Kentucky Natural Lands Trust (KNLT) received the 2016 Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary’s Award last week in recognition of the organization’s land conservation efforts and partnerships with state government and other organizations.
A statement from the Cabinet said it was recognizing KNLT for its more than two decade commitment to preserving Kentucky’s diminishing natural places and protecting its rich biodiversity. KNLT’s efforts, which began with the preservation of Blanton Forest, expanded into a variety of conservation projects across the state and currently include the Pine Mountain Wildlands Corridor, the largest landscape level project ever undertaken in the state. Through partnerships with government agencies, nonprofits, corporations and private individuals KNLT has purchased or protected more than 30,000 acres of wildlands. In its important work, it continues to inspire new generations of environmental stewards.
Executive Director, Hugh Archer, said, “KNLT is honored to receive this recognition for our innovative public-private partnerships that have helped protect thousands of acres of wild places. Since our formation in 1995 we have worked closely with Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission and played a key role in establishing Blanton Forest, E. Lucy Braun and Archer Benge state nature preserves. Our partnerships with state government have expanded to include work with the Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund, Kentucky State Parks, Kentucky Division of Water – Wild Rivers Program, Kentucky Division of Forestry and Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, as well as Western Kentucky University and University of Kentucky. Our conservation successes illustrate the power and benefit of strong public-private partnerships.”
9/30/2016 – Press Release
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