Indiana community battling shoreline erosion files lawsuit

OGDEN DUNES, Ind. (AP) - An Indiana community along Lake Michigan has filed a federal lawsuit over its battle with shoreline erosion, saying the town's infrastructure is in danger of 'œtotal destruction.'ť

Ogden Dunes residents argue protections previously installed are exposed to Lake Michigan and at least one section of a steel wall is failing, according to the lawsuit filed this year in Hammond's federal court.

'œIf any portion of the sheet piling fails, the town infrastructure, including town-owned dunes, beach access ways, roads and utilities - and private homes - are in danger of total destruction,'ť the lawsuit said. 'œThis in turn could lead to the release of sewage and other pollutants into Lake Michigan endangering the public and wildlife, and will endanger the lives of the occupants of those residences.'ť

The lawsuit accuses the National Park Service and the Army Corps of Engineers of interfering with permits for protection plans. Federal officials didn't immediately return messages Sunday.

Ogden Dunes and neighboring communities have declared emergencies over erosion, according to The Chicago Tribune. There have also been efforts at getting state and federal help.

'œIt really comes down to the survival of our town,'ť resident Rodger Howell told the Tribune. 'œWe're looking to get our permits and put this in place. And we're looking to do what's been previously agreed that we can do.'ť