Press release from FIND Outdoors:
FIND Outdoors, formerly the Cradle of Forestry Interpretive Association, announces Clay Wooldridge as the new Operations Director for the Cradle of Forestry in Pisgah National Forest upon the opening of the Cradle’s 2020 season.
“The Cradle of Forestry is such an important institution for the history of not only our community but for our country,” Executive Director Natalie Britt explains of the transition, “We’re excited to see how Clay and his staff can expand upon the fantastic work that former Director Devin Gentry has accomplished in offering visitors an exciting look into the history of Pisgah and the Appalachian culture.”
The Cradle of Forestry is a 6,500-acre landmark in Pisgah that was home to the Biltmore Forest School, the first school of forestry in America, led by Dr. Carl Schenck. The site offers paved interpretive trails, an exhibit hall that tells the story of the origins of the school, tours, programs and events for the public that range from crafting demonstrations to old-time Appalachian music to school and summer programming for children and adults.
Wooldridge, formerly the Cradle of Forestry Manager, was well suited to make this transition thanks to his background as a field instructor and school teacher for many years. About this transition, Wooldridge responded, “I feel honored to be given the opportunity to lead an institution as important as the Cradle of Forestry through a difficult time and find its place in what will come after.”
Due to the challenge presented by COVID-19, the site will be closed until further notice. Wooldridge points out, “We look forward to serving our community and visitors with quality programming and events when we reach the other side of this challenge”. To keep in touch with the Cradle of Forestry and find updates on its status, please go to www.cradleofforestry.com or follow our page on Facebook for the Cradle of Forestry.
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