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.
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