Dr. Dan Bradley, Ouabache Land Conservancy Board Member, Joins Sycamore Hall of Fame

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Dr. Daniel Bradley, a dedicated Board Member of the Ouabache Land Conservancy and former President of Indiana State University, has been inducted into the Indiana State Department of Athletics’ 32nd Sycamore Hall of Fame Class. Bradley was honored alongside four other distinguished individuals during a ceremony on Friday, January 10, at the Sycamore Banquet Center.

Dr. Bradley served as ISU’s 11th president from 2008 to 2018, achieving remarkable milestones that extended far beyond campus. Under his leadership, ISU ranked #1 in the nation for community service hours in 2013, completed over $300 million in capital projects, and significantly improved retention and graduation rates. Bradley also played a pivotal role in redeveloping downtown Terre Haute and enhancing the riverfront area.

His commitment to environmental stewardship has carried over to his current role with the Ouabache Land Conservancy. As a Board Member, Bradley continues to champion the preservation of natural spaces and sustainable land management. His experience in revitalization and community building has been instrumental in helping the Conservancy surpass 1,000 acres of conserved land and in setting priorities for future conservation efforts in the region.

“Dan’s leadership and vision have greatly benefited the Conservancy,” said Ouabache Land Conservancy President Alysa Morley. “His recognition in the Sycamore Hall of Fame is well-deserved and reflects his deep commitment to our community and its natural resources.”

Bradley’s induction highlights his far-reaching impact as a leader, educator, and conservation advocate. His enduring efforts with the Ouabache Land Conservancy and his legacy at Indiana State University exemplify his dedication to building a stronger, more sustainable future for Terre Haute and beyond.

Update on IDEM 319 Implementation Grant for Otter Creek Watershed

Our IDEM Section 319 Implementation Grant continues to fund practices to improve water quality in Otter Creek.  This year, we began our second implementation grant, providing funds for three years.

In 2024, the Otter Creek project implemented the following:

  • 677 acres of cover crop including two equipment modifications

  • 295 acres of no-till via one equipment modification

  • 1,001 acres of nutrient management via four equipment modifications

  • 4,768 acres of heavy use area protection.

These improvements resulted in 3,063 tons less sediment, 20,723 lb less phosphorus, and 43,492 lb less nitrogen entering Otter Creek.  Over the three-year grant period, the project withheld 11,078 tons sediment, 37211 lb phosphorus and 59,150 lb nitrogen from Otter Creek.

One strength of our grant has been regional collaboration, and we thank our Steering Committee members for their dedication and time.  Looking ahead, please mark your calendar for Experience Otter Creek on May 17th, 2025 from 9 am to noon.  Planning is underway for this fun-filled day with the aim to educate our community about water quality, watersheds, river ecosystems, and more.  The event will be hands-on and interesting for all ages!