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The Parklands

Staff Spotlight: Jared Smith

What is your role?

My role at The Parklands is focused around the preservation and restoration of the natural areas. This may encompass many different things, from preventing erosion on Floyds Fork to restoring sections to a forested landscape. 

How does your team help to keep The Parklands safe and beautiful?

We work to keep The Parklands safe by minimizing the effects of the rising and lowering of the fork that can cause erosion over time by installing riparian buffers and erosion control plants. We work to help maintain the diverse and colorful meadows that can be found throughout the park, keeping The Parklands beautiful. 

What are you most proud of in your work?

I am most proud of the work I do in the preservation of the multitude of diverse ecosystems that are under the pressure of urbanization and development. 

What inspires you to come to work every day? 

My inspiration to come to work every day comes from the belief that what I do is worthwhile and contributes to the greater good of conservation and maintaining a biodiverse planet.  

Which trail would you recommend to visitors and why?

I would recommend the Wild Hyacinth Trail in Turkey Run Park. This trail has amazing beauty through most of the spring when it is filled with wildflowers. The trail offers a unique beauty throughout the year as it follows Turkey Run Creek up into the heart of Turkey Run Forest.  

Which section of The Parklands is your favorite and why?

My favorite section of the Parklands is Turkey Run Park. I love the opportunity to wander thru the woods and admire all the different species of plants that can be found within. 

In your opinion, what makes The Parklands worthy of support?

The Parklands is a worthwhile cause to support for it ensures that a piece of Kentucky before the arrival of settlers is preserved while encapsulating the history that brought us to this point. 

How would you say “Thank You” to someone who donates to The Parklands, or who is thinking about donating?

Thank you so incredibly much for becoming or thinking about becoming a Member of The Parklands. With your contribution, you not only ensured the enjoyment of the parks for yourself but for generations to come. 

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