cawaco.org/project/changed-lives-christian-center-van/) - The mission of Changed Lives Christian Center (CLCC) is to take human beings who are presently homeless and weave them back into society by assisting with housing, jobs, meals, and access to betterment programs. This project has improved the quality of daily life for CLCC’s program participants by providing safe and secure transportation for participants
- [Cedar Grove Fire Department](https://cawaco.org/project/cedar-grove-fire-department/) - The Cedar Grove Fire Department purchased a Rapid Intervention Crew Kit or “RIT Kit” and a new Thermal Imaging Camera also known as a TIC. A RIT Kit is composed of a bag containing an air cylinder with hookups to be able to provide an injured firefighter with emergency breathing air in the event that
- [Alabama Cooperative Extension: Walker County](https://cawaco.org/project/alabama-cooperative-extension-walker-county/) - Walker County Raised Bed Garden and Invasive Species Control Through the CAWACO grant funds, ACES provided a 40 hour Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program for 10 local M.G. interns. Each intern learned about many topics related to home horticulture. In turn these interns have to date volunteered some 203 hours of documented volunteer service at
- [Urban AG in Alabama](https://cawaco.org/project/urban-ag-in-alabama/) - Cawaco has been partnering with the National Association of R&D Councils, Jefferson County Soil & Water, and NRCS to outreach to urban farmers about programs that can benefit them. In 2024, we held four Urban Ag meetings! They were held in two locations: Pillar Of Hope Community Garden in Tarrant and Faith Church in Midfield.
- [Alabama Cooperative Extension: Shelby County](https://cawaco.org/project/alabama-cooperative-extension-shelby-county/) - Shelby County Extension Expanded their educational capacity by providing programs that improve food security and safety. By teaching gardening skills and providing necessary materials for citizens to have access to growing and maintaining gardens, and holding food safety classes, ACES created opportunities for citizens in Shelby County to learn about prep, canning, safety and marketing.
- [Montevallo Main Street Co-Starters](https://cawaco.org/project/montevallo-main-street-co-starters/) - During our first two years of offering CO.STARTERS, 9 entrepreneurs have graduated from the program, and they are already making a big difference in Shelby County. For example, Sean & Beth Hilty graduated from our first cohort in 2022, and their business--Alabama Custom Trailer & RV--was recently awarded Shelby County Small Business of the Year
- [Cawaco Internships- Parrish Elementary Middle School](https://cawaco.org/project/cawaco-internships-parrish-elementary-middle-school/) - Caleb Kilpatrick and Destiny Kimbrell earned experience and some money working in the school garden over the summer. They were responsible for grass cutting, weed eating, garden maintenance, and harvesting.
- [Cawaco Internships- Coosa Riverkeeper](https://cawaco.org/project/cawaco-internships-coosa-riverkeeper/) - Gracie Grimes helped Coosa Riverkeeper with various aspects of their work. She assisted with several outreach projects and educational events, and even attended Coosa Riverkeeper's annual meeting She was tasked with researching toxic pollutants taken from the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory database. This information will help the Riverkeeper inform people about possible sources of pollution.
- [Cawaco Internships- Cool Green Trees](https://cawaco.org/project/cawaco-internships-cool-green-trees/) - Matthew Dale spent the duration of his internship surveying the trees in central city neighborhood in Birmingham Alabama. He collected data on existing trees as well as empty tree wells and strips of land where new trees could be planted. Information collected included species, size, condition, and more. This data will be used to create
- [Cawaco Internships- Shelby County HS](https://cawaco.org/project/cawaco-internships-shelby-county-hs/) - The interns worked for the Shelby County High School FFA Community Garden. Students planted, harvested and donated vegetables to local people and organizations. The Shelby County High School garden is used in several different ways to benefit the students and the community. Cawaco has been partnering with SCHS for several years. Shelby County High School
- [Cawaco Internships- Friends of  the Locust Fork River](https://cawaco.org/project/cawaco-internships-friends-of-the-locust-fork-river/) - FLFR hired three interns to help with projects all over the county. These interns participated with the following activities: Monthly cleanup locations: Mardis Mill, Swann Covered Bridge, the creek by Walmart, Taylor Riverside Park, CR 14 in Snead, Horton Mill Covered Bridge and selected areas in Hayden. Weekly work sessions at FLFR's Restoration Nursery in
