Caring for Alabama’s vital water resource

On any given day, you might find kayakers and people fishing along the Cahaba River. Or elementary students learning about the diverse plants and fishes found in the Cahaba, and families enjoying a refreshing float down the river.

More than a beautiful natural asset, the Cahaba River is a critical water resource. That’s because the Cahaba River is an essential role in the communities in its watershed, including Jefferson, Shelby, Bibb, Perry and Dallas counties. And the Cahaba River is the main drinking water source for the Birmingham Water Works Board, which services about one-fifth of Alabamians.

So when invasive plants and litter threatened this precious waterway, Spire provided a helping hand. For more than five years, Spire employees in Birmingham have volunteered with the Cahaba River Society to spend days removing litter and invasive plants – like Wild Taro -- along the Cahaba River.

Image of Spire employees cleaning the Cahaba River

Pictured above: Spire employees in Birmingham removing liter and invasive plants along the Cahaba River.

“Our rivers are one of our most vital resources,” said Nick Isbell, service supervisor. “I love kayaking and fishing, and I’ve floated on this river for 10 years. This is one way to give back to a place that’s given me a decade of memories.”

Spire’s efforts recognized by the Cahaba River Society

In February 2023, Spire Alabama was recognized by the Cahaba River Society as the 2022 Volunteer of the Year at their annual meeting. The organization thanked Spire for helping them raise awareness of their mission through volunteerism, local media opportunities and fundraising.