KRS 146.410: Purpose of system of nature preserves.

(1) All areas within the borders of the Commonwealth, except those which are

expressly dedicated by law for preservation and protection in their natural condition,

are subject to alteration by human activity. As part of the continuing growth of the

population and the economic development of the Commonwealth, it is necessary

and desirable that the overall impact on the natural ecology be considered when

major alterations are proposed affecting same, and that certain areas of unusual

natural significance be set a side and preserved for the benefit of present and future

generations. Such unique areas are valuable as laboratories for scientific research, as

reservoirs of natural materials not all of the uses of which are now known, as

habitats for plant and animal sp ecies and biotic communities, as living museums of

the native landscape where people may observe nature's web of life and our natural

heritage, as places of historic and natural interest and scenic beauty, and as

reminders of the vital human dependence upo n fresh air, clean water, and unspoiled

natural areas.

(2) It is therefore the public policy of the Commonwealth of Kentucky to secure for the

people of present and future generations the benefits of an enduring resource of

natural areas by establishing a system of nature preserves, protecting these areas and

gathering and disseminating information regarding them, establishing and

maintaining a registry of natural areas, and otherwise encouraging and assisting in

the preservation of natural areas and features.