We Started Because Someone Had To.
Hoosier Woodlands Land Trust was inspired by neighbors who refused to watch the woods disappear.
Our Story
Hoosier Woodlands Land Trust was born out of a very local fight to save a very real patch of woods. In the northern suburbs of Indianapolis, a group of neighbors suddenly found themselves facing two threats at once. A gorgeous 3.6 acre wooded property went up for sale and we refused to let a developer buy it to build more townhomes on it.
Rather than simply protest and hope for the best, the neighbors decided to act in a way that would last. They came together to acquire the Eyas Nest property to ensure that the woods and the wildlife that depended on them would remain. That effort became the motivation for Hoosier Woodlands Land Trust — a way to protect other irreplaceable woodlands before they are gone.
Then, a proposed right-of-way expansion from the city would have removed a significant stretch of mature tree canopy and a well-used wildlife corridor. All for a 135 foot long connector road. Our founder, Kyle Hawkins, and his neighbors fought the city for months to ensure no road would be put in place of about 75 mature trees.
Why It Matters
Mature Trees Lost
Once a 100-year canopy is gone, it is gone for a century.
Wildlife Corridors
Suburban woodlands are critical connectors for birds, pollinators, and mammals.
Lasting Protection
Conservation easements last forever, surviving any future owner or developer.
Our Mission
We exist to permanently protect the small woodlands, tree canopy, and wildlife habitat of the greater Indianapolis suburbs — before the next development notice arrives.
Our Board of Directors — Currently Being Formed
Hoosier Woodlands Land Trust is governed by a volunteer board of community members, conservationists, and legal professionals. Announcements coming soon.