Environment & Green Spaces

Preserving Our Natural Environment and Rich Green Spaces

We believe that the protection of our natural resources and green spaces is vital to the environment and to the health of our communities. Alabama is home to one of the richest and most diverse ecosystems in the nation, offering biodiversity unparalleled in our country. Protecting our land and water resources is critical to preserving that biodiversity. Birmingham’s parks and greenspaces offer a variety of outdoor activities for its residents.

The Foundation has identified several key outcomes that guide our grant making around the environment and green spaces:

  1. Birmingham’s greenspaces are safe and accessible to local communities and contribute to the health, economic development, and vibrancy of the city.
  2. Our area’s unique natural resources and biodiversity are protected and valued.
  3. Organizations educate our children and the public about the importance of caring for our environment.
  4. We support efforts to mitigate and prepare for climate change.

Featured Grantees

Alabama Trails Foundation

The Alabama Trails Foundation (ATF) supports trails that showcase Alabama’s many diverse cultures and people. The Pinhoti Trail is the ATF’s flagship project, spanning over 170 miles before crossing into Georgia and connecting with the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. The 2025 Pinhoti Hiking Trail – Heflin Trail Town Enhancement Project will enhance the in-woods hiking experience by improving the current roadwork.  For more information, visit alabamatrailsfoundation.org 

Coosa Riverkeeper

Coosa Riverkeeper’s mission is to protect, restore, and promote the Coosa River and its tributaries in Alabama. They work to protect not only the Coosa River, but also the people that rely on it for food, fun, drinking water, respite, and memories. By focusing on local organizing, building influence, agency, and legislative work, Coosa Riverkeeper serves as a reliable and trusted partner and resource when advocating for communities and their right to clean water. For more information, visit coosariver.org 

Big city mountaineers

Big City Mountaineers provides transformative, immersive experiences in nature for youth from economically challenged communities. BCM works in partnership with other youth serving organizations to provide day trips, overnights, and week-long backcountry expeditions that are free of charge, fully outfitted, and professionally guided. In its inaugural Birmingham season, BCM served 72 youth, 80% of whom reported never going camping before. For more information, visit bigcitymountaineers.org