Fort Morgan Call for Coastal Restoration: Alabama’s Gulf Coast cities have garnered well-deserved attention for their tireless work in restoring beaches and dunes battered by storms. These restoration efforts have been made possible through financial support from federal and state initiatives. However, there’s a lesser-known coastal community, often referred to as the guardian of Mobile Bay, quietly yearning for the same restorative treatment for its pristine beaches.
This community, Fort Morgan, finds itself in a unique predicament. Despite sharing a coastline with renowned cities benefitting from restoration funds, Fort Morgan hasn’t experienced the fruits of such financial aid. The primary obstacle? A missing piece in the puzzle the absence of a formal city structure that can actively engage in applying for, receiving, and effectively utilizing these funds.
Joe Emerson, the President of the Fort Morgan Civic Association, a homeowner association type group, articulates the sentiments of the community. While Fort Morgan has always aligned itself with environmentalism and the preservation of natural beauty, it grapples with unmet needs. The frustration stems from a stark reality: substantial funds are available, such as those from sources like GoMESA, yet they aren’t finding their way back to a community ripe for projects that would undeniably benefit from such financial support.
Fort Morgan, an unincorporated community situated on a picturesque peninsula to the west of Gulf Shores, holds a unique status. In 2014, it emerged victorious in an 11-year legal battle against Gulf Shores, which had attempted to annex part of Fort Morgan’s land. This 21-mile-long environmental gem falls under the jurisdiction of Baldwin County, adding a layer of complexity to its quest for restoration support.
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Nancy Mounce, a Fort Morgan property owner, emphasizes the critical need to preserve Fort Morgan, recognizing it as more than just a coastal community. It stands as an environmental gem that demands attention and protection. The focus extends beyond the sandy beaches, encompassing the entire ecological tapestry that makes Fort Morgan a vital piece of Alabama’s coastal landscape.
As other Gulf Coast cities flourish with revitalized beaches and thriving dunes, Fort Morgan remains resilient in its pursuit. The community’s plea echoes the urgency of extending restoration initiatives to unincorporated areas, ensuring that every corner of Alabama’s coastal treasures receives the care and attention it deserves. Fort Morgan’s story serves as a reminder that environmental stewardship knows no administrative boundaries and that every inch of coastline, regardless of its political structure, is worthy of preservation and restoration efforts.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What happened at Fort Morgan Alabama?
Constructed in 1834, Fort Morgan saw action in the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World Wars I and II. Its prominence lies in the Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay, where Union Rear Admiral David Farragut famously disregarded the threat of torpedoes and charged ahead at full speed, leading to victory.
What is the dune restoration in Gulf Shores?
Environmental conservation is a crucial element of this project, with a focus on reconstructing our dune system. The dunes will be reconstructed to a height of approximately 12 feet, and over 500,000 plants will be planted, along with more than 3,000 feet of sand fencing installed along the entire dune system.
What is Fort Morgan famous for?
Experience the historic significance of Fort Morgan, known for its pivotal role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. On August 5, 1864, Union Admiral David Farragut famously commanded his fleet to charge through the heavily mined bay, marking a significant moment in history. This iconic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the bravery and determination displayed during this pivotal event.
Is Fort Morgan considered Gulf Shores?
Fort Morgan, aka Fort Bowyer, sits in Baldwin County, Alabama, USA. Its located on Mobile Point, just west of Gulf Shores. The point stretches from Gulf Shores to the west, leading to the iconic Fort Morgan at the peninsulas tip.