08/11/2026
Did you know Alabama has more than 130,000 miles of streams and rivers? In fact, 10% of the continental US’s freshwater sources come from Alabama waterways. Dozens of these waterways flow into the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, also known as North America’s Amazon.
These waterways not only support our lives but also many species. Alabama has the most crayfish, mussels, snails, turtles, and freshwater fish in the U.S. Over 300 native freshwater fish live in these waterways, and 40% of all North American fish species are native to Alabama.
Scientists believe Alabama’s vast biodiversity is a result of the land lacking glacier formations during the Ice Age. This allowed uninterrupted years of adaptation to Alabama’s ecosystems from the Appalachian Mountains’ Piedmont to the coastal lands of the Gulf.
Currently on display in the gallery is a selection of photographs that highlight the beauty of our waterways… and our high concentration of waterfalls!
Outdoor Alabama Photo Retrospective is on view until September 24. Plan or schedule your visit soon.
Images:
1. Ryan Beverly, Leprechaun Falls at Bankhead National Forest, 2022
2. Brad Lackey, Desoto Falls at Desoto State Park, 2024
3. Keith Bozeman, Kayaker and Bald Cypress on Tennessee River, 2025
4. Hannah Sumner, Hiking Holmes Chapel Falls in Bankhead National Forest, 2022
5. Urvi Mysore, Noccalula Falls in Gadsden, 2024