Field Notes

In Episode 22 of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we make an exciting announcement: Grace College and the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams has received a transformative grant from Lilly Endowment to launch Lake R_X — a bold new initiative to create customized “prescriptions” for improving the health of local lakes.

Dr. Nate Bosch explains how Lake R_X will develop targeted, holistic solutions for individual lakes in Kosciusko County. These include constructing and restoring wetlands, incentivizing lake-friendly agricultural practices, promoting responsible boating, enhancing shoreline vegetation with native plants, and rebalancing lake ecosystems. The goal is to speed up lake recovery from decades of nutrient pollution and make measurable, visible improvements in water clarity and quality in tens of years rather than hundreds of years.

Nate and Suzie discuss the inspiration behind the program (including a memorable visit to ultra-clear Crater Lake), the importance of collaboration with community partners, and why sustained funding and community support will be critical for long-term success. This episode marks a major milestone for lake stewardship in northern Indiana.