Clay is a city in northeastern Jefferson County, Alabama, United States. It is part of the Birmingham–Hoover–Cullman Combined Statistical Area in the north-central part of the state. Local government is run by a mayor and city council. Clay's unique spirit reflects strong community bonds, caring parents and protection of the natural resources, including the beautiful mountain vistas. Chatting with friends at the Clay Post Office, cheering for their child at the ballpark or fishing at Cosby Lake Park are samples of the activities residents enjoy.
Climate - In the subtropics of the Southeast, Clay experiences three full seasons, with just a touch of snow in the winter. The mean temperature in January is 42 degrees, and July's is 79. Normal annual rainfall amount is 54 inches. March is the wettest month and August and October have the lowest rainfall totals.
Plant Life - Clay's climate provides bright autumn leaf colors and an explosion of flowering trees in the spring, including dogwood trees, redbuds, and cherry trees. As for flowering bushes, residents enjoy the azaleas and the wild blackberry blooms scattered along roadsides in the spring. The wild goldenrod brings some bright warmth to the open fields as temperatures fall in the autumn.
In 2008, the city purchased property at 6275 Old Springville Road, which includes the historical Cosby Lake. The lake and surrounding property has been turned into a passive park with a small building available for rent for events. The city received financial assistance toward this purchase from the Freshwater Land Trust. In turn, the city agreed to grant a conservation easement, permanently protecting this beautiful lake and the natural habitat that thrives there.
At no cost, people can have a picnic, walk along the walking path or boardwalk or throw a frisbee. Prominently in the geographic center of Clay, the park provides beautiful views, especially in the fall when the colorful leaves on the mountain behind the lake are reflected in the water. A mini-wetland area has attracted beavers and a variety of birds. The Canadian geese are often seen feeding on the grass or crossing the street.