- [Cawaco Internship- Freshwater Land Trust](https://cawaco.org/project/cawaco-internship-freshwater-land-trust/) - This grant partially funded the spring and summer Outreach & Stewardship internships at Freshwater Land Trust (FLT). Both interns primarily worked with Rebekah Correia, FLT's Outreach & Communications Director, and Sam McCoy, FLT's Land Stewardship Director. They visited FLT's conservation properties with Stewardship staff to conduct annual monitoring visits on nine properties. During these visits,
- [Cawaco Internship- Ruffner Nature Center](https://cawaco.org/project/cawaco-internship-ruffner-nature-center/) - The three Interns spent a mixture of their time helping out at Ruffner, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, Red Mountain Park, and at offsite event and programs at Homewood Public Library, Centerpoint Public Library, and Irondale City Hall. David Lewis, the Land Management Intern, primary assisted with invasive species management at all three locations. He learned
- [Tennessee River Basin Network Conference](https://cawaco.org/project/tennessee-river-basin-network-conference/) - Cawaco helped administer the Tennessee River Basin Network annual conference. It was a fun week of celebrating 10 years of working together to make a difference for aquatic life. TRBN is an incredible network dedicated to protecting one of North America’s most diverse areas for aquatic species. Cawaco supports such initiatives and partnerships throughout the
- [Raleigh's Place Ribbon Cutting](https://cawaco.org/project/raleighs-place-ribbon-cutting/) - Thanks to Raleigh's Place in Clanton, young men aging out of the foster care system will have a place to live and thrive. The young men who will call Raleigh's Place home will be trained and equipped with life skills, financial literacy, and whatever else they need to live independently. Raleigh's Place plans to welcome
- [The Red Barn Job Skills Program](https://cawaco.org/project/the-red-barn-job-skills-program/) - Twelve students participated in the Job Skills Program at The Red Barn. In the Job Skills program, students attend for 2 hours 2 days a week. Students create a fictional company, break tasks into individual responsibilities, complete a list of property and barn chores, work together in a supported environment to solve problems, communicate with
- [Cawaco Internship- Maplesville HS](https://cawaco.org/project/cawaco-internship-maplesville-hs/) - Two Maplesville High School students worked in the Maplesville High School FFA Raised Beds. They planted, cared for and harvested produce. The students support the community by delivering produce to seniors and others of limited income. Cawaco offers internships of $1000 to students who want to work and be trained in any natural resource field.
- [Blountsville Elementary](https://cawaco.org/project/blountsville-elementary/) - The Alabama Association of RC&D Councils is partnering with the Alabama Forestry Association and ForestryWorks to promote literacy, STEM learning and careers, and sustainable forestry education during Alabama Woods to Goods Week. They came out and read "Lucy Meets a Logger" to Blountsville Elementary School first graders and used fun activities to demonstrate the importance
- [Hayden Middle School Outdoor Classroom](https://cawaco.org/project/hayden-middle-school-outdoor-classroom/) - Hayden Middle School received a grant from Cawaco RC&D to create a garden space for students to dive into local agriculture and learn more about where their food comes from. This project aims to cultivate the next generation of stewards for our natural world. Excited to get to work, their students have already helped set
- [Town of Hayden- Hayden Ball Field](https://cawaco.org/project/town-of-hayden-hayden-ball-field/) - The new youth football field allows children and parents of Hayden and surrounding area to have a safe and healthy place to practice and play. This will complete Phase I of this project. We will continue to search and request funding to complete Phase II. As funds are raised, Phase II is projected tocontribute a
- [Classic in Pink Luncheon](https://cawaco.org/project/classic-in-pink-luncheon/) - The Classic in Pink Breast Cancer Luncheon celebrates survivors and brings awareness to the African American community about breast cancer’s impacts. Thank you to Rep. Juandalynn Givan & the Penny Foundation for your efforts to educate women of color about the importance of early detection, self-examinations, genetic testing and local resources.
