Mayor Greenberg will be announcing the new JMF Master Plan on April 10th, 2026. The Master Plan will be posted online for public viewing on that day.

Go to the Home Page of this website to view the plan after April 10th, or follow this link: JMF Master Plan.

We understand that hearing gunfire or explosions can be alarming, especially for nearby residents and visitors who come to Jefferson Memorial Forest to enjoy the outdoors.

Jefferson Memorial Forest is surrounded by a mix of public and privately owned land, and many nearby residents own large rural properties. In these areas, recreational target shooting may be legal when conducted on private property and in accordance with local and state laws.

Under Louisville Metro Ordinance § 135.03, it is illegal to discharge a firearm:

• Within 300 feet of a public roadway or alley, or

• In the direction of an occupied structure.

That said, any activity involving explosives or unsafe behavior should always be reported to the Louisville Metro Police Department so it can be evaluated based on the specific circumstances.

Jefferson Memorial Forest staff are aware of these concerns and continue to coordinate with other Louisville Metro agencies when issues are reported. Public safety is taken seriously, and we encourage anyone who feels unsafe or observes potentially dangerous activity to report it to authorities so it can be appropriately addressed.

No. The guiding principle of the Jefferson Memorial Forest Master Plan is preservation.

The plan is intended to protect the forest while making thoughtful improvements that enhance access, safety, and stewardship for people who visit the forest today and in the future.

An ecological analysis was conducted as part of the planning process to ensure that any proposed improvements do not negatively impact sensitive ecosystems, critical wildlife habitat, or natural resources. New infrastructure is intentionally sited in areas with already built infrastructure where possible, and designs emphasize minimal footprint, sustainability, and long-term environmental health.

The Master Plan does not propose development throughout the forest. Instead, it focuses on:

• Preserving large, intact natural areas

• Improving and maintaining existing trails and facilities

• Enhancing visitor experiences in ways that support conservation, education, and responsible use

The goal is to ensure Jefferson Memorial Forest remains healthy, protected, and accessible — now and for generations to come.