Last year in 2025, Merry Lea received estimates for deepening and widening the High Lake outlet channel [Site 1] and are proceeding with contractor bidding for the project. This will enhance water flow and increase boating access. 

We are grateful for the support of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, who has awarded Merry Lea a Lake and River Enhancement (LARE) grant of $80,000 toward the sediment removal project. The remainder is to be split between Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College and the High Lake community.

Merry Lea pledges our support of $24,000. We invite you to consider contributing to the needed $24,000 community match supporting this investment. Donations are tax-deductible. Our goal is to have the full match in-hand by June 30th, 2026 so we can sign McCullough Excavating and Silt Removal with the intent to complete the project over a 4-6 week period during the fall of 2026.

For any questions, please reach out to Mark East at High Lake or Freya Berntson at Merry Lea.

Community Pledge Match Commitment Form

To donate online, click the link below and select the designation as “Merry Lea – High Lake Channel Dredging Community Match.”

Donate Now!

If paying by check, please write “Merry Lea – High Lake Channel Dredging Community Match” in the memo line and mail it to:
Advancement Office
Goshen College
1700 S Main St.
Goshen, IN 46526