Clay Hill Memorial Forest consists of about 305 acres. Oak
and hickory
dominate on
the drier upland sites. American beech and maple dominate on
wetter
sites. The forest is accessible by 5-miles
of trails that vary in grade from gentle to difficult and
in length from 1-3 miles.
Facilities include a small
arboretum with
identified trees and a trail that teaches students about
ecological
succession. There are several springs, two small streams and an
old pond with an observation pier. In addition to forests,
there
is a tall grass prairie, prairie
wildflowers and a walnut tree plantation.
The Joan White Howell Environmental Education Center and pavilion are
our main teaching facilities. The Center is a fully
equipped classroom/laboratory suitable for about 25 students.
The center houses a 250-gallon aquarium, a tropical butterfly
display, modern classroom equipment including computers, high
speed internet, a full array of field equipment,
and a
greenhouse. The
pavilion is of shelter house design and is large enough
to seat
100 students. Both the pavilion and center are
served by a
constructed wetland wastewater treatment facility.
Also we
have two small amphitheaters that seat 75 students and a
gazebo with plaques describing to history
of Clay Hill Farm.
The Kentucky Utilities Alternative Energy Facility demonstrates solar and wind energy. This is a hands-on facility where children can learn how electricity is made from renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. Solar energy provides the electricity for our James Sanders White Lumber Drying Kiln and for our lighting our maintenance building.
Our newest structure is the Ken Weddle Center for Sight Impaired Children. This center features hands on exhibits and a sculptured bench, made of clay, sand, and straw where students can see with their hands. For more information about any of our facilities, follow the links
below or contact us directly.
