Indiana DNR plans to take roughly 1,705 acres from former Newport Chemical Depot for public wildlife use
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources told the Indiana Capital Chronicle on 2026-10-07 it intends to acquire about 1,705 acres of the former Newport Chemical Depot under a 2011 agreement and manage the land as a satellite of Deer Creek Fish and Wildlife Area. The agency gave no projected acquisition date and said it is completing survey work.
Reporting by the Indiana Capital Chronicle on 2026-10-07 says the DNR’s current plan contemplates transfer of roughly 1,705 acres — a 1,093-acre forested parcel and a 612-acre agricultural parcel — to the department under a 2011 agreement that would limit the land to conservation uses after transfer. Under the agreement, DNR would pay $10 for the land if the transfer occurred in 2026.
The agency told the Capital Chronicle it intends to place the land under the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Nature Preserves and manage it as a satellite property of Deer Creek Fish and Wildlife Area, but has not yet acquired the acreage and did not provide a projected acquisition date. The DNR said it is completing necessary survey work; historical records cited by the Capital Chronicle note past demolition of VX-related buildings and other contamination at the former installation.
Report a correction · Editorial standards · Our source directory
BusinessIndy examines this development and its implications for Indiana businesses and communities using the linked sources.
Related coverage
- Indiana ends routine ambulance diversion for crowded emergency departments
- Rep. Spartz seeks details on $2B VA plan, questions IU Health role in Fishers clinic
- Carmel-based MBX Biosciences names Jeff Held as chief legal officer
Reader discussion
Join the discussion. Every comment is checked before publication. Community rules and appeals