The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service in Bullitt County is situated on 19 acres off Highway 44 surrounded by a few farm fields, a small neighborhood and about 4 acres of forest. The property also hosts a few acres of hayfields, a meadow restoration project site, an orchard, several garden plots, and landscaping that was recently renovated to incorporate more native plants. All of that adds up to be a relatively biodiverse ecosystem and habitat that provides many opportunities for community members to encounter nature within a suburban setting. 

Aspiring maple producers utilized the nature trail to observe Bullitt County Extension's Sugar Bush and Maple Tapping Demonstration Area.In order to bring Bullitt County community members into even closer contact with the natural surroundings, the Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent (ANR Agent) invited Scouts BSA Troop 81 to clear a path for a nature trail in the forest surrounding the building. An Eagle Scout Candidate from Troop 81 practiced leadership skills and completed his rank requirements by directing a group of youth and adult volunteers on one intense work day. 

Youth from Scouts BSA Troop 81 in Shepherdsville, KY clear debris to establish a nature trail.7 Youth and 4 Adults gathered on a Saturday in September 2024 to clear a 1/8th-mile trail through the woods. The ANR Agent then mowed another 1/8th mile path through the adjacent hayfield connecting the wooded trail to the site of a meadow restoration project initiated by the Horticulture Extension Agent and Horticulture Assistant. Connecting multiple microbiomes (forest, managed hayfield, restored meadow, mowed lawn) with walking paths has allowed community members to encounter their local flora and fauna up close. 

Through a continuing partnership with Scouts BSA Troop 81, other Extension Agents, and Bullitt County Master Gardeners, Bullitt County Extension plans to enhance the trail with educational signage identifying plants, insects, fungi, and wildlife and explaining the importance of the varied habitats. Additionally, future enhancements will include bird feeders, trail cameras for wildlife, and an outdoor classroom space. 

The trail has already been used in conjunction with other programs of the Cooperative Extension Service. The path traverses through the maple tapping demonstration area for better viewing and provides ample opportunities for birdwatching class attendees to get outside. 4-H Agents and Master Gardeners also plan to host classes along the trail in the coming years as well.