Get ready for a jam-packed DNR lineup at the Indiana State Fair, which runs from Aug. 2-18, except on Mondays.

Coni Hudson, director of special projects with DNR Division of Communications, who leads the DNR’s fair effort, said there’s something for everyone. “In 2023, our guests provided us with valuable feedback and expressed a keen interest in additional educational and skill-building opportunities,” she said. “We have something to offer to nature lovers at every level.”

Experts will be available to answer your nature-related questions at the Natural Resources Building. Live animals can be viewed at the backyard amphitheater. The Fishin’ Pond, fluttering butterfly gardens, and more will also be offered as part of the celebration of this year’s overall state fair theme, “The Art & Nature of Fun.”

Ever thought about the leafy wonders surrounding the building? DNR’s green thumbs will offer a tour of the natural oasis to help you dive into the world of Indiana’s native plants and discover how planting natives in your area can support conservation. Check the link below to find out when and where to meet the botanical experts.

Of course, the classic fair favorites will be waiting too, such as the daily morning live reptile show at the amphitheater and the daily late-afternoon live birds of prey, which also takes place at the amphitheater. Make sure to swing by the floodplain model in action and stop at the invasive species booth. Indiana Conservation Officers will be available to answer hunting and fishing regulation questions and get acquainted at the DNR Law Enforcement booth, where you may also watch some demonstrations.

Again this year, kids ages 5 to 17 can reel in some fun for free on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings and afternoons at the Fishin’ Pond. Bowfishing demonstrations will also be offered.

When you go back outside, remember to check out the fish in the display ponds. For a complete listing of DNR activities at the fair, see dnr.IN.gov/statefair.

Wildlife viewers wanted

If you enjoy viewing wildlife around your home as well as taking steps to prevent wildlife-related damage to your property, then DNR can use your help. The DNR biologists are tracking wildlife sightings around Hoosiers’ homes and studying the economic impact of wildlife in our state.

Each randomly selected volunteer will receive a logbook to use to report wildlife encounters along with related activities – like repairing damage – and expenditures. In exchange, you may be eligible for a cash reward. If you are interested in helping us improve management of Indiana’s diverse wildlife resources, complete the sign-up form at: https://idnr.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9RZaUCCxe4n746G

Summertime fish die-offs

Rising temperatures mean you may see a natural fish die-off in the summer months. There are various reasons should you spot a fish die-off:

- Increased water temperatures cause increased stress on fish, due to the drop in dissolved oxygen in the water. When dissolved oxygen levels are too low, many fish cannot survive.

- Rapid temperature fluctuations can also cause fish to become more susceptible to infections.

- Stress from overpopulation and increased competition for resources, such as dissolved oxygen, can result in increased fish deaths.

While fish die-offs are natural in the summer, you can still report them at on.IN.gov/sickwildlife. Find resources for managing your own private ponds on our website.

Volunteer with Adopt-A-Ramp

Looking for a flexible volunteer opportunity to benefit wildlife health, outdoor recreation and your community? With approximately 400 public access sites throughout the state, DNR’s Adopt-A-Ramp volunteer program is a great fit for individuals and groups of any size. Volunteers visit their sites at least three times a year to clean the area, and the more hands there are, the merrier.

You can create a volunteer profile on the Division of Fish & Wildlife volunteer page. Then, you may sign up for the Adopt-A-Ramp opportunity directly. DFW staff will follow up via email to help you locate an adoptable ramp and connect you to resources.

Have questions before signing up? Email DNRPublicAccess@dnr.IN.gov or visit the Public Access Site webpage to learn more.

Report turkey broods until Aug. 31

DNR’s turkey brood survey is now at the halfway point. So far, DNR biologists have received 1,908 observations. To reach our goal of 3,000, we need your support.

If you’ve already reported an observation this year, thank you, and please keep reporting. Haven’t reported yet? Reporting observations of turkey hens with and without poults (young turkeys) provides meaningful data for DNR to track and manage populations around the state.

The DNR appreciates the public’s help supporting wild turkey populations in Indiana.

2024-25 Hunting & Trapping Guide available

The 2024-25 Hunting & Trapping Guide features teal hunting tips and tricks, interviews with some of Indiana’s waterfowl hunters, plus a duck-stuffed jalapeño popper recipe from our grassland gamebird biologist. Grab your copy to read the latest information and regulations for all hunting and trapping.

Pick up a copy at a nearby Fish & Wildlife Area, your local license retailer, and the Natural Resources Building during the State Fair or view the guide online. While you’re at it, purchase your fall hunting license.

Search for man missing in Grandview Lake 

Indiana Conservation Officers were searching for a 70-year-old man last seen in the water at Grandview Lake in Bartholomew County. The search is using boats and side-scan sonar.  Shortly after 11 a.m., responders were notified a man was in the water near his boat when he went under and did not resurface. The man was not wearing a lifejacket at the time of the incident.

The identity of the man is being withheld pending family notification. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Conservation Officers are being assisted by the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department, Southwest Volunteer Fire Department, Harrison Township Volunteer Fire Department, Columbus Township Fire Department and Columbus Regional Heath.

Readers can contact the author by writing to this publication or e-mail Jack at jackspaulding1971@outlook.com 

Spaulding’s books, “The Best Of Spaulding Outdoors” and “The Coon Hunter And The Kid,” are available from Amazon.com as a paperback or Kindle download.