Every conversation I've had regarding Northern Indiana natural areas has pretty much followed the same script -- puzzled looks followed by confident conclusions that there are none. At least none that are worthy. Of course, those opinions are held by Southern Indiana nature lovers, who are anything but unbiased on the subject.
But just as I relearned from a trip with Gary Morrison to Fall Creek Gorge Preserve and Portland Arch Nature Preserve in June, there's more to the state north of I-70 than corn. I already knew that, as I've explored parks and preserves in the flatlands on numerous occasions through my film years. Turkey Run, Shades, Indiana Dunes Lakeshore, Chain o' Lakes, Pokagon immediately come to mind.
I'm not making any announcement here, but let's just say I've started looking north. And I've identified nearly 200,000 acres of protected land on 186 properties between I-70 and the Michigan state line.