GREENE COUNTY — Governor Mike Braun and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) have announced the acquisition of 51 acres of land, marking the newest expansion of Martin State Forest in southeastern Greene County.
State officials say the strategic acquisition will strengthen long-term timber and wildlife conservation efforts while expanding public outdoor recreation opportunities across southern Indiana.
Expanding Public Lands and Conservation Scope
Located along Taylor Ridge Road, the newly acquired tract brings the total footprint of Martin State Forest to 9,735 acres.
Although named after neighboring Martin County—where the primary forest headquarters, fire tower, and recreational facilities sit—Martin State Forest stretches across county lines into both Martin and Greene counties. The state forest system manages these lands under a multi-use policy designed to balance:
- Wildlife Habitat Protection: Preserving contiguous forest canopy for native bird species, mammals, and aquatic life in surrounding watersheds.
- Public Recreation: Offering open access for hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
- Sustainable Forestry: Utilizing professional forest management techniques to ensure long-term woodland health and timber sustainability.
Funding Through Public-Private Partnerships
The property was purchased for a total cost of $270,000, made possible through a blend of state conservation funding and philanthropic support:
- $243,000 was provided through the President Benjamin Harrison Conservation Trust, a state program dedicated to preserving natural areas, historic sites, and outdoor recreation lands across Indiana.
- $27,000 in matching funds was contributed by the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation Tree Fund, which leverages private donations to support forest acquisition and tree-planting initiatives statewide.
The addition along Taylor Ridge Road will be integrated into the state forest management plan, ensuring permanent protection from residential development and guaranteeing permanent public access for generations of Hoosiers to come.
