A state conversation group has partnered with the US Fish and Wildlife Service's Imperiled Bat Conservation Fund (IBCF) and a group of Henderson County citizens to purchase 650 additional acres of land in western Kentucky.
The acquired land will become part of the John James Audubon State Park which acquired the Audubon Wetlands just last year.
According to Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund biologist Zeb Weese, the property protects wetlands and habitats of endangered bats and copperbelly water snakes.
“The purchase of the Audubon Wetlands for Kentucky State Parks is a great example of the Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund at its finest,” said KHLCF Chairman Dr. Richard K. Kessler. “Cooperation between private, local, state and federal partners has resulted in the addition of one of the finest examples of western Kentucky wetlands to one our state’s most beloved state parks.
The KHLCF has protected nearly 90,000 acres in 68 counties for nature tourism and natural resource enhancement.
More than six miles of trails are planned, as well as tree plantings and wildlife habitat improvement projects. A dedication ceremony will take place at the park on May 16, followed by the quarterly meeting of the KHLCF Board.
Roads, parking and signage must be completed before the new property is open to the public.
“The Kentucky State Parks is grateful to all of the people and agencies who assisted with making this project work,” said Parks Commissioner Donnie Holland. “Park guests and future generations will be able to learn about wildlife and the natural beauty of Kentucky thanks to this addition at John James Audubon State Park.”
The KHLCF is funded in part by the sale of “Nature’s Finest” license plates and is the Commonwealth’s primary source of funding for natural areas.
