ADAMS COUNTY, Ind. — The Adams County Drainage Board on Tuesday approved multiple drainage projects, backed a federal funding request for the Andrews watershed study and authorized the first phase of a countywide watershed reassessment.
The board first approved a landowner‑initiated waterway project in the Irwin system, where long‑term surface flow and tile deterioration have caused recurring issues. Surveyor Mike Werling said the landowner agreed to install a grassed waterway to keep water off the failing tile.
“He has decided now that a waterway… is a good deal. So he’s willing to put it in himself,” Werling told the board.
The waterway will be built and maintained by the landowner and his neighbor, with the county responsible only for tile repairs. Board members approved the project unanimously.
Board Supports FEMA BRIC Application
The board also voted to contribute $2,000 from the Andrews system toward a FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant application submitted in March. The proposal would fund the next four phases of the Andrews watershed study if awarded.
The cost‑share structure includes $2,000 from the drainage board, $4,000 from the Town of Monroe, $24,500 from the Maumee River Basin Commission and a 75% federal share, which could rise to 90% if Monroe qualifies as an impoverished community.
Board members approved the contribution without opposition.
Emergency Repair Approved After Gravel Layer Failure
Worling reported that a recently dipped and leveled section of the Jordan/George Steele system failed after heavy rains exposed a gravel layer beneath the clay.
“Topsoil… the clay layer… the gravel layer… you see the stones,” he said while showing photos of the collapse.
The contractor returned the same day to remove loose material, reshape the ditch and reseed the area. Worling asked the board to approve payment once the bill arrives, noting the repair could not wait. The board agreed.
Ditch Tech Hiring to Continue
Worling said the county received no applicants in its first round of hiring for a new Ditch Tech position. The board approved reposting the job and continuing the search.
Countywide Watershed Study Moves Forward
The board also approved Phase 1 of a proposal from engineering firm Christopher B. Burke to re‑delineate all 130 county watersheds using modern data. The not‑to‑exceed $150,000 phase includes data gathering, watershed boundary updates, comparisons and assessment‑related assistance.
A second phase, capped at $75,000, would analyze four pilot watersheds in detail, including conceptual design work and assessment modeling. Board members discussed funding options and whether repayment to the General Drain Improvement Fund would be required, but agreed to move forward with Phase 1 while legal review continues.
“Let’s do something,” Commissioner Steve Bailey said during the discussion. “This will benefit all the taxpayers of this county.”
The board approved Phase 1 unanimously. Phase 2 will be considered after initial work begins.