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Negotiations are underway for the Indiana DNR to lease land from Indiana and Michigan Power (I&M) with hopes of constructing a small launch site at Nibbyville upstream from the 6 Span Bridge.

The land, east of CR 19 in Elkhart County, is the former Nibbyville campground on which I&M has been clearing and constructing towers for a new transmission line.

The Nibbyville campground had a gravel ramp that was used while the 6 Span access was being developed.

Indiana DNR fisheries specialist Jamie Smyth confirmed this week that there is hope to redevelop the site sometime this year.

“Nothing is set in stone yet, but we have submitted for permits to rehab the site,” said Smyth. “It’s all tentative right now.”

Smyth said if the lease is granted, the new access would have a concrete ramp angled slightly to make it more accommodating for launching in the strong current on that section of the river. It would accommodate about 8 parking spots for boats with trailers.

“We have requested a lease to the land and I&M officials said they would get back with us this spring,” he added.