The Environmental Impact
Mining so close to a river could have BIG implications
This kind of industrial extraction business so close to a river and within a floodplain could seriously disrupt the integrity of the river, and the surrounding the ecosystem. One review found “37 instances of rivers that broke into gravel mines and the resulting river response had led to bed and bank erosion and threats to infrastructure.” (Source)
Where will the White River go with a compromised floodplain?
Mining close a river has potential city infrastructure problems, too, affecting the two immediate down-stream bridges if the river is altered. “Gravel pits provide an area of increased conveyance to flow and often a shortened flow path for floodwaters. This can result in high velocity and scour.” The subsequent erosion can result in changes to the river and its path (Source).
Local, national, and international case studies show that pit capture and subsequent river channel changes are a common consequence of floodplain mining (Source). The areas that are most prone to flooding in Noblesville are downstream from the gravel pit site.
What does the City of Noblesville Department of Planning say about the importance of floodplains?
“Limiting development in areas designated as being part of the floodplain minimizes the potential for damage and personal property loss due to flooding and also enhances the beneficial aspects of flood plains.” (Source)
Bald Eagle
What about the endangered and protected species in the area?
A major change in the river and lands surrounding it threatens endangered and protected animals, plants and insects. (Source) When the ecosystem is disrupted, invasive species move in and further affect the natural ecosystem.
Some protected or endangered species include:
Indiana Bat
Northern Long-ear Bat
Bald Eagle
Turquoise Bluet (insect)
Blanchard’s Cricket Frog
Spotted Turtle
Eastern Massasauga (turtle)
Birds living in and near the Potter’s Bridge habitat:
Upland Sandpiper
Brown Creeper
Bald Eagle
Least Bittern
Redhead Woodpecker
Semipalmated Sandpiper
Loggerhead Shrike
Black-crowned Night-heron
Osprey
Cerulean Warbler
Bewick’s Wren
American Badger
Mammals in the area:
Silver-haired Bat (state special concern)
American Badger
Silver-haired Bat
Mollusks in this habitat:
Northern Riffleshell
Snuffbox
Sheepnose
Slubshell
Rayed Bean