Study cites endangered species issue in Mounds Lake proposal
A reservoir proposed for Mounds Lake, approximately 50 miles from Indianapolis, could be problematic for several endangered species there, according to a recent feasibility study.
The Herald Bulletin points out that the 2,000-acre proposed reservoir could have a substantial impact on the ecosystem that supports the Northern riffleshell, the Indiana bat, and the clubshell mollusks, all of which are now endangered.
The bat population, for example, was 387,000 in 2009, down from 800,000 in 1967 when the species was first put on the list. The reservoir would cover some of the streams, forests, and bottomland that currently make up the bat’s habitat.
Officials for Madison County acknowledge that the project, which is large in scope, will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the area, but say it is too early to be able to pinpoint specifically what is likely to happen. The reservoir is being planned to better flood control, increase economic development, raise property values, and create new land for waterfront housing.
The Indiana Natural Heritage Data Center says several plant species, three dragonfly species, the bats and the mollusks are likely to be affected if plans go through. However, DLZ, a consulting firm, says none of the species are of sufficient concern to stop the project. Madison County executive director of the County Corporation for Economic Development, Rob Sparks, says they need more studies to determine the total impact of the proposal, as well as possible relocation of species.
County officials could work with brochure printers to create materials explaining the need for the reservoir and their efforts to protect the species there.
The Herald Bulletin points out that the 2,000-acre proposed reservoir could have a substantial impact on the ecosystem that supports the Northern riffleshell, the Indiana bat, and the clubshell mollusks, all of which are now endangered.
The bat population, for example, was 387,000 in 2009, down from 800,000 in 1967 when the species was first put on the list. The reservoir would cover some of the streams, forests, and bottomland that currently make up the bat’s habitat.
Officials for Madison County acknowledge that the project, which is large in scope, will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the area, but say it is too early to be able to pinpoint specifically what is likely to happen. The reservoir is being planned to better flood control, increase economic development, raise property values, and create new land for waterfront housing.
The Indiana Natural Heritage Data Center says several plant species, three dragonfly species, the bats and the mollusks are likely to be affected if plans go through. However, DLZ, a consulting firm, says none of the species are of sufficient concern to stop the project. Madison County executive director of the County Corporation for Economic Development, Rob Sparks, says they need more studies to determine the total impact of the proposal, as well as possible relocation of species.
County officials could work with brochure printers to create materials explaining the need for the reservoir and their efforts to protect the species there.