PARKS & RECREATION / IDNR INTERLAKE RECREATION AREA MASTER PLAN
Prior to 1978, the Marion Dragline, the largest coal extraction dragline in the world, operated at Interlake. Flash forward just 5 years and abandoned Interlake had already become an established local hotspot for ORV users, hunters, fisherman, horseback riders, and trappers...just to name a few. In 1999, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) purchased the +3500 acres from the Interlake Foundation. Flash forward again 9 years and IDNR hires the Landstory team to prepare the master plan for this 'wild west-esque' terrain. Setting out on a 3 day, down and dirty survey of the land on quads and other ORVs, the Landstory team was able to experience the site from a unique perspective. After careful inspection and environmental study of sweeping grassland, native forest and manmade lakes, the planning team developed a comprehensive master plan to provide IDNR with a plan for Interlake’s future growth as a vital recreational destination.
- 3,500 acre former surface mine owned by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources
- Former uses included off-roading, equestrian, hunting and fishing
- Recommendations to enhance the property, encourage greater regional participation and provide resource management
- Extensive site analysis, public and user input and programming. Plan concepts and implementation strategies, in accordance with IDNR's Long Term Management goals
- Recommendations included $14 million in planned improvements over 20 years balancing land use with management needs, maximizing return on the State's investment