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Alabama is a state rich in history, culture, and natural resources.
It is also home to some of the largest landowners in the United States.
These individuals and organizations hold vast tracts of land that contribute significantly to the state's economy and natural beauty.
This article will look at the top 10 landowners in Alabama.
Top Landowners In Alabama
| Landowners | Total Acres |
|---|---|
| 1. The United States Government | 700,000 |
| 2. The Westervelt Company | 500,000 |
| 3. Rayonier Inc. | 300,000 |
| 4. Forever Wild Land Trust | 227,000 |
| 5. Weyerhaeuser Company | 100,000 |
| 6. The Nature Conservancy | 90,000 |
| 7. The University of Alabama System | 67,000 |
| 8. Alabama Power Company | 48,000 |
| 9 International Paper Company | 37,000 |
| 10. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail | 11,000 |
1. The United States Government
Owns over 700,000 acres of land in Alabama, making it the largest landowner in the state.
The Department of Defense manages much of this land for military training and testing.
2. The Westervelt Company
A privately held land management company that owns over 500,000 acres of land in Alabama.
The company manages this land for timber production, hunting leases, and conservation.
3. Rayonier Inc.
With over 300,000 acres of land in Alabama, Rayonier Inc. is the third-largest landowner in the state. This timberland investment company primarily focuses on timber production and owns properties for hunting and other recreational activities.
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4. Â Forever Wild Land Trust
As a state-run land conservation program, Forever Wild Land Trust owns over 227,000 acres of land in Alabama. Their land holdings include wildlife management areas, state parks, and nature preserves.
5. Weyerhaeuser Company
Weyerhaeuser is a timberland investment company that owns over 100,000 acres of land in Alabama, primarily for timber production. The company also operates several state sawmills and other wood processing facilities.
6. The Nature Conservancy
As a non-profit organization that works to protect and conserve natural resources, The Nature Conservancy owns over 90,000 acres of land in Alabama. Their land holdings include several nature preserves and conservation easements.
7. The University of Alabama System
The University of Alabama System owns over 67,000 acres of land in Alabama. This land is used primarily for research, education, and agricultural purposes. The university also owns several properties for student housing and recreation.
8. Alabama Power Company
Alabama Power Company is a subsidiary of Southern Company that owns over 48,000 acres of land in Alabama. Their land holdings include several hydroelectric power plants.
9 International Paper Company
With over 37,000 acres of land in Alabama, International Paper Company primarily focuses on timber production. The company also operates several paper mills and other manufacturing facilities in the state.
10. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail owns over 11,000 acres of land in Alabama. Golf course architect Robert Trent Jones designed this collection of golf courses throughout Alabama and is primarily used for golf course development and maintenance.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these are the top 10 landowners in Alabama, owning vast acres of land for various purposes, including conservation, timber production, recreation, and research. As a result, these landowners play a significant role in shaping the economic and environmental landscape of the state.