Hydrologic Data and Groundwater Flow Simulations in the Vicinity of Long Lake, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Near Gary, Indiana

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) collected data and
simulated groundwater flow to increase understanding of the
hydrology and the effects of drainage alterations to the water
table in the vicinity of Long Lake, near Gary, Indiana. East
Long Lake and West Long Lake (collectively known as Long
Lake) make up one of the largest interdunal lakes within the
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. The National Park Service
is tasked with preservation and restoration of wetlands in the
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore along the southern shoreline of Lake Michigan. Urban development and engineering
have modified drainage and caused changes in the distribution
of open water, streams and ditches, and groundwater abundance and flow paths. A better understanding of the effects
these modifications have on the hydrologic system in the area
will help the National Park Service, the Gary Sanitary District (GSD), and local stakeholders manage and protect the resources within the study area.