Alabama’s Mobile-Tensaw Delta spans over 400 square miles and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, serving as a crucial link between the state and the Gulf of Mexico. However, this pristine ecosystem is under threat from development and climate change, prompting local residents, scientists, and environmentalists to advocate for its protection.

The delta is a vital habitat for hundreds of fish and bird species, rare flowers, carnivorous plants, and unique tree species. Alabama boasts unparalleled biodiversity, with over 350 fish species, 100 crawfish species, and a significant number of turtle and mussel species thriving in the Mobile River basin.

Despite its ecological significance, the delta has faced challenges such as deforestation, pollution from industrial activities, and the impact of upstream dams on freshwater species. The presence of coal ash near the Mobile River poses a potential risk to the delta, highlighting the need for conservation efforts and stricter environmental policies.

Climate change has also taken a toll on the delta, with stronger hurricanes, saltwater intrusion, and sea-level rise contributing to erosion and habitat loss. To mitigate these threats, conservation organizations like The Nature Conservancy have been acquiring land in strategic locations to preserve critical habitats and restore ecosystems.

Recent initiatives include the purchase of 8,000 acres of forested wetlands to prevent logging and the development of fish bypasses around dams to facilitate the movement of species between the Gulf and the delta. These projects aim to safeguard the delta’s biodiversity and ensure the survival of endangered and threatened species like the Alabama sturgeon.

By raising awareness, implementing conservation measures, and collaborating with various stakeholders, efforts are underway to protect the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and its watershed for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.