- [Walker County School System- Carbon Hill HS Bikes](https://cawaco.org/project/walker-county-school-system-carbon-hill-hs-bikes/) - The Walker County School District is working to provide bikes to all five high schools in the county. They used a Cawaco RC&D grant to purchase bicycles for Carbon Hill High School - the second round of bikes supported by Cawaco. Walker County has invested in growing its outdoor recreation economy, and that doesn’t just
- [Calera Main Street Alley Activation](https://cawaco.org/project/calera-main-street-alley-activation/) - The Alley Activation and the featured metal archway that Cawaco funding supported created a focal point to welcome visitors and residents alike to the newly developed Calera Courtyard. For decades this alley was nothing more than an automobile cut through to beat the train, but now, it's an integral piece of "place making" for the
- [Tri-City Fire Training Facility](https://cawaco.org/project/tri-city-fire-training-facility/) - The cities of Centerpoint, Pinson and Clay are excited about their new Training Center. This facility was made possible through grants and donations, including a Cawaco grant. The custom fabricated multi-purpose structure was built specifically for fire and rescue training. This facility was designed to align with NFPA 1403 – Standard for Facilities for Fire
- [Media Center at Curry MS](https://cawaco.org/project/media-center-at-curry-ms/) - Curry MS teacher Lisa Hammack, with the help of numerous donations, gifts and volunteers, was able to bring a state of the art Media center to the Curry Middle School Library! Lisa told us "Our students have been actively involved in this project from the beginning until the end. They have had a voice in
- [Better Response Initiative](https://cawaco.org/project/better-response-initiative/) - With the support of the Cawaco Grant, Blountsville Fire & Rescue was able to purchase 5 Panasonic Toughbook CF-54 computers that are equipped with the CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch) which allows responding personnel to view call information, EMD (Emergency Medical Dispatch) Pre-Arrival Instructions that were given, Patient Information and Patient Medical History (if given) while
- [Community Garden Expo](https://cawaco.org/project/community-garden-expo/) - The Spring 2023 Community Garden Expo was hosted by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens on February 21, 2023 and featured exciting activities and exhibits by vendors and Alabama Extension staff. It was also a great time to network with other gardeners and potential community garden organizers in the region. Topics
- [Thermal Imager](https://cawaco.org/project/thermal-imager/) - West Jefferson Volunteer Fire Department purchased two FLIR thermal imaging cameras. The cameras are ideal for search-and-rescue operations, finding hot spots, or locating potential hazards. They provide excellent image quality where visibility is obscured by darkness, fire, or smoke
- [Fire Hose Replacement](https://cawaco.org/project/fire-house-replacement/) - The Parrish Volunteer Fire Department recently was able to purchase new hose for each of our trucks to replace worn out hose that was 15-25 years old. Ths new hose will help provide safer and more reliable water supply to fight fires in our community.
- [Grace Klein Rescues and Delivers Food](https://cawaco.org/project/grace-klein-rescues-and-delivers-food/) - A Cawaco grant enabled Grace Klein Community to purchase food and equip volunteers with the fuel to complete 2336 food rescue pick ups! Between October 1st and December 12th, 2022, Grace Klein Community volunteers rescued 393,598 pounds of food from local grocers and restaurants, which was then distributed to food insecure families and individuals.191,084 people
- [Ultra Low Freezer for Birmingham Zoo](https://cawaco.org/project/ultra-low-freezer-for-birmingham-zoo/) - The ultralow freezer is used to store biological samples, including blood and tissue, from a variety of species at the Birmingham Zoo. Most samples are obtained while animals are under anesthesia and they cannot be easily replaced. Veterinary staff often use saved samples from the freezer if an animal is sick, which helps avoid anesthetizing
- [Public Safety Drone](https://cawaco.org/project/public-safety-drone/) - The Walker County Sheriff's Office recently purchased a drone! The drone, which is equipped with a FLIR thermal imaging camera, can be used to search for missing elderly persons and missing children; Assist in search and rescue operations that are difficult if not impossible to reach by ground; Locate prison or arrest escapees; Collect evidence;
- [Art Abilities](https://cawaco.org/project/art-abilities/) - Art Abilities is a therapeutic art program offered by the Shelby County Arts Council and is a 9-week program offered to 20 schools throughout Shelby County. Funding was used for 16 sessions taught at Chelsea High School and Chelsea Park Elementary.
- [20th Street North Revitalization](https://cawaco.org/project/20th-street-north-revitalization/) - With this grant, REV Birmingham purchase 31 trees, including Aeryn Trident Maple, Winter King Hawthorne, Urbanite Ash, Australis Bay Magnolia, Nuttall Oak, and Willow Oak. Trees were identified based on the full landscape plan created by the project landscape architect, and Hunter Trees and sold at wholesale prices. This project created a shaded, cool, inviting
- [Full Plate](https://cawaco.org/project/full-plate/) - Full Plate is using a vacant lot in Fairfield to grow nutritious food for the community. Each week, volunteers bag and give away food to approximately 60 families. Cawaco helped them purchase a storage shed for their garden tools and equipment.
