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
Impact
If adopted, HR24 would reinforce state-level initiatives to bolster coastal protection efforts in the Lake Pontchartrain Basin, addressing the pressing need for sustainable management of the area's unique ecosystems. This resolution is pivotal in guiding the state's focus towards utilizing federal funding, such as the $58 million allocated for fisheries recovery, to mitigate the damages inflicted on local habitats due to flooding and environmental stressors. By promoting collaborative, scientifically-based strategies, the resolution aims to enhance the ecological integrity of Lake Pontchartrain and bolster the local economy through improved fisheries management.
The sentiment surrounding HR24 appears largely supportive, reflecting a unified recognition of the basin's ecological importance and a commitment to safeguarding its natural resources. Stakeholders emphasize the necessity for proactive measures to combat environmental degradation, with an understanding that sustainable local fisheries contribute significantly to the economic well-being of the surrounding communities. However, discussions may involve differing views on the best methods to achieve the integrated coastal protection projects outlined in the resolution, notably regarding the balance between environmental considerations and community development needs.
Contention
Potential points of contention may arise around the specific strategies and funding mechanisms proposed for the integrated coastal protection projects. While the resolution serves as a rallying call for collaboration, stakeholders may debate the effectiveness and prioritization of particular projects, especially in areas most impacted by freshwater influx and flooding. The resolution may also face scrutiny regarding the management of state resources and the prioritization of ecological restoration efforts versus immediate economic interests of local communities.
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
Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to include compensatory mitigation for fisheries impacts in the calculation of project costs for coastal restoration projects contained in the coastal master plan and annual plans
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.
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.
Approves the annual state integrated coastal protection plan for Fiscal Year 2026, as adopted by the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Board.
Approves the annual state integrated coastal protection plan for Fiscal Year 2023, as adopted by the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Board
Approves the annual state integrated coastal protection plan for Fiscal Year 2025, as adopted by the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Board
Approves the annual state integrated coastal protection plan for Fiscal Year 2020, as adopted by the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Board
Commends the Pontchartrain Conservancy, formerly known as the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation, on thirty years of working towards environmental sustainability and stewardship of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin through scientific research, education, and advocacy
Commends the Pontchartrain Park Neighborhood Association on attaining historic designation on the National Register of Historic Places for the neighborhood of Pontchartrain Park in Orleans Parish