Microsoft data center water discharge plan approved
The St. Joseph County Drainage Board approved a dewatering plan for Microsoft’s planned data center construction. The system could discharge as much as 200,000 gallons of groundwater per hour into Willow Creek and Juday Creek, prompting concerns from nearby residents about water quality and private wells.
The St. Joseph County Drainage Board approved Microsoft’s plan to pump groundwater from the site of its planned data center during construction. Three wells could operate at different times from mid-December through early April, with estimated discharges reaching 200,000 gallons per hour into Willow Creek and Juday Creek.
Officials said they do not expect the discharge to cause flooding. Nearby residents have raised concerns about potential effects on water quality and private wells, while Microsoft plans to monitor nearby wells and track water levels. The total discharge will depend on construction conditions and how long the pumps operate.