Gulf State Park Wins Global Award

Gulf State Park received a 2020 Phoenix Award from the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced. SATW called it “an international showcase for environmental and economic sustainability, as it demonstrates best practices for outdoor recreation, education and hospitable accommodations.” Given annually since 1969 to destinations showcasing responsible, sustainable tourism, including conservation, preservation, beautification and antipollution, the award honored only four sites in the world. NOAA cited the park’s Phase III Early Restoration and the Alabama Trustee Implementation Group’s first restoration plan. Along with the rebuilding of the lodge and conference center, these projects added 50 acres of dune restoration, an interpretive center carrying a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Platinum certification, a research and education center, 9.5 mi. of trails and other public-access amenities. “The success of the sustainability of these project elements was showcased recently in the aftermath of Hurricane Sally,” NOAA added.