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Land Between the Lakes Offers Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge Tour

January 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Land Between the Lakes

As I’ve said (and said, and said, and said…) there’s always something going on in Kentucky’s Land Between the Lakes.  Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or blisteringly cold winter – it’s always the right time to take a trip to Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.

Below is information, from the Friends of Land Between the Lakes.  They’d also like you to know that the welcome mat never rolls up in the LBL region. It’s always out and you’re always treated like a long lost family member.

 

Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area is presenting Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge Tour on Saturday, February 11, 2012, from 9am-12pm. Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, which is managed by the U.S.Fish & Wildlife Service in Stewart County, TN, provides one of the area’s best wildlife viewing hotspots.

The tour is $10 for adults and $7 for children. Registration is limited. Reservations and full deposits are required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Meet at South Welcome Station. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars.

“Come join us as we explore this bottomland habitat in search of harriers, sandhill cranes, eagles, and thousands of migrating ducks,” said Sharon Waltrip, LBL’s Program Manager for Environmental Education and Interpretation. “Morning will be our best shot at catching some great wildlife viewing opportunities!”

 

Filed Under: Featured, Kentucky Birds, Kentucky Wildlife, LBL, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: , ,

Winter’s a Beautiful Thing for Bird Watchers at Land Between the Lakes

January 12, 2012 By

Kentucky’s beautiful Land Between the Lakes is a nature lover’s dream come true and a photographer’s Heaven on earth, year round. It’s just as beautiful in the fall and winter as it is in the spring and summer. The colors are different, and, of course, some birds have packed their bags and headed off for their vacation down south, but the nature-viewing (and photographing) are most definitely abundant.

As someone who is, admittedly, OBSESSED with watching birds and other wildlife, I have a little secret for you – you can often see more birds in the winter. Once the leafy green curtains on the trees have fallen, you can see the birds more clearly.  In our own yard, I always marvel at how many more birds I’m able to watch in the winter.

From Land Between the Lakes:

Got the winter blues? Embrace the season by joining us for one of the many wildlife-viewing van tours offered at Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area. During January, February, and March, there are multiple guided tours offering outdoor enthusiasts a chance to witness some of nature’s greatest moments. Registration is required for all tours, and space is limited. Please call 270-924-2020, weekdays from 8am-4:30pm, to learn more about each tour and make your reservation.

Our ongoing Nature Watch tour series highlights many birds that call this area home during the winter. During these tours, you may see everything from pelicans to pintails!

An all-day Nature Watch tour on January 14, will take you in search of eagles and some of the 25+ species of ducks that call LBL home in the winter. We’ll also cover the fascinating story of local bald eagle recovery by visiting several unique landmarks in LBL. The cost is $40/person and includes lunch at a local restaurant.

LBL continues to offer Eagle Viewing Van Tours from 1-4:30pm on Sundays, Jan. 22, 29, and February 5. Winter is the peak season for seeing bald eagles in LBL; both our resident eagles and visiting “snowbirds” are out looking for fish around the lakes. We’ll take you to the best spots in LBL for spotting these magnificent creatures. Cost is $7/adult and $5/child.

On February 11, we will offer a special Nature Watch tour that brings you to Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, just south of LBL. We will explore this bottomland habitat in search of harriers, sandhill cranes, and thousands of migrant ducks. The cost is $10/adult and $7/child and runs from 9am-12pm.

The month of March offers a chance to see hundreds of pelicans as they migrate through the area, as well as our resident eagles on their giant nests, incubating eggs or sheltering their chicks. Join us on either March 18 or 24, for a Nature Watch tour that highlights these two amazing species. This two-hour tour costs $7/adult and $5/child.

Winter doesn’t have to be spent inside! Join us for any of these fun wildlife-viewing tours:

January 22, 29, and February 5 – “Everything Eagles” Van Tours, 1-4:30pm
January 14 – Winter Wanderers: Eagles and Waterfowl Migration, 9am-5pm
February 11 – Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge Tour, 9am-12pm
March 18 & 24 – Pelicans and Eagles, times vary

Come Outside and Play at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education. We encourage visitors to review LBL’s official website at www.lbl.org each season, and throughout the season, for our Calendar of Events, updates on programs and policies, safety information, maps, and temporary trail and road closures. Follow us on Twitter @LBLScreechOwl and on our blog at http://landbetweenthelakes.blogspot.com. Additional LBL and “Friends of LBL” information is available on our website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.

