After an informative introduction by the Community Interest Chairman, Layla George, the President and CEO of Olmsted Parks Conservancy, gave a talk about the history, mission and endeavors of the Conservancy. 

Louisville is home to 17 Olmsted Parks and 6 Parkways, connecting nature and neighborhood while strengthening the community’s well-being.  In 1891 Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of landscape architecture, envisioned the parks for Louisville.  Olmsted also designed New York City’s Central Park, the Biltmore Estate Grounds and the U.S. Capital Grounds.  This year the Conservancy is celebrating Frederick Law Olmsted’s 200th birthday.

Layla also discussed that the Conservancy purchased approximately 25 acres from the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary for the Beargrass Preserve at Cherokee Park.  They plan to demolish the outdated buildings on the site and create a blank slate for the community’s vision for the property.

Layla went into detail about their volunteers and all they do in the parks.  One of the main maintenance duties is removing highly invasive plants so that the native plants can grow.  Various types of invasive plants and methods to remove them was discussed.

Many of the members shared their fond memories as children and enjoying the local parks.

Also discussed were the significant events and projects in the parks.  For more information about upcoming events visit their Website at https://www.olmstedparks.org/.

Below is a map of the parks.

View a list of WCSM upcoming programs and events. Click Here

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