Legacy Trail

Recently the Conservancy met with engineers and designers from Stand Associates and CBA to discuss options for including drystone elements along the multi-use trail being developed in Lexington leading up to the 2010 World Equestrian Games. We got into the planning stage right at the beginning, so there's a strong chance that drystone will show up along the trail. Visit the Legacy Center social networking site to learn more about this great public trail development!

Grants

In 2008, the Conservancy received a grant of $3,500 from the Kentucky Arts Council to design and install interpretive signs at River Park in Frankfort, KY to educate visitors about the drystone resources in the park. Since 1999, the Conservancy has partnered with the Kentucky Folklife Festival to demonstrate the traditional craft of dry-laid stone masonry. In that time, we have built seven structures at the park, but until now, they've had no signs to interpret them. The Conservancy also submitted a letter of inquiry to the 1772 Foundation to apply for a $50,000 grant to fund a rock fence repair initiative here in the Bluegrass. We received positive early response, but may not be able to apply until April of 2009. Keep your fingers crossed!

Rock Fence Preservation Grant Program

It's official! A state level grant program now exists to assist landowners with rock fence preservation. The administrative regulations have been approved, and the law is now on the books. The only problem is, there's no money in the program! So, during the 2009 legislative session, we will work to educate legislators about the importance of this program. The program is administered by the Kentucky Heritage Council, and is a huge step forward toward preserving our rich heritage.

More Than a Rock Campaign

In November the Conservancy launched a postcard awareness campaign, "More Than a Rock". The message of the campaign is a simple one - to raise local awareness of historic drystone resources in the Bluegrass. Six different cards will be mailed throughout 2009.

Annual Campaign

I know it's rude to ask for money right after we were introduced, but that is what's going on right now with the Conservancy. We just launched our annual campaign to raise operating funds, and we appreciate your donations in any amount. Please visit our website to learn more!

My First Post

Welcome to the first post on our blog. I am the Executive Director of the Conservancy. I started this job a little over one year ago, and in the span of time until now I have learned so much that i didn't know about our shared history in rock. I created this blog to track local preservation efforts, and to report on activities that we are involved in. Please make sure to add your comments, and enjoy the blog!