Ontario Dam

Ontario Dam, located at 2500-2698 East 450 North, Howe, Indiana, is part of the Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area. This institution offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities on its 11,794 acres of land, 529 acres of lakes and impoundments, and 17 miles of free-flowing river. The area boasts a diverse mix of habitats, including hardwoods, wetlands, and upland fields, making it a haven for many endangered plant and animal species.

Established in 1956, Ontario Dam is one of three reservoirs in the Pigeon River Valley that were given to the state. Since then, additional land along the river valley has been acquired, providing even more opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The revenue generated from hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses is used for the development, operation, and maintenance of the property, with additional funding coming from federal programs to aid fish and wildlife restoration.

Hunting, fishing, and bird watching are popular activities at Ontario Dam, with pit toilets available for visitor convenience. The institution also welcomes volunteers for various activities such as trash pick-up, invasive plant removal, and painting. For more information or to volunteer, contact the property office at PigeonRiverFWA@dnr.IN.gov.