Campground to turn into wildlife habitat

MONGO, Ind. (AP) - The state Department of Natural Resources plans to close a primitive campground in northeastern Indiana on March 1 and convert it into a wildlife habitat.

The DNR's Division of Fish & Wildlife operates the Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area near Mongo, 45 miles north of Fort Wayne. Officials say factors that led to the decision to close the 44-site campground include increased operating costs, declining revenue, growing maintenance needs, staffing constraints, fewer users and the availability of other campgrounds nearby. Pokagon State Park is about 20 miles away.

The Division of Fish & Wildlife says its resources are better used on wildlife management.

The Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area includes more than 11,000 acres of land, 500 acres of lakes and 17 miles of river.