Volunteer Work Day at Indiana’s Monroe Lake, Oct. 7

Monroe Lake will host a volunteer work day on Sunday, Oct. 7, to remove an invasive shrub called autumn olive.

The work day runs from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at Cutright State Recreation Area, located on the south end of the State Road 446 causeway.

“Autumn olive displaces native species and is unwelcome in our natural areas,” said Jill Vance, interpretive naturalist for Monroe Lake. “We appreciate any volunteers who can come out and help us tackle this invasion.”

Registration is requested (particularly if you are bringing a group) by Oct. 5 at (812) 837-9967 or jvance@dnr.IN.gov. However, last-minute volunteers are more than welcome to show up on the work day.

Volunteers should bring work gloves and water. Hand tools that can cut branches up to 1 ½ inches in diameter will also be useful. Snacks will be provided.

Monroe Lake is at 4850 S. S.R. 446, Bloomington, 47401.

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."