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The Habitat Organization has been closely monitoring Senate Bill (SB) 389 – legislation that would have eliminated protection of isolated state wetlands in Indiana. Undoubtedly a major setback for wildlife and natural resources in the Hoosier State.
 
On April 7th, the House Environmental Affairs Committee significantly amended SB 389 to protect most wetlands by adopting Amendment 24 – striking a balance between regulatory relief AND natural resource protections.
   
Why is it Important?
Indiana has already lost 85% of its original wetlands. Of the wetlands remaining, nearly 90 percent are state-protected wetlands which are in jeopardy if this bill reverts to its original form. Increased flooding risks, lost groundwater recharge, lost water purification, and critical wildlife habitat are what is at stake.
 
How Can You Help?
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever in Indiana is urging upland hunters to contact their State Representatives (http://iga.in.gov/legislative/find-legislators/) with the following talking points:   
 
Dear Representative [Last Name]
 
As an outdoor enthusiast and upland hunter, I strongly urge you to support SB 389 as amended by the House Environmental Affairs Committee and OPPOSE all other amendments that would expand wetland/critical environmental impacts. The current version of the bill strikes a more responsible and balanced approach to natural resource protection throughout the state.
 
Indiana’s wetlands support the time-honored traditions of hunting, fishing and trapping, as well as our outdoor recreation industry. Furthermore, these wetlands provide Hoosiers with clean water, flood prevention, and numerous other environmental services. As an upland hunter and wetland advocate, I ask that you please reject any further amendments that would put more wetland acres at risk. Thank you for your efforts to conserve natural resources throughout Indiana!