NEWS & NOTES vol.2 no.1 - Elkhart County Parks

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

NEWS & NOTES
 vol.2 no.1

Our Mission  Administration Office
 Hours: Mon–Fri / 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ( Closed weekends & County holidays )
 Office Location: 211 W. Lincoln Avenue, Goshen, IN 46526-3280
 i n s p i r i n g
 Phone: 574-535-6458
 connections

 k with
 k Park Hours ( Subject to change without notice )

 culture & nature Jan / Feb / Nov / Dec Apr / Sept
 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
 Mar / Oct May / Jun / Jul / Aug
 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
 Note: Boot Lake Nature Preserve closes one hour before all other parks.

 yc
 Rec led
 Elkhart County Parks

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 211 W. Lincoln Ave.
 Goshen, IN 46526-3280

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 Pos su

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 E N E R G Y t- C o n
 PHONE / 574-535-6458
 FAX / 574-535-6616 News & Notes is responsibly printed.
 TDD / 574-535-6420

 WEBSITE / elkhartcountyparks.org
 EMAIL / parksinfo@elkhartcounty.com
 Let's keep
 DIRECTOR / Ronda DeCaire in touch. + /e l k h a r tc o u n t y p a r k s
 DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PARK
 OPERATIONS / Bernard J. Cunningham IV vi s it  elk ha r tcou nt y pa rks.org
 DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF INTERPRETIVE
 SERVICES / Dr. Kelby Rose

 Elkhart County
 Worth Sharing

 Parks Board

 / Photos by (clockwise from top) : Ellen Stevens, Carbon Gull,
 Michael Wesco, Audrey McGuire, Mark McGuire, and Johnathan Wesco II.
 PRESIDENT / Larry Andrews
 VICE PRESIDENT / Klaus Mueller
 SECRETARY / Karin Frey
 MEMBERS / Jeff Burbrink,
 John Hardy, Karen Mackowiak,
 & Will Wilson
 Elkhart County
 Council Members
 DISTRICT 1 / Douglas S. Graham
 DISTRICT 2 / Randall D. Yohn
 DISTRICT 3 / Darryl J. Riegsecker
 DISTRICT 4 / David L. Hess
 AT LARGE / Adam Bujalski
 AT LARGE / Thomas Stump
 AT LARGE / Tina Wenger

 Elkhart County Board
 of Commissioners
 PRESIDENT / Suzie Weirick
 VICE PRESIDENT / Frank R. Lucchese
 MEMBER / Brad Rogers

 Friends of the Elkhart Nature can sometimes throw you
 County Parks Board showstoppers, like this breath-
 On the Cover

 MEMBERS / Judy Ferrell, Larry Ford, taking Luna Moth found by hawk- #elkhartcountyparks
 Patricia Frank, Kay Bontrager-Singer eye observer, Brenda Hawkins Facebook/Instagram
 in Ox Bow County Park. Wow!
 What a spectacular find! x
2 news & notes | s p r i n g / s u m m e r ’2 1

LETTERS from our desks
 DIRECTOR
 RONDA DECAIRE
 Spring brings routine and you continue to visit often. Fund. Catherine Metzger gifted the Park
 hope. Budding Increased users means the need for Board unrestricted funds when she passed
 trees. Emerg- upgrades as well. We have a busy year away in early 2019. Cathy had a deep love
 ing flowers. ahead with Master Plan projects to for all things nature and was always full
 A time for get started including development of of wisdom. She was an ordinary woman
 renewal. Corson Riverwoods County Park, expan- who left an extraordinary gift (read
 As we move sion of kayak facilities at Six Span Bridge, more about her on page 12). The seed
into summer I hope we can continue to replacement of a wetland boardwalk at she planted will grow into a perpetual
blossom into a healthier community and Ox Bow, installation of new restrooms, endowment fund to support programs
see signs the pandemic is behind us. shelter roofs, and completion of several and projects. You can help the Legacy
One thing we can celebrate from 2020 is the feasibility studies. All of these require Fund via the Community Foundation of
rise in number of park users. Staff noticed multiple resources, staff, and grants, and Elkhart County who will match it 25% (your
cars full of families, many dog walkers, we appreciate the support of our partners. gift of $100 becomes a gift of $125!).
and people getting a healthy workout. I’m also excited about the establish- Your support is
We hope the parks and trails have become ment of an Elkhart County Parks Legacy always appreciated.
a part of your daily, weekly, or monthly

