Rep. Rokita's Efforts Yield Plan for More Consistent River Flows

Press Release

After rigorously working for nearly two weeks with relevant stakeholders, Rep. Todd Rokita responded to an agreement announced between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) regarding water flow along the Tippecanoe River and the protection of endangered species of mussels:

"I'm pleased to see a long-term, common-sense solution to address low-flow situations along the Tippecanoe River. While this agreement will reduce the likelihood of future, dramatic reductions to the water levels of Lakes Shafer and Freeman, we must continue working on immediate remedies to the low levels on Lake Freeman."

After learning of the lowering water levels on Lake Freeman nearly two weeks ago, Rokita began working to address the problem. On August 5, Rokita sent a letter to FWS seeking relief from the water flow mandates imposed on NIPSCO. On August 6, Rokita saw the impact of the low water flow situation by visiting businesses located along Lake Freeman and the sites along the river that are home to endangered mussels. Keeping in daily contact with leaders from FWS, NIPSCO, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and residents and businesses located on Lakes Shafer and Freeman, Rokita's efforts resulted in a stakeholder meeting announcing the agreement this morning.

The FWS released a Technical Assistance Letter today, outlining the agreement, after working with NIPSCO, which operates the dams along Lakes Shafer and Freeman. Under the agreement, during abnormal low-flow situations, the dams along the Tippecanoe River will be adjusted to mimic the natural flow of the river. If NIPSCO complies with the assistance letter, there will be no violation of the Endangered Species Act.

Congress passed the Endangered Species Act in 1973. This law put the well-being of endangered and threatened species ahead of the economic and safety interests of people. In the Tippecanoe River south of Lake Freeman, FWS indicates there are six species of endangered mussels. Though the law has not been amended in 26 years, Rokita is considering potential legislative actions in light of the situation on Lake Freeman.

NIPSCO will now file the agreement with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), who authorizes the company to operate the dams along Lakes Shafer and Freeman. Upon FERC approval, NIPSCO's operating license would be modified accordingly. Once filed, Rokita encourages local residents to submit their comments on the agreement to FERC.

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