With the hot days of summer here, most of us search for ways to keep cool. The shade of a beautiful tree, an air-conditioned building, a cool drink, perhaps a bowl of ice cream – all offer some relief. Early pioneers in the area had fewer choices. Those lucky enough to live on land that […]
The Stately Sycamore
June 1, 2017 By |
While Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest does not have an officially designated signature tree, the Sycamore would be a worthy candidate. It has a a presence not easily matched by the other trees of our area. It commands our attention with its long crooked branches, its large light green leaves, and its smooth outer bark that […]
Brainard Palmer-Ball’s Successful Day of Birding
May 9, 2017 By |
This post was written by noted ornithologist, Brainard Palmer-Ball. Photo credit, Pam Spaulding. May is the ideal month for birdwatching in Kentucky, because in addition to our permanent resident birds, many migrant species are on the move from wintering grounds to breeding grounds. Because of Kentucky’s location, most species of birds can be found in […]
A (not so) Small Milestone Atop a Big Hill
April 10, 2017 By |
Two years ago, soon after signing on to be a volunteer at Bernheim, I requested to serve as a regular guide at the Bernheim Fire Tower. I had several reasons for the request. One was that it sounded like fun (it is). Another was I believed that, if the tower was open on a regular […]
The Birds and the Bees . . . And You
April 6, 2017 By |
No, this isn’t that kind of article. It is springtime and most of us are spending more time outdoors enjoying the wonders of nature. Spring brings us increased signs of life including wildflowers and the animals that pollinate them (including those birds and bees). Without pollination there would be no wildflowers. There are serious threats […]
Celebrate Spring from the Top of Bernheim’s Historic Fire Tower
March 30, 2017 By |
We are all enjoying the wonderful spring weather and many of us are spending more time outside and enjoying the wonders of Bernheim. We are pleased to expand the hours the Fire Tower will be open to our visitors. Effective this Saturday, April 1, we will have the tower open from 11 a.m. – 4 […]
Nature’s Notebook: Bernheim’s Historic Fire Tower, 88 Years of Service
February 9, 2017 By |
I spend nearly every weekend (and more than a few weekdays) in Bernheim’s historic fire tower. This tower has a long and important history that I enjoy sharing with our visitors. The initial land purchase for Bernheim Forest was made by Isaac W. Bernheim in 1928. This was the first step in fulfilling an idea […]
Natures Notebook: The Leaf That Refuses to Fall
January 20, 2017 By |
This time of year I like to take a leisurely hike through the woods whenever the weather permits. I find the forest to be uniquely beautiful and peaceful. The pace of many of the animals has slowed, the wildflowers have stopped producing their bouquets, and the leaves have fallen from the trees. Except, some haven’t. […]