Filed Under: Featured, Kentucky Birds, Kentucky Wildlife, LBL, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: , ,

Land Between the Lakes Recreation Area Events During July

July 6, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Oxen at The HomesteadOxen at The Homeplace. I love this picture! @MikeSigers  took the picture at just the right time.

I’ve said it millions of times and, no doubt, I’ll say it again twice as much: There is no place on earth quite like the Land Between the Lakes.  No two trips to Kentucky’s Land Between the Lakes are exactly the same and no one trip is less than a complete blast.  If you’ve never been, do yourself (and your family) a huge favor and plan your Land Between the Lakes vacation today. If you’ve been to Land Between the Lakes and even if (like us), you’ve been there far too many times to count – go again! As I said, no two trips are the same and you’ll inevitably see things that are different since you saw them last.

Whether it’s a week in paradise or just an overnight stay, you’ll make memories that’ll last a lifetime.  Get yourself to Land Between the Lakes and EXPLORE your options for fun!

This is one of Kentucky’s extra special regions.  The food is outstanding, the sights (and photo opportunities!) breathtaking, the fun is outrageous, and the people are the warmest, friendliest, and most colorful people you’ll ever meet.  They’re genuinely delighted to see guests and treat them like long lost family members.

Below you’ll find a list of events going on in the Land Between the Lakes region during July. As you’ll see, there’s a lot of fun and excitement waiting for you, your family, and your camera. Don’t make the fun wait any longer… if you do, it’ll find someone else!

July 1-31

  • Planetarium Shows – Golden Pond Planetarium Daytime shows: Ages 13 & up $4; Ages 5-12: $2
  • Far Out Space Places – Mon.-Fri. at 10am and Sat. & Sun. at 4pm
  • Laser- Legends of the Night Sky – Daily at 11am
  • Blown Away: The Wild World of Weather – Sat. & Sun. at 11am
  • Two Small Pieces of Glass – Daily at 3pm
  • The Skies Above – Daily at 1pm
  • Journey to the Edge of Space & Time – Daily at 2pm

Tuesday, July 5

  • 11am Bald Is Beautiful: The Bald Eagle – Nature Station
  • 2:15pm Goodies for Groundhog – Nature Station
  • 7pm Laser Ipop & 8:30pm, Laser Country Laser Lights Music Shows – Golden Pond Planetarium

Wednesday, July 6

  • 1pm Flower Pounding – Homeplace

Thursday, July 7

  • 2:15pm Truly Talon-ted – Nature Station

Friday, July 8

  • 7pm Laseropolis & 8:30pm, Laser U2 Laser Lights Music Shows – Golden Pond Planetarium

Saturday & Sunday, July 9-10

  • 10am-5pm Drag Boat Races – Pisgah Bay For more info, contact 800-732-0088 or www.kdba.net

Owl at the Nature Station, Land Between the LakesAdorable Owl at The Nature Station. The animals at the Nature Station are incredibly well-cared for and loved!  These are birds and animals with injuries that could not live on their own in the wild – they’d become prey or die of starvation.  The Nature Station allows them to live their lives as pampered pets who get attention and adoration 24/7. It’s a very, very special place that no animal lover will want to miss. It’s also a wealth of education for children… of all ages!

Saturday, July 9

  • 10am – 4pm Women’s Handwork Day – The Homeplace
  • Roaming the Nights in Shining Armor: Armadillos – Nature Station
  • 1pm, 3pm Crafty Stepping Stones – Nature Station

Cost per person is NS admission + $3 per stepping stone. Reservations are required since materials are limited. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Kids are invited to make their own stepping stones.

  • 7pm Summer Cooler Night Fright Light & 8:30pm, Summer Cooler Night Laser Holiday Laser Lights Music Shows – Golden Pond Planetarium

Sunday, July 10

  • 1pm Hug a White Oak – Homeplace *International Year of Forests Program*
  • 2:15pm Insect Hike – Nature Station

Tuesday, July 12

  • 11am A Real “Hoot”-enanny – Nature Station
  • 2:15pm What in the World is a Whistle-Pig? – The Nature Station
  • 7pm Laser Retro & 8:30pm, Laser Zeppelin Laser Lights Music Shows – Golden Pond Planetarium

Wednesday, July 13

  • 10am Field Work – Homeplace

Thursday, July 14

  • 2:15pm Gentle Giants: Alligator Snapping Turtles – Nature Station

Friday & Saturday, July 15-16

  • 8pm (Rodeo) LBL Primitive Rodeo and Wranglers Grand Jubilee Wranglers Campground

For more info, call 270-924-2200 or 2201.