- [Litter Quitter Video Contest](https://cawaco.org/project/litter-quitter-video-contest/) - Jefferson County Conservation Foundation was awarded a grant for support of an anti-litter, stormwater-protection video competition for public high schools in Jefferson County. Aimed at young drivers, the contest asks them to produce a short video to educate their family and friends about the negative impacts of litter and how it relates to stormwater. Cash
- [Environmental Education](https://cawaco.org/project/environmental-education/) - The Environmental Education Program at the University of Montevallo was awarded a grant from CAWACO to provide hands-on, experiential learning opportunities to the students of Montevallo City Schools. The grant funded field trips, classroom visits, and summer day camp programs for our community’s youth. Overall, we were able to serve 102 students this year. The
- [Banks Academy](https://cawaco.org/project/banks-academy/) - Banks Academy is ensuring that students do not fall behind in reading and math skills through utilizing Edgenuity learning systems. This system assess and creates a custom learning plan to remediate and advance students skills to be at or above grade level when graduating. Our goal is to have students fully prepared to enter college
- [Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters](https://cawaco.org/project/home-instruction-for-parents-of-preschool-youngsters/) - This program is a home-based, parent involvement program that brings early learning educational materials into the homes of those most at risk due to poverty, lack of parent education and social isolation. "HIPPY" is designed to assist the families in the Shelby County School System with kindergarten readiness. It is one of several models used
- [Pine Mountain Community Playground](https://cawaco.org/project/pine-mountain-community-playground/) - The Pine Mountain Community Center Playground has been a dream of our organization for several years. We are so excited to finally be able to provide a place for the children of our community to enjoy playing while creating memories for their whole families. We wouldn't have been able to get this done without the
- [Summer STREAM-ing](https://cawaco.org/project/summer-stream-ing/) - Summer STREAM-ing is a project of the Blount County Education Foundation, providing great summer learning opportunities for students from all areas of Blount County. The camps served over 1,000 students this year, and and grant from Cawaco makes supplies, resources, attendance incentives, and staff possible. BCEF is grateful for the tremendous support of Cawaco through
- [Project Lifesaver- Alzheimer's of Central Alabama](https://cawaco.org/project/project-lifesaver-alzheimers-of-central-alabama/) - The primary mission of Project Lifesaver is to provide timely response to save lives and reduce potential injury for adults and children with the propensity to wander due to a cognitive condition. With this grant ACA has purchased 30 transmitter kits along with supplies such as bands, bracelets, and batteries. ACA staff jointly manages this
- [Garden Shed built by Students](https://cawaco.org/project/garden-shed-built-by-students/) - Construction Technology Students at Shelby County Career Technical Education Center built a Garden Shed and Recycling Center! The 8 ft. by 12 ft. structure was built from a set of Construction Drawings designed by New Yankee Workshop. The project was an essential educational course objectives for instruction, provided a service to the community, and encouraged
- [Center for Critical Needs](https://cawaco.org/project/center-for-critical-needs/) - A Cawaco grant helped the 4ALL Foundation support critical life needs for 45 families throughout the Cawaco service area. The Center for Critical Needs offers help to people with critical needs that cannot be met by an existing program or service. Referrals may come from the M4A Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC), professionals, and
- [WHS Internship Program](https://cawaco.org/project/whs-internship-program/) - Through Jones Valley Teaching Farm’s High School Internship, Birmingham City Schools juniors and seniors gain deep agricultural skills, workforce preparedness and personalized counseling while earning course credit and a living hourly wage. The program’s on-the-job training and support services aim to create pathways to full-time employment and/or post-secondary education. The High School Internship provides up
- [Weekend Feeding Program](https://cawaco.org/project/weekend-feeding-program/) - With the support of CAWACO, volunteers and other funders, Back Yard Blessings in Walker County served meals to over 1000 children in food-insecure homes, ensuring that they did not go to bed hungry on weekends and holidays, and providing relief for caregivers who too often must choose between food and other basic living necessities.
- [Fire Department Training](https://cawaco.org/project/fire-department-training/) - This grant allowed Curry Fire District to purchase a Training Kit consisting of a computer, projector, screen, and training materials. This will be used to train and improve the capabilities of the volunteers of the Curry Fire Rescue volunteer fire department. This will result in better fire and medical services provided to the Curry Fire
- [Conservation Education](https://cawaco.org/project/conservation-education/) - Walker County Soil & water initiated several conservation education workshops for students and adults in Walker county, including a forestry workshop, arbor day education and water festival. Topics covered water quality, forestry and wildlife stewardship to instill the importance of protecting and conserving our natural resources.
