For Over 35 Years, the Muncie Light Horse Club Has Been a Quiet but Powerful Force for Good at Prairie Creek Reservoir

The Prairie Creek Horse Trails, Camping Area, and Muncie Light Horse Club (MLHC) Grounds are not merely paths through the woods—they are sanctuaries.

For those fortunate enough to have spent time here, these trails offer more than recreation.  They provide a rare escape from the noise of everyday life—a chance to disconnect from the hustle and reconnect with nature. Beneath the canopy of trees and the gentle hum of wildlife, we find space to reflect, recharge, and rediscover peace.

These cherished grounds have witnessed countless stories: laughter shared around campfires, meals prepared with care, and heartfelt moments of connection under starlit skies.

At night, the forest comes alive with the soft calls of owls echoing through the trees.  Families of deer, foxes, and other wildlife move gracefully along these natural corridors, safe and undisturbed.  

This is not just a place to walk—it is a place to belong.  To nature. To memory. To something greater than ourselves.

Now, This Cherished Space Is at Risk

Indiana American Water Company has announced that, effective December 31, 2025, horse camping, trail riding, and MLHC’s use of the west side of Prairie Creek will be permanently closed.  The City of Muncie has already implemented an early closure as of August 1, 2025.
(Note: Indiana American Water Company owns the land and ultimately holds decision-making authority.)

This decision threatens not just a club, but a community, a legacy of stewardship, and a vital piece of local history.

Why This Matters

• Wildlife thrives along these trails.  Removing them could disrupt habitats and increase dangerous road crossings.
• This space has been a safe, peaceful, and inclusive haven for generations of riders, families, and nature enthusiasts.

What You Should Know

• 1990 - Trails approved by City of Muncie. Have been responsibly maintained by MLHC ever since.  
  • MLHC has repaired decades of old damage, installed erosion control, signage, removed invasive plants, and funded all efforts through grants, fundraising, and thousands of volunteer hours all without financial support from the City or Indiana American Water Company.
• 1996 - Land enrolled in DNR Classified Forest and Wildlands Program.
• 2012 - Lease renewed with no objections from City of Muncie or Indiana American Water Company.
• 2016 - One trail closed by the dam and another trail rerouted at Indiana American Water Company's request.
  • MLHC has consistently responded to requests from both the City and Indiana American Water Company.
• 2025 - Planned closure of west side by Indiana American Water Company (12/31/25) and City of Muncie (8/1/25).
• Indiana American Water Company's stated intent is to allow the area to revert to nature, aligning with their participation in the DNR Classified Forest and Wildlands Program since 1996.  
  • The land within the program is re-evaluated at least once every 7 years (free to the land owner).
  • Signs must be posted on the property that is listed within the program - of which there are none (signs are provided free of charge).
  • The program does permit trail maintenance and horseback riding and is encouraged by DNR.
  • Land owners receive reduced property tax on the acres enrolled in the program.
  • 8 different parcels of land totaling 723.6 acres of which 270.58 acres are listed as Wildlife Habitat and enrolled in the DNR Classified Forest and 6.2 acres were listed as Woodland.
  • Our work aligns with the DNR Classified Forest and Wildlands Program.  
• (NOTE:  Indiana American Water Company OWNS that land and it is 100% up to them to allow us to be there).
• Wildlife, native plants, and our local community all benefit from these trails.  
• Additional History of Prairie Creek Trails and Cardinal Greenway

We’re Asking You to Stand With Us

We are advocating for the preservation of a place that fosters human connection and deep respect for the natural world.

By signing this petition, you are helping us ask Indiana American Water Company and the City of Muncie to:

1. Reconsider the closure of horse camping, trail riding, and club grounds on the west side of Prairie Creek.
2. Include MLHC in lease renewal discussions to ensure the future of responsible, community-based land use.
3. Explore collaborative solutions that protect both the environment and the people who care for it. 

This Is More Than Land—It’s Legacy

• Prairie Creek is not just a place—it’s part of who we are. 
• It’s where children learn to ride, where families gather around campfires, and where nature is honored and preserved.

We believe a collaborative path forward is possible—one that honors both conservation and community.

By partnering with the Muncie Light Horse Club, we can proactively address environmental concerns through targeted efforts such as invasive species removal, native plant restoration, and responsible runoff management to safeguard the reservoir

Your signature helps to amplify our voice and shows decision-makers that this land matters to many. 

Please add your name to help us protect this special place.  Stand with us.  Sign the petition today to preserve the Prairie Creek Horse Trails, camping area, and MLHC Club Grounds.

Together, we can ensure Prairie Creek remains a sanctuary for generations of horse and nature enthusiasts for years to come.

Sincerely,
MLHC Executive Board, Board Members, Members and Supporters of the Muncie Light Horse Club

• Facebook - Muncie Light Horse Club
• www.muncielighthorseclub.com 

Indiana American Water Company

• Facebook - Indiana American Water Company
• Instagram - Indiana American Water Company  

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