Lake Doctor | A Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams Podcast

Discover the secrets of transformational leadership and community impact with our special guest, Stephanie Overbey, CEO of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. Stephanie's journey from being hired 24 years ago by Susie Light to now leading the organization provides a wealth of insights into formal philanthropy and developing a servant's heart. Learn how her childhood experiences of frequent moves and her family's house-flipping adventures shaped her perspective, and gain valuable knowledge about the foundation's grant-making process and its role in supporting local nonprofits.

Get an insider look at charitable giving and volunteer engagement dynamics, with a special focus on the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams. Stephanie discusses the essential need for diversifying revenue streams for nonprofits, establishing sustainable donor relationships, and turning contributions into lasting partnerships. Understand the meticulous process of vetting volunteers, managing scholarship funds, and how the Community Foundation aligns donor passions with community needs. We also provide important contact information for those looking to make a difference through donations or volunteer work.

Find out how nonprofits can grow while maintaining a balance between operational demands and personal life. Stephanie shares her experiences of raising triplets while leading a significant organization, highlighting the importance of strategic staffing, financial planning, and the invaluable role of board members with financial expertise. Explore the critical parameters for measuring lake health with experts from the Lilly Center and discover meaningful steps to improve your lake's ecosystem. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about community service, environmental sustainability, and achieving personal and professional balance.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

Curious about what makes Indiana's lakes tick? Join us as we chat with Tyler Delauder, the District Fisheries Biologist from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Tyler shares his fascinating journey from aspiring teacher to passionate steward of Indiana’s aquatic ecosystems. Learn how a summer internship transformed his career path and fuelled his personal love for fishing and outdoor adventures, a passion he now shares with his family. Dive into the DNR's essential work in maintaining our lakes, particularly through the Status and Trends project, a key initiative that ensures the health and quality of lakes across Indiana.

Ever wondered what's really happening beneath the surface of your favorite fishing spot? Tyler breaks down the intricate food chains within lake ecosystems, from the top predators like bass and northern pike to the vital roles of zooplankton and phytoplankton. He gives practical advice for local anglers, highlighting the best fishing spots in Kosciusko County and stressing the importance of adhering to fish consumption advisories for safety. You'll also gain insights into Indiana’s fishing regulations and where to find critical information on mercury advisories, especially for lakes like Winona Lake.

But it's not all smooth sailing in Indiana's lakes. Tyler delves into the battle against invasive aquatic species, focusing on a troublemaker known as "starry." Discover the pros and cons of different management strategies, from herbicide treatments to mechanical removal, and learn why timely fish kill reporting is crucial. We also explore ongoing research on the impact of public sewer systems on lake health and efforts to clear log jams from the Tippecanoe River. Finally, find out how you can take actionable steps to contribute to healthier lakes by visiting lakes.grace.edu. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips for anyone passionate about preserving the natural beauty of Indiana’s lakes.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

What if wetlands could save your community from catastrophic floods and polluted water? Join us as we uncover the hidden heroes of our ecosystems with Scott Fetters from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Scott's extensive expertise in wetland restoration sheds light on their crucial role in water filtration, flood control, and habitat creation. Hear about the inspiring stories behind the removal of low-head dams to improve river safety, and understand how wetlands act like natural sponges, absorbing and filtering our water.

Scott takes us on a journey through the unique characteristics that set wetlands apart from other aquatic systems. Ever wondered what makes a marsh different from a swamp or a bog? Discover the world of hydric soils, wetland vegetation, and specific hydrology regimes that define these vital ecosystems. We delve into the alarming loss of wetlands in Indiana and the tireless efforts to restore them, featuring local landmarks like Pisgah Marsh and the wetland complexes at Grace College. The importance of education and legislative support in conservation efforts is starkly highlighted.

In our special feature, we tackle the persistent problem of invasive wetland plants and celebrate the triumphs in their eradication. Learn about techniques such as reversing drainage processes and removing reed canary grass. Scott shares inspiring success stories, emphasizing the significant economic and environmental benefits that clean water and healthy wetlands bring to communities. Engage with us as we promote community involvement, water literacy, and practical steps for preserving these invaluable natural resources for future generations.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

How do strategic health initiatives transform a community? Join us as Rich Haddad from the K21 Health Foundation shares his journey from Grace College to leading the K21 Health Foundation for nearly two decades. You'll learn about K21's mission, born from the sale of Kosciusko Community Hospital, and how it now champions health opportunities for Kosciusko County residents. Rich's analytical prowess and passion for community well-being have made K21 a powerhouse in local health projects, including vital partnerships with the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams. Discover the behind-the-scenes efforts that are making a measurable difference in community health.