INTERPRETIVE SERVICES PARK OPERATIONS
KELBY ROSE BERNARD J.
 CUNNINGHAM IV
Every day, I am humbled
by the knowledge and
passion of the Interpretive be focused on keeping areas of
Services staff. Although the our parks accessible, and new
pandemic has shaken up the construction and repairs will open
ways we typically engage areas that have been closed off
with the community, we and allow for a greater usable
have embraced the chal- area for visitors to spread out.
 I encourage anyone who is Spring and Summer of 2021 will
lenge of seeking new ways Some of the projects we will
 curious about local culture bring some changes in our usual
to inspire connections to be focusing on this spring and
 and nature to reach out to a maintenance and upkeep of park
local culture and nature. summer are replacement and
 member of the Interpretive properties. With Covid still firmly
This time apart has been Services team and let us know in our community, people are a repair of large boardwalks, new
especially difficult because what you would like to learn little less inclined to use public roofs on two shelters, repair-
we thrive on the energy and more about. You can start restaurants, gyms, entertainment, ing of the Goshen Dam, and
curiosity of our community. with me – send me an email at and even schedule vacations. very likely new bathrooms
Talking with park visitors, krose@elkhartcounty.com The parks, in turn, have seen in Ox Bow County Park.
birding enthusiasts, amateur – I would love to hear what significant increase in attendance As we continue to work in these
historians, and nature geeks you are curious about and filling in as a replacement. This challenging times, please commu-
of all ages gives us a steady your ideas for recreation increase has us regularly evaluat- nicate any concerns or sugges-
stream of new ideas for experiences in the parks. ing our custodial and mainte- tions you have in how the Parks
programs, events, and experi- nance needs, as well as changing Department can better serve
ences that respond to the priorities. Cleaning will increase this community.
interests of the community. as things open to prevent the
 spread of Covid. Projects will

 elk hartcount y par k s .org 3

SNAP
 BY MICHELLE NASH, CURATOR OF COLLECTIONS
 OF THE
 The Elkhart County Historical Museum houses our

 MU S E UM
SHOTS
 community’s largest collection of local history
 artifacts and documents. Museum collections

 COLLECTIONS require specialized care to ensure they are
 preserved and accessible for future generations.
 Here are some recent snapshots of that work.

 COLLECTIONS WORK DURING A PANDEMIC

 W
 Though the museum was closed Quarantining new donations has
 to the public for several months always been the practice for the
 due to the pandemic, we contin- safety of the collections, to make
 ued to accept and process new sure no mold or pests are brought
 donations to the collection. To into collection storage, but now it
 facilitate a contactless transfer, is useful for keeping the staff and
 staff met with donors outside of donors safe too.
 the museum’s quarantine room.
  PHOTO: CONTACTLESS TRANSFER

 2020 DONATIONS
 Despite the pandemic, or per- artifact donations in 2020 than
 haps even because of it, with any of the last nine years! Dona-
 folks staying home and going tions of yearbooks and other high
 through their family keepsakes, school memorabilia were espe-
 the Elkhart County Historical cially frequent this year as well as
 Museum received more new collections of photographs.
 PHOTO: NEW DONATIONS IN PROCESS

 HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPH DRIVE
 In 2021, the Elkhart County photographs from the underrep-
 Historical Museum launched resented communities of Benton,
 an active collecting initiative Dunlap, Foraker, Jimtown, Locke,
 to bring more balance to its Middlebury, Midway, Millersburg,
 historic photograph collection. Nappanee, New Paris, Simonton
 The museum seeks to represent Lake, Southwest, Vistula, Waka-
 the whole county, but its collec- rusa, or Waterford Mills, please
 tions tend to skew to the larger consider donating them to the
 cities and the town of Bristol where museum and help us tell a more
 PHOTO: RECENTLY DONATED PHOTOGRAPH OF THE NAPPANEE
 HIGH SCHOOL BAND POSED IN FRONT OF THE SCHOOL. the building is located. If you have complete story of Elkhart County!

