Expanding Indiana’s Public Lands

Indiana’s public lands are growing. Recently, 158 acres of upland prairie and wetland were added to Mallard Roost Wetland Conservation Area (WCA), thanks to the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation and our dedicated partners and donors. As one of the INRF’s largest land acquisition efforts, this project showcases our ability to make a long-term impact on Indiana’s public lands by moving quickly on unique opportunities.

The new area of Mallard Roost, named the Buchanan Unit in honor of the previous property owners, was made possible through the collaboration of multiple groups. Northeast Indiana Conservation Partnership and Preservation, a collection of longtime INRF donors and conservationists, provided the largest share of private contributions for the purchase. The National Wild Turkey Federation also provided financial support.

“It’s incredible to see partners come together and move on this opportunity so quickly,” said Dericke Lavoine, property manager at Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area, within which the unit lies. “This acquisition really makes an impact on this property and creates important habitat.”

The Next Level Conservation Trust (NLCT) also made this and will make future acquisitions possible. As the largest single infusion of state dollars into conservation in Indiana history, the NLCT will provide resources for Indiana DNR to continue its dedicated work of preserving and protecting Indiana’s public lands.

Sitting along the south branch of the Elkhart River in Noble County, the now 918-acre Mallard Roost WCA will provide even more conservation and recreation opportunities after the Buchanan Unit opens to the public next year. The property came up for auction in mid-2022. Surrounded by Mallard Roost WCA on three sides, it was a perfect fit for the INRF to step in and make the acquisition in support of Indiana DNR and the expansion of Indiana’s public lands.

“Growing public lands is critical for wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation opportunities and more,” said Jody Kress, INRF executive director. “Creating a mechanism that helps Indiana permanently protect its natural spaces is exactly why our Foundation was created.”

The important work of supporting Indiana’s public lands continues after the purchase is made. The property is already benefiting from vital habitat improvements as the Northeast Indiana chapter of Pheasants Forever spent time planting prairie grasses and wildflowers over 42 acres last fall.

While Lavoine anticipates that the addition of the Buchanan Unit’s upland habitat will attract pheasants and quail, it’s already home to numerous other wildlife species. Both deer and turkey are abundant, for example. The unit also features a small pond that will offer anglers more quality fishing opportunities.

In the future, Lavoine and other Indiana DNR staff will strategically manage the unit’s wildlife habitat. Prescribed fire is one tool that property staff will use. Fire is an important resource in managing grassland habitat because it mimics natural disturbances that eventually improve the habitat. DNR staff will also institute invasive species management practices to help native species thrive on the unit.

This property is one example of the critical work the INRF, Indiana DNR, and our partners do in support of Indiana’s public lands. Through land acquisition efforts, conservation projects, and educational programming, we are celebrating and preserving Indiana’s natural legacy.

If you want to support expanding Indiana’s public lands and other important conservation projects, consider donating to the INRF today.