Goose Pond
Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area (GPFWA) is a glacial basin near Linton, Indiana that was once an expansive, thriving wetland. The land was pumped and drained dry since early in the last century. Today, efforts are underway to restore the area's wildlife splendor and provide free public access.
Goose Pond is now open!
GOAL: Restore Wetlands and Wildlife Habitat
Status:
Underway
Public Access:
Yes. Daily Access Permit is required.
Description:
In 2000, the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) purchased permanent easement from the former landowner and began restoration of the wetland and wildlife habitat on the property. Restoration efforts include over 30 miles of earthen dikes, 400 acres of tree plantings, 1,400 acres of prairie restoration, nearly 5,000 acres of shallow water wetlands and a permanent 2,750-acre shallow water impoundment. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with the help of many partners, purchased the 8,034 acres property in October 2005.
Details:
GOAL: Provide public access
Status:
Open
Public Access:
Open for multiple use
Description:
In May 2005, DNR signed a letter of intent with Wilder Corporation of Delaware to acquire 8,034 acres in Greene County commonly known as Goose Pond and Bee Hunter Marsh. The purchase was finalized in October 2005 for approximately $8,000,000
This was a rare opportunity to provide protection and public access to such a huge expanse of natural wetlands. If the area had not been acquired and managed by a public agency, it could have been fragmented into private hunting clubs and exclusive recreation areas that only a few would have enjoyed.
A consortium of conservation organizations and local, state and federal agencies joined resources to purchase the property. Through these partnerships, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources was able to acquire the property for use as a premier public birding and hunting area.
Details:
GOAL: Build Visitor Center
Status:
Proposed
Public Access:
The facilities will function as a focal point for visitors while raising awareness of the need for a sound conservation ethic.
Description:
Goose Pond FWA will become a destination for Midwestern birders and hunters. A visitor center will serve as a launching point. Thirty miles of levee trails will run through the complex. Observation towers will offer birds-eye views. In the future, the area could be a year-round destination for tourists, wildlife watchers and hunters from all over the Midwest.
