Urges and requests the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to cooperate in developing a solution to adaptively manage Mardi Gras Pass
Impact
The resolution highlights the need for a collaborative approach among various government agencies to address the environmental challenges posed by Mardi Gras Pass. By calling for adaptive management, the resolution aims to ensure that ecosystem balance is maintained while considering the benefits that may have arisen from the 2012 breach, such as enhanced sediment flow contributing to wetland creation and improving local fisheries. The cooperation among agencies is seen as crucial for achieving comprehensive management strategies that benefit both the environment and local communities.
Summary
House Resolution 230, introduced by Representative Garofalo, urges and requests the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to cooperate in developing adaptive management solutions for Mardi Gras Pass. The pass, which was formed due to natural erosion processes, raises concerns about increased freshwater flow potentially causing erosion, reducing salinity levels for oyster grounds, and promoting the growth of algae and invasive species. The resolution emphasizes the importance of utilizing the best available science in finding solutions to these ecological concerns.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HR230 appears to be positive, reflecting a proactive approach towards addressing ecological issues. Stakeholders from local governments and environmental advocacy groups are likely supportive of the resolution's focus on scientific cooperation to manage the evolving conditions of Mardi Gras Pass. This suggests a general consensus on the importance of collaborative environmental management, although details on potential challenges in implementation remain to be explored.
Contention
While the resolution itself is largely uncontroversial, its effectiveness may hinge on the commitment of the involved agencies to act on the recommendations. There may be concerns about the funding and resource allocation necessary to carry out the proposed management solutions. Ensuring that all interested parties, including local communities affected by changes in the pass, are adequately involved will be vital to address potential contentions that could arise as strategies are implemented.
Urges and requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to work with the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to develop integrated coastal protection projects aimed at preserving and maintaining healthy estuarine and essential fish habitat in and around Lake Pontchartrain
Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority of Louisiana and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to incorporate the East Biloxi Shoreline Barrier Zone as a vital component in the state and federal master plans for coastal restoration and storm protection.
Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to develop a proposal seeking Open Ocean TIG and RW TIG funds to monitor red snapper and other reef fish impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
Urges and requests the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Department of Agriculture and Forestry to evaluate feral hog toxicants and seek opportunities to cooperate
Urges and requests the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to collaborate with local stakeholders to identify solutions for the regulation of airboats on Bayou Liberty