The forests, canebrakes and rock outcroppings along the rivers and streams of the Cahaba River provide habitats for many species of plants and animals. Upland habitats show obvious effects of past intensive use, yet, upland habitats continue to provide habitat for many bird species of national concern.

Management goals are to maintain and improve the biological integrity of the Cahaba River and adjacent systems and, where possible, restore these systems to pre-settlement conditions. The refuge management anticipates using prescribed fire, timber harvesting, tree planting, and other tools to restore altered lands.