Bridge Over Troubled Waters
The Cahaba River is the longest free-flowing river in
Alabama. The diversity of the Cahaba River's fish population is
greater than any other temperate river its size. Flowing through
the Birmingham area in the heart of Alabama, the river attracts
many canoeists and kayakers. It also offers recreational
opportunities in the form of fishing, rafting and bird watching for
many outdoor enthusiasts. One hundred thirty-five fish species are
known to occur in the Cahaba River and its tributaries. Several
rare fish found in the Cahaba River have been assigned special
conservation status. This group includes the Cahaba shiner,
goldline darter, Alabama sturgeon, frecklebelly madtom, crystal
darter and freckled darter. In addition to rare fish species, the
Cahaba River supports many popular native sportfish species such as
largemouth bass and spotted bass, bluegill, longear sunfish,
crappie, chain pickerel, and many others. There are two sub-species
of spotted bass, and the spotted bass in the Cahaba River are
called Alabama spotted bass. Alabama spotted bass grow much larger
than their northern cousin does. Channel catfish, flathead catfish,
and blue catfish are among the most popular non-game fish caught in
the Cahaba River. The Cahaba River watershed drains an area of
approximately 1,825 square miles in central Alabama and is the
primary water source for the Birmingham Water Works, which serves a
quarter of Alabama’s citizens. Wastewater discharges,
siltation, pesticides and herbicide residues have degraded water
quality in this once pristine river. The Cahaba River is one of
Alabama’s most precious natural resources. The river provides
recreation to many anglers, botanists, canoeists, hikers and
wildlife watchers. As demands increase for development and water
withdrawals in the future, it is up to the people of Alabama to
ensure that the Cahaba River is protected for generations to
come.
When visiting this cache, you will have the opportunity
to see the Cahaba River from a bridge that crosses the river. In my
opinion, this bridge offers one of the most impressive views of the
river that is possible. The cache is a 'sign only' cache as the
container only measures about 2" X 2" X 3/8". Make sure to
bring your own pen or pencil, as the cache container is too
small to hold a writing instrument. Please make sure that the lid
is placed tightly back on the cache and that you return the cache
to its hiding location. The cache is not hidden by leaves or twigs
and is not hidden in the typical type of area that you would expect
to find a cache. I have included an encrypted hint that is a true
spoiler. If you want a challenge, then don't look at the hint.
Otherwise, take a peek at the hint, and go sign the log book then
enjoy the beauty of the river that is in danger of being polluted
and destroyed. The cache is not located on the bridge, but please
take the opportunity to drive across the bridge to view this
beautiful river.
I
have placed two other caches, The
South Will Rise Againand Camp
Crystal Lake which are not too terribly far from this cache for your
caching convenience :-)
