The Sycamore Land Trust has announced the creation of Barnebey Woods, a new 160-acre nature preserve in Owen County.
Karl Barnebey and Laura Fredendall sold the land to the Sycamore Land Trustat half its market value in what is known as a charitable bargain sale.The Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ President Benjamin Harrison Conservation Trust provided financial support.
The Sycamore Land Trust is a non-profit organization that preserves land and restores habitat in southern Indiana.
Barnebey Woodswill be preserved permanently John Lawrence, Sycamore’s executive director, expressed gratitude to the donors.
“It just goes back to how wonderful it is that Karl and Laura wanted to protect their land,” he said. “(They) took the first step in calling us and were willing to make a donation of value to make the preservation happen.”
Barnebey Woods holds significant ecological importance because it connects to the Owen-Putnam State Forest, forming part of a 7.5-mile protected corridor.
This corridor is crucial for wildlife migration, providing a safe passage for animals and ensuring long-term survival of various species in the region. The preserve is also home to a mature upland forest, rare native plants, and unique geological features, all of which contribute to the area's biodiversity.
Lawrence highlighted the importance of this type of forestbecause it’s becoming increasingly rare.
“A forest that has grown back to an older state and is in a more natural condition without major impacts from nonnative invasive species is unusual and very significant,” he said. “ Barnebey Woods is that.”
