January update from Uplands Network, connecting Monroe and surrounding counties
January 10, 2025
Come and join us on the trail!
As we persistently push our way into the new year, we’ll have many opportunities to confront the crises affecting our planet. We can only succeed by exercising our political will as we stand in solidarity and engage with legislators. Special days we’ll be heading to the Statehouse during this legislative session are:
1/21 Renewable Energy Day 1/28 Water Stewardship Day 2/19 Conservation Day
More information can be found below, in upcoming emails and at our 1/13 virtual meeting.
Since June, 2022, Uplands Network has held monthly informational meetings (mostly virtual) and regular hikes in the area. We partner with local groups to uplift social and environmental justice while working to conserve our public lands and protect the watershed. Our mission includes facilitating “Outdoors for All” while supporting other local groups working on conservation and equity.
Join Us at the Statehouse for Renewable Energy Day
Join our coalition of renewable energy champions – for Renewable Energy Day on January 21 in Indianapolis. During this annual in-person event, you’ll get to talk directly with legislators about community solar and the other renewable energy policies you care about.
Some highlights of the day will include: • Interfaith opening remarks, a renewable energy fair, and other activities • A rally where speakers will discuss key renewable energy priorities, including community solar • Solar supporters meeting with their legislators to urge them to support a renewable energy future
We need as many solar supporters to turn out for this event as possible.
Join the Winter Briefing with our Director, Robyn and the Hoosier Chapter, January 23, 7:00 PM
On the call you will hear from our Sierra Club Hoosier Chapter leaders, volunteers and staff about our successes and challenges in 2024. You’ll hear about the incredible work of our Sierra Club community in Indiana including our favorite outings from the year, how our Beyond Coal campaign is challenging Duke Energy to transition to clean energy, and our efforts to expand protections for our forests.
We will also take the opportunity to highlight the year ahead and what you can expect to see in 2025 as we work to explore, enjoy, and protect the planet.
The legislation was one of many public lands bills that had bipartisan support in the Senate but failed to make it past the finish line due to partisan gridlock between the House and the Senate over the Continuing Resolution. It is by no means the end of the road for our efforts to save this pristine area in the heart of the Hoosier National Forest.
Some Things for Which We Can Be Grateful
Although we are disappointed the Wilderness expansion hasn’t passed, here are several events to celebrate:
On December 19, after nearly a decade of work from the outdoor community, the EXPLORE Act passed through Congress.
“The passage of EXPLORE sends a clear message that outdoor recreation and our public lands are bipartisan priorities.” – Adam Cramer, Outdoor Alliance’s CEO. “By passing the EXPLORE Act, the Senate is bringing us another step closer to ensuring safe, affordable, and equitable access to our parks and public lands. One thing is clear, spending time outdoors is something we can all agree on.” – Jackie Ostfeld, Director of Sierra Club’s Outdoors for All campaign. To find out more and thank those responsible go to Explore Act 2024.
One of our environmental partners, Sycamore Land Trust, has acquired 160 acres for a preserve that fits between several sections of the Owen-Putnam State Forest.
The OPSF is a valuable forest full of unique features, so protecting that area is important. According to our member, Kurt Kemp, the property borders Compartment 1, Tract 8, of the OPSF, “It is near one of our hidden spots that hasn't been logged in decades; there are a couple really nice big rock outcroppings, and a small grove of Big Red oaks and Poplar that are amazing. These big trees are right on the boundary and while you are standing in them you can look over into the woods that make up this 160 acres.” Read more: 160 acres in Owen County, Barnebey Woods, added to Sycamore Land Trust's nature preserves.
A groundbreaking collaboration has permanently protected 3,950 acres near the Lake Glendora Test Facility (LGTF) in Southern Indiana, creating the new Busseron Creek Fish & Wildlife Area, which will be open to the public in 2025. The newly protected land will safeguard vital ecosystems and enhance future public recreational opportunities. The Busseron Creek project, spearheaded by the Conservation Law Center (CLC) and its Southern Indiana Sentinel Landscape (SISL) initiative and powered by a multi-million-dollar investment by The Conservation Fund (TCF), demonstrates the power of partnerships in advancing conservation and community resilience. Read more: Historic Partnership Secures Nearly 4,000 Acres for Conservation and Future Public Recreation in Southern Indiana.
Upcoming events, outings, and ways to get involved!
January Uplands Network Meeting (virtual)
Mon, Jan 13; 6:30 PM - 7:45 PM
Please join us for updates on energy, forests and outings on the second Monday of the month. However, we may not meet in February unless someone else can run the meeting. Marilyn and Greg will be birding in Costa Rica.
Our leadership team includes dedicated people who plan meetings and outings, table at events, and connect with other groups. We welcome anyone who wishes to volunteer with our network. Open volunteer positions are: co-chair, treasurer, social media coordinator, conservation committee members and outings leaders. Shorter volunteer commitments include tabling at events and at local farmers’ markets. To volunteer write Marilyn at marilynbauchat@gmail.com.
To view upcoming outings and events, check this page - Events and Outings
Please check our Upcoming Events and Outings for some wonderful activities coming up that will be added to the calendar soon. We’re looking forward to seeing you at our monthly meetings and in the woods.
Explore. Enjoy. Protect. Marilyn Bauchat and the Uplands Leadership Team
