Welcome!

Merry Lea is a nature sanctuary located near Wolf Lake, Indiana. Most of the habitats found in northeastern Indiana are present in the 1,189 acres of Merry Lea. Unique geological features such as peat bogs, a marl pit, and glacial gravel formations are present. Observable management practices include wetland, prairie, and savanna restorations, as well as sustainable agriculture. A vigorous educational program interprets the significant biological and geological features. Management of the center is guided by a Christian theology of earthkeeping.

The Merry Lea Mission

Providing a natural sanctuary for northern Indiana's plants and animals

Providing environmental education for people of all ages

Providing a setting for re-creating opportunities that benefit the human body and spirit while not exploiting the land or excessively disturbing its ecosystems

Our Programs

Public Programs
Throughout the year Merry Lea hosts a number of events for the public. See what is happening at Merry Lea that you might be interested in joining.

Master's Degree in Environmental Education (M.A.)
Get a Master's degree in this intensive 11 month program in Environmental Education.

K-12 Programs
Each year over 5,000 kindergarten through 12th grade students participate in environmental education programs at Merry Lea.

Sustainability Semester in Residence
Spend fall semester living and learning at Merry Lea in this unique, interdisciplinary, immersive experience for undergrads. Apply now to be a part of the 2013 cohort!
Read updates See photo albums

Agroecology Summer Intensive
Students learn about sustainable farming practices in this undergraduate summer program.

Institute for Ecological Regeneration
Goshen College launched three new institutes in March 2011. Among them is the Institute for Ecological Regeneration, based at Merry Lea.

Coming Up

Eagle Eyes Series: Sharpening Your Observation Skills

These hikes are for families with kids ages 12 and under looking for summer fun. Participants will work on the art of observation but also talk about why it's tough to notice what we know is out there. Trail games like "Camouflage" will help you learn to see.

Woodlands with Paul Steury
Monday, June 24, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Learning Center

Wetlands with Janie Beck Kreider
Tuesday, July 16, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Farmstead

Prairies, leader TBA
Tuesday, August 6, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Rieth Village

Sabbath Hike Series

These hikes are for adults or youth seeking a reflective approach and a change of pace from their busy lifestyles the rest of the week.

Prairie Flowers
Sunday, July 28, 3:30 to 5 p.m.; meet at the Farmstead

Essence of August
Sun., August 11, 3:30 to 5 p.m.; meet at Rieth Village

Naming Nature
Sun., September 8, 3:30 to 5 p.m.; meet at the Learning Center

Autumn Change
Sun., October 20, 3:30 to 5 p.m.; meet at the Farmstead

Wilderness First Aid Workshop

Thursday & Friday, August 29 & 30, 2013, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Farmstead Barn Site

Merry Lea hosts a Wilderness First Aid Workshop each year. Instructors from the SOLO School of Emergency Medicine and Rescue, Conway, N.H., will teach this 16-hour course. Participants earn a two-year certification recognized by the American Camping Association, U.S. Coast Guard and various guide licensing boards.