Amid LEAP water outcry, Indy turns to scientists for Eagle Creek survey
The city of Indianapolis has initiated a bathymetric survey of Eagle Creek Reservoir in response to significant public and councilor opposition regarding plans to supply water to the LEAP district, which will house a Meta data center. This survey aims to assess the reservoir's capacity ahead of renegotiating a key water withdrawal contract. Locals are pushing for a better understanding of the reservoir's long-term water budget before final decisions are made.
The city of Indianapolis has commissioned a comprehensive bathymetric survey of Eagle Creek Reservoir, a move prompted by sustained public and political backlash against plans to divert water to the LEAP district in Boone County, which is slated to include a Meta data center and an Eli Lilly manufacturing plant.
The controversial water supply initiative, largely orchestrated by state economic development agencies like the Indiana Finance Authority and involving Citizens Energy Group and Lebanon Utilities, faced strong objections from Indianapolis city-county councilors and Eagle Creek Park advocates. A March letter from 21 councilors urged Indianapolis and Lebanon mayors, along with the utilities, to slow down the project. They highlighted Indianapolis's control over a water contract with Citizens Energy Group, which dictates reservoir withdrawals and expires in July 2026.
The United States Geological Survey began the three-day survey on May 18, utilizing sonar technology to map the reservoir floor and determine its capacity. This data will inform future water management decisions. The Indianapolis Department of Public Works collaborated with the USGS to better understand water levels, according to department spokesperson Kyle Bloyd.
While the city intends to use the survey results to renegotiate the water withdrawal agreement, it remains unclear if it will also develop a full 'water budget' that accounts for inflow and outflow, a measure advocated by experts like retired hydrologist Martin Risch. Emily Kaufmann, Assistant Director of Communications for Mayor Joe Hogsett's office, confirmed that contract negotiations are not yet active and will await the USGS data.