Indiana’s Hardy Lake to Host Raptor Days, Sept. 28-30

Visitors to Hardy Lake State Recreation Area’s Raptor Days, Sept. 28-30, can experience live birds of prey presentations, watch for ospreys and eagles on the lake, tour the Dwight Chamberlain Raptor Center and more.

Friday, Sept. 28, is Schools Day. Hardy Lake is inviting all schools and educational organizations, including home schools and scout groups, to enjoy the day’s activities. Friday events will include live bird of prey presentations, crafts, games and wagon tours of Hardy Lake wildlife areas. Schools and groups should register in advance by calling (812) 794-2244. The public is also welcome on Friday.

Saturday from 7-10 a.m. the Friends of Hardy Lake will offer an all-you-can-eat breakfast fundraiser for the raptor center. The cost is $6 for adults and $3 for children ages 4 to 12. Breakfast is free for kids 3 and younger.

Pontoon boat rides to watch for ospreys will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with the last boat leaving at 4 p.m. both days. Participants should register in advance at the information booth. The cost is $2 per person.

Other events will begin at 10 a.m. and run throughout the day and into the evening.

The standard entrance fee of $5 for in-state vehicles and $7 for out-of-state vehicles will be charged.

Camping is still available at Hardy Lake for the Raptor Days weekend. For camping reservations call (866) 622-6746.

For more information, call (812) 794-2244 or email LGrow@dnr.IN.gov.

Hardy Lake State Recreation Area is at 5620 N. Hardy Lake Road, Scottsburg, 47170.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."