Thomas Harris, founder of Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association, has been named to the board of directors of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. The national nonprofit group is dedicated to upland habitat conservation.
“Being invited to serve as a board member within this respected organization and working with such a distinguished leadership team is a special honor,” said Harris. “The mission of Quail Forever aligns perfectly with our family’s commitment to restoring grasslands, promoting accessibility and advocating on behalf of upland bird enthusiasts.”
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas A. Harris to its National Board of Directors. Harris, the founder of Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association and an ardent quail conservationist, joins the 16-member board which meets… pic.twitter.com/NR4KeuUjhr
— Pheasants Forever (@pheasants4ever) May 18, 2023
Executive Director of ALBAA Pam Swanner called Harris’ leadership “visionary.”
“Anyone who knows Thomas Harris understands he’s passionate about upland hunting and that he’s truly devoted to conservation,” Swanner said. “His visionary leadership has shaped our organization for more than a decade and brought positive changes to the rural communities we serve. We know, firsthand, he will be a major asset for Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever.
“There’s no better advocate for outdoors stewardship, especially bobwhite quail conservation, than Thomas.”
Harris founded Alabama Blackbelt Adventures Association in 2009. The organization promotes fishing, hunting, canoeing, rafting, bird watching, biking, and hiking opportunities throughout the region. He also created Gusto, an 1,800-acre upland preserve featuring managed pine and grassland habitat for quail and other wildlife.
Harris is an Auburn graduate and a retired investment banker. He lives in Hope Hull with his wife, Cindy, and their bird dogs.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
