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Wolcottville Today
By the People, for the People
Indiana Expands Emergency Advisories for High Water on Northern Lakes
Restrictions on motorized watercraft aim to prevent damage from boat wakes as water levels rise
Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:51am
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As water levels rise on northern Indiana lakes, state officials work to protect lakeside communities and recreational activities.Wolcottville TodayThe Indiana Department of Natural Resources has issued a second emergency advisory to restrict motorized watercraft on lakes in the northern part of the state due to high water levels. The first advisory affected lakes in Kosciusko County, while the new advisory places an idle-speed restriction on the Indian Lakes Chain in southern LaGrange County to prevent boat wakes from causing water to enter nearby homes.
Why it matters
The high water levels on these northern Indiana lakes are a result of heavy rainfall and spring snowmelt, posing a threat to lakeside properties and disrupting recreational activities. The emergency advisories aim to mitigate potential damage and ensure public safety during this period of elevated water.
The details
The initial emergency advisory, issued on Tuesday, restricted the operation of all motorized watercraft on the Barbee Lakes Chain in Kosciusko County. An idle-speed restriction was also placed on the Tippecanoe Lake Chain and Lake Wawasee in the same county. The second advisory, issued on Thursday, placed an idle-speed restriction on the Indian Lakes Chain in southern LaGrange County, including Witmer, Westler, Dallas, Hackenberg and Messick lakes.
- The first emergency advisory was issued on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
- The second emergency advisory was issued on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
The players
Indiana Department of Natural Resources
The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Indiana's natural resources, including its lakes and waterways.
What’s next
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources will continue to monitor water levels on the affected lakes and may issue additional advisories or restrictions if necessary to ensure public safety.
The takeaway
The high water levels on northern Indiana lakes have prompted the state's Department of Natural Resources to take proactive measures to protect lakeside properties and recreational activities. These emergency advisories demonstrate the agency's commitment to managing the state's natural resources and responding to environmental challenges.