Trees “Ring” with Historical and Ecological Data
Have you ever been walking through woods and thought to yourself, “How old are these trees?” Me too! […]
Essential Ecosystems: Indiana’s Wetlands are Precious and Few
Kidneys of the planet. Biodiversity hotspots. Sponges. These are just some of the ways wetlands can be described, according to Gary Lamberti, Nieuwland Professor of Aquatic Science at the University of Notre Dame. […]
Leaving a Legacy for the Future
Guest post by board member John Bacone When you think about future generations, what do you hope they inherit? I think about this all the time; you probably do as well. We grew up in a world where we had fresh air, clean water, and woodlands and parks to [...]
Your Land Trust Staff Shares Nature Moments
As nature-lovers ourselves, we appreciated the chance to reflect on our top nature moments. Enjoy these “postcards” from our staff, which first appeared in the fall 2025 newsmagazine. […]
You Can Help Protect Reservoirs of Biological Diversity
Our board member, John Bacone, reflects on conserving key natural areas. He led the Department of Natural Resources Division of Nature Preserves for over four decades. Years ago, when I was working in the Indiana DNR Division of Nature Preserves (DNP), I asked Bob Waltz, the State Entomologist, how [...]
Nature and Self-Care: How the Outdoors Helps Us Heal
September is Self-Care Awareness Month. It’s a good time to think about what helps us slow down, recharge, and feel better. One of the easiest ways to care for yourself is to spend time in nature. […]
From Forest Trails to Lake Michigan Shipwrecks: Brian Muckerheide’s Family Legacy of Conservation
Seventh in a series about CILTI’s early supporters, in honor of our 35th anniversary You can’t be a diver without having an appreciation for nature and a concern for wildlife. Brian Muckerheide knows this firsthand. His daughter, Sarah Muckerheide, is studying underwater archaeology with Indiana University’s Center for Underwater [...]
Michael Spalding’s Family Legacy: A Love of Trees
Fifth in a series about CILTI’s early supporters, in honor of our 35th anniversary As a kid, Michael Spalding would explore his family’s 100-acre property and look up at the “awe-inspiring, gigantic trees” just a mile east of what would become Meltzer Woods. He also often ventured into that forest, [...]
Since the Beginning: John Bacone Remains an Avid CILTI Member
First in a series about CILTI’s early supporters, in honor of our 35th anniversary John Bacone has been a supporter of CILTI since the beginning. He was involved in the first conversations of CILTI’s creation, after the idea was sparked by available land harboring a rare species of phlox. [...]
Step Back in Time: Preserving History and Nature in Shelby County
You may have seen a one-room schoolhouse building on your way to Meltzer Woods. But did you know that it houses a Little Free Library?