Friday, July 15

  • Ongoing from 11am-3pm Radical Reptile Booth – Golden Pond Visitor Center

Free to all LBL visitors. Stop by our booth at the Visitor Center to meet some live snakes and turtles.

  • 7pm Laser Beatles & 8:30pm, Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon Laser Lights Music Shows – Golden Pond Planetarium

Saturday, July 16

  • 10am-4pm COOL & CRAWLY CRITTERS DAY!* – Nature Station

$3 children/$4 adults. Includes NS admission.
Hey kids! If bugs, snakes, turtles, frogs, and other slimy, slithery, and crawly critters fascinate you, then the Nature Station is the place for you today. Many special guests will be joining us to show off the critters they study. Check out all sorts of cool and crawly critters up close and personal, and meet scientists who study them!

Saturday, July 16

  • 1pm Old-Time Music Concert – Homeplace

Come on out today, rain or shine, for an old-time mountain music concert. Be sure to bring your dancin’ shoes.

  • 7pm Laser Vinyl Laser Lights Music Show 8:30pm, The Skies Above Astronomy Program 9:30pm Summer Nights– Golden Pond Planetarium

Filed Under: Kentucky Birds, Kentucky Wildlife, LBL, Summertime in Kentucky, The Homeplace, The Nature Station Tagged With: , ,

May Events In Land Between the Lakes

May 20, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Beautiful deer at the Nature Station in Land Between the Lakes

Below are a list of family-oriented and fun events to enjoy in Kentucky’s beautiful  Land Between the Lakes.  The deer in the photo above are just a few of the gorgeous (and incredibly well cared for!) residents of the Nature Station. The Nature Station is a favorite spot for children of all ages.  As someone who could spend the entire day there, trust me on this one!

Friday, May 27
6-8:30 pm – Sunset Canoe Trip, Nature Station
Enjoy the beauty of an LBL sunset as we paddle the waters of Lake Barkley. $25 per canoe. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

7 pm – Pink Floyd Dark Side & 8:30 pm Pink Floyd The Wall Laser Lights Shows, Golden Pond Planetarium

Saturday, May 28 & Sunday, May 29
Saturday, 10am–7pm
Sunday, 11am–6pm
The Pickin’ Party: The Homeplace Old-Time Music Festival, at The Homeplace
For two days, experience the best of old-time music through workshops, pickin’ sessions, and energized performances of old-time fiddle, banjo, and bluegrass music. Enjoy weekend performances of folk singer and fretless banjo picker, Mark Dvorak, old time string band, The Dixie Volunteers and Cumberland River Plow Boys, Celtic music by Red River Breeze and the best of old time and bluegrass music. Saturday-Adults $6/Children $4; Sunday-Adults $5/Children $3. Includes same day HP admission. For more information, call 931-232-6457.

Saturday, May 28 – Monday, May 30
River Days 2011 at the Nature Station: Dive in at the Nature Station as we have fun learning about our river’s heritage. Activities will include Smokey Bear appearances, live animal programs, kids’ crafts, and canoe trips.

Saturday, May 28 – Monday, May 30
Ongoing throughout the weekend CSI: Critter Scene Investi-“gators” Scavenger Hunt at the Nature Station

Saturday, May 28
10:45, 12:45, 3:15 & 4:15 – Smokey Bear Appearances at the Nature Station

11 am – King of the Fishermen: The Bald Eagle at the Nature Station

1-3 pm – Crazy Quacker Kids’ Craft at the Nature Station
Ducks are an important part of our rivers. Make your own floating duck craft. Program free with NS admission.

3:30 pm – Meet the Monster: The Alligator Snapper at the Nature Station

6-8:30 pm – Sunset Canoe Trip at the Nature Station
Enjoy the beauty of an LBL sunset as we paddle on Lake Barkley. $25 per canoe. Includes same day NS admission. Registration limited. Reservation and full deposit required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

7 pm – Laser Spirit & 8:30 pm, Laser Vinyl Laser Lights Shows at the Golden Pond Planetarium

Sunday, May 29
11 am – River Owl: The Barred Owl at the Nature Station

Sunday, May 29
1:30pm Riverbank Puppet Show at the Nature Station

3:30 pm – A Serious Case of the Uglies: Strange Animals of LBL at the Nature Station

6-8:30 pm Family-Oriented Sunset Canoe Trip at the Nature Station
The focus is on kid-friendly activities to get families into canoeing and wildlife viewing. $25 per canoe. Reservation and full deposit required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve a space. Children must be 5 years or older.

