By Andrew Berry
821-Acre Rattlesnake Run Wildlife Corridor Protected with Conservation Easement
Bernheim has secured a conservation easement on the 821-acre Rattlesnake Run Tract, protecting a vital stretch of forest that links Bernheim to nearby natural lands in central Kentucky. This newly protected area, owned by a neighboring landowner, strengthens a growing network of wildlife corridors that are essential to the region’s biodiversity and ecological health.
Located in the forested knobs of Nelson County near Boston, the Rattlesnake Run Wildlife Corridor connects mature forests, streams, springs, and upland ridgelines. These natural features create important habitat for golden eagles, bobcats, endangered bats, migratory birds, and rare native plants. The property also safeguards the entire forested headwaters of Hurricane Hills Lake, a major waterbody in the Wilson Creek watershed. Streams from this area flow into the Rolling Fork and Beech Fork Rivers, supporting clean water and healthy aquatic ecosystems connected to places like the John C. Williams Wildlife Management Area and Fort Knox.
The Rattlesnake Run conservation easement has been 15 years in the making. Partnerships with neighboring landowners and groups such as the Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund and the Kentucky Natural Lands Trust have been key to its success. Bernheim extends deep thanks to everyone who has supported these efforts while recognizing there is still more work ahead.
This easement advances Bernheim’s core conservation priorities of protecting land, water, and wildlife. It also reflects a broader vision to ensure healthy, connected natural systems throughout the greater Bernheim and Louisville region. As Bernheim approaches its centennial, the organization remains committed to working with local landowners and regional partners to safeguard the ecological heritage of central Kentucky.
The success of the Rattlesnake Run conservation easement highlights the power of long-term partnerships. Collaboration among conservation organizations and private landowners helps create a resilient, connected landscape that provides clean air, clean water, and thriving wildlife for generations to come.
