The overarching goal of the UK Forestry and Natural Resources Extension program is to provide current, applicable, information on the sustained use and management of the state’s forest and natural resources to elevate the quality of life of the people of Kentucky. This goal is especially important because nearly half of Kentucky is considered forestland. In recognition of the positive impacts the UK Forestry and Natural Resources Extension program has had we received the 2018 National Family Forests Comprehensive Education Award which was jointly presented by the National Woodland Owners Association and the National Association of University Forest Resources Programs. This national award recognizes a family forest education program that is a combination of educational materials, media, courses, workshops, events and/or electronic media, including applied research that supports those efforts.

The national award recognizes effective programs that address any or all aspects of forest resources management including silviculture, forest health, harvesting, forest and estate planning, business management and marketing. UK Forestry and Natural Resources Extension has developed a comprehensive family forest educational program that is solutions-based and strategically designed to deepen our engagement with and cultivate more involved family forest owners. Through strategic coordinated partnerships, innovative and diverse educational programs, and applied research we extend our reach to family forest owners across Kentucky. This is especially important because these family forest owners control over 9 million acres or more than 73 percent of Kentucky’s forests.

UK Forestry and Natural Resources Extension programs are designed to provide a wide variety of entry points for families owning forestland in Kentucky and to offer them the opportunity to progress as their knowledge levels and management interests increase. Our family forest educational programs are designed to promote the sustainable management of the forest resources of Kentucky and beyond by strategically delivering solutions to the challenges and issues faced by family forest owners. Our Extension program also won this national award in 2009 marking the second time in the last ten years that UK Forestry and Natural Resources Extension has won this national award.