Monday, May 30
11:30 am – Let the Turtle Race Begin at Nature Station

1-3:30 pm – Pond Prowl at the Nature Station
We’ll explore below the water’s surface in search of tadpoles, crawdads, and baby dragonflies. Program free with NS admission. Limited to 30 people. Register at the NS front desk that day. Weather permitting.

Filed Under: Events, Kentucky Wildlife, LBL, Springtime in Kentucky, The Homeplace, The Nature Station

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is hosting its Nature Photography Weekend April 29-May 1.

March 31, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Photography: Butterfly on a Bright Flower

Nature photography buffs will enjoy this weekend that features a 24-hour digital competition. Photographers with all skill levels can pick up helpful tips from guest speakers. There will be amateur and accomplished classes. Plaques will be given in several categories. The cost is $ 35 per person.

This year’s speakers are Kendal Chiles and Don McGowan, two very accomplished nature photographers who have taught numerous workshops focusing on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park area. Don and Kendal are eager to share their expertise with you.

Call the park at 1-800-325-0063 for information, registration and overnight accommodations. Email Bret A. Smitley@ky.gov for a brochure.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park has a lodge, Riverview Restaurant, cottages, campground, hiking trails, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, other recreational activities and a great view of Cumberland Falls.

Filed Under: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Kentucky Birds, Kentucky in Pictures, Kentucky Wildlife, News, Springtime in Kentucky Tagged With: , ,

How Does a River Cruise While Searching for Bald Eagles Sound?!

January 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Got the winter blues?  Then cast off on a river cruise with Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area (LBL) staff to search the shores of Kentucky Lake for bald eagles while enjoying the comforts of the CQ Princess luxury yacht.

The first two cruises of the year are full, but space is still available on Monday, January 17.  Enjoy a delicious meal and relaxing cruise on Kentucky Lake for a unique experience on the CQ Princess.  On this three hour cruise, LBL interpreters will tell the story of our nation’s symbol, the bald eagle, as well as help you spot these majestic birds in the wild.

“Eagle river cruises are a wonderful experience,” said Carrie Szwed, Nature Station Public Programs Coordinator.  “You’ll enjoy great views of bald eagles and other wildlife while taking in the beautiful sights of Kentucky Lake and its forested shoreline.”

The CQ Princess is a 96-foot long vessel offering great visibility from inside its heated cabin or outside on the deck.  The CQ Princess departs from Kenlake State Resort Park Marina.  Restrooms and hot beverages are available on board.  For a view of the ship, visit .cqriverside.com.  The eagle lunch cruises are from 11am-2pm.  All tours cost $60 per person and include meals.

If you are interested in additional eagle tours, LBL also offers Eagle Viewing Van Trips from 1-4:30pm on Saturday, January 23, 30, and February 6.  LBL guides will take you to the best wildlife viewing hot spots on the 170,000-acre recreation area.  Tours require moderate walking.  Dress for the weather.  Meet and depart from the Golden Pond Visitor Center.  ($5 ages 12 & under, $7 ages 13 & up.)

Reservations & full deposits are required for all trips.  For more information or to reserve your space, call 270-924-2020 weekdays, 8am-4:30pm.
Land Between The Lakes is managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education.  We encourage visitors to review our website at www.lbl.org each season, and throughout the season, for our Calendar of Events, maps, updates on programs and policies, safety information, and temporary trail and road closures.

 Additional LBL and “Friends of LBL” information is also available on the www.lbl.org website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.

Filed Under: Events, Kentucky Birds, Kentucky Wildlife, LBL, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: , , , ,

Kentucky Adventures in Fall and Winter… There’s Still Plenty to Do!

November 5, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Panther Creek Park in Owensboro, Kentucky

The end of summer doesn’t mark the end of adventure in Kentucky! There are plenty of fun things left to do and wonderful things to see during the fall and winter months in Kentucky.  For one thing, hiking the trails in our beautiful state parks and city parks (like Panther Creek Park, pictured above) isn’t just fun, it’s good for you.

If you take a camera, you’ll find photo opportunities everywhere you look.  My dad was an avid photographer and he’d take some amazing pictures – not just of the gorgeous roses in his rose beds, but of trees, sunsets, hills, animals, etc.  He’d have his favorite pictures enlarged and my mom would mat and frame them. They made beautiful art work for the walls – art work that just LOOKED expensive.

If you have a really good camera and an even better eye for photography, it’s something you might want to consider.  Pictures like these would make cherished Christmas presents.