 For more info, contact Curator of Collections Michelle at
 " 574-848-4322 – OR –    % michelle@elkhar tcount yhistor y.org

4 news & notes | s p r i n g / s u m m e r ’2 1

g

Wetland
 BOOT LAKE

 wonders
 g g

 OX BOW

 BONNEYVILLE MILL
 5 BY KRISTA DANIELS 
 INTERPRETIVE NATURALIST
 6
The Elkhart County Parks are rich with amazing water resources such as fens, ponds and marshes – all of which are
wetland-types teeming with life and biodiversity. Even though each wetland has unique qualities, they all provide these
same great benefits: water storage during rain events to prevent flooding, filtration of excess nutrients and pollutants
before going downstream, habitat for many species of plants and animals (including very sensitive and endangered
ones) and recreational spaces for people. Now, let’s take a closer look at a few of these amazing assets to our county…

 )BOOT LAKE
 NATURE PRESERVE ) ) OX BOW
 COUNTY PARK )
 BONNEYVILLE MILL
 ) COUNTY PARK )
 HYDRIC PEATY MUCK FLAT FEN VERNAL POND
Boot Lake was once a kettle lake formed by A "fen", or "wet prairie", is a unique Vernal ponds are temporary pools of
glaciation. Over the years, it has gradually and wetland type characterized by a water, usually appearing in the spring,
naturally filled in, creating an ecosystem called continuous flow of cool ground- that are short lived and dry up later
a hydric peaty muck flat. This type of wetland water into an open sunny location in the year. They are a very distinctive
forms when soils are very wet and plants along a slope. As the water bubbles type of wetland, usually devoid of fish.
decompose very slowly, leaving behind incred- out of the ground, it saturates the This is vital for the safe and successful
ibly rich soils. These soils support a wide array soil, which over time develops into a breeding of some of our local amphi­
of wetland species, including the rare Purple thick layer of peat. From this “springy” bian species, like the Eastern Tiger
Bladderwort and the endangered Blanding’s peat layer, grows a diverse collection Salamander. Without these vernal
Turtle. National Audubon Society has named of plants perfectly suited to live in ponds, the numbers of amphibians
Boot Lake Nature Preserve an “Important Bird this wet environment. The runs, or able to survive to the adult stage of
Area” due in part to this very unique wetland streams, from this constant source their lifecycle would be drastically
which provides a much-needed sanctuary for of groundwater can be seen flowing diminished. Many invertebrate species,
many resident and migratory birds, including from the fen into the river all year like the Fairy Shrimp, also thrive in
the majestic Sandhill Crane. long, even in drought conditions. these small but mighty wetlands.

 elk hartcount y par k s .org 5

MEET VISITOR
BRETT MITCHELL
B y Co ur t n e y Fr a n ke , Mi ll M a n a g e r

 Let's catch up with Brett who
 has been hiking the parks
 since their establishment.

 Q: What draws you to outdoor
 activities and parks?

 A: I have always enjoyed
 outdoor activities involving
 nature since growing up in the East PHOTO: COURTNEY FRANKE AND BRETT MITCHELL AT HIKING CLUB IN OX BOW COUNTY PARK

 Goshen neighborhood. I enjoy

 Q: Q:
 parks because they are properties Tell us a little about your What physical barriers
 preserved for the enjoyment of quest to hike the entire challenge your love of hiking?
 nature. I like the variety of terrain in Pumpkinvine Nature Trail.
 those parks and nature preserves.

 A: I had walked most sections A: The barriers I face are my disability,
 and some of the trails and terrain

 Q: How long have you been enjoy- of the Pumpkinvine Nature in the different park properties.
 ing the Elkhart County Parks? Trail multiple times before 2020,
 but there were 2 sections I had

 A: Since Ox Bow opened in
 the late 1960s; the others
 as I was introduced to them.
 not walked before. One was the
 section from CR 37 to MM 9 –
 the other was from CR 28 to

 Q: How long have you been CR 26/CR 31. Since there are
 involved with the Hiking Club? no parking trailheads at either
 end, I had to be dropped
 A: Since it started in 2015. I have
 attended 33 of the 44 hikes
 held since then.
 off at CR 26, and walked one
 way back to Abshire Park.

 PROGRAMS + EVENTS
 ALL IN ONE PLACE:

FAUNA OF
 15
 • EASTERN GARTER SNAKE
 • BUTLER'S GARTER SNAKE

 ELKHART COUNTY • RIBBON SNAKE

 SNAKE SPECIES
 • NORTHERN WATER SNAKE
 • QUEEN SNAKE

 ELKHART COUNTY IS HOME TO SOME TRULY INCREDIBLE CREATURES, • KIRTLAND'S SNAKE
 • DEKAY'S BROWN SNAKE
 BIG AND SMALL. FROM THE PRAIRIES TO THE FORESTS, OUR BEAUTIFUL
 • RED-BELLIED SNAKE
 NATURAL LANDSCAPES PROVIDE A BUSTLING ECOSYSTEM OF LOCAL WILDLIFE. • BLUE RACER
 HERE ARE SOME COOL FACTS ABOUT SOME OF OUR COUNTY'S AMAZING FAUNA. • BLACK RAT SNAKE
 • EASTERN MILK SNAKE
 • RING-NECKED SNAKE

