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August. 2025 | Volume 72

Passing the Torch

By Pete Conroy

In 1994, when Alabama Governor Jim Folsom Jr. lost his election by a fraction of a percent, I quickly realized that I’d lost my job too. And, after having left my previous position as Curator of the Anniston Museum of Natural History, my future was suddenly open and up for grabs.

I gravitated towards a receptive Jacksonville State University, where the concept of protecting Little River Canyon and establishing a “field school” became the plan. As my work expanded, the University renamed my office first as the Environmental Policy and Information Center, then later as the Office of Strategic Partnerships and Special Projects.

Now, after 30 years of growth at Little River and the development of other projects throughout Alabama, I’ve decided to change things up and retire from my full-time work at Jacksonville State.

Connecting creative people to public projects has always been my goal and passion. It’s been a successful path, and it’s rewarding to look back and see our collective efforts alive and working well.

I thank Jax State deeply as, throughout the years, I couldn’t have had a better partner.

While I will leave my full-time role as Canyon Center Director on September 30, 2025, I look forward to staying involved, especially with the Little River Canyon Center and National Preserve, and assisting my yet-to-be-named replacement in every way I can.

I’m looking forward to what’s next and truly appreciate both the support I’ve received and the countless friendships I’ve enjoyed. I’m not saying goodbye to anyone, I’m just taking a step back and remain eager to be part of any team that can get good things done.

In the meantime, I hope to see you at the upcoming DeKalb and Cherokee County Chamber event this Tuesday!

Pete Conroy, Director

JSU Little River Canyon Center

Calling all Chamber Members!

Fort Payne Chamber & Cherokee County Chamber

Are Teaming Up for an Fun Evening

August 12, 2025 | 5 pm - 7 pm

Business After Hours

Hosted by Jacksonville State University's Little River Canyon Center

Featuring Photo Booth, Yummy Refreshments, & Networking Opportunities

Please RSVP below to let us know you are planning to attend!

RSVP

Save the Date!

May's Gulf Songwriter Series

Featuring Pat Byrne | Jordan Gillis

Sunday, Sept. 21st | 3-5 pm

Tickets

Field School Focus

Summer is in full swing at the Canyon Center! While our summer activities are busier than ever, it seems some of the local wildlife is too. Bear sightings are on the rise! We like our bears WILD! The best way to protect the bears and people is to not reward the bears for visiting your yard.

Here are some of best ways to keep bears wild and reduce bear/human conflicts:

Secure Your Trash. Put out trash as close to collection time as possible.

Keep your trash in a garage or basement if possible.

Retrofit your trash containers to keep bears out, but make sure they are unlocked the morning of collection.

Minimize Odors.

Freeze food that may smell extra yummy to bears then drop it in the trash can the morning that trash runs.

Clean your trash cans regularly but avoid fruit scented cleaning products.

Consider Motion-Activated Lights & Sounds.

Install motion-activated lights around your trash area. Bears are less likely to approach when startled. (Think how scary Halloween decorations can be!)

Remove birdfeeders when bears are active.

Keep dogs on a non-retractable leash when hiking where bears may be about.

Educate Your Neighbors.

For even more tips, be sure to check out Bear Wise: https://bearwise.org/bear-safety-tips/keep-bears-out/

Please remember to report your bear sightings to the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries at https://game.dcnr.alabama.gov/BlackBear. We hope to see you at our upcoming events at the Canyon Center.