Our Biodiversity Trail is a living example of Toyota Kentucky’s ongoing efforts to support the unique balance of native plants, animals and ecosystems here in Georgetown, Kentucky. This system currently is comprised of five distinct paths, and covers over 1.8 miles.
Solidago shortii, commonly known as Short’s goldenrod, is one of the rarest plants in the world. In the 1800’s Short’s goldenrod was found throughout the Midwest. Changes in vegetation due to development and fire suppression dramatically reduced the species.
Other than a population near the Blue River in southern Indiana, all documented occurrences of this species currently are found within a two-square-mile area around Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park covering portions of three counties (Fleming, Nicholas and Robertson) in Kentucky.
Morizukuri
Toyota Kentucky is committed to the concept of “Morizukuri”, which is a Japanese concept that means “to create a forest” by planting groupings of several trees and grasses in a single spot. Morizukuri is often used to help offset disturbances to nature.
Toyota’s commitment extends beyond the Biodiversity Trail – team members and friends of the trail have planted native species in their own backyards. Here’s a map showing the location of some trees that Toyota has given away:
Pollinator gardens at Toyota Kentucky are planted with native flowers that attract a wide range of native pollinating insects such as Monarch Butterflies and Bees.
Pollinators are vital to creating and maintaining the habitats and ecosystems that many animals rely on for food and shelter. Worldwide, pollinators HELP the reproduction of 90% of the world’s flowering plants.
All organisms living along this trail depend on the Cattail Lake ecosystem for life. An ecosystem is made up of living and non-living things, all of which depend on each other, exchanging energy and nutrients.
Plants and algae depend on sunlight, water, and nutrients in the soil, while insects consume the algae and plants. Fish and frogs eat the insects, while mammals and birds feed on the fish and frogs. Finally, dead organic matter decomposes into nutrients for the soil.
Species identification is very important for the conservation of biodiversity. In an ongoing effort to ensure we’re protecting the surrounding natural habitats, Toyota Kentucky has recognized the Great Blue Heron as an indicator species of interest and good condition at our site.
Great Blue Herons are the largest herons in North America and will eat almost anything it can swallow, including fish, frogs, snakes, and even other birds.
Toyota team members across North America participate in species protection projects as part of Wildlife Habitat Council® (WHC) certification programs. WHC helps us evaluate animal species on our sites and identify appropriate habitat creation and enhancement projects.
