“Auburn University Secures Matching Gift for Restoration of Coach Pat Dye’s Iconic Crooked Oaks Nursery” – Yellowhammer News

Auburn University’s College of Forestry, Wildlife, and Environment (CFWE) has received a generous matching gift from the You Might Be for Auburn Foundation (UMB4AU). This funding will support the restoration of Crooked Oaks, the former home of beloved football coach Pat Dye.

Crooked Oaks, a 415-acre property in Notasulga, Alabama, was gifted to CFWE in 2023. It’s not just a piece of land; it’s a place for hands-on learning for Auburn students. The UMB4AU foundation was founded by Dan Lovell and David Pursell, who are deeply committed to supporting Auburn. Their contributions have made a real difference in enhancing the university’s academic programs.

Jay Evers, a member of UMB4AU, learned about Dye’s vision for Crooked Oaks and became a champion for its restoration. The goal is to raise matching funds during Auburn’s 2025 Tiger Giving Day crowdfunding event this fall, encouraging people to give back to the community.

Evers, who shares a love for nature and football, believes Dye identified more with the land than just sports. Dye started developing Crooked Oaks in 1998, and his legacy continues. The restoration will focus on the cherished Japanese maple nursery that Dye planted himself.

N.L. Hart, the manager at Crooked Oaks, emphasizes that the project will enhance both the educational and recreational value of the land. Funding will help improve the infrastructure, including irrigation systems to prevent erosion.

Student opportunities are vital to this project. Crooked Oaks staff and Auburn faculty will involve students in growing new Japanese maple seedlings. The nursery currently offers various plant species for sale, with plans for future inventory expansion.

To carry out this restoration effectively, Crooked Oaks needs high-quality supplies, including grafting tools and gardening materials, estimated to cost over $100,000. An essential part of the project will also be revitalizing the existing greenhouse for seedlings.

“The foundation’s gift will greatly benefit Crooked Oaks and its programs,” explains Janaki Alavalapati, the Emmett F. Thompson Dean of CFWE. As Tiger Giving Day approaches, the Auburn community is encouraged to support this initiative.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Tiger Giving Day on September 10. It’s a chance for the community to invest in vital campus projects. Evers highlights that Crooked Oaks has a lasting legacy that everyone can share—whether it’s through bird hunting or plant purchases.

For more details about Crooked Oaks or to learn about nursery sales, you can visit the Crooked Oaks website.

In a time when environmental education is gaining increased importance, such projects remind us of the importance of preserving our natural heritage while offering learning opportunities for future generations.

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