The Year in Review

As we prepare to close the door on 2022, we’re grateful for our generous donors, partners, and supporters of conservation for making it another successful year. And as always, we’re thankful for the tireless efforts of the Indiana DNR in protecting and managing Indiana’s special public lands.

We are going to wrap up the year by sharing some highlights and messages from supporters of conservation like you.

“INRF cares just as much about Indiana’s outdoor spaces as we do, and their mission closely aligns with how we treat the outdoors … as something to enjoy, but also something very much worth protecting.” – Brandon Smith 

Through tree plantings, habitat restoration, and land acquisition efforts, this year saw many successful conservation projects. Dedication from donors and partners brought about the launch of a multi-year, multi-partner project at Cedar Swamp Wetland Conservation Area (WCA). The habitat project launched with a 53-acre native prairie restoration thanks to our $59,000 donation.

“Preservation and restoration of natural landscapes has always been important to me. I have walked and enjoyed these areas for most of my life. It is critical to preserve and restore what we can for future generations.” – Samuel Schwartz

Tree plantings with St. Pius X School, Huston Solar, Duke Energy, and Clif Bar saw Indiana’s forests grow by more than 11,000 trees this year. Thanks to incredible support of the Indiana Tree Project, Indiana’s forests continue to provide important habitat and recreation opportunities.

“I began supporting the Indiana Tree Project in honor of each of my nieces and nephews for their birthdays. My hope is that each of them will develop a love of nature and have opportunities to explore the gifts nature brings. It’s an honor to be a steward of the land that generations before us had the foresight to preserve. May we continue to be inspired by the beauty and work to continue the preservation of our natural spaces.” – Kathleen Tranovich

Education is integral to the mission of preserving and protecting Indiana’s natural resources. Since 2013, the Discover the Outdoors field trip grant program has provided more than 17,000 students the chance to have a hands-on educational experience on Indiana’s public lands. Continued support of Discover the Outdoors will help us send another 1,500 students from 21 different Indiana schools to an Indiana State Park next year.

“Sponsoring school groups to visit parks and build conservation values in Hoosier youth is a stellar investment. Supporting Indiana wildlife conservation is my way of investing in an Indiana that values and enhances the outdoor experience, providing immeasurable physical and mental health benefits for future generations.” – John Goss, former Indiana DNR Director 

There is still time to make an impact on conservation in 2022. When you donate to the INRF, you help us celebrate Indiana’s natural legacy for generations to come. Please join us in educating Hoosiers about the importance of conservation, protecting Indiana’s wildlife and habitat, and expanding outdoor recreation opportunities by donating today.