(6-1-22) Indian Lake and Grand Lake were both built for the same purpose.

What began as a shallow feeder lake for the Miami & Erie Canal in the 19th century, later turned into a popular resort park after the canal era ended in Ohio. Indian Lake offers a variety of on-the-water recreational options including boating, fishing, jet skiing, and swimming. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and winter activities such as ice fishing and snowmobiling.

Both lakes over the years have faced many of the same issues facing shallow feeder lakes.

From the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)

What kind of vegetation is growing in Indian Lake?
While there are sections of the lake that contain native, stable populations of aquatic vegetation, much of the rapidly growing plants are non-native (invasive) species like, Eurasian watermilfoil and curly – leaf pondweed.

Why is there so much growth?
We believe the growth has been driven by many factors including:

• The accidental introduction of invasive species. These plants are extremely fast growing and can easily spread. Fragments of the plant that are cut by boat props can establish themselves in new areas of the lake.
• Conservation practices in the watershed have reduced soil runoff and improved water clarity. Clearer water = more sunlight = more plant growth.
• Nutrients, including phosphorus and nitrogen, in the lake can accelerate vegetation growth. Our canal lakes in Ohio, including Indian Lake, are shallow and nutrient enriched.

harvester

ODNR’s has put together a to eliminate or control the problem –

In response to the unprecedented vegetation growth on Indian Lake in 2021, ODNR will be deploying additional equipment and resources to the lake for the 2022 season. Weekly plans and operational reports will be posted on this site.

  • ODNR will have three harvesters dedicated to Indian Lake operating during the 2022 season.
  • ODNR will be operating a transport barge to increase harvester efficiency.
  • The ODNR spray boat will be deployed to provide targeted chemical application to mitigate nuisance vegetation.
  • ODNR is hiring additional staff to operate harvesters and other support equipment. To apply, contact the park office.
  • Commercial aquatic vegetation control services will be available for homeowners through ODNR approved companies. Application of chemicals through these companies will be closely monitored by ODNR to prevent overapplication and may be stopped at any time, dependent upon lake conditions.
  • Contact the Park Office for a list of approved companies.
  • Follow the Indian Lake Facebook page for regular updates.
  • Issues with vegetation can be reported directly through this site by clicking the contact us button.
  • Additional funds may be allocated through the state legislature to provide additional resources.
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