 300
 COOL FACT:
 SPECIES

 • BIG BROWN BAT • EASTERN HOGNOSE SNAKE
 ELKHART COUNTY'S • INDIANA BAT • EASTERN MASSASAUGA

 8
BIRD
 25th ANNUAL • LITTLE BROWN BAT RATTLESNAKE
 CHRISTMAS
 BAT • NORTHERN LONG-EARED BAT

 SPECIES
 BIRD COUNT • EASTERN RED BAT

INCLUDING:
 TALLIED A GRAND
 TOTAL OF 23,105
 •
 •
 EVENING BAT
 HOARY BAT C O O L F A C T:
 BIRDS AND A
33 SHOREBIRDS 37 WATERFOWL • SILVER-HAIRED BAT
 RECORD-BREAKING T HE L O N G E S T SNAK E
20 SPARROWS 50 STATE- 86 SPECIES FOR THIS
25 RAPTORS
 ENDANGERED
 /THREATENED
 REGION'S COUNT COOL APART FROM THE BIG BROWN BAT,
 A L L SPE CIE S LISTED HERE ARE
 IN E L K H A R T C O U N T Y
 (AND THE STATE) IS THE
36 WARBLERS
 (BEATING THE PREVIOUS
 RECORD BY 4 SPECIES). FACT: STATE-ENDANGERED THREATENED. OR
 BLACK RAT SNAKE –
 IT CAN GROW OVER 7 FT!

 5 20
 17 • AMERICAN BEAVER
 OUT OF

 • WHITE-FOOTED MOUSE

RODENT 85 FISH
 • DEER MOUSE
 • PRAIRIE VOLE
SPECIES • MEADOW VOLE
 S P E C I E S
 • WOODLAND VOLE
• EASTERN CHIPMUNK F E D E R A L LY- E N D A N G E R E D & ELKHART COUNTY SUPPORTS • GREATER REDHORSE

 3
• GROUNDHOG • SOUTHERN BOG LEMMING
 STATE-ENDANGERED • NORTHERN
• 13-LINED GROUND SQUIRREL • NORWAY RAT T HRE AT E NE D WIL DL IF E SPECIES OR S P E C I E S O F BROOK LAMPREY
• EASTERN GRAY SQUIRREL • SOUTHERN FLYING SQUIRREL OF INDIANA CAN BE ENCOUNTERED SPECIAL CONCERN • LONGNOSE DACE

 2
 • HOUSE MOUSE
• RED SQUIRREL IN ELKHART COUNTY:
• EASTERN FOX SQUIRREL • MEADOW JUMPING MOUSE
 • NORTHERN LONG-EARED BAT
 COOL COLD-WATER
 TROUT STREAMS
COOL THE BEAVER IS THE LARGEST • INDIANA BAT FACT: FLOW THROUGH THE
 RODENT IN NORTH AMERICA • WHOOPING CRANE ELKHART COUNTY PARKS: COBUS CREEK
FACT: AND SECOND IN THE WORLD! • EASTERN MASSASAUGA RATTLESNAKE & THE LITTLE ELKHART RIVER.

 11 SALAMANDER SPECIES OF THE2678
 •
 •
 •
 EASTERN TIGER SALAMANDER
 SPOTTED SALAMANDER
 JEFFERSON’S SALAMANDER
 •
 •
 •
 FOUR-TOED SALAMANDER
 REDBACK SALAMANDER
 WESTERN LESSER-SIREN
 BEETLE SPECIES
 •
 •
 BLUE-SPOTTED SALAMANDER
 SMALLMOUTH SALAMANDER
 •
 •
 MUDPUPPY
 UNISEXUAL/TRIPLOID HYBRID
 IN INDIANA,
 1/2 FOUND
 • EASTERN NEWT
 CAN BE
COOL FACT: ELKHART COUNTY IS HOME TO THE LARGEST
L A ND - DW E L L ING S A L A M A NDE R IN NOR T H A ME R IC A – T HE
EASTERN TIGER SALAMANDER CAN BE UP TO 13 INCHES LONG! IN ELKHART COUNTY

