About
Jefferson County Greenways is a dynamic public-private partnership dedicated to preserving three of the region's most treasured natural areas: Red Mountain Park, Ruffner Mountain, and Turkey Creek Nature Preserve. Our mission is to preserve and care for these greenspaces as sanctuaries for our neighbors, native plants, and animals.
These beloved spaces exist today thanks to the tireless efforts and unwavering support of our local community members. Today, we continue that legacy by managing and maintaining these vital areas through a strong partnership between the Jefferson County Greenways Commission and the Jefferson County Greenways Foundation.
Jefferson County Greenways Commission
In 2021, leadership from Red Mountain Park Foundation, Ruffner Mountain Nature Coalition, and Turkey Creek Nature Preserve sought a sustainable funding solution to support our county’s large acreage greenspaces. For years, creating and maintaining these large parks in Jefferson County meant being subject to a rollercoaster of funding. Public investment did not match the need for park excellence. In May of 2023, after three years of collective effort, House Bill 336, co-sponsored by Representative Rolanda Hollis and Senator Merika Coleman, was passed, creating the Jefferson County Greenways Commission.
Governed by an appointed board of commissioners, Jefferson County Greenways Commission is a publicly funded state agency responsible for the maintenance and daily operations of our county’s large-acreage greenspaces.
Jefferson County Greenways Foundation
Jefferson County Greenways Foundation was officially formed in April 2024 after a unanimous vote to merge Red Mountain Park Foundation and Ruffner Mountain Nature Coalition. As part of this collaboration, in April 2023, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve officially came under Ruffner Mountain Nature Coalition's management. This collaboration enables enriched programmatic opportunities for our community, including environmental education, wildlife encounters and outdoor experiences for area youth, efforts in conservation and research, recreation, and volunteerism.
The Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors who provide fiduciary oversight and strategic planning.
Powered by Generous Support
.png)
