Program explores Wabash and Erie Canal connection to Patoka River Refuge

A special program at the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge will explore the history of the canals connecting Southern Indiana to Toledo, Ohio.

The Wabash and Erie Canal is a historic waterway that connected Toledo, Ohio to Evansville. Canal construction began in 1832, reaching Evansville in 1853. There are many intact sections of this canal that run through parts of the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge.

On February 20, 2016, Preston Richardt, a Refuge Friend, will present an interesting and informative program focusing on the section of the canal as it approaches the town of Dongola from the Patoka River aqueduct.

As they walk along, participants will learn the history of the canal including why it was built and why it was abandoned. They will see a section of the canal as it is today, and walk through and understand a canal town. Preston will also help participants locate other sections of the canal on Refuge property and beyond.

The program will begin at 9:00 AM (Central time) at the McCandless Tract on the Refuge. The walk, approximately 1/2 to one mile in length, is expected to last one to 1.5 hours. It will pass through wooded areas and a power line right-of-way that has briars and other undergrowth on it. Participants should dress appropriately for weather
and hiking conditions. Lowland areas might be flooded.

From the Oakland City Junction of State Road 57 and State Road 64, drive north on 57. Turn left onto County Road 150N, which is the last road before the Patoka River bridge. The Dongola Kiosk is on the right side of the road. From Petersburg, drive south on State Road 57, crossing the Patoka River Bridge, entering Gibson County. Turn right onto County Road 150N, the first road after crossing the Patoka River bridge. The Dongola Kiosk is on the right side of the road.