Nate Bosch – Diving deep into the 100+ lakes of K-County

Did you know Kosciusko County is home to more than 100 freshwater lakes? We chat with Dr. Nate Bosch of the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams about 'all things lakes' and how the lake landscape is incredibly unique in K-County. 

 

Show Notes

• Nate Bosch, PH.D is the director at the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams at Grace College.
• Unique to Kosciusko County, the mission of the Lilly Center is to make the fresh water lakes and streams clean, healthy, safe and beautiful. The organization conducts research, provides valuable resources, engages with and educates residents and businesses, and collaborates with local partners.
• Born in Holland, Michigan, Nate spent ample time around the Northern lakes. He and his family moved to the area after he accepted the director position with the Lilly Center, and they haven’t looked back.
• With family living at Winona Lake, and knowing his grandparents traveled from Michigan to Winona Lake for entertainment years ago, Nate and his family enjoy spending time on Winona. He was quick to add that ALL of the lakes in the county have something unique to offer– whether you’re looking for good fishing spots, the best areas to swim or enjoy recreation on the lakes.
• In addition to being a great gathering place, Nate said, “Our lakes truly are remarkable for recreation.”
• When asked how unique the lake landscape in Kosciusko County is, Nate said very unique.“ We have over 100 lakes in our county, we have the biggest natural lake in Indiana [Lake Wawasee]. Lake Tippecanoe is the deepest natural lake in Indiana, and the Tippecanoe River goes right through the county and is considered one of the top 10 streams in the U.S. by the Nature Conservancy,” Nate said.
• The lakes in Kosciusko County have a $300M economic impact each year.
• The lakes have a rich history. You may have heard bits about some of the ‘legends of the lakes’ including an alleged WWII plane sunken in Tippy Lake, and Al Capone hiding out and gambling at Lake Wawasee years ago.
• One best-kept secret is the Great Blue Heron Rookery about 3⁄4 mile off U.S. Hwy 30 and State Road 15 behind the Kohl’s store. In the spring, you’ll find over 100 nests of Great Blue Heron.