City of Elkhart, Indiana

History

old dumpThe 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 and is a wonderful place for passive recreation.
 
Come and visit our trails and cabin today!

News & Notices

  • 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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Boot Lake Nature Preserve
Elkhart Rivergreenway Trail
Green Gazette
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