In determining licensing and enforcement questions, professional and technical expertise is usually required. Principles of engineering, geology, hydro-dynamics, biology, navigation safety, and historic preservation may be considered. DNR's responsibilities are sometimes closely related to those of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management for water quality, and of the State Emergency Management Agency for storm-related emergencies. With the complex nature of these responsibilities and their broad public significance, it is probably to be expected that disputes would be common. Responsibilities for the regulation of lakes, flood plains, and water management are assigned by the Indiana General Assembly in statutes and implemented largely through rules.
Rules have the force and effect of law.
Indiana statutes have created several programs for lakes, flood plains, and water management. In most instances, the DNR's Division of Water is the lead division for the programs, often with the support of other DNR divisions. Rules and nonrule policy documents help refine the implementation of some programs. The DNR is the licensing agency for floodway construction. Construction activities in the floodway fringe are regulated at the local level, with minimum standards set by NRC rules.