INDIANA — The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is kicking off a series of seven public workshops this week, inviting Hoosiers to help shape the future of the state’s water security. The initiative follows Executive Order 25-63, signed by Governor Mike Braun on April 21, 2025, which mandates the creation of a comprehensive Statewide Water Inventory and Management Plan.
The first workshop will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Garrison at Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis.
The primary goal of the workshops is to gather public and professional input on how Indiana tracks and manages its water supply. Governor Braun’s directive stems from the need for a “transparent water inventory” to ensure the state can support rapid economic development while protecting residential and agricultural needs through 2026 and beyond.
Attendees will be asked for feedback on three key areas:
- Regional Planning: Developing a framework that addresses the unique water needs of Indiana’s different river basins.
- Monitoring Networks: Identifying gaps in current sensors and data collection for groundwater and stream flows.
- Digital Management: Designing an online platform that will make water data accessible to the public, utilities, and industry leaders in real-time.
The DNR has scheduled meetings across the state to ensure regional disparities—such as the high-demand industrial zones in Central Indiana versus the agricultural belts in the South—are adequately represented.
| Date | Location | Time (Local) |
| Feb. 12 | The Garrison (Fort Harrison SP), Indianapolis | 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
| Feb. 24 | Clifty Inn (Clifty Falls SP), Madison | 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
| Feb. 26 | Washington Community Building, Daviess Co. | 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
| April 7 | Allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne | 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. |
| April 16 | Beck Agricultural Center, West Lafayette | 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
| May 12 | Knox Community Building, Starke Co. | 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
| TBD (May) | Virtual Workshop | To Be Announced |
While the workshops are open to all Indiana residents, the state has specifically invited key stakeholders whose operations rely heavily on water, including:
- Local Officials & Economic Groups: To align water availability with future growth.
- Agriculture & Industry: High-capacity users and irrigation specialists.
- Utilities & Power Generators: Those managing public drinking water and wastewater.
- Conservationists & Researchers: Experts focused on wildlife, soil health, and watershed protection.
“Water is an essential resource for the vitality of all Indiana communities,” said Governor Braun. “Through this process, we’ll make sure Indiana is well-positioned for resource needs now and for future generations.”
For those unable to attend in person, the DNR is accepting written feedback via email at DOWWaterResources@dnr.IN.gov. You can also sign up online through the DNR Events Portal to be notified of the upcoming virtual session in May.
