Kentucky.gov: - NaturalBridgeReptiles

Department of Parks
Encounter Reptiles & Amphibians at Natural Bridge

Press Release Date:	Monday, April 14, 2008
Contact Information:	Brian Gasdorf 800-325-1710 or 606-663-2214

SLADE, Ky. – The public will have a chance to learn more about nature’s most misunderstood creatures in their natural habitat at Herpetology Weekend May 2-3, 2008 at Natural Bridge State Resort Park.

The event at the park near Slade, Ky. will feature experienced herpetologists leading field trips into the Red River Gorge to observe reptiles and amphibians in their native habitat.

Herpetologists Marty Rosenberg, a retired professor at Case Western Reserve University, John MacGregor of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, James Kiser of Stantec and Tom Biebighauser of the U.S. Forest Service will offer their expertise in talks Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

While finding and observing snakes and amphibians is the goal of the field trips, no collection of the animals will be permitted.

Children’s activities will be offered at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.

On-site registration fee is $5 per adult and $2 per child (ages 12-17); children under 12 are admitted free.

For more information about this event contact Brian Gasdorf at 1-800-325-1710 or email him at brian.gasdorf@ky.gov.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park is home to one of the largest natural arches in the state and is surrounded by Daniel Boone National Forest. Natural Bridge offers lodging, cottages, and campground accommodations. Miniature golf, hiking trails and other recreational opportunities are available. For more information call 1-800-325-1710.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park is 52 miles southeast of Lexington and 2 miles off the Mountain Parkway at Slade, exit 33.

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The Kentucky State Park System is composed of 53 state parks plus an interstate park shared with Virginia. The Department of Parks, an agency of the Commerce Cabinet, operates 17 resort parks with lodges -- more than any other state. Each year, Kentucky parks draw 7 million visitors and contribute $317 million to the economy. For more information on Kentucky parks, visit our Web site at http://www.parks.ky.gov.