Louisiana Senate Bill SCR86

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/18/18
• Refer: 4/19/18
• Report Pass: 4/30/18
• Passed: 5/1/18
• Engrossed: 5/2/18
• Refer: 5/3/18
• Report Pass: 5/8/18

Caption

Requests the oil and gas industry in Louisiana to support the construction of the Louisiana Geological Survey Coastal Geohazards Atlas by providing access to interpretations from 3-D seismic data.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the importance of using existing oil and gas industry seismic data to enhance the understanding of coastal hazards. The findings suggest that faulting and geological shifts have significant impacts on infrastructure and flood control strategies in southeastern Louisiana. By creating the Coastal Geohazards Atlas, the resolution anticipates that stakeholders will be able to plan and prioritize coastal protection and restoration projects more effectively, potentially mitigating future risk and damage from geological hazards.

Summary

SCR86 is a concurrent resolution that requests the oil and gas industry in Louisiana to support the construction of the Louisiana Geological Survey Coastal Geohazards Atlas. The Atlas aims to provide access to interpretations from 3-D seismic data, which play a crucial role in understanding the geological features of coastal Louisiana, particularly concerning faults and their implications for land stability and subsidence. This resolution is rooted in a recognition of the relationship between geological fault movement and coastal land loss, as identified in a significant report by the United States Army Corps of Engineers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR86 appears to be collaborative, as it seeks participation from the oil and gas sector to contribute valuable data for research initiatives. While the resolution may garner support from environmental and geological organizations focusing on coastal restoration, it could evoke concerns regarding the oil and gas industry's involvement and its historical impact on coastal ecosystems. The call for industry collaboration indicates a recognition of the complex interplay between economic interests and environmental stewardship.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the reliance on the oil and gas industry for data collection, given the historical challenges associated with resource extraction in Louisiana's coastal regions. Critics could argue that this reliance might not fully address environmental concerns or the long-term implications of further industrial activity in sensitive ecological areas. Balancing industry collaboration with the need for environmental protection and sustainable practices will be a key challenge as stakeholders move forward with the initiatives outlined in SCR86.