Legacy pollution, environmental justice and the intersection of land, water and health were at the forefront of environmental activism in Indianapolis neighborhoods in 2025. The Recorder followed how policy decisions and community advocacy continue to shape environmental outcomes locally and nationally.
1. Martindale-Brightwood environmental timeline traces decades of impact
The Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood tells a story of resilience and transformation, marked by decades of environmental challenges and the determined efforts of its residents to restore their community.
Shaped by industrial growth, Martindale-Brightwood has faced significant environmental burdens, from factory pollution to soil contamination. Community leaders, such as Elizabeth Gore, Garry Holland and Jacklyn McMillan Gunn, have made tangible progress to fix these issues and fostered and a renewed sense of environmental stewardship.
2. Trump-era EPA cuts threaten environmental justice efforts
The Trump administration has initiated the closure of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) environmental justice offices, raising significant concerns among environmental advocates and policymakers.
Established under the Clinton administration, these offices were designed to address pollution in disadvantaged communities, ensuring that all Americans, regardless of their zip code, have access to clean air, water and land.
3. TNC partners with Indiana Landmarks to map Black heritage
Indiana Landmarks Black Heritage Preservation Program partnered with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to map Black history sites across Indiana.
The program plans to unveil an interactive map telling the history of more than 60 African American settlements from the early 1800s until the start of the Civil War.
The Indiana Landmarks Black Heritage Preservation Program aims to help tell the stories of Black history and where it happened, even with minimal physical evidence. Established in 1992, the program is funded by a $5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., private donors and the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund.
4. TNC water survey examines access and environmental conditions
A study by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) shows that Indiana voters overwhelmingly support measures to protect and manage the state’s water resources.
The survey conducted responses from 80 registered voters across the state and found a strong bipartisan agreement on the importance of safeguarding water resources and the restoration of wetland protections.
5. Human nature campaign highlights conservation and community
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has set a new standard for conservation in Indiana, raising more than $50 million through its Human:Nature campaign.
Surpassing the initial goal of $48 million, this marks the largest conservation fundraising initiative in the state’s history.
Over five years, the campaign has fueled efforts to protect and restore vital ecosystems, support renewable energy development and engage communities in conservation. A significant highlight includes protecting 10,000 acres of land, including 1,700 acres near the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge. The campaign’s work has also improved visitor experiences at nature preserves and forged partnerships with farmers to enhance sustainable agricultural practices.
6. Hauswald named new executive director of The Nature Conservancy Indiana
Cassie Hauswald has been named executive director of The Nature Conservancy in Indiana after an extensive search, stepping into leadership of the state’s largest conservation organization as it addresses environmental challenges.
“Cassie brings more than 25 years of conservation and leadership experience to this role and has deep expertise in working with landowners, collaborating with partners and engaging donors,” said Michael Reuter, Midwest division director for The Nature Conservancy. “Indeed, relationships have driven Cassie’s conservation approach for more than two decades.”
7. Larry Clemens retires after decades of environmental advocacy
Larry Clemens, a longstanding leader in Indiana conservation, has announced his retirement from The Nature Conservancy (TNC) after 33 years of service. Clemens, who began his career as the Fish Creek Project Manager in Northeast Indiana, reflected on his journey in a heartfelt goodbye email.
“Thirty-three years ago, I started working for The Nature Conservancy as the Fish Creek Project Manager,” Clemens wrote. “Instructions from my boss were sparse — figure out a way to work with farmers to revive this important tributary to the St. Joseph River.”
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Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.
