Wetlands Not Warehouses

Franklin Township Citizens Tell IDEM: Wetlands Not Warehouses
UPDATE! Wetlands Permit Denied by IDEM!

5/28/2024: Today community voices were heard and respected when the call for “Wetlands Not Warehouses” was upheld by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) with the denial of a permit application to destroy wetlands for the purpose of building speculative warehouses located at the northeast corner of the intersection of East County Line Road and South Arlington Avenue in Marion County.

Read HEC’s Press Release about IDEM’s Decision

According to IDEM, the permit was denied because the project failed to demonstrate that it was without a reasonable alternative and that it was necessary, as well as the fact that they were building warehouses on speculation in an area that already has available warehouse space. The developer also submitted two different sets of plans which showed varying impacts to the wetlands.

Read IDEM’s Permit Denial Letter

A big THANK YOU to everyone who spoke up about the crucial role that wetlands play in our communities by submitting comments and showing up for the public hearing!

This fight is not over. The developer, Gershman Partners, may appeal IDEM’s permit decision, or may revise and resubmit the application. It’s very important that everyone stays engaged on this issue:

  • This page will be updated when there is new information. Keep checking back.
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  • Sign up for email updates by clicking on “Sign Up for More Info on these Indiana Wetlands” button below.
  • Questions? Email Susie McGovern at HEC

News Coverage of Indiana Wetlands Bill 1383

News Coverage of the Wetlands Permit Denial

April 9 Public Hearing

Nearly 60 people showed up to speak out about the importance of protecting wetlands during the April 9, 2024 public hearing at Edgewood Intermediate School. The hearing was held by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) about a proposed development that will destroy 45 acres of high-quality wetlands at County Line Road and Arlington Avenue just south of Indianapolis. A decision from IDEM will be issued by May 28, 2024.

News Coverage of the Hearing

News Coverage of the Issue

Indra Frank testifies at IDEM hearing. Photo credit: Enrique Saenz

What’s Happening

About 45 acres of the highest quality wetlands in Indiana are located at County Line Road and Arlington Avenue in Indianapolis. Developer Gershman Partners applied for a permit with IDEM to build warehouses where these wetlands currently exist, which will destroy them. Wetlands aren’t just crucial for wildlife but are essential for humans too! Learn more about wetlands and why they are important.

Proposed warehouse development site
Detailed information about the project:
Why are Wetlands So Critical?

Understanding these essential Indiana ecosystems

Humans rely on water to sustain our needs and daily activities, including drinking, hygiene, agriculture, transportation, electricity generation, and recreation. Wetlands are an essential component of the fresh water we need for survival, yet nearly 85% of the United State’s wetlands have been lost. Take some time to understand why wetlands are so critical, so that you can better speak on the issue for the upcoming permit hearing.



An unprecedented threat

Wetlands play a crucial role in Indiana’s ecological and water systems, yet they’re under unprecedented threat. Once covering a significant portion of the state, nearly 85% of Indiana’s original wetlands have been lost, largely due to urbanization and agricultural expansion. These unique ecosystems are not merely patches of saturated land; they are vital natural assets that provide invaluable services.

Read more: What is a Wetland?

Wetlands play a crucial role

Wetlands play a crucial role

Wetlands act as nature’s water filters, purifying pollutants and sediments from our waterways, and serve as natural flood defenses by absorbing excess rainwater, reducing the risk and severity of flooding. They are biodiversity hotspots, supporting a wide array of plant and animal species, many of which are endangered or threatened. Moreover, wetlands are crucial for groundwater recharge, contributing to the sustainability of our water supplies.

 

An unprecedented threat
Beyond the environment

Beyond the environment

The importance of these areas extends beyond environmental benefits. They also offer recreational opportunities, enhance property values, and contribute to our mental and physical well-being. Despite their significance, wetlands continue to face threats from proposed developments like the one on the table, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures and informed public involvement.

Wetlands play a crucial role

The History of Wetlands in Indiana




The Past

The Past

Indiana’s water policy has failed to protect one of our most precious resources: wetlands. Almost 85 percent of our original wetlands now gone from the state. In 2021, Indiana’s Senate Enrolled Act 389, also exempted many wetlands from regulation, including all Class I wetlands and Class II wetlands under certain conditions. The most recent federal court decision in Sackett v. EPA significantly reduced the number of wetlands protected under the Clean Water Act (CWA).

The Present

The Present

Developer Gershman Partners is applying for an Isolated Wetland Permit to impact a Class III wetland in southern Indianapolis along I-65 South and County Line Road. Class III wetlands are the highest-quality wetlands in Indiana. This wetland is part of a greater wetland ecosystem – about 45 acres – that will be developed into speculative warehouses. Read more about this proposal in our blog.

The Future

The Future

We envision a future where Indiana wetlands are protected for current and future generations to come. Where legislators don’t prioritize development over sustainability. Where residents can continue to enjoy the scenery of the wetlands and open space, and the wildlife they support, like sandhill cranes, bald eagles, and owls. We need your support!

More Resources

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WETLANDS

What is a wetland?, A blog post explaining what wetlands are and why they are so important to our ecosystem.

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WETLANDS

Indiana Wetlands Challenge – Checklist, A checklist for outdoor enthusiasts of the finest examples of protected wetlands in Indiana.

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WETLANDS

FAQ – Water Policy in the 2024 Legislative Session, Answers to questions HEC received during our Troubled Waters Ahead? Indiana’s 2024 Water Policy Preview webinar.

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WETLANDS

Indiana Needs Better Wetland Policy, A local example of wetland loss in central Indiana.

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