From Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–The Cahaba River Society announced that it has appointed Deborah Barker as the organization’s interim executive director, overseeing the group’s programs, operations, and strategic direction.
The Cahaba River Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to “protecting and restoring the Cahaba River and its rich diversity of life.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Deb to our team,” said Board President Dr. Kenya Goodson.
“Deb’s strategic vision and leadership will be instrumental in guiding Cahaba River Society into its next chapter. We are confident that she will help us expand our impact and continue our mission to protect and restore the Cahaba River, which provides drinking water for over 1 million Alabamians.”
Barker replaces Beth Stewart, who retired after 29 years with Cahaba River Society.
During her time in charge, Stewart oversaw numerous accomplishments including working with the EPA to stop crisis-level raw sewage dumping throughout the Birmingham area, creating a Supplemental Environmental Project that secured $30 million to acquire stream buffers in Jefferson County and establish the regional Freshwater Land Trust, and partnering with local organizations to protect 7,000 acres of Birmingham Water Board land.
“I am honored to join Cahaba River Society and lead this incredible organization,” Barker said.
“I look forward to working with the dedicated team, our partners, and the communities we serve to build on this organization’s legacy and to expand our impact on behalf of the Cahaba River and the people of central Alabama.”