- [Mobile Eye Clinic](https://cawaco.org/project/mobile-eye-clinic/) - The Alabama Lions Sight Mobile Eye Clinic provides comprehensive eye exams to thousands of patients across Alabama, most of whom are over 50 and do not yet qualify for Medicare. With help from CAWACO, our scholarship program ensures that every patients who needs an exam and glasses will receive them, even if they cannot afford
- [Susan Moore AG Department Improvement](https://cawaco.org/project/susan-moore-ag-department-improvement/) - This grant will improve the agriscience department at Susan Moore High School, which will in turn better prepare students for the future. Many cordless tools such as: drills, impact drivers, saws, sanders, staplers, and an air compressor, were purchased, which will be used for wood working projects and to teach carpentry skills. An iron worker
- [Warrior Engineering](https://cawaco.org/project/warrior-engineering/) - Thompson High School is attempting to train the workforce of tomorrow with courses in engineering, robotics, and computer science. This project involved purchasing 15 competitive robotics kits. The goal is to train the workforce of tomorrow in Engineering, Robotics, and Computer Science. We hope to reach non-traditional STEM students and inspire a diverse group of
- [Rope Rescue Equipment](https://cawaco.org/project/rope-rescue-equipment/) - Thanks also to the Daniel Foundation for accepting a grant proposal from Straight Mountain Fire Department, and working with us and the Cawaco team to get it processed and accepted. Our service area is located in the Straight Mountain area of Blount County, Alabama, and is primarily a mountainous area with many dangerous trails and
- [Thermal Imaging Camera and Saw Kit.](https://cawaco.org/project/thermal-imaging-camera-and-saw-kit/) - The funds we received from this grant went to help purchase a thermal imaging camera and a rescue saw kit. The equipment purchased with these funds will better help the Susan Moore Volunteer Fire Department serve our community and assist with saving lives.
- [Remote Work Technology](https://cawaco.org/project/remote-work-technology/) - Recently the Arc of Walker County has upgraded technology and increased remote work opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community.
- [Storm Shelters for Public Safety](https://cawaco.org/project/storm-shelters-for-public-safety/) - For public safety reasons, the storm shelters throughout Chilton county received funding for major repairs, including sandblasting, painting, mold and mildew removal, electrical servicing and repairs, and generators.
- [Emergency Preparedness](https://cawaco.org/project/training-for-the-best-and-preparing-for-the-worst/) - Through the CAWACO grant, Saragossa Fire was able to purchase 3 new scene lights to help with work safety especially at night. The Thermal Image Camera will allow us to locate possible fire victims as well as assist with lost individuals in wooded areas. The smoke machine will allow us to create similar conditions found
- [Hydrangea Garden Trail Extension](https://cawaco.org/project/hydrangea-garden-trail-extension/) - Aldridge Gardens now has all weather access to the Hydrangea Garden and the picnic area even after large storm events, making our trail system 100% accessible. The trail that runs through the Hydrangea Garden is one of the heaviest used access points to the Gardens, and during inclement weather, visitors returning to the Entrance Plaza
- [Fire Training Tower](https://cawaco.org/project/fire-training-tower/) - The Center Point Fire District is currently working on the development of Training center. We have completed the first part of our 5-year plan which is the design and construction of a 3-story multi-use fire training facility. This is a custom fabricated multi-purpose structure, designed specific for fire and rescue training. This facility has also
- [Chimney Swift Habitat](https://cawaco.org/project/chimney-swift-habitat/) - Alabama Audubon erected two tower-habitat structures for Chimney Swifts, a migratory bird species. This project created much-needed habitat for chimney swifts, whose numbers have declined by over 65% since the 1960s, and has provided hands-on conservation and educational opportunities for visitors to Turkey Creek Nature Preserve.
- [Employment Readiness](https://cawaco.org/project/employment-readiness/) - With the help of a grant from Cawaco, Foundry Ministries was able to purchase new kitchen equipment for their Employment Readiness Program. The Foundry’s employment readiness training equips individuals who have been chronically unemployed due to substance abuse, with the skills needed to obtain and retain employment. The program participants have successfully been using the
- [Scholarships for Health Care Training](https://cawaco.org/project/scholarships-for-health-care-training/) - Ten students in Jefferson State’s Birmingham Workforce Retraining Initiative are hoping to turn scholarships from partner Cawaco RC&D into even greater opportunities. The students in the fall are scheduled to complete programs including Certified Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, and Sterile Processing; but before graduation they will participate in clinicals. “Everything is going well—just a lot of
- [Spay and Neuter Services](https://cawaco.org/project/spay-and-neuter-services/) - Thanks to a grant provided through Cawaco, Walker County Humane Society was able to provide 115 cat and dog spay and neuter services to help stop overpopulation of kittens and puppies in Walker County.
