UK forestry students assist in reforesting former mine site in Hazard

HAZARD, Ky. (May 8, 2025) — University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (CAFE) students joined forces with Green Forests Work, Suntory Global Spirits and The Nature Conservancy in their existing efforts to reforest land throughout Kentucky. This project is part of a four-year collaboration dedicated to enhancing environmental sustainability.

The students who attended are currently learning under Christopher Barton, professor of forest hydrology and watershed management in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources. This class, Soils and Hydrology at Robinson Forest, is where Barton makes hands-on instruction possible.

“We cover topics like water quality, stream morphology, hydrology, soil classification and stream ecology to examine how differing land use practices influence environmental quality,” Barton said.

While Barton’s students are used to working outside the classroom, the opportunity in Hazard was unique. The planting allowed them to see a recently decompacted, reclaimed mine; participate in the restoration; interact with Martin-Gatton CAFE stakeholders; and learn more about the importance of white oak sustainability.

“I especially enjoyed meeting new people and contributing to the reforestation of a former surface mine,” said Amber DuFour, a student in Barton’s class. “It felt rewarding to be part of a project that not only restores the landscape but also supports a larger environmental initiative.”

At Martin-Gatton CAFE, students are encouraged to stretch the mold and create their own definitions of agriculture. While some may not consider forestry a large part of agriculture, the forestry industry touches all people, whether it be through wood products in the home or the deep breaths taken while walking the dog. In Kentucky, the preservation of the white oak trees is the only way to keep fresh bourbon on shelves.

“It is very fulfilling to see the students get that ‘ah-ha’ factor when they realize how the material that they have been learning in their courses on campus is applied in a real-world situation,” Barton said.

One of the forestry students who attended the planting, Anna Ackerman, said the class made up only a small fraction of the volunteers that day. She enjoyed bonding with the other groups over their shared love of preserving and enriching the environment.

“It was great to be giving back to the Earth, especially to help reforest an area that was impacted by mining and other practices,” Ackerman said. “As humans, if we remove a resource from the Earth, the least we can do is put one back — although I would consider forests something more than just a resource.”

For more information on the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/.