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 Again
and Camp
Crystal Lake which are
not too terribly far from this cache for your caching convenience :-)