The Alabama Department of Workforce’s Abandoned Mine Land Program has awarded $11 million to support reclamation at the site of the future Alabama Farm Center at Hallmark Farms in Warrior. The funding comes through the federal Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization Program for fiscal year 2024.
Alabama was one of six Appalachian states selected to receive the funding to address high-priority AML sites. The Hallmark Farms project is transforming a former coal mining-associated property into an agricultural exhibition center, which is expected to boost education, tourism and economic growth across the region.
The site, purchased by the Agriculture Exhibition Center Corp. for $13.5 million in March 2025, is located on approximately 500 acres along Interstate 65. The grant funding will be used to eliminate dangerous coke ovens, mine portals, subsidence areas and polluted waterways, restoring the land for safe public use.
Once reclaimed, the site will host the Alabama Farm Center, featuring facilities for livestock shows, rodeos, educational programs and an annual state fair.
“The AMLER grant represents a significant investment in Alabama’s future, turning blighted lands from our mining past into vibrant hubs of opportunity,” said Greg Reed, secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce. “By partnering with the Agriculture Exhibition Center Corp. and local stakeholders, we’re not only addressing environmental hazards but also fostering agricultural innovation and community development at the Alabama Farm Center.”
