Hatchworks LLC, an alias used by Google, applied for a Section 401 Water Quality Certificate to facilitate the Phase III expansion of the Project Zodiac Data Center in Fort Wayne, IN. If approved, the permit will will destroy 3,415 linear feet of Adams Ditch, temporarily impact 68 linear feet of Doctor Ditch, and convert a 0.84 acre forested wetland to a herbaceous wetland.

Hoosier Environmental Council commented on the certificate and submitted written testimony in opposition to the proposed water quality impacts. Key concerns include:

  • The current Application fails to explore the practical alternative of avoiding impacts to Adams Ditch and Wetland 56
  • Adams Ditch has been impaired since the onset of its assessment in 2020 and will only further degrade if this Application is approved
  • The Application will destroy a portion of a mature swamp, which is considered a rare ecosystem in Indiana
  • Indiana’s wetland mitigation program is failing to replace wetlands and must be utilized as a last resort
  • The Application is contrary to the overall goals set forth in Indiana’s Water Quality Standards
  • The Application contains incorrect information on the total number of buildings as part of the Phase III expansion.

Public comments

HEC Public Comments on the 401 WQC Phase III Project Zodiac Data Center WQC001454Download

Written testimony

Public Testimony on the Phase III of the Project Zodiac Data Center Section 401 Water Quality CertificateDownload

Learn more


Categories: Public Comments, Water & Wilderness Protection, Wetlands