Real places. Real experiments. Real learning.
Appalachia Science in the Public Interest maintains working demonstrations of sustainable living at two locations in Kentucky: our Rockcastle River Wilderness Site and our Small Town Demonstration Center in Mount Vernon.
ASPI’s demonstration sites are where ideas move from theory to practice. These are working landscapes where sustainable systems are tested, refined, and shared with the public.
Instead of reading about solutions, you can see them, walk through them, and understand how they function in a real Appalachian context.
Our demonstrations span renewable energy, water, food production, shelter, and low-impact sanitation, grounded in science and adapted to real-life conditions in Appalachia. A deeper technical background on many topics is available in our technical paper series.
For decades, ASPI has built and maintained hands-on demonstrations of appropriate technology and sustainable living; working systems you can observe, learn from, and, in many cases, walk through with staff or during scheduled programs.
What You’ll Find Here
Each demonstration site highlights a different aspect of sustainable living. Together, they show how systems connect—energy, food, water, and land use working as part of a whole.
Across these sites, you may encounter:
- Renewable energy systems in everyday use
- Forest-based agriculture and land stewardship practices
- Soil and water conservation strategies
- Native plant restoration and ecological management
- Low-impact living techniques that can be adapted at home
These are not controlled lab environments. They are lived-in, evolving spaces shaped by real conditions and long-term observation.
Sites at a glance
- Rockcastle — river, forest, trails, nature center
- Mount Vernon — small-town campus, gardens, workshops
Visit Info
Access is often by appointment or during scheduled events and open houses. Check the calendar and contact ASPI before visiting.
Our Sites
Our Small Town Demonstration Center in Mount Vernon, Kentucky, shows how sustainable systems can fit into a community-scale setting. It complements Rockcastle with installations and gardens that are easily accessible to local visitors, workshops, and partners.
Examples of demonstrations and features include:
- EV charging station
- Solar panels
- Solar hot water heater
- Organic garden and orchard
- Herb garden
- Composting
- Resource library with original publications, books on sustainability, and technical papers
The Rockcastle River Wilderness Site is a large demonstration and education property along the Rockcastle River. It is home to the Mary E. Fritsch Nature Center, demonstration buildings and systems, gardens, and hiking trails that tie the site together for visitors and students.
For over 45 years, Appalachia Science in the Public Interest has used this site to research, demonstrate, and share low-cost sustainable technologies and land stewardship practices. Programs and resources developed here serve communities across Appalachia, with a focus on reducing dependence on non-local food and energy systems.
Plan your visit
- Groups and schools: Ask about field trips, service learning, and tailored visits through Programs or Contact.
- Individuals and families: Start with the Rockcastle and Mount Vernon sections, then confirm dates and any requirements on the linked resource pages or the events calendar.
- Research and media: Use Contact so we can route you to the right staff member.
Support This Work
ASPI’s work is made possible through community support, partnerships, and shared commitment to a more sustainable future.