Since 1992, the Land Between the Lakes Woodlands Nature Station has welcomed thousands through its doors, showcasing the flora and fauna not only of its neighboring Honker and Hematite lakes but also of western Kentucky and its natural habitats.
The property, however, needs a critical update.
And, rest assured, it’s coming.
During Wednesday morning’s quarterly Land Between the Lakes Advisory Board meeting, Orlando’s Sally Coyle of Coyle & Caron, along with Trace’s Jenn Trompetter of Charlottesville, Virginia, unveiled a sprawling three-phase architectural, zoological, historical, and anthropological remodel of the site.
Already a refuge and rehabilitation facility capable of housing the region’s rarest creatures, the goal, officials said, is to become the nation’s second-ever federally owned property to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums — behind only The National Zoo in Washington, D.C.
To say there is excitement about this project might unduly downplay the seriousness and time required to secure what is now an official master plan.
Just ask John Pollpeter, long-time Nature Station director.
click to download audioJim McCoy, LBL’s area supervisor, said everything to this point has sprung from a “crazy idea” — a notion of simply offering a facelift, to this full-on creative endeavor.
click to download audioFederal funding has been secured for “Phase 1,” which Coyle confirmed will begin with a refitting of the outer “Riverlands” ring of the property. This will include a new enclosure for the red wolves, a new enclosure for the addition of black bear, a crop of river cane, and full acknowledgment of a nearby unmarked African American burial ground — created around the time Center Furnace was operating between the rivers more than 150 years ago.
“Phase 2,” known as “The Refuge,” will include a new aviary for turkeys, falcons, quails, cranes, eagles, and owls, as well as a new river otter pad, a new grassland for older elk, and a home for bobcats.
“Phase 3” and “Phase 4,” she added, will involve “The Backyard” and “The Learning Center” expansion, as well as further walking trail development. This will include adding a conference space, a new “mouse house,” more restrooms, a wraparound observation deck, some lower-level storage, and a concession stand.
Current limited ADA compliance, as well as the few options for kid-friendly sensory-suppressed spaces, are also expected to be addressed, as is the lack of access points for staff to complete maintenance and husbandry tasks around the campus.
Coyle noted there is “no timetable” on this remodel, but that a printed master plan will be ready by the end of February.