B O N N E Y V I L L E M I LL f
 53373 C.R. 131
 B ristol , IN
 Business hours
 Wednesday– S unday
 10 a . m . – 5 p. m .
 M ay– O ctober

 f
 Phone
 574.825.9324

I J
 f
 Spelt

K L
8 news & notes | s p r i n g / s u m m e r ’2 1

Y the water E y BY COURTNEY FRANKE

 powers bonneyville
 · MILL MANAGER ·

 that
 XMill X
 O n any given day, Bonneyville
 Mill visitors often repeat
 similar questions. Where is the  “big”
 wheel? Does the mill still run?
 Where are the grind stones? Do you
 still make all the flour here? One
 aspect of the mill and its opera-
 tion that is rarely questioned is
 how the water is brought into the
 mill where it is needed to turn the
 water wheels. A complex water
 system that includes the dam, mill
 pond, head race, control gates, pit
 and tail race are essential to the
 operation of Bonneyville Mill and
 help create its scenic atmosphere.

Establishing reliable Feedlot Shelter, you will construction of the dam
water delivery to the cross the channel that and mill race were as
wheel is critical in the brings water from the laborious as constructing
planning and construc- mill pond over to the mill. the actual mill building.
tion of a water powered The section of this chan- Today the mill race
mill. Most often, this is nel that flows under the seems like a natural
achieved by diverting a foot bridge and brings extension of the Little
natural source of water a supply of water to the Elkhart River. Many
into an engineered mill is called the "head different animals and
waterway. Bonneyville race". Once the water plants make the mill
Mill uses the Little reaches the mill, turbine- race their home. Fish,
Elkhart River as its style water wheels frogs, turtles, ducks, and
source of power. harness the power of geese are common in
If you walk the Levee moving water to turn and around the mill race.
Trail at Bonneyville, grindstones and power Last summer there was
you walk on, over, and the mill’s machinery. a very large snapping
around the rubble dam The water flowing away turtle that made a regu-
that was constructed from the mill in the tail lar appearance in the tail
to “pile up” water in race rejoins the river just race behind the mill.
the mill pond, creating below the mill.
 On your next visit, make
stored energy to turn The entire mill race was sure to take time to
the water wheel. If you excavated using hand appreciate the mill race
venture across the foot tools and mule powered and everything it adds to
bridge that leads from slip scoops in the 1830s. the beauty and function
the main parking lot to It’s thought that the of Bonneyville Mill.

 elk hartcount y par k s .org 9

Nature's Calendar
 SPRING • The best time to harvest sap for making maple syrup
 is in early spring when daytime temperatures are
 in the 40’s and nighttime temperatures are below
 freezing. This is called maple sugaring season.

 • The wet days of spring allow amphibians to journey
 to a suitable wetland habitat to breed and lay eggs.
 With no fish present to prey on their eggs, spring’s
 vernal pools are a great place to see amphibians.

 • April and May each contain one of the year’s three
 supermoons. A supermoon occurs when the moon
 is at its closest point to earth, or “perigee”. During
 perigee, the moon is about 226,000 miles from earth.

 • By May, Baltimore Orioles and Ruby‑throated
 Hummingbirds will have migrated back to Elkhart
 County from as far south as Central America. Both
 bird species like their meals on the sweet side, so be
 sure to have your nectar and orange feeders ready.

• Elkhart County is home to several carnivorous
 plants, one of which is the Northern Pitcher Plant.
 This plant lures insects into its digestive juices
 with purple, pitcher-shaped leaves and a sweet
 smell. Its large flower blooms in early summer.

• June Beetles, sometimes called “June Bugs”, are
 named for when they emerge from the ground.
 These beetles hatch underground and feed as larva
 and pupa for 2 years before emerging as adults.
 June beetles are nocturnal and very attracted to
 light, making them routine porch light visitors.

• Even though all mammals have sweat glands, not all
 of them have enough to effectively cool off in the
 summer heat like humans can. Many mammals beat
 the heat by being nocturnal or staying sheltered in the
 shade during the day, like Gray Foxes and Raccoons.

• During the months of August and September,
 be on the lookout for harmless Freshwater Jellyfish.
 These small, 5-25 mm-sized translucent creatures
 have sporadically appeared in bodies of water
 all over Indiana, including in Elkhart County. SUMMER

10 news & notes | s p r i n g / s u m m e r ’2 1

— J u s t    a d d —
WATE R
 E x perience the g reat outdoor s f rom a dif ferent per spective
 paddling throug h Elkhar t Count y’s scenic water ways. Whether
 by canoe or kayak, our region’s network of rivers and canals of fer
 unspoiled scenery to traverse on your next streamside adventure.