We also dive into our collaborative research on the presence of E. coli contamination at public swimming beaches in Warsaw and the impactful results of our community-driven research. Hear from experts Matt Burlingame and Morgan Sass as we answer questions about blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria: what they are, how to identify them, and the risks they pose to both humans and pets. Learn about the conditions that foster cyanobacterial blooms and the crucial steps being taken to monitor and mitigate their effects. This episode is packed with practical insights and critical information to help you stay informed about water safety and the health of our beloved lakes.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

Discover how STEM education is revolutionizing our community with insights from Dr. Rachael Hoffert of Grace College's School of Education and Dr. David Hoffert, superintendent of Warsaw Community Schools. These passionate educators share their unique journeys and discuss how their efforts have led to the development of STEM-certified schools, enhancing learning experiences from elementary through high school with interdisciplinary and hands-on approaches. Gain valuable perspectives on the vital role of STEM in maintaining community vitality and inspiring future generations.

Uncover the unexpected intersection of fishing, science, education, and community engagement in Kosciusko County. Grace College students are not only learning about practical fishing activities but also imparting these skills to local fourth graders, many of whom have never had the opportunity to fish. This hands-on experience fosters essential problem-solving and collaborative skills while also instilling a deep appreciation for local ecosystems. Reflect on how real-world examples like water testing and environmental conservation are increasing water literacy in education and community consciousness.

Finally, listen to heartfelt stories from local educators and leaders as they share their dedication to education and environmental stewardship. From the inspiring journey of a history teacher turned superintendent to a college instructor shaping future teachers, learn about their hopes for leaving a lasting positive impact on the community. Engage with our fun lake science trivia challenge and discover practical ways you can contribute to making your local lakes healthier. This episode is packed with inspiring stories and applicable insights into STEM education and community involvement.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

Can investing in lake-front properties improve your financial future and your lake's health? On this episode of the Lake Doctor podcast, we chat with Kay Young, a real estate veteran with 36 years of experience in the Syracuse area, who unveils the secrets behind the magnetism of lakefront homes. From the allure of tranquil, family-friendly environments to the economic benefits these properties bring, Kay offers an insider’s perspective on why lakefront investments are booming. Plus, discover the essential amenities buyers crave and how the landscape of lake properties is evolving from quaint cottages to luxurious retreats.

But it’s not all about the glamour of lakeside living; we also dive into the heart of lake conservation. We highlight the tireless efforts of local communities, lake associations, and conservancies working to preserve these natural treasures. Learn about the crucial role of wetlands, the balance between development and preservation, and the best practices for safe boating and preventing cross-contamination. To top it off, enjoy a lively segment called "Fishing for Answers," featuring former environmental science students from Grace College, as they share their unique insights and passion for aquatic science. Join us for an episode that's as informative as it is engaging!

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

Welcome to Lake Doctor: A Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams Podcast, your go-to source for understanding and preserving the health of our local lakes. Join hosts Dr. Nate Bosch, an expert in limnology, and Suzie Light, a lifelong resident and passionate advocate for our aquatic environments, as they dive deep into the challenges facing Kosciusko County's lakes.

Dr. Nate Bosch grew up in Michigan and received his doctorate in 2007 from the University of Michigan in limnology. With 18 peer-reviewed publications spanning research from the Great Lakes to smaller inland lakes and streams, Nate has been awarded the prestigious Chandler Misner Award twice by the International Association of Great Lakes Research. At Grace College, Nate is a professor in the environmental science program, dean of the School of Science and Engineering, and leads the Lilly Center team, serving the local community with dedication and expertise.

Each episode tackles these critical issues head-on, featuring insightful interviews with our partners, engaging Q&A sessions, and fun segments for the science enthusiasts among us. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the impactful research and education efforts spearheaded by the Lilly Center and discover how we can all contribute to safeguarding our precious freshwater ecosystems.

Tune in bi-monthly starting June 2024, and join the conversation by leaving comments or emailing us at lakes@grace.eduwith your questions and ideas. Supported by the K21 Health Foundation, Rick and April Sasso, and DreamOn Studios, this podcast aims to inspire and inform the next generation of water-literate citizens and environmental stewards. Learn more about our work and how to support us at lakes.grace.edu.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.