Celebrating 50 Years of Brookville Lake’s Impact

A collection of dignitaries including Indiana State Representative Lindsay Patterson, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Colonel L. Reyn Mann, Amanda Lowery from Congresswoman Erin Houchin’s office, Ranger Stephanie Ison, and Central Region Manager Carl Lindell spoke at Brookville Lake’s Fiftieth Anniversary Celebration on Friday.

Friday’s ceremony began a three-day celebration hosted by the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Brookville, Indiana Main Street, and Main Street America in honor of the fiftieth anniversary of Brookville Lake.   

“We’re so glad you could join us today as we honor this milestone in our Lake’s history,” Ison said, “and the community that has made it possible.”

Brookville Lake is managed cooperatively with the Corps of Engineers and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources as an example of what can be accomplished when engineering excellence provides multiple benefits to our communities.

Brookville Lake was built and operated as a flood risk management project and plays a vital role in protecting lives and property throughout the region. What began as a mission to reduce flood risk has grown into a beloved destination for outdoor recreation and a thriving habitat for fish and wildlife.

“Today we celebrate not only the infrastructure and innovation that made this project possible, but also the people, from the engineers who designed it to the rangers and staff who manage it to the communities that have made it a part of their lives,” Mann said.

Over the past 50 years, Brookville Lake has welcomed generations of boaters, fishermen, campers and nature lovers and quietly protected the region from devastating floods. Since its construction, Brookville Lake has prevented and estimated $100 million in flood damage and has helped protect the community of Brookville, and communities downstream.

“As we look ahead, we remain committed to ensuring Brookville Lake continues to serve Indiana and this region for generations to come,” Mann said.

The ceremony featured the presentation of the colors by the Bernard Hurst American Legion Post 77 from Brookville, Indiana. The national anthem was performed by For the King comprised of Tim Barricklow, Jeff Edwards, Randy Edwards, Mike Holman and Tyler Noah.

This year marks the Two-hundred and fiftieth birthday of both the US Army and the US Army Corps of Engineers. For 250 years, the US Army Corps of Engineers have been solving the nation’s toughest engineering challenges and has stood alongside American communities, serving and protecting through engineering innovation and stewardship. Brookville Lake is a testament to that enduring legacy.