Old coal mine field transformed into paradise for hunters and hikers in Bibb County [Video]

BIBB COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC) – A major reclamation project in west Alabama is now a new hiking and fishing area for those in Bibb County. What was once a coal mining area near West Blocton is something entirely different today in a beautiful way. This is an area just outside of West Blocton in the Cahaba National Wildlife Refuge, and the transformation is nothing short of stunning, christened by a federal leader.

With the ceremonial ribbon-cutting in the books, local, state, and federal leaders took time to marvel at what used to be coal mining country.

“We’re here to celebrate the closing of one chapter and the opening of the new chapter,” said Mike Oetker, U.S. Regional Director for Wildlife Service.

“Earlier this week we all celebrated Earth Day and I can’t think of a more fitting place and bring that week closer to a close to celebrate here,” said Martha Williams, …