Success StoryLong Term Tornado Recovery Tree Give Away



Long Term Tornado Recovery Tree Give Away

Author: Shane Bogle

Planning Unit: Caldwell County CES

Major Program: Tornado Response and Recovery

Plan of Work: Local Commodities Provide Agriculture Income

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Almost a year after the devastating tornado tore through Princeton, KY, the community transformation has been a positive one. A locally led recovery team has focused on the immediate needs, but at the same time with forethought to facilitate the long term sustainability of a thriving community. Caldwell County Extension has been honored to set on the Caldwell County Long Term Recovery Team and contribute to multiple areas of recovery.  A noticeable consequence of the tornado is the massive loss of trees in the community.  We easily see the mass destruction of large acreage of forestry but what about the urban forestry?  The 200 year old oak tree that stood in the yard of a stately multigenerational home is irreplaceable and much more than a simple "dollar value" to that family and community. Urban forests are dynamic ecosystems that provide critical benefits to our communities. Replacing these trees in city limit subdivisions was listed as one of the many priorities. Caldwell County Extension partnered with the KY Division of Forestry and the Arbor Day Foundation to provide a native tree give away to community members affected by the tornado.  20 species totaling over 500 high quality trees were available for "adoption" on our Saturday distribution day.  Forestry and Extension staff were on hand to answer questions and help participants choose the best tree and provide care and site requirement information for each tree. The Extension office parking lot was utilized.  The event was scheduled for a 4 hour period but trees were gone in less than an hour. Community members present were more than appreciative.  Stories were shared, tears were shed and a community continues to rebuild one step at a time. 






Stories by Shane Bogle


Waste Tire Amnesty

about 4 months ago by Shane Bogle

It is estimated that 4,000,000 waste tires are generated annually in Kentucky, and many are stockpil... Read More


GAP and tobacco production, together for the better.

about 4 months ago by Shane Bogle

Diversification of agriculture enterprises has been a hot topic in Kentucky for many years. Many are... Read More


Stories by Caldwell County CES


Cloverbud Club offers opportunities for 5-8 year olds

Cloverbud Club offers opportunities for 5-8 year olds

about 4 months ago by Rhonda Jewell

The primary goal of the Cloverbuds program (youth ages 5-8) is to promote childrens healthy developm... Read More


Kentucky 4-H Summit

Kentucky 4-H Summit

about 4 months ago by Rhonda Jewell

Kentucky 4-H Summit seeks to engage middle school aged youth and retain their involvement in 4-H act... Read More