Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, The Nature Conservancy and UK to dedicate new Griffith Woods WMA

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) will join with the University of Kentucky and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in dedicating nearly 750 Harrison County acres as the Griffith Woods Wildlife Management Area at 11 a.m., May 31, at the entrance to the area near Cynthiana.

Frankfort, KY | May 31, 2012

KDFWR completed acquisition of the unique area in December, 2011, when it purchased approximately 350 acres from TNC and the University of Kentucky contributed another 391 acres to the project that it had acquired earlier through the Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund.

“This is such a unique and outstanding area,” said KDFWR Commissioner Dr. Jon Gassett. “Griffith Woods includes one of the last remnants of Bluegrass Savanna Woodland in this part of the state, and preserving and restoring this for our children and their grandchildren is a treasure beyond words.”

KDFWR was able to purchase the TNC acres using Federal Program Income monies that are restricted for land acquisition use. TNC also donated three adjoining land parcels of 1.9, 5.69 and 1.6 acres each to ensure the large land block, already bisected by U.S. 62, remained otherwise intact. No Fish and Game Fund money was used.

Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund board chairman Dr. Bill Martin recognized the urgency in preserving and restoring this unique habitat many years ago and championed the University of Kentucky’s acquisition of the property at that time for research and management. The university will continue to work with KDFWR and conduct research on the area.

KDFWR’s area management plan will focus on the preservation and restoration of its unique landscape – huge oaks and other hardwoods that dot rolling grasslands – while providing recreational opportunity for hunters, wildlife watchers, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

From Lexington take Russell Cave Road (KY 353 N) toward Cynthiana. Turn right onto US 62 and Griffith Woods entrance will be on the right after about one-quarter mile. From Louisville take I-64 east to I-75 north at Lexington. Then from I-75, take Exit 126 onto US 62 east and continue toward Cynthiana. Griffith Woods entrance will be on the right in about 12 miles.

The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people. The Conservancy and its more than 1 million members have protected nearly 120 million acres worldwide. Visit The Nature Conservancy on the Web at www.nature.org.