The weather is finally warming up, kids are getting out of school, and you are probably planning a fun vacation or two. Will it involve recreating on the water? Maybe you enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, or simply hiking along a stream or river. The Upper White River Watershed Alliance website has a wealth of information to help you find a water-related recreational opportunity near you. Just visit http://www.uwrwa.org/resources/explore-our-watershed/. There are some beautiful opportunities in Central Indiana – no need to drive or fly elsewhere for a vacation or fun weekend experience!
Did you know that the health of our streams, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs depend on all of us? The choices we make on our own properties and in our everyday lives affect our water quality. Not picking up your pet’s poo and overlooking proper septic system maintenance can send bacteria straight into our water bodies. Using the wrong type of fertilizer (or too much fertilizer) contributes to nutrient runoff, which can lead to algal blooms. Algal blooms not only make the water look murky, but can release toxins in the water and even kill fish and harm other wildlife. Fortunately, the state of Indiana has realized that algae can become a problem in our hot summer months and has created the following website to keep residents aware of algae and toxin levels in many of our state parks: http://www.in.gov/idem/algae/. For more information on the impacts we all have on water quality, or for resources to help you make a difference, visit www.ClearChoicesCleanWater.org.
Later this summer, celebrate the fun you had on the water by attending the annual White River Festival during the first two weeks of September. This year’s theme is RECREATE! Many fun events are being planned by the Upper White River Watershed Alliance and many other partners. Just visit www.WhiteRiverFestival.org to keep updated!