 EXPERIENCE LEVEL: Beginner

 OX BOW LAUNCH AT: Boat launch near
 – C O U N T Y PA R K– Fisherman’s Camp Shelter
 GPS: 41.6317, -85.9019
 This stretch provides a great short-trip
 ROUTE 1 [ FOR A SHORTER RIDE • 6.5 MI ]
 experience for paddlers of all skill levels.
 END AT: Elkhart Environmental Center
 Watch for Barred owls as you launch
 GPS: 41.6669, -85.9450
 from the starting point and listen for the
 ROUTE 2 [ FOR A LONGER RIDE • 7.7 MI ]
 tapping of woodpeckers among the old
 END AT: Studebaker Park
 trees that line the shore.
 GPS: 41.6764, -85.9508

EXPERIENCE LEVEL:
Intermediate–Advanced
 SIX-SPAN
 – B R I D G E –
ROUTE [ 5.2 MI ]
 The Six-span site provides easy access to
LAUNCH AT: Hermance Park the St. Joseph River. At the halfway point
Bristol (Boat Ramp) (2.6 mi), on your right, scan the treetops
GPS: 41.7230, -85.8146
 for the giant nests made by a colony of
END AT: Six-Span Bridge (Boat Ramp) Great Blue Heron. This river system can
GPS: 41.7059, -85.8880 be heavily used by boaters, so paddling
 experience is recommended.

 EXPERIENCE LEVEL: Advanced

 RIVER PRESERVE ROUTE 1 [ FOR A SHORTER RIDE • 1.7 MI ]
 LAUNCH AT: Benton Spillway (Parking Lot)
 – C O U N T Y P A R K –
 GPS: 41.5006, -85.7700
 For an all-day adventure, paddle through
 END AT: Benton Hydro (Fishing Pier)
 peaceful woodland corridors and country-
 GPS: 41.5060, -85.7990
 side canals along the Little Elkhart River.
 Access sites are dotted along the river in ROUTE 2 [ FOR A LONGER RIDE • 3.5 MI ]
 a linear formation, providing some of the To continue from Route 1, put-in 30 yards west
 at the forest trailhead, below the dam and falls
 longest water trails within the Elkhart County
 Parks system. As you meander along these LAUNCH AT: Benton Hydro (Below Dam & Falls)
 gentle waterways, keep your eyes open for GPS: 41.5059, -85.7995
 wildlife, like River Otter, basking turtles, and END AT: Baintertown Hydro
 colorful songbirds in spring and summer. GPS: 41.5202, -85.8202

PLAN AHEAD
 ADDITIONAL
WEAR A LIFEJACKET It's the law!
CHECK LOCAL REPORTS Since conditions on the water
 RESOU RCES
 INDIANA DEPARTMENT
 ü ELKHART COUNTY WATERWAYS ALLIANCE
 facebook.com/Elkhart-County-Waterways-Alliance-173410066698783
change dramatically with the seasons, always make OF NATURAL RESOURCES PADDLE MICHIANA
sure to check the weather forecast before heading out. in.gov/dnr/outdoor/4236.htm facebook.com/groups/paddlemichiana

