The Daniel Boone National Forest's size is measured in two ways: its proclamation boundary covers 2,100,000 acres (8,500 km²), while the actual Forest Service managed area spans 706,000 acres (286,000 ha).
Understanding the Forest's Dimensions
When assessing the size of the Daniel Boone National Forest, it's important to distinguish between two key measurements that define its scope and managed land.
Proclamation Boundary
The larger figure, 2,100,000 acres (8,500 km²), represents the proclamation boundary. This is the total area designated by official decree for the national forest. Within this boundary, there can be a mix of federal land managed by the Forest Service and private landholdings. It essentially defines the outer limits within which the Forest Service has the authority or long-term interest in land management and acquisition to further the goals of the national forest.
Forest Service Managed Area
The figure of 706,000 acres (286,000 ha) refers to the Forest Service managed area. This is the actual federal land owned and administered directly by the U.S. Forest Service. This acreage is the public land that visitors can typically access for recreation and where most forest management activities, such as timber harvesting, wildlife management, and recreation site maintenance, occur.
Key Facts About Daniel Boone National Forest
Located entirely within Kentucky, USA, the Daniel Boone National Forest was officially established on February 23, 1937. It is renowned for its diverse landscape and significant ecological role, offering:
- Rich Biodiversity: Providing essential habitats for a wide array of plant and animal species, contributing to regional ecological health.
- Extensive Recreational Opportunities: A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities including:
- Hiking on numerous trails
- Camping in designated campgrounds and backcountry areas
- Fishing in its rivers and streams
- Boating on its scenic waterways
- Distinctive Appalachian Landscape: Characterized by rugged terrain, steep cliffs, narrow ravines, and forested slopes, showcasing the natural beauty of the Appalachian region.
Area Breakdown
For a clear overview, here are the primary area measurements for the Daniel Boone National Forest:
| Measurement Type | Acres | Square Kilometers (km²) | Hectares (ha) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proclamation Boundary | 2,100,000 | 8,500 | Not specified |
| Forest Service Area | 706,000 | Not specified | 286,000 |
For more detailed information about the forest, you can explore the Daniel Boone National Forest Wikipedia page.
