Indianapolis, IN – More than a dozen counties in Indiana will benefit from over $1.3 million in state grants aimed at improving water quality across lakes, rivers, and watersheds.
According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, 18 projects in 12 counties will share $1,324,000 in funding through the Lake and River Enhancement (LARE) program. The projects span LaGrange, Montgomery, Kosciusko, Owen, Marion, Elkhart, Starke, Dekalb, Randolph, Fountain, Jennings, and Gibson counties.
The grants are supported by a fee paid annually by boat owners when registering their watercraft with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. DNR officials said the user-funded program allows for projects that would otherwise be difficult for local groups to support independently. Local sponsors are required to cover at least 20% of project costs.
This year’s round of funding will support eight lake projects and 11 river and stream projects, with some sites benefiting more than one body of water. In addition, two land-based watershed treatment efforts coordinated with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts will receive support.
Many of the projects focus on reducing sediment and nutrient runoff, which officials say directly improves water quality. Healthier waterways support stronger fish and wildlife populations while also enhancing recreational opportunities for Indiana residents.
A full list of funded projects, including locations, project types, and grant awards, is available at lare.dnr.IN.gov.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
