In a recent meeting of the St. Joseph County Drainage Board, held on December 2, 2024, critical discussions unfolded regarding upcoming drainage projects and their potential environmental impacts. The atmosphere was charged with concern as community members voiced apprehensions about significant water discharge plans that could affect local aquifers and residents.

The meeting began with a motion to approve an amendment extending a project’s end date to March 1, 2025, which was swiftly passed. However, the focus soon shifted to the implications of two major dewatering discharge permit applications. Dan Caruso, a resident from New Carlisle, raised alarms about the proposed discharge of nearly 28 million gallons of water per day into the Nesbazani ditch, starting December 30, 2024. This volume, he noted, far exceeds the 24 million gallon per day cap established by the Board earlier in July 2024.

Caruso's concerns were not just about numbers; they touched on the very essence of community safety and environmental integrity. He questioned how the local aquifer, previously assessed to have a daily discharge capacity of 44 million gallons, could sustain such a high outflow without jeopardizing the water supply for residents relying on shallow wells. His remarks highlighted the potential risks for those living in areas where well depths are less than 45 feet, suggesting that many could face water shortages unless they invest in deeper wells.

The discussion also raised questions about the capacity of the Nesbazani ditch to handle the increased flow. Caruso pointed out that the ditch was not designed for continuous high-volume discharge, warning that it could lead to erosion and damage to properties along its banks. He urged the Board to consider implementing a two-stage ditch system before proceeding with the increased water flow, emphasizing the need for proactive measures rather than reactive solutions.

As the meeting concluded, the Board members acknowledged the concerns raised but did not provide immediate answers to the pressing questions about regulatory compliance and environmental safeguards. The community remains on edge, awaiting further clarification on how these projects will be managed and what steps will be taken to protect both the local water supply and the integrity of the surrounding environment. The implications of these discussions will likely resonate throughout St. Joseph County as residents seek assurance that their needs and safety are prioritized in future drainage decisions.