Projects and Research

In August 2019, state and federal agencies investigated a major fish die-off in Indiana’s East Branch Little Calumet River and nearby Lake Michigan waters. ArcelorMittal reported that a catastrophic valve failure released millions of gallons of untreated water containing excess cyanide and ammonia, prompting closures of beaches, marinas, and waterways.

A 2004 settlement with eight companies provided $56.3 million, protected 233 acres of rare dune and swale habitat, and reimbursed agencies for natural resource damage assessments related to the Grand Calumet River and Indiana Harbor Canal. The Grand Calumet River Restoration Fund was established to address contaminated sediments and restore natural resources in the area.

In 2018 and 2019, pipeline spills released diesel fuel and natural gasoline into Indiana waterways, harming fish, birds, and other wildlife, including federally protected species. The State of Indiana and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reached a 2020 settlement with Marathon Pipe Line LLC to resolve natural resource injury claims.