Southern Indiana Sentinel Landscape Update - Winter 2022

We are proud of the progress that has been made in our landscape this past year and the bright future ahead. None of this could be possible without the hard work and time commitment from all of you, including both landowners dedicated to conservation and partnering organizations and agencies.

EVENTS
The outreach events held at Bloomington, Seymour, and West Boggs were a huge success with a turnout totaling 104 landowners and partners. Among the fellowship and good food were valuable conversations surrounding the Southern Indiana Sentinel Landscape (SISL) program. Of significant importance is the feedback we received from landowners regarding practices they currently implement or wish to implement in the future.

FUNDING
Beginning in early 2023, we will be pursuing an NRCS Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) with the potential of bringing millions of additional dollars to Indiana to be allocated only within our Southern Indiana Sentinel Landscape. Thanks to everyone who took the time to come and provide feedback!

CURRENT PROJECTS
Our first two conservation easements for SISL are located in the Lake Glendora Conservation Area and are expected to be completed this fiscal year. These easements are possible through the Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program sponsored by the Department of Defense. American Farmland Trust has partnered with NSA Crane and the Southern Indiana Sentinel Landscape to hold these easements and make this project a reality.

PROGRAMS AVAILABLE
Landowners near Crane and Lake Glendora Test Facility may be eligible to work with SISL to make a commitment to conserving natural resources and preserving our rural landscape by placing a conservation easement on their property. In exchange for this commitment, landowners receive financial compensation. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to Michael Spalding, SISL Program Coordinator.

NEW TOOLS
A new interactive SISL Conservation Discovery Website is being developed with assistance from a GIS specialist company. This site will allow landowners to find their properties either by searching for their name or navigating to it on the map. Once you have located your property, you can select what types of financial and technical assistance you might be interested in pursuing to accomplish conservation goals for your property. Options are likely to include permanent land protection, tax incentives, wildlife habitat, forestry, cropland management, livestock pasture management, erosion and soil health, and water quality. The website will then produce a PDF report that summarizes options and provides contact information to experts who can assist you in accomplishing your goals.

The holidays are often a time of reflection and family traditions. As we reflect on the past year and move into the next, we are grateful for the family tradition of land legacy that has set the stage for a successful future for natural resources conservation in southern Indiana.