Coffee Creek Preserve is considered by many as one of the most beautiful pockets of nature in Northwest Indiana. Featuring nearly 160 acres of wetlands, woodlands, and prairies – as well as hundreds of species of plants and animals – the park is a true gem in Chesterton.
However, the preserve is a little bit different from many parks around the Region; it is not publicly owned. Instead, it is managed by the Coffee Creek Watershed Conservancy (CCWC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit coalition of neighboring community associations who look to preserve the land for the public good. To maintain the land and its facilities, the CCWC partners with 1st American Management Company, which puts its extensive experience and maintenance expertise to work in preserving Coffee Creek for the public.
“We work and partner with local experts to ensure that Coffee Creek Preserve trails and infrastructure stay updated and in great shape for all to enjoy," said Board President Sharpe. "This fall we will be adding new interpretive signage so visitors fully appreciate and gain a deeper understanding of the features within this important community resource.”
The preserve is open from dusk to dawn each day and offers over five miles of hiking trails. There are also a number of routes for biking, opportunities for fishing and birding, and even cross-country skiing. The CCWC and 1st American partner to keep these opportunities available and to preserve the biodiversity that makes Coffee Creek unique.
“We actively manage the Preserve's natural areas and worked with a botanist last year to conduct an in-depth plant inventory," said Board Member Michelle Senderhauf. "During the nearly year-long process, both native and invasive plants were identified and mapped throughout the entire Preserve. From this, we created a plan to remove aggressive invasive species and create an environment where native plants can now thrive.”
The preserve also plays host to the Chesterton Amphitheatre, an open stage designed to melt naturally into the landscape. The Amphitheatre is available for rent, and each year over 20 wedding ceremonies take place on its stage.
Also available for rent is the Pavilion, a large shelter built from 22 Indiana Limestone pillars and hearty California Redwood lumber. It accommodates 20 picnic tables with room for about six people each. Much like the Amphitheatre, it was designed with nature in mind – it’s crafted to enhance the landscape without disrupting the environment.
1st American Management is responsible for scheduling the events held at the Amphitheatre and Pavilion. To receive rental information please email ccwc.rentals@gmail.com. To learn about volunteer work and donation opportunities, please contact 1st American Management via website or phone.
The beauty of the preserve and its facilities inspire steadfast support from many visitors. Those wishing to help the CCWC in its mission to maintain the preserve and its public availability can support it by sending donations to Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve PO Box 802 Chesterton, Indiana 46430.
To learn more about Coffee Creek Preserve, and how to make reservations or to dedicate a gift, visit coffeecreekpreserve.org. For more information on 1st American Management Company, visit 1stpropertymanagers.com.
