Third-party review: LEAP pipeline testing didn’t consider long-term effects

Report challenges initial findings in an IEDC-paid study of Wabash River aquifers’ ability to feed tens of millions of gallons daily to the LEAP district in Lebanon. Plus, Sagamore Trail dedicated.

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THIRD-PARTY REVIEW: LEAP PIPELINE TESTING DIDN’T CONSIDER LONG-TERM EFFECTS

A locally produced, independent review a state-driven 2023 tests of aquifer along the Wabash River, seven miles downstream from Lafayette, concluded that an Indiana Economic Development Corp.-paid review didn’t consider the long-term effects of pumping 30 million gallons or more a day to industrial developments at the 9,000-acre LEAP district in Boone County.

Boston-based consultants Haley & Aldrich reported this week that a study paid for by the IEDC – as it contemplated a 35-mile pipeline from western Tippecanoe County to Lebanon, two counties away – was on point about how much water the aquifer along the Wabash River could produce. Intera’s preliminary estimates suggested there is enough water in aquifers along the Wabash River to sustain the LEAP district.

But the scope of preliminary estimates from Intera, a Texas-based firm hired by the IEDC, didn’t include what would be left behind in the pipeline concept, Haley & Aldrich indicated.

(Photo: Dave Bangert)