Challenge: To provide the hydrologic data needed to support water supply decisions in rapidly growing Hamilton and Morgan Counties, Indiana.
Solution: Hamilton and Morgan Counties faced different questions about growth, but both needed a clearer understanding of the water resources available to support it. INTERA developed a comprehensive water resources assessment that evaluated projected water demand, existing water availability, and potential future supply gaps—giving county leaders the technical foundation to understand where growth could be supported and where water constraints could emerge.
To build that understanding, INTERA applied multiple layers of technical analysis. We used the USGS PART baseflow separation model to reconstruct natural streamflow and evaluate the effects of withdrawals and discharges. INTERA also developed local-scale MODFLOW groundwater models to examine the connection between surface water and the underlying aquifer, providing insight into how groundwater withdrawals, recharge, and streamflow interact across the system.
INTERA then incorporated climate projections into the water availability analysis to evaluate how future conditions could affect the counties’ water resources. By bringing these analyses together, we created a more complete picture of how much water may be available, how the system responds to changing demands, and where future growth could create water supply concerns.
To turn the technical analysis into an ongoing decision-making resource, INTERA established a water monitoring network and dashboard that tracks groundwater levels alongside streamflow, wastewater discharges, and other data. We also helped create water resource planning groups that bring utilities, major water users, industry, and public agencies together to use the information in ongoing planning and development decisions.
Results: Hamilton and Morgan Counties now have a stronger technical and data foundation for evaluating water supply, growth, and development decisions.
Hamilton County has gained a clearer understanding of where water resources can support continued growth and where coordination among water users is needed. Morgan County gained the technical foundation to guide development toward areas with adequate water resources and identify locations where water availability could constrain future growth. INTERA’s work has given county leaders greater confidence in where water resources are available, where constraints exist, and where additional planning or collaboration is needed.
View the dashboard: Indiana Water Network
