Increasing Habitat Management Resources at Patoka Lake

In the morning sun of a perfect fall day, Brian Finch guides Patoka Lake’s new flat-bottom boat across the glistening water of the 8,800-acre lake. With a few fish structures and guests aboard, he excitedly explains the opportunities the watercraft has created. The purchase was made possible by a grant from our partners at TC Energy. The third grant awarded to the INRF and DNR in the last few years will impact the property’s habitat and outdoor recreation opportunities for years to come.

Once the boat reaches a desired spot near the shore, Finch, Patoka Lake’s assistant property manager and wildlife specialist, prepares a fish structure before tossing it overboard where it will sink around 20 feet to the bottom. The structures are made of recycled scrap materials that local businesses donated. After being formed within a concrete base, the structure is ready to be sent to the bottom of the lake.

Finch drops a fish structure into Patoka Lake.

Finch estimates that invertebrates and algae will cover the structure within a year, creating healthy habitat for the lake’s many fish species. Commonly used in lakes around the country, the structures provide spaces for fish and other species to nest and spawn. The new boat plays a critical role in improving that process and many others.

“Investing in equipment, like this boat, that typically lasts for many years will result in multiple habitat restoration projects, not just one,” Finch said. “This will in turn improve recreational opportunities and conservation education initiatives that can be sustained over time.”

While we spent the morning dropping fish structures in the lake, Finch expressed excitement about the many other activities the boat will assist with, one of which is the application of prescribed fire. Used to manage invasive species and improve diversity, prescribed fire is a vital tool at Patoka Lake, something that previous TC Energy grants have also supported.

“We are committed to fostering a sustainable future by investing in organizations that protect species-at-risk and important wildlife habitats, says Trevence Mitchell, Manager of Social Impact at TC Energy. ” We are proud to partner with the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation to fulfill this commitment within the Patoka Lake community by preserving fish habitats.”

Brian Finch (Indiana DNR), Chris Hopf (TC Energy), and Erika Janak (INRF) with the resource boat.

Using the boat, the resource management team can more easily reach remote areas along the water’s edge. Whether through prescribed fire or other means, this access gives them more resources in combatting invasive species. Non-native phragmites is one such species trying to get a foothold at the lake according to Finch. The boat can carry important equipment such as tanks and battery pumps to help combat these aggressive wetland plants.

From building healthier habitats that will support improved fishing and birding opportunities to creating more public access through maintenance of infrastructure like boat ramps, piers, and buoys, Finch appreciates the boat’s versatility.

“Ultimately, this boat helps us work more efficiently and strategically, ensuring that our conservation efforts make a lasting impact while also enhancing the public’s experience of these natural areas,” he said. “This aligns perfectly with Indiana State Parks mission to conserve, manage, and interpret our resources while creating memorable experiences for everyone.”

The support of our dedicated partners and donors makes our work of celebrating and preserving Indiana’s natural legacy possible. If you’re inspired to help us expand and protect Indiana’s natural resources alongside Indiana DNR, please consider donating to the INRF.