News & Events

For those of you who have lived at the lake for a while, the Ecozone is not new to you.  But, for anyone who has moved in within the last five years, a review of this key area is a good thing. 

Per Indiana Code IC 14-15-7-3 an “Ecozone” designates an area where motorized watercraft are limited. 

• Ecozones include wetlands, marshes, and shallow areas.  
• Ecozones function as a natural water filter, removing nutrients and sediments that hurt water quality.
• Ecozones function as self-sustaining fish nurseries.

The Simonton Lake Ecozone is marked with bouys and a floating sign.  Inside this area, you must observe the following:

• No motorized watercraft (trolling motors are allowed)
• No anchoring

In 2011, a Lake Diagnostic Feasibility Study was completed by the State of Indiana for Simonton Lake. The water quality in the lake was determined to be parcularly good.  However, three recommendaons were made to connue to improve the water quality. One of the three recommendations was the establishment of an Ecozone. 

We had the perfect spot:  the southeast corner of Little Simonton, a shallow area already growing non-invasive and water filtering aquac plants. The Lake Association established a committee which went through the Indiana DNR process to establish an Ecozone. Final approval came in January of 2014. The Simonton Lake Ecozone is protected by the Indiana DNR and the rules are enforced by Conservation Officers.