Lake and River Enhancement Program Helps Fund Improvement of Local Bodies of Water

Hamilton County is due to receive funding to improve Stony Creek and Morse Reservoir as part of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Lake and River Enhancement (LARE) program. The county will receive $40,000 to improve stream design for Stony Creek and $100,000 for sediment removal in Morse Reservoir.

A total of twenty Indiana counties will receive funds for improving local bodies of water, thanks to $1,291,900 in grants awarded by DNR Director Dan Bortner through the LARE program.

The grants will cumulatively fund projects benefiting seven lakes and 17 rivers and streams across Indiana. Most of the projects aim to improve water quality by addressing sediment and nutrient inputs into lakes and streams. Improved water quality helps maintain sustainable fish and wildlife populations as well as improve recreational opportunities in Indiana.

One new wetland construction and one wetland enhancement project will be completed with this round of grants, creating around 25 acres of wetlands. Wetlands have many beneficial functions including flood retention, water filtration, and providing critical habitat for a variety of birds, amphibians, and reptiles.

LARE grants are funded through the annual LARE fee paid by boat owners when they register their watercraft with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. This user-funded program benefits boaters all over the state. The grants allow for the completion of projects that would be difficult for local organizations to fund on their own. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis, and local sponsors share a portion of the cost.

The list of projects by water body, county, project type, and grant award can be found at lare.dnr.IN.gov.