IDEM approves data center request to fill in wetlands
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) approved a permit for Hatchworks, LLC, to fill 2.13 acres of protected wetlands for a Google data center expansion in Fort Wayne. The approval includes conditions such as wetland mitigation and protection for endangered bat species. Non-compliance could lead to significant penalties.
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has granted Hatchworks, LLC, developers of a Google Data Center in Fort Wayne, approval to fill 2.13 acres of protected wetlands. This permit facilitates the construction of three additional buildings at the site.
As part of the approval, Hatchworks, LLC, is mandated to purchase 4.26 acres of forested wetland mitigation to compensate for the wetlands impacted by the project and must provide proof of this purchase within one year. IDEM's approval comes with several conditions, including clearly marking undisturbed wetlands and streams on the project site and adhering to their mitigation plan.
Additionally, IDEM advised the developers against clearing trees within the project boundaries from April through September to safeguard the endangered Indiana Bat and the federally threatened Northern Long-Eared Bat, unless an official waiver is obtained. Failure to comply with these terms could result in fines up to $25,000 and potential criminal liability.