Head Outdoors this Fall and Winter in Kentucky

“It’s great to get outside during the cooler temperatures during this time of year in Kentucky,” said First Lady Jane Beshear. “There’s plenty of nature to see and experience throughout our state and being outside is a good way to get healthy and stay fit.”

Here is a listing of some adventure tourism events in Kentucky during November and December. To learn about other events, visit www.tourism.ky.gov/outdoors/.

NOV. 6, 2010
MOONBOW TRAIL TREK
Location: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
7351 Highway 90
Corbin, Ky. 40701
Fee: Contact Park
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Details: Hikers can choose a challenging 4.5 or 10.8 mile trek through the beautiful Cumberland River Gorge. T-Shirts and refreshments will be available and there will be shuttle service to the trail head. Contact:  Bret Smitley or Steve Gilbert @ 606-528-4131 or Bret.Smitley@ky.gov / Steve.Gilbert@ky.gov.

NOV. 6, 2010
THE ECOLOGY OF SUSTAINIBILITY
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim members: $8; Non-members: $10 (Registration required)
Time: 10:30 a.m. – noon

Details: This program explores a foundation for sustainable living that is rooted in our understanding of the relationship we have with ecology and place. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or email: sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 6, 2010
NATURE BOOK FAIR
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Free
Time: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Details: Join the fun at this exceptional book event at Bernheim’s Visitor Center.  Enjoy music and light refreshments while you shop for the best selection of nature titles.  There are books for everyone, from the young bud to seasoned naturalist.  Help Bernheim celebrate the first year of the expanded Nature Bookshop, and “grow” your own nature library from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or email: sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 6, 2010
POLLYWOG PLAY PARTIES: CATCHING THE WIND
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Free
Time: 10:30 a.m. – noon

Details: Pollywog play parties combine music, art, language and outside play to teach about nature themes.  Led by engaging child educators, pollywog play parties provide take home lessons for outdoor play learning.  In November pollywogs will be “Catching the Wind” through stories, songs and hands-on activities.  Come to Bernheim monthly on each first Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to noon to connect your family with nature in exciting ways.  Sponsored by PNC Bank, pollywog play parties are free for everyone (free for members and free with admission to Bernheim for non-members).  Class sizes are limited so call (502) 955-8512 by the Friday before the program to reserve your place in the pollywog pond. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 6, 2010
ECO KIDS ADVENTURES IN NATURE: THE AUTUMN LIFE OF PLANTS
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Free
Time: 1-4 p.m.; On Your Own Challenge 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Details: The ECO in Bernheim’s ECO Kids programs stands for Every Child Outdoors.  Each first and third Saturday at Bernheim, ECO Kids Adventures in Nature provides kids and families with opportunities to get outside for play, fresh air and to learn about nature.  ECO Kids programs are free for members and included with admission for non-members.  On Saturday, Nov. 6, the focus is “The Autumn Life of Plants.”  Autumn is a busy time for plants, with colors changing and leaves falling.  Discovery Stations at the Visitor Center will be available from 1-4 p.m.  There is also an on-your-own challenge:  Autumn Plant Bingo.  Challenge sheets are available in the Visitor Center between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.  Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 6-7, 2010
A KENTUCKY WOODSMEN WEEKEND
Location: Fort Boonesborough State Park
4375 Boonesborough Rd.
Richmond, Ky. 40475
Fee:  $50
Time: Call park for exact times

Details: A weekend seminar for re-enactors, historians, educators and others that are interested in learning about life on the Frontier. Detailed presentations based on documentation, covering many aspects of the lives of long hunters, farmers, traders, scouts and others. Fee is $50 per person, you must pre-register, and attendance is limited to 50. Contact:  Phil Gray @ 859-527-3131 or Phil.Gray@ky.gov.

NOV. 7, 2010
WILD EDIBLES OF AUTUMN
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim members $15; Non-members $20
Time: 1-3 p.m.

Details: We’ve all heard, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”  Bernheim’s Wren Smith believes this old adage provides a pathway for all of us toward deeper and more heart-felt connections with nature and this place we call home. On Sunday, Nov. 7 from 1-3 p.m., join Bernheim for Wild Edibles of Autumn. Learn to safely and responsibly prepare foods from acorns, walnuts, hickories, persimmons and more. Smith has over 25 years experience with wild foods, and her Wild Autumn Salad, a festive mix of greens, dried persimmons, toasted hickory nuts and gorgonzola, will be just one of many “less than tame” recipes shared.  Advance registration and payment is required, call (502) 955-8512.

Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 13, 2010
THE ART OF OBSERVATION
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim Members $8 ; Non-members: $10
Time: 1-2 p.m.

Details: Increase your nature observation skills with this fun and rewarding program at Bernheim.  Discover how your ability to see natural treasure is connected to seeing patterns and details amid a clutter of visual stimuli. With practice, patience and instruction, you will learn basic skills to help you be more aware and attentive to your surroundings.  For adults and children over six.  Register by calling (502) 955-8512.

Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 13-14, 2010
FALL ELK WATCH
Location: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
4441 KY Highway 1833
Buckhorn, Ky. 41721
Fee: Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single) (see details)
Time: 5:45 a.m.-11 a.m.

Details: Enjoy seeing these majestic animals during their rutting season. Morning tours leave the park at about 5:45 a.m. Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single)includes one night’s lodging, dinner on night of arrival, bagged breakfast and transportation to and from the elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $45.

Contact:  Sue Thomas @ 606-398-7510 or Sue.Thomas@ky.gov.

NOV. 20, 2010
ECO KIDS ADVENTURES IN NATURE: THE AUTUMN LIFE OF ANIMALS
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Free
Time: 1-4 p.m.; On Your Own Challenge 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Details: The ECO in Bernheim’s ECO Kids programs stands for Every Child Outdoors.  Each first and third Saturday at Bernheim, ECO Kids Adventures in Nature provides kids and families with opportunities to get outside for play, fresh air and to learn about nature.  ECO Kids programs are free for members and included with admission for non-members.  On Saturday, Nov. 20, the focus is “The Autumn Life of Animals.”  Autumn is a busy time for nature’s animals, with migration, food storage and hibernation.  Discovery Stations at the Visitor Center will be available from 1-4 p.m.  There is also an on-your-own challenge:  Thinking Like a Critter.  Challenge sheets are available in the Visitor Center between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 20, 2010
CANOEING FOR BEGINNERS
Location: Natural Bridge State Resort Park
2135 Natural Bridge Rd.
Slade, Ky. 40376
Fee: $30 per person includes instruction, canoe, paddle and life jacket
Time: 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m

Details: Learn the basics of canoeing on Mill Creek Lake at Natural Bridge and then experience river canoeing on the beautiful Red River within the Red River Gorge Geological Area. The river trip is 8 miles on an enjoyable class I section of the Red River. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration fee of $30 per person includes instruction, canoe, paddle and life jacket. For more information contact Tyler Morgan at tyler.morgan@ky.gov. Contact:  Tyler Morgan @ 606-663-2214 or Tyler.Morgan@ky.gov.

NOV. 21, 2010
FULL “FROST” MOON HIKE
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim members $8; Non-members: $12
Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Details: Bernheim night hikes are great opportunities to relax in the beauty of nature bathed in the light of a full moon.  Interpretive naturalists will guide you and provide information about night ecology, lunar lore and exciting tales.  Each full moon program is timed to begin near sunset and during the rise of a full moon over the tree tops.  In order to walk without flashlights, all full moon programs keep to open areas and established trails.  While cloud cover doesn’t usually cancel Bernheim night programs, severe weather sometimes does.  Please call between 3-5 p.m. on the day of the program to find out about last minute changes due to weather conditions.  Dress for the weather and outdoor hiking.  Please note that while Bernheim does allow dogs on a leash, we ask that you leave your furry friends at home for group hikes.  Registration is required; call (502) 955-8512. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 27, 2010
NATURALIST WALK
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim members $8; Non-members: $12
Time: 1-2:30 p.m.

Details: Learn how to view nature through the eyes of a naturalist during this walk with Bernheim’s Whitney Wurzel, whose field methods combine wacky science and creative exploration into one adventure. By the end of this walk, naturalists of all ages will discover a world brimming with endless connections, untold stories and fascinating details.  Registration is required; call (502) 955-8512. Contact Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

