FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 15, 2005) – The Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission (KSNPC) will host a moderately strenuous hike through Brigadoon State Nature Preserve in Barren County on Saturday, April 23, 2005 from 10 a.m. to noon CDT.

KSNPC Western Preserve Manager Lane Linnenkohl will lead the hike through the mature forested ridges and scenic ravines overlooking the Skaggs Creek portion of Barren River Lake. Participants will explore the rich forest flora and large mature trees and discuss the natural western mesophytic forest ecology of southern Barren County.  Other points of discussion will include the contrast between the rich forests of southern Barren County and the barrens of northwest Barren County. Contact Lane Linnenkohl at 270-745-7005 or lane.linnenkohl@ky.gov for registration and meeting location.

More 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), by telephone (502-573-2886 or toll free 877-214-6173) or on the Internet (www.naturepreserves.ky.gov).

Kentuckians will join others across the world in celebrating Earth Day on Friday, April 22.  Spearheaded by the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet, a number of state agencies, local governments, businesses and organizations have joined together to celebrate Earth Day.  Some of these partners have organized environmental activities throughout the month of April while others are providing information and resources on protecting Kentucky’s environment.

This is the second year in a row for a month-long, organized campaign in celebration of Earth Day.  Among activities planned are hikes, special events, college campus programs, collection of cell phones for recycling and demonstrations of new, environmentally friendly technology.  Visit the state Earth Day Web site at www.environment.ky.gov/earthday to learn more about Kentucky's Earth Day celebration.