Ruffner Mountain is an urban nature center and preserve managed by the 501(c)(3) Ruffner Mountain Nature Coalition, Inc. Situated less than eight miles from downtown Birmingham, near Appalachia’s southernmost border, Ruffner Mountain comprises 1,038 acres of protected habitat. Home to hundreds of species of plants and animals with several areas of distinct, high biodiversity, this abundant forest provides significant carbon sequestration protection, protecting the air for the metropolitan area, and is a watershed for area creeks and rivers. We work to protect and manage Ruffner Mountain as a sanctuary for native species of plants and animals; and through our educational programs foster within the community an appreciation of the natural world.