DEC. 3-4, 2010
SUNRISE ELK VIEWING TOUR
Location: Pine Mountain State Resort Park
1050 State Park Rd.
Pineville, Ky. 40977
Fee: $25 per person, $15 (for children 6 & under)
Time: 5:45 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Details: Pine Mountain State Resort Park continues its series of guided fall/winter elk tours in 2010-11. With sightings recorded for every tour over the last three years, guided elk viewing adventures have proven to be the current top-end nature experience available in Kentucky today. Participants must register in advance by contacting the park’s guest services desk at (800) 325.1712. Don’t delay; the tours fill quickly! Overnight accommodations are also available; lodging reservations must be made separately. The tour fee is $25 per persons ($15 children 6 & under) and includes the Kentucky’s Elk Herd presentation on Friday evening, and the continental breakfast and guided tour on Saturday morning. Participation in the Friday evening natural history program about elk is strongly recommended, as it serves as an invaluable enhancement to your enjoyment of the Saturday tour. Additional Sunrise Elk Viewing Tour Dates: Nov. 6, 2010, Dec. 4, 2010, Jan. 8, 2011, Jan. 15, 2011, Jan. 22, 2011, Feb. 5 2011, Feb. 26, 2011 and March 12, 2011. Contact:  Dean Henson, Park Naturalist @ 606-337-3066 or Dean.Henson@ky.gov.

DEC. 4-5, 2010
FALL ELK WATCH
Location: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
4441 KY Highway 1833
Buckhorn, Ky. 41721
Fee: Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single) (see details)
Time: 5:45 a.m.-11 a.m.

Details: Enjoy seeing these majestic animals during their rutting season. Morning tours leave the park at about 5:45 a.m. Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single)includes one night’s lodging, dinner on night of arrival, bagged breakfast and transportation to and from the Elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $45. Contact:  Sue Thomas @ 606-398-7510 or Sue.Thomas@ky.gov.

DEC. 11-12, 2010
HORSE CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTING CLINIC
Location: Hidden Cave Ranch
877 Thrasher Rd.
Burkesville, Ky. 42717
Fee: $450
Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Details: TWO DAY HANDS-ON CLINIC INCLUDES: Equine Skeletal Anatomy DVD*; Classroom lectures with real bones;
Equine Chiropractic Adjusting DVD;
Canine Chiropractic Adjusting DVD *; Segment on Dog Adjusting Techniques;
Basic Saddle Fitting Segment;
Anatomy Workbook with picture demonstration;
Equine Chiropractic Technique Workbook with demo pictures; and Hands-on Supervision by Dr. Hampton and State Licensed Veterinarian. Lunch, snacks and drinks included both days.
Contact: Registration and Clinic questions contact Dr. Bill Hampton @ 970-903-8399 or equinechiro@centurytel.net.  Contact Hidden Cave Ranch @ 270-433-3225 or marion@hiddencaveranch.com.

DEC. 18-19, 2010
FALL ELK WATCH
Location: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
4441 KY Highway 1833
Buckhorn, Ky. 41721
Fee: Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single) (see details)
Time: 5:45 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Details: Enjoy seeing these majestic animals during their rutting season. Morning tours leave the park at about 5:45 a.m. Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single)includes one night’s lodging, dinner on night of arrival, bagged breakfast and transportation to and from the elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $45. Contact:  Sue Thomas @ 606-398-7510.

And, of course…. the most important thing of all. For the most adventure, fun, and excitement during the fall and winter months in the state of Kentucky… Don’t miss a minute of UK Basketball, U of L Basketball, and WKU Basketball.

Let the games begin!!!!

Filed Under: Autumn Fun, Blog, Buckhorn, Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Corbin, Featured, Kentucky Wildlife, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: ,

Do There Seem to Be More Butterflies Than Usual to You?

September 22, 2010 By Leave a Comment

As you well know, I love all animals, birds, and insects.   I could watch one single bird for hours – in fact I probably have.  I’m also utterly fascinated by and obsessed with butterflies.  I’ve been in absolute butterfly Heaven this season because these beautiful little marvels are everywhere.

I started wondering if it was my imagination or if there really were more butterflies than usual so I did a little research.  It turns out that it’s not all in my head after all.

The large number of butterflies this year can be attributed to our unusually wet spring.  The heavy rainfall (remember the flooding?) provided extra nutrition for caterpillars.  Makes sense, right?

Also, we can thank the extremely warm temperatures for the beautiful butterflies.

Whatever the reasons, I’m just overjoyed and am enjoying the show.  If you want to enjoy the beauty of butterflies, head outdoors and find remaining flowers, vines, and fruit trees.  We have many apple and pear trees in our yard and the butterflies love to feast on the fallen fruit.

They also LOVE the hummingbird feeders.  Even as I type these words, there are two huge butterflies at the hummingbird feeder in our front yard.

Gorgeous!

Filed Under: Kentucky Birds, Kentucky Wildlife, News Tagged With: ,

Elk Tours Offered at Three Kentucky State Parks

September 14, 2010 By Leave a Comment

One of the things I love most about the beautiful state of Kentucky is our wildlife and all of the wonderful opportunities we have to enjoy such magnificent animals.  If you’ve never taken an elk viewing tour at one of our resort parks, mark your calendar and take the family this year.

