The first phase in multi-step project to restore Starve Hollow Lakein Jackson-Washington State Foresthas been completed and the second phase is underway.

The project addresses problems that have dogged the popular lake at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area for years. An estimated 31,200 cubic yards of accumulated sediment were mechanically scooped from the lake in the first phase, which concentrated on a three-acre area near the front entrance of the recreation area.

“Work in this area has returned the lake to conditions it hasn’t seen in over 70 years,” said Brad Schneck, DNR Division of Forestry property manager at Jackson-Washington State Forest.

The four-phase project will restore between 20 and 40 acres of the 145-acre lake that was constructed in 1938.

DNR Forestry is collaborating with DNR Fish & Wildlife’sLakeand River Enhancement (LARE) program to improve fishing and other recreational opportunities at the lake, provide increased floodwater protection, and prolong the life of the lake.

LARE, which is funded through boat registration fees, has been used most often to address projects in northernIndiana, but this project specifically targets a southernIndianawater body and is in line with the LARE mission of addressing sediment and nutrient issues inIndiana’s publicly accessible lakes and rivers.

Staging has begun for the second phase near the campground. Sediment will be removed from that area of the lake as weather, lake levels and other conditions allow with the goal of finishing ahead of the camping season next spring.

“This multi-year project should improve all aspects of Starve Hollow, including use of the lake and campgrounds,” Schneck said. “Improving the lake and fishing opportunities makes it a more attractive option for local recreational pursuits.”