The Osprey population had declined rapidly between the 1950s-1970s due to DDT, loss of breeding grounds and poaching. This decline resulted in placing the Osprey onto the Indiana endangered list. Between 2003-2006, Indiana acquired 96 young Ospreys from nests in Virginia and released them at four Indiana locations.  Releasing them, along with adding of nesting platforms, has resulted in Indiana’s osprey population showing steady growth. As of 2018, the Osprey was moved from endangered to the special interest list.

Many found it a little exciting that we had a couple around our lakes last year.  So, Tom McCue, being a lifelong wildlife enthusiast had the thought of bringing nest platforms in the hopes to encourage their returning each year to our lakes.  So, as indicated in the March newsletter, Osprey platforms were set up at three locations on our lakes, with thanks to REMC for supplying and placing the poles.  (REMC also published an article in their mailing that is posted below for everyone’s viewing.)  The April-May Nesting season is over for 2020, so hopefully the Osprey chicks born nearby will seek out our platforms over the next couple months, and return to build their own nests here next year.

The idea of bringing and keeping different types of wildlife coming to our lakes has peaked interest in adding other wildlife structures as well.  Therefore, David has suggested building and placing Wood Duck boxes around the lakes.  The Board has approved $200 to spend on materials. We are looking for volunteers to craft the boxes as well as places to install them.  Please let Tom McCue or David Schnieders know if you are interested in participating.