Elk viewing tours at three Eastern Kentucky resort parks will once again be offered this fall and winter.

Visitors to Jenny Wiley, Buckhorn Lake and Pine Mountain can choose a weekend, stay at a state park lodge or cottage and arise early to enjoy one of these unique tours. Participants should bring their cameras – there should be great photography opportunities. The largest elk herds are located on privately owned lands that are normally closed to the public. This is one of the few opportunities available for the public to see the greatest number of elk.

The return of elk to the region is considered to be one of Kentucky’s biggest wildlife management success stories. The animals, after being gone from the state for 150 years, were returned in 1997. They now number 11,000.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg

2010 dates: Sept. 18, 19, 25, 26 (Elk Night Sept. 18); Oct. 9, 10 16, 17, 23, 24; Nov. 6, 13, 20; Dec. 4.

2011 dates: Jan. 15, 22, 23, 29 (Buffalo Night Jan. 22); Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26; March 5, 12

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is sponsoring elk tours at a cost of $25/person or $15/children 12 and under.  This fee includes your transportation via van to the viewing sites and a continental breakfast.  The park also offers packages that include lodging.  Because these tours fill up quickly, registration is suggestion. Special group and business tours are available. Call 1-800-325-0142.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

2010 dates: Sept. 18, 19, 25, 26; Oct. 23, 24; Nov. 13, 14; Dec. 4, 5, 18, 19.

2011 dates: Jan. 15, 16, 29, 30; Feb. 19, 20, 26, 27; March 12, 13, 19, 20.

Enjoy seeing these majestic animals during their rutting season. With sightings recorded on every tour over the last three years, guided elk viewing adventures have proven to be memorable wildlife-viewing experiences.  Participants must register by calling 800-325-0058. Participation in the natural history program the evening prior to the trip is strongly recommended.  Participants are also encouraged to bring binoculars, camera, water and snacks. The tour van leaves the park between 5:45 a.m. and 6:35 a.m. depending on the date, and usually returns to the park at around 10:30 a.m. Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single) includes one night’s lodging, dinner on night of arrival, bagged breakfast and transportation to and from the elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $45. The cost for the tour only is $20 and with a bagged breakfast it’s $30. Call 1-800-325-0058 for reservations and information.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville

2010 dates: Nov. 6, Dec. 4

2011 dates: Jan. 8, 15, 22; Feb. 5, 26; March 12

Pine Mountain State Resort Park continues its series of guided fall/winter elk tours in 2010-11.  With sightings recorded for every tour over the last 3 years, guided elk viewing adventures have proven to be the current top-end nature experience available in Kentucky today.  Participants must register in advance by calling 800-325-1712.  Don’t delay; the tours fill quickly!  Overnight accommodations are also available, but lodging reservations must be made separately.

The tour fee is $25 per person ($15 children 6 & under) and includes the Kentucky’s Elk Herd presentation on Friday evening, and the continental breakfast and guided tour on Saturday morning.   Participation in the Friday evening natural history program is strongly recommended, as it will enhance the enjoyment of the Saturday tour.  Participants should also bring binoculars, camera, water and snacks. The Saturday tour van leaves the park between 5:45 a.m. and 6:35 a.m. depending on the date, and usually returns to the park at around 10:30 a.m.

For more information about these parks and other Kentucky State Parks, visit www.parks.ky.gov

The elk images in this post were taken on a visit to the Elk & Bison Prairie in the gorgeous Land Between the Lakes region.

Filed Under: Autumn Fun, Kentucky State Parks, Kentucky Wildlife, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: , ,

What’s New at Genuine Kentucky

August 4, 2010 By Leave a Comment

First of all, to all my fellow Kentuckians – do your best to keep cool, comfortable, and safe in this outrageously hot weather.  Be sure to give your outside pets plenty of fresh, cool water and fill your bird feeders often.  As I’m typing this, there is actually a waiting line of birds at one of the bird baths in the front yard!

I just added a few articles to Genuine Kentucky:

How to Create a Compost Pile (as well as why you’d want to do so!)

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park (a very special Kentucky State Park)

I’m now off to take more fresh water to the wildlife – birds, cats, rabbits, squirrels, and anything else looking for a little drink.

Stay cool!

Filed Under: Gardening, Kentucky Birds, Kentucky State Parks, Kentucky Wildlife
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