- [The Bateman Scholars Program](https://cawaco.org/project/the-bateman-scholars-program/) - The Bateman Scholars program assists high-achieving, under-represented students from less-resourced backgrounds in securing admission to the most-affordable college that best suits them, which ensures students graduate with a BA/BS having incurred minimal debt. Thanks to the generosity of the CAWACO RC&D Council, College Choice Foundation, through the Bateman Scholars Program, provided exceptional programming for the
- [Soccer Field Upgrades](https://cawaco.org/project/chilton-ymca-soccer-field-upgrades/) - The YMCA of Chilton County was awarded a $15,000 grant to complete an additional phase of their soccer field renovations and upgrades. The phase completed was the installation of an irrigation system to improve the playing surface. Currently, the fields serve 200 – 250 youth during the each of the competitive soccer seasons. The completion
- [Spreading our Wings- Our Forever Home](https://cawaco.org/project/spreading-our-wings-our-forever-home/) - Butterfly Bridge Children's Advocacy Center is grateful for CAWACO and our other community partners who have made the new home for the local child advocacy center a reality. Butterfly Bridge provides highly specialized services to child and adolescent victims of abuse in Chilton County. The services enable children who are in their darkest times to
- [Calera Downtown Vision Plan](https://cawaco.org/project/calera-downtown-vision-plan/) - Calera's Downtown Vision Plan provides a "road map" to revitalize Historic Downtown Calera for its citizens and visitors. The plan provides a market assessment, branding and marketing tools, as well as implementation strategies. Through design, promotion, organization and economic development, Calera Main Street and the City of Calera will utilize this plan to affect positive
- [Turkey Creek Cabin Renovation](https://cawaco.org/project/turkey-creek-cabin-renovation/) - Turkey Creek Cabin serves as a residence for the summer internship program. Over the years, the condition of the building deteriorated significantly and was in need of repair. Thanks to this grant, significant upgrades were made to the living area.
- [Tree Scape for Carbon Hill](https://cawaco.org/project/tree-scape-for-carbon-hill/) - What a big impact planting trees on front street on the sidewalk has made in our small town! People from all over say they look great and then thank us. We get phone calls and text messages, saying they love the trees and what a bigdifference they make on front street.
- [Save Our Steeple](https://cawaco.org/project/save-our-steeple/) - Chestnut Creek Heritage Chapel, once home to one of the county's oldest church congregations, now serves as a place for cultural events and as place to keep the community's past alive. Much work has been done in the last eight years to repair and improve the building. The latest project, Save Our Steeple, has just
- [Great Grapes Renovation](https://cawaco.org/project/great-grapes-renovation/) - Blountsville Public Library has received a grant from the Cawaco RC&D Council to replace lounge seating inside the library. The "Great Grapes Renovation" is a nod toward the color of the material used. The grape color blends well with the current colors used inside the library, giving the library a more modern cohesive look. The
- [Educational Assessment and Remediation](https://cawaco.org/project/educational-assessment-and-remediation/) - When high school students fall behind in reading and math skills it is detrimental to doing well in high school and beyond. Banks Academy implemented assessment and customized remediation learning system called Edgenuity. This program identifies each students areas that need improvement and generates a customized and self-directed remediation process where students can learn at
- [Refreshing 20th Street N, Birmingham’s Main Street](https://cawaco.org/project/refreshing-20th-street-n-birminghams-main-street/) - REV and partners are working to refresh the landscaping and streetscape along 20th Street North in Birmingham. Through this project, we purchased 31 large trees, which will be installed in winter 2021. This project photo shows a demonstration project on 20th Street in fall 2020.
- [Robotics in Agriculture](https://cawaco.org/project/robotics-in-agriculture/) - The Robotics in Agriculture project at LeCroy technical Center in Clanton is incorporating STEM ideas into modern Agriscience coursework. Ag teacher Landon Lowry is utilizing a FarmBot system to teach Computer Numerical Control programing while raising vegetable crops in raised beds. Through the use of these systems students are able to see that agriculture is
- [Let My Dream Live Thru You](https://cawaco.org/project/executive-director/) - Let My Dream Live Thru You is a program given through the Jalayah Hackman Foundation that allows students that are remote and doing virtual learning to come to our center to get face to face tutoring and assistance with online school work.
