Minutes - May 25, 2016
NOBLE COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD
MINUTES OF MAY 25, 2016 MEETING
Present: James Haddock, John Metzger, Doug Keenan, Kathy Hagen
Guest: Steve Hook, GIS Coordinator; Gene Lightner, Elkhart River Restoration Assoc.
The May 25, 2016 meeting of the Noble County Parks and Recreation Board was called to order at 10:10 AM by James Haddock.
Presentation:
Gene Lightner, who works with the Elkhart River Restoration Association, gave a very informative presentation on the Elkhart River, and what has been done to keep the river open and healthy. A study was completed several years ago on the Elkhart River, determining the problems along the river and what could be done to improve the river. A group called the “Silver Jackets”, made up of several government agencies and nongovernment organizations, have had many meetings concerning the Elkhart River. The group determined that there is no downstream solution to the Elkhart River.
Gene pointed out that there are many small problems along the river, that are like “paper cuts” that accumulate and cause the issues along the river. Some cleaning and clearing has been done over the years to the Elkhart River, which is what needs to happen. Students have done studies of insects, pH and oxygen levels in the Elkhart River. Gene noted that many small steps can be taken that will help the river over time. There is information about the Elkhart River and the restoration work being done at www.elkhartriverrestorationassociation.org .
Old Business:
The minutes of the April 27, 2016 meeting were approved as sent.
Steve Hook announced that the recreational map has been updated onto a new platform that is accessible by all computer devises. The new map and information can be found at http://ncgis.nobleco.us/recreation . The website will be demonstrated at the All In Noble County Block Party on June 25. Purdue Extension will provide space at their booth for the demonstration.
Take a Stroll Saturdays. Dates and locations for the “Take A Stroll Saturdays” for 2016 will be:
June 11 – Edna Spurgeon Nature Preserve.
July 9 – Crooked Lake – Canoe, Kayak, or Hike.
August 13 – Elkhart River – Canoe, Kayak or Hike.
September 10 – Chain O Lakes State Park – Canoe, Kayak or Hike.
October 8 – Lonidaw Nature Preserve.
All of these events will begin at 9:00 a.m.
Meeting adjourned at 11:15 AM
Next meeting – Wednesday, June 22, at 10:00 AM at the Noble County Public Library.