3 minute read
Alabama Power
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When hydroelectric plants began to spring up on rivers in Alabama, so did the reservoirs. Water released from the reservoir is washed through a turbine, activating a generator directed toward rural areas. It meant there could be electricity throughout the region, and homes and industries would change forever, and so would the landscape.
There are 14 dams along the Coosa, Tallapoosa, and Black Warrior rivers, with 3,500 miles of shoreline. Weiss Lake and its dam was built as part of an Alabama Power Company construction program that further developed the Coosa River in the late 1950s to 1960s.
Weiss would go on to encompass 30,200 acres with a vast shoreline of 447 miles with a length of 52 miles. The story of Weiss Lake began as a story of energy, but today it speaks of flood control, economic opportunity, irrigation, and drinking water.
In addition to bringing power to light up homes and businesses, the beautiful landscape would take a new form with breathtaking views reflecting mountain ranges on the water’s surface to fish and wildlife habitats. Blending nature’s beauty with resources of the lake has been a success for 60 years.
The latest project, The Preserves, has opened new thinking and additional opportunity for those who enjoy being outdoors and participating in shoreline activities. Alabama Power has created designated areas as ‘day use’ parks for people who love biking, hiking, birding, and just lounging outside in a natural setting. The Preserves nature trails are unique sites with interpretive signage that allow people to gain a better understanding of ecology and nature.
Each year, Alabama Power welcomes thousands of visitors to its six day-use parks and more than 65 public access sites on 12 reservoirs on the Coosa, Tallapoosa, and Black Warrior rivers. These lakes, built to provide clean, renewable hydropower for customers, also offer all types of water and land recreation. Some are simple boat launches, while others feature a full set of amenities.
The most recent addition is Slackland Beach, near Leesburg, Alabama, on County Road 20. Since almost as early as the lake’s construction, Slackland Beach has long been noted as a perfect spot for a day-use park. The rough-hewn gazebo is center to the park grounds. Plenty of picnic tables are nestled under cool shade trees with one of those being ADA accessible. Areas for swimming and fishing are available, as well as a nature trail and ADA accessible restrooms. The level, well-kept area, is ready for games, comfortable walking, or just sitting to watch activities. The western mountain ranges spring up in the distance, while lazy waterfowl circle overhead, searching for an easy fish dinner.
Slackland Beach is open from dawn to dusk and monitored regularly. There is no entrance charge.
The work of Alabama Power is to create opportunity and economic prosperity for the state’s lake regions and remains intent on preserving and protecting Alabama’s natural resources and beauty. Visit Slackland Beach and enjoy nature at its best.
For more information visit apcshorelines.com/recreation/parks/
“Alabama Power Company provides unique recreational opportunities for all that will remain for generations to come. They feature hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing piers, playgrounds, boat launches, and resting spots. Our goal is to make the lakes open and inclusive, and by creating The Preserves, we are making the water and activities around the water available to everyone.”
Conrad Reed, Team Leader Weiss Shoreline Management Operations, Alabama Power
