Welcome to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s Wetlands, Lakes and Streams Regulation Website. At one time, 25 percent of Indiana was covered by wetlands. That percentage has dwindled to four (4) percent. It is important that we protect and wisely use our remaining wetlands and other aquatic resources for present and future generations.

We have developed this website for two reasons:

1. provide information on the history of wetlands in Indiana, their importance to our water quality, wildlife, recreation, and economy; and,
2. provide information on the regulations and regulatory guidance to those proposing to work in and around wetlands, lakes, and streams.

It is our intent that the information contained on this site will help Hoosiers understand the importance of wetlands to their past and future and help them make informed decisions regarding an important and imperiled Indiana resource.

• Waterways Permitting Handbook: A Guide to the Permit Process for Activities that Affect Indiana’s Waters [PDF]