Requests the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to study and make recommendations to alleviate problems accessing the Pearl and Bogue Chitto rivers.
Impact
If enacted, SCR123 would potentially influence state laws related to waterway accessibility and infrastructure improvements. The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, would be tasked with developing actionable plans. This could lead to enhanced safety and usability of boat launches, thereby promoting greater use of the rivers both for leisure and economic purposes.
Summary
SCR123 is a concurrent resolution that urges the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries in Louisiana to study and propose recommendations to alleviate access issues regarding the Pearl and Bogue Chitto rivers. Recognizing the importance of these waterways for both recreational activities and commercial interests, the resolution emphasizes the need for improved accessibility as a vital component of public engagement with these natural resources. The focus is particularly on addressing the restrictions posed by low head dams that have hindered boater access for over fifty-seven years.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR123 appears to be largely positive, considering the support for increased accessibility to natural resources that are significant for community enjoyment and economic activities. Legislators seem to recognize the long-standing issues that have affected access and are inclined towards a more proactive approach to resolve these concerns, which suggests a unified call for improved public engagement with the state's waterways.
Contention
There are no notable contentions mentioned regarding SCR123 as the resolution primarily seeks to initiate a study rather than implement immediate changes or impose regulations. However, potential points of contention could arise during the study and recommendation process depending on the outcomes regarding funding or structural changes needed to mitigate access issues for recreational and commercial users alike.
Requests the office of coastal protection and restoration and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to jointly study shoreline protection, effects on marine species diversity and habitat quality, and economic and other ecosystem service values of the Sabine Reef.
To urge and request the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to perform a study determining how local governing authorities can regulate air boat noise pollution.