- [Walker County Conservation Educ](https://cawaco.org/project/walker-county-conservation-educ/) - The Walker County Soil & Water Conservation District worked with the Forest Service and NRCS for the Arbor Day program to drop off backpacks filled with educational items and a loblolly pine to 820-second graders and their teachers in Walker County and Jasper City Schools. Other educational programs supported include: Learn and Burn hosted by
- [Relax at Minooka Park](https://cawaco.org/project/relax-at-minooka-park/) - The Chilton County Commission/Minooka Park used Cawaco grant funds to purchase five commercial picnic tables to be used at a newly constructed pavilion and recreation area located at Minooka Park, Jemison, AL.
- [River Restoration Nursery](https://cawaco.org/project/river-restoration-nursery/) - The River Restoration Project (RRP), began in December of 2019 as an understanding with Blount County that Friends of the Locust Fork River (FLFR) would restore native plants on the site of the recently created Grand Staircase at King's Bend Scenic Overlook Park at the Locust Fork River on Highway 79. FLFR has done 17
- [Improvements for Shelby Ironworks Park](https://cawaco.org/project/improvements-for-shelby-ironworks-park/) - Funds were used to help purchase a commercial grade lawnmower for the park. Previously, the grass was mowed by volunteers using their own equipment. Owning our own lawnmower will help us maintain the appearance of the park, without having to rely on the availability of a volunteer.
- [Broadband Feasibility Study](https://cawaco.org/project/broadband-feasibility-study/) - The grant will assist the Chilton County Industrial Development Authority with a Broadband Feasibility Study. This study is identifying what internet is available to residents of Chilton County. By identifying providers or the lack of, it allows the leaders of the county to prepare an action plan to assist in the growth of reliable internet
- [Shelby County Board of Education](https://cawaco.org/project/shelby-county-board-of-education/) - Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters: Educational materials for home-based, parent involvement program that brings early learning educational materials into the homes of those most at risk because of poverty, parents’ limited education, and social isolation.
- [Main Street Alabama: Calera Resource Team](https://cawaco.org/project/main-street-alabama-calera-resource-team/) - To help establish and maintain a successful Main Street Program for Calera. Residents and leaders recognized the value of the Main Street Approach® to downtown revitalization, and they have committed the time and resources to establish a local Main Street program.
- [Bryan Elementary 3D STEAM Dream](https://cawaco.org/project/bryan-elementary-3d-steam-dream/) - Purchased a 3D printer for the STEAM lab. Students gained experience with Computer Aided Design program, used their chromebooks to access the web-based CAD program to complete their project, and printed Christmas tree ornaments for the school tree.
- [Oneonta Fire & Rescue Service: UE Video Laryngoscope](https://cawaco.org/project/oneonta-fire-rescue-service-ue-video-laryngoscope/) - During medical emergencies in which patients needed to be ventilated, it was found that some patients were difficult if not impossible to establish an advanced airway in due to numerous factors including but not limited to physical anatomy and environmental issues such as lighting and size of area needed to work. This grant paid for
- [Blount County Education Foundation Summer Learning](https://cawaco.org/project/blount-county-education-foundation-summer-learning/) - This project annually provides students with learning opportunities in the summer to help them stay connected to learning.
- [Creative Enrichment’s Full Plate](https://cawaco.org/project/creative-enrichments-full-plate/) - Creative Enrichment’s Full Plate is using space behind a community center in Fairfield to grow nutritious food for the community. Each week, volunteers bag and give away food to approximately 60 families. Cawaco helped them purchase a storage shed for their garden tools and equipment.

