Native Planting at South Bridge Preserve

February 9, 2026

South Bridge Preserve, located off Fountain Beach Drive, will be undergoing some restoration this winter. We are partnering with an Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) field crew and Blue Heron Ministries to restore this 20-acre retired agricultural field to a native Indiana prairie.

The IDNR field crew will be planting these seeds from February 9 - 13. During this time, you may see IDNR vehicles and crew members traveling through the property. Once planting is complete, Blue Heron Ministries and Conservancy staff will continue management and monitoring.

Through collaboration with Steuben County Soil and Water Conservation District, we have secured $12,350 of project support through the Lake and River Enhancement - Watershed Land Treatment Grant Program.

Indiana prairie ecosystems contain diverse wildflowers and grasses for pollinators, birds, and wildlife. Prairies also assist with groundwater filtration and improved soil health. We are excited to bring these benefits to South Bridge Preserve and to the surrounding community. Please reach out to our office with any questions at 260-527-1072.