The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

(INDIANAPOLIS) Water is the basis and essence of all life. And yet, its value is often overlooked or taken for granted. A long-term, secure, supply of fresh water is vital to the economic health of Central Indiana. On Tuesday, September 27, The Nature Conservancy will host a panel discussion about the challenges and opportunities for continuing the economic growth of Indianapolis while protecting this finite natural resource.

Business leaders, water experts, and engineers will convene at the Conservancy’s Efroymson Conservation Center for a thought-provoking panel discussion, led by Jack Wittman, Director of GeoSciences at Layne Hydro (a water resources consulting firm), and John Hazlett, Director of the Office of Sustainability for the City of Indianapolis.

The program begins at 11:30 with a light lunch provided by the Conservancy. It is scheduled to end at 1:00 p.m., followed by an optional tour of the Efroymson Conservation Center, one of the most sustainably built offices in the state and likely the first urban building in the nation to capture 100% of its storm water.

“A healthy water supply is and will continue to be a top concern for Hoosiers,” said Mary McConnell, state director for The Nature Conservancy in Indiana. “When we built the Efroymson Conservation Center, one of our chief goals was the smart and efficient use of water. Our innovative design has been used as an example and promoted at over 100 conferences and case studies in the industry – throughout the country and internationally. We estimate that it will save the City of Indianapolis at least $690,000 over thirty years by not having to process the stormwater from our one-acre site.”

The discussion is open to the public, but RSVPs are required, as seating is limited. Those wanting to attend should RSVP to Cristi Hall by September 21st at (317) 951-8818, ext. 0 or via email cristi_hall@tnc.org.

This event is made possible with the generous support of Citizens Water and Keramida.