The Indiana Geological and Water Survey, a state-funded research organization, will be moved off Indiana University's campus and into a building without laboratory space, the organization announced.
According to social media statements, IGWS staff believe they will have to fund the move and renovations. The IGWS is currently housed in IU’s Geology Building. It will move into another IU-owned building by the end of the year, the organization said.
Per Indiana’s code, the IGWS conducts research on hazardssuch as earthquakes and flooding, as well as the use of energy, water and mineral resources in Indiana. It houses free and public educational programs, archival collections, maps, data, publicationsand more.
“These changes will greatly limit our ability to fulfill grant obligations, provide student research and job experiences, and effectively accomplish our responsibilities under state statute,” the IGWS said on social media.
A university spokesperson said IU contrinously evaluates space and resources to support strategic initiatives.
"Whether IGWS remains in its current location or transitions, IU is committed to ensuring IGWS has facilities in line with the state support provided to them for geological research, information and educational outreach," the spokesperson said. "The university remains deeply committed to providing academic services and facilities that foster transformative research, student success and service to our state and beyond."
The facility currently has “several state-of-the-art facilities,” according to the IGWS, which IU renovated in 2019-2021.
IGWS director Todd Thompson also serves as the state geologist of Indiana. When asked for comment, Thompson said he had nothing to say at this time.
IGWS staff believe the move may be due to the growth of the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering.
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The IGWS was founded in 1837, and it was formally established as a part of IU in 1993. In addition to $2.78 million from state appropriations, the IGWS receives about $2 million in federal and state grants.
Through its Learning Lab, the IGWS offers hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages. The survey will continue with normal Learning Lab hours through June until closing for the foreseeable future, according to social media announcements.
“The Learning Lab has welcomed more than 8,800 visitors, including 3,600 pre-K-12, undergraduate, and continuing education students, since it opened three years ago,” the IGWS said.
IGWS staff’s recent work includes researching critical minerals and rare earth elements in Indiana’s coal mine waste, which was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earth Mapping Resources Initiative. In April, Gov. Mike Braun issued an executive order focusing on these resources in Indiana, wanting to grow the state’s cleanup efforts and economic competitiveness.
Aubrey is our higher education reporter and a Report For America corps member. Contact her at aubmwrig@iu.edu or follow her on X @aubreymwright .
