Event raises awareness about threats to conservation land
Several community organizations came together to organize a peaceful rally today to bring greater awareness to the threats facing Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. The goal of the rally was to help the public understand the imminent threats that are being posed to the pristine and protected 16,000-plus-acre forest. The event took place in Jefferson Square Park in Louisville.
Organizers focused on an LG&E natural gas pipeline and a proposed Interstate 65-71 Regional Connector that threaten the integrity of Bernheim Forest. This proposed seizure of conservation land ignores easements that have been put in place to protect the biologically diverse land. These threats, should they become a reality, will have an irreversible impact on Bernheim’s wildlife, clean air and water, visitors, and the quality of life throughout the surrounding communities.
Bernheim would like to thank the following organizations for holding the rally and showing their support for protecting forest land: Cultivating Connections, First Unitarian Church in Louisville, Thomas Jefferson Unitarian Church in Louisville, Greater Louisville Sierra Club, Kentucky Conservation Committee and 350 Louisville.
Bernheim needs the support of the general public to help eliminate these threats. For those who would like to learn more, there are several upcoming opportunities to attend a nearby “Forest Under Threat” roadshow, and join the fight to #SaveBernheim. More information can also be found at www.ForestUnderThreat.com.