Nearly 6,000 black walnut trees were planted on this land by Rolleigh and Patricia Peterson as an investment. Patricia sold the property to the Commonwealth and Louisville Metro in 2008 after he husband and daughter had already passed away. By making it a park, it will serve as a legacy of her family for many generations to come.
Making this property even more interesting is that it is located on the beautiful Floyd's Fork River which is the centerpiece of a new greenway plan that will include many new common greenspaces and parks, as well as new town centers and villages. As a result, the portion of the Fork bordering the property has now been permanently protected. The forest will also be connected to the forthcoming Louisville 100-mile Loop Trail that will encircle the entire Metro area. It is intended that this property be used for research and educational purposes, a public park, and remain a working walnut plantation.
Black Walnut trees are valued for their wood and nuts. They are large trees that grow to be 50-75' tall with a spread of equal size. The wood is dark, heavy, and extremely strong, but is easy to work with as it splits easily. Nuts are processed and sold commercially for consumption. One large walnut tree can sell for lumber for thousands of dollars making it a good long term investment if you don't mind waiting 40+ years. Black walnuts are also toxic to many plants and also horses.
If you are interested in planting trees, visit Arbor Day for information and to purchase tree saplings.
For sources and to learn more, visit: Kentucky Division of Forestry and Kentucky Personnel Cabinet.
No comments:
Post a Comment