Chamberlain Lake and Spicer Lake, two nature preserves in St. Joseph County, have been named “Wetlands of Distinction” by the Society of Wetlands Scientists (SWS).

Status as a “wetland of distinction” means the wetland is one of the country’s most ecologically sensitive landscapes, and exhibits exemplary function and service.

Chamberlain Lake Nature Preserve covers 82.5 acres. Its namesake lake is covered with a mat of vegetation composed of rare sedges and other species. It is owned and managed by the DNR Division of Nature Preserves. A trail leads through its woods to the lake. Its parking lot and trail are maintained by the DNR, with the assistance of the St. Joseph County Parks and Recreation Department.

Spicer Lake Nature Preserve comprises 196 acres. It is owned and managed by the St. Joseph County Parks and Recreation Department. Its namesake lake is a kettle lake within the park. It is a dedicated state nature preserve. A quarter-mile boardwalk, two additional viewing platforms and roughly 7 miles of trails exist within the property, making the wetland accessible to hikers, wildlife watchers and nature photographers. 

SWS is an international membership organization of more than 3,000 wetland professionals dedicated to fostering sound wetland science, education, and management. More information is at sws.org.

More details and interactive maps of both nature preserves and all of Indiana’s other 285 nature preserves are at dnr.IN.gov/naturepreserve/4698.htm. Other Wetlands of Distinction are at wetlandsofdistinction.org.

To view all DNR news releases, please see dnr.IN.gov.