 elk hartcount y par k s .org 11

CATHY'S LEGACY By Ronda DeCaire, Director

 S ome teachers stand above others.
 Environmental educators can always
 tell when those teachers plant the extra
 answer questions and pass out biscuits
 to their dogs. She made new friends and
 one regular visitor even taught Cathy how
 and Recreation Board made the decision
 to invest her gift. The Elkhart County Parks
 Legacy Fund will soon be established with
 seed in a child by sharing their love for to ice skate and kayak for the first time in the Community Foundation of Elkhart
 nature and the outdoors. her life. County. Cathy’s gift will be a perpetual
 Cathy was instrumental in starting a book source of support to the Elkhart County
 Catherine Metzger was one of those
 club at the park, assisting with Nature Nuts, Parks and is one last seed she was able to
 teachers. Cathy had a Master’s Degree
 and wondering how ‘we could do things plant to connect people with nature.
 in Special Education from IU and was a
 teacher for more than twenty years with better’ with programs and repairs. She
 the Elkhart Community Schools. One thing was full of ideas she shared with fellow x If you would like to help grow Cathy’s
 she enjoyed throughout her career was staff. She also often surprised them with a gift and contribute to the Elkhart County
 connecting students with animals and written thank you note of her appreciation. Parks Legacy Fund, please reach out to
 plants during field trips to area nature the Elkhart County Parks administra-
 When Cathy passed suddenly in February
 centers and county parks. tion staff at 574-535-6458 or visit the
 of 2019, the hearts of co-workers, custom-
 Community Foundation of Elkhart County
 After early retirement and caring for her ers and good friends were broken. She was
 at: inspiringgood.org
 parents and sister, Cathy once again remembered for the special moments and
 wanted to make connections with people joy she brought to people.
 and nature. In 2014, she registered for the Cathy not only left good memories, she
 Elkhart County Indiana Master Naturalist left a legacy. Cathy graciously gifted her
 class and was delighted by the close-knit estate to three Michiana organizations that
 connections she made with like-minded connect people with animals and nature.
 individuals. Attending meetings, volun- The Elkhart County Parks was honored to
 teering, and using her skills to explore her be one of those recipients. In July 2020,
 own land and area parks became her favor- Tammy Tidey, a past co-teacher, friend,
 ite pastime. and estate trustee presented the Elkhart
 When a position opened as a gate atten- County Parks and Recreation Board with a
 dant at Ox Bow County Park, Cathy applied check for more than $190,000.
 and happily accepted. Her fantastic In the spirit of Cathy’s planning for the
 customer service became well-loved by future and wishes to assist with programs PHOTO: TAMMY TIDEY (R) PRESENTS PARKS BOARD
 visitors. She was always thrilled to help and projects, the Elkhart County Parks
 PRESIDENT, WILL WILSON, WITH A CHECK.

12 news & notes | s p r i n g / s u m m e r ’2 1

HELP US
 GROW
 Has the Elkhart County Parks
 touched your life in some way?
 Maybe there's a park you love to
 visit, or a fun event you fondly
 remember, or a workshop that
 taught you something new.

 If these are experiences
 you value, consider
 showing your support.

 Þ
 G I V E
 T ODAY
 FOR A BRIGHTER
 T O M O R R O W.

 100% of your gift will be
 used to create a stronger

 VOLUNTEER
 and sustainable Elkhart
 Co unt y Parks system.

 SPOTLIGHT:
 CARLOS R. NEGRON VEGA
 By Andy Langdon, Interpretive Naturalist

We would like to thank Carlos Owl nesting boxes throughout stone National Park saying there
for his hard work and dedication Ox Bow and plans to build more are so many animals to see here.
to our parks. Carlos’s journey for other species of birds. Although his health has slowed
began in summer 2020 when he him down recently, he plans to Please mail
 When asked why he enjoys checks payable to:
visited Ox Bow County Park for continue his work in whatever
 volunteering, Carlos replied Friends of the
the first time. Since then, he has way he can. Thank you, Carlos,
 “This is my community, my Elkhart County Parks
worked with both the naturalist for your unfailing dedication to
 home and my backyard”. He
and operations staff maintain- our community, Ox Bow County ï Address:
 says he loves the people and
ing trails, picking up litter, and Park and for the wildlife here in 211 W. Lincoln Ave.
 the animals – especially the
finding tangible ways to help Elkhart County. We all appreci- Goshen, IN 46526
 Barred Owls! He even compared
the wildlife. Carlos built and ate you so much.
 Ox Bow County Park to Yellow-
installed three beautiful Barred
 elk hartcount y par k s .org 13

park information

 Come experience the Elkhart County Parks! Each site offers fantastic recreational opportunities–from scenic hikes
 to family picnics. Discover more about our park sites on our website at elkhartcountyparks.org/destinations

 Boot Lake Nature Preserve Ox Bow County Park
 51430 C.R. 3 • Elkhart, IN Acres: 300 23033 C.R. 45 • Goshen, IN Acres: 200
 Experience the natural beauty of Mere minutes from Elkhart and
 Boot Lake now restored to its former Goshen, Ox Bow County Park offers
 natural state of wetland, forest, and countless ways to make the most out
 prairie habitat. The state-dedicated of your visit–from nature programs
 nature preserve hosts a wide variety and woodland hikes to archery and
 of plants and wildlife. disc golf, you’ll be spoiled for choice
 on what to do next.

