Metamora update from the DNR  3/05/2004

Mick-

Greetings! I am very glad to hear that plans are proceeding well

for the trail. I wanted to take a moment to update you on what is happening

at the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site. First and foremost, the

legislation to provide a fund for the Historic Sites failed yesterday. We

will still be operating on a donation basis and fees for the Canal Boat

Interpretive program will continue to revert to the General Fund. We are

understandably disappointed.

The area for the test pump will be marked next week and the

archeologists will do their work shortly thereafter.

Jay, Jim and I have been working on some improvements to the

Metamora Grist Mill interior. At the end of June, we will be opening a

small-scale gift shop through a contract with the Indiana State Museum

Foundation. Our plans are proceeding at this point and include the

development of WWCSHS logo merchandise. The discussions regarding contract

terms are, at best, just at the beginning stages. Our intention is NOT to

compete with local vendors, just to add slightly and re-arrange. Please

know that the monies generated will be available to the site for the site's

benefit. Given the failure of the legislation, this is our only means of

generating income that we can use like this.

In addition, at the end of September, look for interpretation

improvements in the Mill. Among the improvements we anticipate are labeling

of equipment, explanation of the operation of the mill, its place along the

canal and how the canal and mill benefited each other. The current map

located by the doors will receive a facelift as well.

Jay and crew is getting geared up for the season and I am sure that

he will be filling you in with details along that line. Haspin Acres

personnel cleaned out sediment at the Feeder Dam last week. I know that the

recent break in the weather has allowed the accessibility work at the Mill

Park to proceed...goodness knows we have the dirt to spare!

Please let me know if you have any questions regarding the above! Have a

great day!

Laura Minzes

Deputy Director of Historic Sites