Page last updated on March 18, 2026 at 4:01 pm
About Natural Resource Management at Griffy Lake
Griffy Lake Nature Preserve is managed with a focus on habitat restoration, invasive species control, and sustainable recreation to protect its diverse ecosystems. Land management strategies include prescribed fire to promote native plant growth, and controlled deer hunts to maintain a balanced ecosystem and support forest regeneration. The Griffy Lake Master Plan, originally adopted in 2008, guides conservation efforts, including a trails master plan and wildlife inventories.
For more information about natural resource management at Griffy Lake, email Mary Welz, Natural Resources Manager ([email protected]) or call 812-349-3736.
Deer Management
View controlled deer hunt harvest data.
Prescribed Fire
Natural resource managers are planning to implement prescribed fire on approximately 15 acres at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve in March 2026.
The identified 15-acre unit is located in the wooded area northeast of the boathouse parking lot, on the east side of Headley Road.
Scheduling of the prescribed fire is dependent on the weather forecast, moisture levels, and other atmospheric conditions necessary for safe and successful completion of the burn. Bloomington Fire Department personnel will provide on-site support as needed.
Griffy Lake Nature Preserve will remain open during the prescribed fire activity. However, parking at the boathouse will be limited, and all trails east of Headley Road will be closed during the burn and for at least one day after the activity takes place. This includes the Nature Trail, Hiking Trail, Griffy Creek Trail, Wetland Trail, and Lanam Trail. The amenities west of the boathouse parking lot will remain open, as will the Griffy Causeway Trail, East and West North Shore Loop Trails, South Shore Loop Trail, and IU Research and Teaching Preserve Trails.