For the first time, the University of Kentucky’s Robinson Forest will throw open its gates to the public for a day of family fun and educational activities. The Robinson Forest Field Day will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDT June 3.

Robinson Forest is part of the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Managed by the UK Department of Forestry in cooperation with the Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability, the forest is a collection of eight tracts totaling 14,800 acres on the Cumberland Plateau in southeastern Kentucky. It is one of the largest research and educational forests in the eastern United States.

“A lot of people aren’t sure what we do in the forest,” said Chris Osborne, forest manager. “This is our chance to raise the veil and show everyone how the research our scientists do here and the education that results from that research is relevant to the whole region. Robinson Forest is not a park or recreational site. Instead, it is an extremely important outdoor laboratory for understanding how our land use affects timber production, wildlife, water, soil and air quality and the region’s ecosystem as a whole. We would love for people to join us to learn more about us.”

Osborne said the they are filling the day with interesting activities for the entire family. Smokey Bear will make an appearance, and UK foresters will lead guided tours to the fire tower, talking about many of the studies being done along the way. Other activities will include a “critter” tent, birds of prey, aquatic exploration, a build-your-own cutting board workshop, student research presentations and a chance to learn to identify tree species. There will also be a free lunch.

Robinson Forest Camp is located at 617 Clemons Fork Road in Clayhole. Signs will direct visitors to the camp.