Appalachian Studies: Forestry and Biodiversity

The goal of THE AMERICAN CHESTNUT FOUNDATION is to restore the American chestnut tree to its native range within the woodlands of the eastern United States, using a scientific research and breeding program developed by its founders. The American Chestnut Foundation is restoring a species - and in the process, creating a template for restoration of other tree and plant species.

The Appalachian Regional Reforestation Initiative (ARRI) is a coalition of groups, including citizens, the coal industry, and government dedicated to restoring forests on coal mined lands in the Eastern United States.

The Blue Ridge Discovery Center has information and activities related to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Spanning over 100 years of forest conservation history, the Cradle of Forestry offers a snap shot of life at America’s first school of Forestry along the Biltmore Campus Trail.

Daniel Boone National Forest is the only national forest completely within the boundary of Kentucky. The Daniel Boone National Forest is comprised of four ranger districts: Cumberland, London, Stearns and Redbird. These areas are intermingled with private and state land across 21 counties of eastern Kentucky. The forest is managed for multiple uses, including recreation, timber, wildlife, fish, water, minerals and wilderness.

Eastern Kentucky University's Division of Natural Areas is responsible for coordinating the research, educational programs, development, and use of Lilley Cornett Woods Appalachian Ecological Research Station of Eastern Kentucky University (Letcher County) and Maywoods Environmental and Educational Laboratory.