Conecuh National Forest Drilling Challenge: Alabama Groups File Appeal

Environmental groups including the Center for Biological Diversity and the Alabama Ornithological Society are challenging federal plans for expanded oil and gas leasing and drilling in Conecuh National Forest.

Timeline of Opposition

The groups filed a formal objection in February 2026 to a Forest Service proposal that would allow more leasing activity. They argued the expansion would harm water, air, wildlife, public health and longleaf pine forest management by limiting controlled burning. On July 23, 2026, the same organizations filed an appeal against the decision to open the forest to drilling, alleging violations of the Endangered Species Act, NEPA and FLPMA.

Forest Characteristics

Conecuh National Forest covers about 83,000 acres in southern Alabama. It serves as habitat for 19 federally protected species, including the red-cockaded woodpecker, Eastern indigo snake, Escambia map turtle and Gulf sturgeon. Prior to the current leasing effort, reports indicated roughly 1,000 acres under active oil and gas leases with only one active oil well operating in the forest.

Local Relevance for Birmingham Readers

Residents in Birmingham and across Alabama have a direct stake in the outcome because the forest lies within the state and its management affects regional water quality, air resources and wildlife populations. The ongoing appeal process will determine whether additional drilling proceeds or whether further review occurs under federal environmental statutes.

Next Steps in the Process

The appeal remains under consideration by federal authorities. Groups continue to monitor the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management actions while pressing their claims that the original decision failed to meet requirements for species protection and environmental review.