Protesters rally against plan to divert Eagle Creek water to LEAP district

Neighbors are concerned about plans to send up to 25 million gallons a day to the LEAP Innovation District in Boone County.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Residents in Indianapolis are protesting a proposal to divert millions of gallons of water from Eagle Creek Reservoir to the LEAP Innovation District in Boone County. Protesters are worried about the amount of water being drawn from the reservoir as well as the wastewater being pumped back in, citing concerns over environmental impacts and the long-term sustainability of the community's water supply.

Why it matters

Eagle Creek Reservoir is a critical water source for the Indianapolis area, and residents are concerned that diverting large amounts of water to the LEAP district could negatively impact the local water supply and ecosystem. The debate highlights the tension between development and environmental preservation in the region.

The details

The proposal calls for diverting up to 25 million gallons of water per day from multiple sites in central Indiana, including up to 13 million gallons per day from Eagle Creek Reservoir. While the LEAP district says the wastewater will be treated, neighbors are worried about potential contaminants being pumped back into the reservoir.

  • The protest took place on Friday, February 28, 2026.
  • Citizens Energy is currently holding in-person information sessions on the project.

The players

LEAP Innovation District

A development project in Boone County that is proposing to divert water from Eagle Creek Reservoir.

Lebanon Utilities

The utility company that will be handling the wastewater being pumped back into Eagle Creek Reservoir.

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What’s next

Citizens Energy will continue to hold in-person information sessions on the project, and residents say they will not stop voicing their concerns.

The takeaway

This dispute highlights the ongoing tension between development and environmental preservation in the Indianapolis area. As the city and surrounding region continue to grow, managing the water supply and protecting natural resources will be crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the community.