Issues

Water

Water is our most important resource. The quality and quantity of water affects Indiana’s public health, economic development, and quality of life. CLC works to improve water quality by providing legal support to advocacy groups, educating decision makers on solutions, and influencing public policy.

Land

Land conservation remains one of the most effective strategies for addressing the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. CLC is dedicated to ensuring that every Hoosier benefits from a healthy environment and has access to natural areas now and for future generations.

Biodiversity

CLC is a strong advocate for our most vulnerable and sensitive species. Along with preserving wildlife habitat, we fight to uphold the Endangered Species Act.

Climate Change

Natural habitats make our communities more resilient to the effects of climate change by storing carbon, mitigating drought and flood cycles, and helping wildlife adapt to changing conditions. CLC remains committed to doing its part to ensure that all Hoosiers can enjoy a healthy environment including clean drinking water, unpolluted air, healthy communities, and access to natural spaces.

Community-Centered Conservation

The goal of CLC's community-centered conservation program is to empower underserved citizens of Northwest Indiana to effectively advocate for their legal rights to breathe clean air, drink safe water, and enjoy the same protections from toxic pollution and environmental hazards as more affluent communities.

Public Trust

The public trust is a legal doctrine that requires certain natural resources be held in trust by the State for the benefit of public. Lake Michigan is one of Indiana’s most important public trust resources, and CLC continues to advocate for the recognition and protection of the public’s right to use and enjoy the lake and its beaches.

Latest Cases

Challenging Delays in Clean Water Act Compliance in Hammond

United States of America and the State of Indiana v. The Sanitary District of Hammond

212-year-old Family Farm Preserved

Conservation Law Center helps George Rogers Clark Land Trust preserve 212-year-old family farm utilizing USDA

Standing Up for Communities in Zoning and Land Use Decisions

CLC works alongside community partners to influence environmental regulations and promote policies that protect health

Influencing Environmental Policy for a Healthier Northwest Indiana

CLC works alongside community partners to influence environmental regulations and promote policies that protect health

Supporting Research to Reduce Human–Wildlife Conflict in Tanzania

Conservation Law Center is partnering with the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI), international NGOs, and

Strengthening Environmental Safeguards Through Permitting

Through targeted permit advocacy, CLC helps ensure industrial operations in Northwest Indiana meet strong legal

In the News

What environmental issues are Hoosiers facing this Earth Day?

April 17, 2026

Hoosier Environmental Council Moves to Prevent Sewage Treatment Delays in Hammond

April 16, 2026

The Legal Toolkit for Conservation: Talking Conservation with Alex Sienkiewicz

March 17, 2026

Student Spotlight: Kathryn Buehler

March 11, 2026

A male cerulean warbler shows off the blue coloration that gives the bird its name. Since the birds are often in treetops, it's the white neck and belly areas, the thin "necklace" and dark streaks on each side that people are more likely to see when looking for the bird. Courtesy Photo/Matt Williams

Why conservationists hatched plan to protect tiny blue bird in Indiana

March 9, 2026

Scientists connecting NWI pollution and health, digging deeper to measure extent

March 4, 2026