FORT WAYNE – The Indiana Department of Natural Resources will be conducting fish surveys at 16 lakes in northern Indiana in eight counties this month. The surveys are part of an annual project to measure the long-term status and trends of fish populations.
During the surveys, biologists will catch fish, identify, measure and release them to determine growth rate. The sampling gives biologists a basic picture of fish species, number and size.
“Since the mid-1980s, we’ve seen a twofold increase in the number of 14-inch and greater legal-size largemouth bass and a threefold increase in bluegills greater than 8 inches,” DNR research biologist Steve Donabauer said.
There have been some fish numbers declining, as well.
“There has been a subtle decrease in species richness,” he said. “Our data suggest that the loss of one species from a lake over a 15-year period is the new norm.”
Deer population program available
Communities experiencing high deer populations can submit an application to the Indiana DNR to enroll in the Urban Deer Hunting Access Program.
The program will give funding to open public land for access by licensed deer hunters to resolve documented conflicts. Communities must submit a plan of how program funds will be used and applications will be scored and ranked.
Philharmonic plans ‘Pops’ at Ouabache
The Fort Wayne Philharmonic will play a “Patriotic Pops” concert July 1 at Ouabache State Park, which is 4930 E. Indiana 201, Bluffton.
The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. at the pool lawn.
Visitors should bring a lawn chair or blanket, sunscreen and insect repellent.
The program is free after paying the standard entrance fee of $5 per in-state vehicle or $7 per out-of-state vehicle.
Chain O’Lakes sets poker paddle event
Chain O’Lakes State Park will will play host for poker paddle from 9 a.m.-noon Saturday.
Participants will paddle the lakes and channels, collecting poker cards. Prizes are awarded to the top three hands and the lowest hand. Registration begins at Sand Lake Boat Rental at 8:30 a.m.
Participants can bring their own canoe or kayak or rent one from the park for $5 per hour.
The event is free after paying the standard park entrance fee of $5 per in-state vehicle or $7 per out-of-state vehicle.
Bison Bash runs set for Ouabache
A Bison Bash will be held at Ouabache State Park on Saturday, featuring the Bison Bop and 5K Stampede. Entry fee for the fun run is $1. Register day of the event.
For the 5K Stampede, registration is $15, which includes an event T-shirt. Participants can register on race day for $15, which includes a T-shirt if still available.
Register by sending fee to: Mail to Friends of Ouabache State Park, 4930 E. Indiana 201, Bluffton, IN 46714. Start times for various events run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Leave fawns alone, DNR tells Hoosiers
The DNR has recommended that, given this is peak season for encountering white-tailed deer fawns, you leave any you find undisturbed. Even if you come across one that appears to be abandoned, the best thing to do is leave it alone.
It’s common to see fawns by themselves; a mother deer will leave a fawn during the day, both to look for food and so her scent doesn’t attract predators to the fawn, which is nearly scentless.
If you do feel compelled to intervene, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.