Hear the Latest News on Indiana’s Parks & Nature Preserves

February 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Last February IPA inaugurated a new concept to help members learn the latest news and developments in state parks and nature preserves. We held a virtual one-on-one session with Dan Bortner, Director of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. In addition to being the current DNR Director, Dan is also a past State Parks Director, giving him a unique perspective on the events and directions of that division.

On Monday, February 12, 6:30-7:30 (EST), Dan will again sit down with Tom Hohman, IPA President, and discuss what’s new with Indiana’s state parks and nature preserves. We’re also building in some time for viewers to ask questions.

There’s much to talk about, including:

  1. The tornado that devastated portions of McCormick’s Creek State Park, including the campground and Wolf Cave Nature Preserve
  2. Ongoing renovation work at Spring Mill Inn
  3. Status of construction on the new inn at Potato Creek State Park (we may even get a look at the architect’s rendering for the new inn)
  4. Impact of increased usage on trails at state parks, and efforts to make trails more sustainable
  5. Preparations for the influx of visitors coming to Indiana in 2024 for the total solar eclipse
  6. Inclusion of Callery pear and other invasive plants in the Terrestrial Plant Rule (which makes it illegal to sell listed plants in Indiana)

Dan Bortner is overseeing IDNR during a unique period of funding availability for facility improvements and expansion of outdoor recreation opportunities.  Don’t miss this chance to hear him in an informal conversation and share your questions.

This is a free webinar, but registration is required.

Register at https://iu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PEfDcqcFQ_Cz13TiGxfZRg. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.