It was created as a state agency by an act of the Alabama Legislature in 1924.
[1] It established the Alabama Champion Tree Program in 1970 and continues to maintain it.
Two of the members must be licensed and registered foresters under state law.
The members must elect from a chairman and vice-chairman from their own ranks, each of whom shall serve in that capacity for one year.
[4] The Code of Alabama mandates nine specific functions and duties for the commission.