Indiana DNR Awards Over $1.1 Million in Grants to Boost Local Lake and Stream Projects

Photo byabc57

In a significant move to enhance the state's natural water resources, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has awarded over $1.1 million in grants through the Lake and River Enhancement (LARE) program. The funding will support vital restoration projects across 12 Indiana counties, including notable efforts in Kosciusko and LaGrange counties.

Among the recipients, Kosciusko County will see Crooked Creek receive $50,000 and Deeds Creek $100,000, both earmarked for critical stream restoration efforts. In LaGrange County, Witmer Lake has been granted $24,000 for shoreline restoration, aimed at preserving and improving the lake's ecosystem.

The LARE program, which is funded by fees paid annually by Indiana boat owners during the registration of their watercraft, continues to demonstrate its value in enhancing the state's aquatic habitats. According to DNR officials, these grants are particularly impactful, as they enable the completion of projects that local organizations might otherwise find financially challenging to undertake alone. Notably, these grants are awarded on a competitive basis, with local sponsors required to contribute at least 20 percent of the project costs.

"Hoosier boaters play a crucial role in supporting the health of our lakes, rivers, and streams," said Amanda Wuestefeld, Director of DNR Fish and Wildlife, the division responsible for administering the LARE program. "These grants allow us to collaborate directly with local communities to enhance habitats for fish and wildlife, ultimately creating a richer experience for all who enjoy our state's natural waterways."

In this round of funding, a total of 13 water bodies—comprising four lakes and nine rivers and streams—will benefit from the grant awards. Additionally, five land-based projects aimed at watershed land treatment practices have been funded, in partnership with local soil and water conservation districts. These initiatives are designed to reduce sediment and nutrient inputs, thereby improving water quality, which in turn supports healthier fish and wildlife populations across Indiana.

These projects are set to make a lasting impact on Indiana's natural landscapes, reinforcing the state's commitment to preserving its water resources for future generations.