The Alabama Nature Center invites you to get outdoors and welcome Spring's arrival this March.  There's a lot to do and see down at the Nature Center, so check out the events scheduled for this month and mark your calendars.

2012 AWF William R. Ireland, Sr. Youth Wildlife Art Contest

• Entry Deadline: March 15, 2012

For over 20 years, the AWF's William R. Ireland, Sr. Youth Wildlife Art Contest has recognized the outstanding artistic abilities of Alabama's students, while increasing students' knowledge and awareness of wildlife and wildlife habitat in Alabama. The AWF encourages students to research their subject to learn more about Alabama's wildlife species and their habitat requirements.

The contest is open to all public, private and home school students in Alabama. First, second and third place awards will be given in the following four grade categories: K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12.

February 1 marks the return of the fishing season schedule for 18 of Alabama's 23 state-owned public fishing lakes. Commonly known as state lakes or county lakes, these waters are noted for their quality fishing for bream, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie (in some lakes). Because these smaller lakes warm more quickly than larger waters, early spring fishing can be excellent. Anglers may fish from the pier, bank, rental boat or personal boat.

Three additional lakes are scheduled to reopen later this year: Barbour County Lake, Bibb County Lake, and Dale County Lake (Ed Lisenby Lake). Lower Geneva County Lake and Lee County Lake will remain closed.

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Students in Wetumpka High School’s Family Career Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) club spent Saturday morning, Feb. 5, serving at the Wetumpka YMCA.

Students arrived before the YMCA opened to give the aerobic, children’s and cardio rooms some much needed attention. The rooms were cleaned, sanitized and organized.