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 Bonneyville Mill County Park Pumpkinvine Nature Trail
 53373 C.R. 131 • Bristol, IN Acres: 222 1302 E. Lincoln Ave • Goshen, IN Miles: 16.5
 A unique blend of regional history The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail is
 and natural beauty can be found a linear park and greenway on
 at Bonneyville Mill County Park. the former Pumpkinvine railroad
 Gently rolling hills, woodlands, corridor. Take a stroll or bike ride
 marshes, and open meadows through lush woodland corridors
 form a perfect background for surrounded by rolling farmland on
 picturesque Bonneyville Mill. this scenic 16-mile trail running
 from Goshen to Shipshewana.

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 X è )

 Cobus Creek County Park River Preserve County Park
 30680 C.R. 8 • Elkhart, IN Acres: 84 67380 C.R. 29 • New Paris, IN Acres: 358
 Spend the day by the creek and take in Historic canals, dams, and foundations
 the natural beauty of the region in this blend seamlessly with wild beauty in
 local Elkhart gem. Once farmland, the this vast linear park that runs along
 park now features a diverse landscape, the Elkhart River. Get away from the
 including a Sensory Garden, restored crowds, and let your inner-explorer go
 prairie, woods, wetlands, and a cold wild for these timeless landscapes rich
 water trout creek for which it is named. in history and natural splendor.

 X è )
 : ) X

 DeFries Gardens Treasure Island
 17477 C.R. 46 • New Paris, IN Acres: 13 56226 Armour Ave. • Elkhart, IN Acres: 4
 Nestled in River Preserve County Located on the banks of the lower
 Park, DeFries Gardens is a reminder St. Joseph River, Treasure Island
 of our human connection to the offers a place for visitors to relax
 environment. Explore seasonal and enjoy nature. The park is closed
 gardens of ornamental flora and in winter from December thru March
 native plant collections at this (dependent on weather conditions).
 picturesque property.

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 X 

14 news & notes | s p r i n g / s u m m e r ’2 1

park information

 Bonneyville Mill Elkhart County Historical Museum
 53373 C.R. 131 • Bristol, IN 304 W. Vistula St. • Bristol, IN
 Mill Hours (open May–Oct) Museum Hours (closed Sun-Mon)
 Wed–Sun • 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tues–Sat • 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
 Bonneyville is the oldest continually The Museum fosters appreciation
 operating mill in Indiana, producing and preservation of local history and
 quality flour for more than 180 years. culture through exhibits, educational
 Interpretive staff are on duty to lead programs, and an accessible library and
 visitors through the “daily grind.” archives. Come hear the stories of the
 While you are there, purchase freshly many people, places, and events that
 ground flour for a taste of local history. make up the history of Elkhart County.

 )
 X ) X
LEGEND

 THINGS TO DO SITE AMENITIES

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 BIKING CROSS-COUNTRY FISHING KAYAK / PLAYGROUND RESTROOM SHELTER ACCESSIBLE
 SKIING CANOEING

 Boot Lake
 Nature Preserve
 51430 County Road 3
 Elkhart IN, 46514
 ,boot lake
 nature preserve elkhart county
 Bonneyville Mill
 ,cobus creek , historical museum
 County Park
 53373 County Road 131
 Bristol, IN 46507
 county park
 treasure ,
 BRISTOL
 ,bonneyville
 county park
 mill

 ELKHART
 Cobus Creek island
 County Park
 30680 County Road 8 MIDDLEBURY
 Elkhart, IN 46561

 DeFries
 Gardens
 17477 County Road 46
 New Paris IN, 46553
 ox bow,
 county park
 Ox Bow
 County Park
 23033 County Road 45
 GOSHEN
 ,pumpkinvine
 nature trail
 Goshen IN, 46528

 Pumpkinvine
 Nature Trail
 1302 E. Lincoln Ave
 Goshen IN, 46526

 WAKARUSA riv er pres
 pr eserve
 erve
 River Preserve MILLERSBURG
 County Park
 67380 County Road 29
 ,county
 county park
 park
 New Paris, IN 46553 NEW

 Treasure Island
 PARIS ,defr
 defrie
 ies
 garden
 gardens
 s
 s
 56226 Armour Ave.
 Elkhart, IN 46516

 Elkhart County
 Historical Museum
 304 West Vistula Street
 NAPPANEE
 Bristol, IN 46507

 elk hartcount y par k s .org 15

FRIENDS OF THE
 ELKHART COUNTY PARKS
 211 W. LINCOLN AVE,
 GOSHEN, IN 46526-3280
 PARKSINFO@ELKHARTCOUNTY.COM

Choose
your own
adventure.