Elkhart Environmental Center

"We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect." -Aldo Leopold
eecmail@coelkhartindiana.org (map)

The Elkhart Environmental Center was not always a pretty site. During the time period of 1959 to 1972 the area was operated as the Lusher Avenue city dump. Initial plans for rehabilitating the area were conceptualized in 1984. With leadership from the Mayor's Office and under the direction of the Department of Public Works, ideas were solidified. Partnerships were formed with the University of Notre Dame and Elkhart Community Schools.

Through these partnerships and with the cooperation of numerous city departments, site development began in 1989. That year, clay clapping was initiated and the first constructed wetland was created. In addition, an environmental education program was launched to teach "EnviroKids" the many aspects of environmental stewardship.

In 1991, the Martin Foundation, a charitable division of NIBCO, generously donated funds for the construction of a log cabin education center. In August of that year, the Center was officially dedicated to the people of Elkhart. With a new permanent education facility and habitat reconstruction well underway, the Elkhart Environmental Center was poised to expand its role in the community. Today it has many well established environmental services and programs in operation. In addition, it is a now a beautiful site to hike along the Elkhart River or meander through the woods and small prairie areas.

Department News

• Boot Lake Nature Preserve Trail Map
  Published: Thursday, November 19, 2009
  Print out your own copy of the Boot Lake Trail map to enjoy a day outside hiking at Boot Lake Nature Preserve.
  
• 2009 Fall & Winter Green Gazette
  Published: Wednesday, November 11, 2009
  The Green Gazette is a regular publication of the City of Elkhart's Environmental Division. Inside you'll find out about our upcoming events and helpful information and environmental tips.
  
• Fall 2009 Environmental Division Volunteer Brochure
  Published: Tuesday, September 15, 2009
  Are you looking for an opporunity to help the environment? If so please check out the Environmental Division's Fall Volunteer brochure to discover ways you can help your community and environment.
  
• 2009-2010 Environmental Education Brochure
  Published: Wednesday, August 26, 2009
  The Elkhart Environmental Division offers hands-on, environmental curriculum for Elkhart Community and Concord Schools. Curricula are available for grades kindergarten through sixth on topics such as recycling, water conservation, and the benefits of trees.
  

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