Kentucky is 48% forested and is known as having one of the most diverse hardwood species mix in the nation. Kentucky’s woodlands are vital, providing homes to a wide diversity of wildlife, protecting our water resources, and supplying clean air. In addition, the forestry sector contributed an estimated $14.6 billion in total economic contribution in 2015 and provided over 28,400 jobs in the forest industry and more than 57,000 jobs overall.

The Rockcastle County 4-H Homeschool Club participated in a forestry series focused on preserving forest habitats and utilizing local resources. During this series, the club utilized the 4-H Forestry Project: Introducing Yourself to Trees manual to learn about how trees grow, types of trees, and characteristics of leaves. While the club members hiked through Daniel Boone National Forest, they practiced identifying trees based on the information that they had learned.

4-H Homeschool Club members were able to accurately identify native trees and make a collection of their leaves. They have compiled their collections of 10 native leaves into a book where they will be exhibited at the Brodhead Little World’s Fair in August.