U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Alabama, announced a $5.443-million award Tuesday to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge in Decatur, as part of the Fish and Wildlife Service’s construction projects operating plan for fiscal year 2018.

“Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge plays a key role in helping to protect, manage and restore lands and waters throughout North Alabama,” said Shelby, who serves as chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations. “I am proud that this refuge will receive more that $5 million for improvements, addressing public access and management needs.”

Shelby said he looks forward to working with the refuge and other facilities across the state to ensure future generations can benefit from Alabama’s unique environment. The award is expected to improve the visitor experience and increase access for those at the refuge.

The 35,000-acre refuge was established in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It currently manages and protects habitat for 12 federally listed endangered or threatened species along the Tennessee River. Among plans for the refuge is the recently unveiled proposal for a 20-mile canoe trail. State Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, and local officials unveiled the plans Saturday in Hartselle. Named the Flint Creek Canoe Trail, the development will allow paddlers to view sections of Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge that are currently too remote for public access. It will also offer a semi-guided tour of the waterway.

“The canoe trail will be a great introduction to the stunning natural beauties of Morgan County,” Orr said. “… We have had a great team of committed professionals work on this project, and I want to personally thank the Morgan County rescue squad, Jay Grantland and Ricky Ingram for their work in turning this idea into a reality.”

The trail will include riverfront campgrounds, marked public access points and directional signs on riverbanks, according to a press release. It will tie into hiking trails at the refuge.

“It has been a pleasure to work on this project,” said Grantland, who serves as executive director of the Alabama Scenic River Trail. “I think the waterway is an opportunity to breathe vitality into the region by attracting visitors from around the state and beyond.”