Frankfort, KY - Kentucky and Eastern forests were once dominated by the American Chestnut Tree. Over 100 feet tall, this “Redwood of the east” made up ¼ of our woodlands and was a valuable source of food for our native wildlife. A disease, which entered our country a century ago, all but eliminated this giant. Thanks to science, the Chestnut is poised to make a comeback. Michael French of the American Chestnut Foundation will offer two presentations on the decline of the American Chestnut at the Salato Wildlife Education Center in Frankfort. The first will be held Saturday, April 9 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. On this day, after the presentation, join us for a planting of offspring from the Kentucky State Champion tree on the Salato grounds. A second presentation is coincides with National Arbor Day, Friday April 29, at 1:00 p.m. For more information call 1-800-852-0492 ext. 409. The events are free and open to the public without registration.

Learn more about upcoming events at the Salato Center at fw.ky.gov. The Salato Wildlife Education Center is located at the Kentucky Fish & Wildlife Game Farm three miles west of Frankfort on U.S. 60. Hours of operation: Tuesday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. The Center is closed Mondays and state holidays.

Once common, the majestic American Chestnut (Castana dentata) has all but disappeared from our forests. This species was once known as the redwood of the east. Learn about the cause of their dramatic decline, the impact of its loss on wildlife, and the efforts to save this species. Michael French of the American Chestnut Foundation will be sharing his version of the Chestnut’s story with us. After the presentation, we will be planting offspring from the Kentucky State Champion tree at Salato (only on April 9). No registration required.

Click Here To Return To The Previous Page