Alabama Power will showcase for the news and outdoor media Thursday, Aug. 21 the release of rainbow trout below Smith Dam. The 9 a.m. event provides an opportunity to learn about the one fishing spot in Alabama where trout can be caught year-round, as well as the company’s coordination with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) stocking fish in the Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River.

The media will be able to shoot video or photographs both adjacent to the dam and from in the stream bed further down the river. Please bring appropriate footwear and clothing.  Media will have opportunities to talk with Alabama Power and ADCNR officials, and local chamber and economic development officials about the benefits of the program to fishermen and local tourism.

A brief news conference will be held next to the dam parking lot at 9 a.m., immediately followed by release of the fish. Media are encouraged to arrive early to set up. The dam is at 634 Power House Road, Jasper, AL 35504.

Alabama Power officials will explain how enhanced habitat and improved access below the dam works to improve trout fishing.

“We’re eager to spread the word about the uniqueness of trout fishing below the dam,” said Jason Carlee, an environmental supervisor for Alabama Power. “We think it will be interesting for the public to see the habitat enhancements and access improvements we installed to improve the fishing experience.”

“Due to the unique habitat, the Smith Dam tailwaters provide an excellent location for stocking rainbow trout,” said Chris Greene, assistant chief of fisheries for ADCNR. “Through a cooperative agreement with Alabama Power, we are now pleased to offer anglers more frequently stocked and larger fish.”

Since 1974, trout have been stocked below Smith Dam. The deep water intake above the dam allows water leaving the hydroelectric facility to stay below 70 degrees year round – supporting this unique trout population.

Trout fishing below the dam has been an economic gain for the area, said Linda Lewis, president of the Chamber of Commerce of Walker County.

“The chamber has led the way for more than a decade in recruiting fishing tournaments to our area and understands the meaning of tourism dollars,” Lewis said, estimating the impact between $1.5 million and $2 million for each event.

“By stocking trout below the dam, it will provide additional recreational opportunities to our area and will continue to attract avid anglers and their families to our community.”

Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), provides reliable, affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million customers across the state.