New nature trust to fund Ind. conservation projects

Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman officially announced the launch of the Bicentennial Nature Trust on Jan. 31. Co-chair Lee Hamilton and the Indiana Bicentennial Commission helped with
the initiative.

First announced in Gov. Mitch Daniels’ State of the State address last month, the trust’s funds will be used for conservation projects in every region of the state. The state has contributed $20 million to the fund and is looking for additional private donations and community input about projects.

 “We can think of no better way to celebrate 200 years of statehood than preserving more of our natural landscape for the next 200 years,” Skillman said in a press release.

Hoosiers can contact the trust about donations or project ideas at
in.gov/naturetrust.

— Claire Aronson