Ecologist to lead hikers through unique forest

Contact:  Brian Yahn 502-573-2886

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 30, 2008) –  Brian Yahn, ecologist with the Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission, will guide forest and nature lovers through the Vernon Douglas State Nature Preserve (SNP) in Hardin County on Sunday, May 4, beginning at 1 p.m. EDT.

Vernon Douglas SNP protects 730 acres of the rugged, forested knobs of Hardin County. Supporting some of the most mature second-growth forest in the Knobs region, much of this area has been left virtually untouched for the last 100 years. The preserve offers a glimpse of the flora and fauna that have thrived among the high ridges and steep, narrow valleys of the area prior to and since European settlement.

The hike is considered moderately strenuous, as the terrain at the preserve can be steep. Participants are urged to wear hiking boots or very sturdy shoes and bring portable water.

Please e-mail Brian Yahn or call 502-573-2886 to sign up and receive directions and meeting instructions. A minimum of four and a maximum of 10 participants are required for this hike. Deadline for sign up is Friday, May 2, at 3:30 p.m. EDT. There is no cost for the event.

Information about the commission and its mission to protect Kentucky’s natural heritage can be obtained by mail (KSNPC, 801 Schenkel Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601-1403), telephone (502-573-2886 or toll free 877-214-6173) or the Internet (www.naturepreserves.ky.gov).