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.
This pond ecosystem is home to a variety of plants, insects, fish, frogs, birds, and mammals, all connected through the exchange of energy and nutrients. Plants and algae depend on sunlight, water, and soil nutrients, while animals throughout the food chain rely on one another for survival. Through the natural process of decomposition, nutrients are returned to the soil, helping sustain the life and balance of this important ecosystem.
Cho’s Pond serves as both a thriving habitat and a reflection of Toyota’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, education, and community connection. It was named in honor of Fujio Cho, the first president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), whose leadership helped shape Toyota’s presence in Kentucky and around the world.
Once towering over the landscape, this Chinkapin Oak was a cherished part of Toyota Kentucky’s biodiversity trail and a remarkable example of Kentucky’s native forests. Chinkapin Oaks are known for supporting wildlife by providing shelter and acorns for birds and mammals, while also contributing to cleaner air and healthier soil.
Although our oldest and largest Chinkapin Oak fell after over 300 years of growth, we continue to celebrate its life and ecological significance. Today, we’re nurturing the smaller Chinkapin Oaks along the trail, hoping they will one day grow to be just as magnificent.
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.
Have you seen the Great Blue Heron, or other interesting wildlife, while hiking the Biodiversity Trail? As part of Toyota Kentucky’s Wildlife Habitat Council Gold certification, we are monitoring wildlife in the area.
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.