## Categories

- [Cawaco Administration](https://cawaco.org/category/cawaco-administration/)
- [Cawaco Grants](https://cawaco.org/category/cawaco-grants/)
- [Tool Trailer](https://cawaco.org/category/community-development/tool-trailer/)
- [Fish and Wildlife Partners](https://cawaco.org/category/conservation-projects/fish-and-wildlife-partners/)
- [Community Projects](https://cawaco.org/category/community-development/)
- [RC&D Grows Gardens](https://cawaco.org/category/community-development/rcd-grows-gardens-community-development/)
- [Conservation Projects](https://cawaco.org/category/conservation-projects/)
- [Strategic Habitats](https://cawaco.org/category/conservation-projects/strategic-habitats/)
- [Awards](https://cawaco.org/category/awards/)
- [Board](https://cawaco.org/category/board/)
- [Community Development](https://cawaco.org/category/community-development/community-development-community-development/)
- [Education](https://cawaco.org/category/cawaco-grants/education-cawaco-grants/)
- [Challenge](https://cawaco.org/category/cawaco-grants/challenge/)
- [Reports](https://cawaco.org/category/reports/)

## Tags

- [Grant Success](https://cawaco.org/tag/grant-success/)
- [Community Gardens](https://cawaco.org/tag/community-gardens/)
- [Water Quality Improvement](https://cawaco.org/tag/water-quality-improvement/)
- [Trail Building](https://cawaco.org/tag/trail-building/)
- [Cawaco](https://cawaco.org/tag/cawaco/)
- [Community planning](https://cawaco.org/tag/planning/)
- [Administrative](https://cawaco.org/tag/administrative/)
- [Fire Department](https://cawaco.org/tag/fire-department/)
- [Rescue](https://cawaco.org/tag/rescue/)
- [Equipment](https://cawaco.org/tag/equipment/)
- [outdoor classroom](https://cawaco.org/tag/outdoor-classroom/)
- [educational grant](https://cawaco.org/tag/educational-grant/)
- [grant program](https://cawaco.org/tag/grant-program/)
- [Greystone Elementary](https://cawaco.org/tag/greystone-elementary/)
- [education](https://cawaco.org/tag/education/)
- [Community](https://cawaco.org/tag/community/)
- [Water Quality](https://cawaco.org/tag/water-quality/)
- [Stream Restoration](https://cawaco.org/tag/stream-restoration/)
- [Greenway](https://cawaco.org/tag/greenway/)
- [gardens](https://cawaco.org/tag/gardens/)
- [community garden](https://cawaco.org/tag/community-garden/)
- [school garden](https://cawaco.org/tag/school-garden/)
- [seeds](https://cawaco.org/tag/seeds/)
- [farming](https://cawaco.org/tag/farming/)
- [Alabama](https://cawaco.org/tag/alabama/)
- [outreach](https://cawaco.org/tag/outreach/)
- [USDA](https://cawaco.org/tag/usda/)
- [workshops](https://cawaco.org/tag/workshops/)
- [educational opportunities](https://cawaco.org/tag/educational-opportunities/)
- [farm programs](https://cawaco.org/tag/farm-programs/)
- [timber programs](https://cawaco.org/tag/timber-programs/)
- [conference](https://cawaco.org/tag/conference/)
- [conservation](https://cawaco.org/tag/conservation/)
- [resources](https://cawaco.org/tag/resources/)
- [nutrition](https://cawaco.org/tag/nutrition/)
- [fighting hunger](https://cawaco.org/tag/fighting-hunger/)
- [building communities](https://cawaco.org/tag/building-communities/)
- [Awards](https://cawaco.org/tag/awards/)
- [Historical Preservation](https://cawaco.org/tag/historical-preservation/)
- [strategic habitat](https://cawaco.org/tag/strategic-habitat/)
- [video](https://cawaco.org/tag/video/)
- [Paul Kennedy](https://cawaco.org/tag/paul-kennedy/)
- [Award](https://cawaco.org/tag/award/)
- [Hall of Fame](https://cawaco.org/tag/hall-of-fame/)
- [winners](https://cawaco.org/tag/winners/)
- [board members](https://cawaco.org/tag/board-members/)
- [activity book](https://cawaco.org/tag/activity-book/)
- [free booklet](https://cawaco.org/tag/free-booklet/)
- [soil](https://cawaco.org/tag/soil/)
- [schools](https://cawaco.org/tag/schools/)
- [communities](https://cawaco.org/tag/communities/)
- [school](https://cawaco.org/tag/school/)
- [Chilton](https://cawaco.org/tag/chilton/)

## Project Years

- [2020](https://cawaco.org/project-year/2020/)
- [2021](https://cawaco.org/project-year/2021/)
- [2022](https://cawaco.org/project-year/2022/)
- [2023](https://cawaco.org/project-year/2023/)
- [2024](https://cawaco.org/project-year/2024/)
- [2025](https://cawaco.org/project-year/2025/)

## Counties

- [Blount](https://cawaco.org/county/blount/)
- [Chilton](https://cawaco.org/county/chilton/)
- [Jefferson](https://cawaco.org/county/jefferson/)
- [Shelby](https://cawaco.org/county/shelby/)
- [Walker](https://cawaco.org/county/walker/)
- [Area Wide](https://cawaco.org/county/area-wide/)